Webcam Test
Start the camera to preview, confirm resolution, and switch between available devices.
Webcam Test
Checking camera support…
Camera preview
Click Start to begin
How this test works
We request camera access with the MediaDevices API, show the live preview, and read stream settings to display the resolution. Everything stays local to your browser.
- • Device switching uses enumerateDevices so you can move between laptop and external cameras.
- • Resolution text comes from the active video track settings.
Troubleshooting
- • Remove any lens cover or privacy shutter, then re-open the test.
- • Close apps that hold the camera (Zoom, Teams, Meet, Discord, FaceTime) before starting.
- • Allow camera in browser permissions; if blocked, reset via the lock icon and reload.
- • On Windows or macOS, check system privacy settings to confirm the browser can use the camera.
- • If video stutters, lower other CPU-heavy tasks and good lighting to reduce noise.
Fix guides
Step-by-step solutions for common issues
Quick steps
- • Click Start Camera, then choose Allow in the browser prompt.
- • Look for a live preview and resolution readout; adjust lighting if the image is dark.
- • Use the device dropdown to switch between built-in and external cameras.
- • Toggle fullscreen if you need to inspect focus or framing closely.
If the preview is black or frozen
- • Close other apps using the camera, including background virtual camera tools.
- • Pick the correct camera in the dropdown; some laptops expose both IR and RGB sensors.
- • Unplug and reconnect USB cameras, then restart the browser to force a fresh device list.
- • Check for loose hub connections or insufficient power on older USB hubs.
If permission was blocked
- • Chrome or Edge: lock icon > Permissions > Camera > Allow, then reload.
- • Firefox: camera icon in the address bar > select device > Allow.
- • Safari: Settings for This Website > Camera > Allow, then refresh.
Windows camera checks
- • Settings > Privacy & security > Camera: turn on camera access for the device and for browsers.
- • Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras: pick your webcam and disable any unwanted image effects.
- • If the LED turns on but stays black, uninstall and reinstall the camera under Device Manager.
macOS camera checks
- • System Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera: allow the browser you're using.
- • Quit FaceTime, Teams, or Zoom so the browser can open the camera.
- • If the camera never appears, reset SMC/PRAM on Intel Macs or restart on Apple Silicon.
Improve brightness and focus
- • Add a desk lamp aimed at a wall for soft light; avoid strong backlight.
- • Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth to remove haze.
- • Lock exposure in your meeting app if the image keeps pulsing.
- • Raise the laptop lid to eye level to avoid unflattering angles.
Browser tips
- • Use the latest version of Chrome, Edge, or Firefox for the best camera support.
- • On Chrome, disable hardware acceleration only if you see green bars or artifacts, then restart.
- • Close unneeded tabs to free CPU so the preview stays smooth.
- • If the camera light turns on but no image appears, open an incognito window and retry to rule out extensions.
When to use this test
- • Before interviews or presentations to confirm framing and focus.
- • After connecting a new webcam so you know the browser sees it and at what resolution.
- • When apps show a black screen and you need to rule out permission or device issues.
- • While tuning virtual backgrounds to check lighting and clarity first.
Safety and privacy
- • Video stays in your browser; no frames are uploaded or stored.
- • Revoke camera permission anytime via the lock icon in your browser.
- • Use a private window if you want the permission to clear after testing.
Related tools
FAQ
Why is the preview black?
Another app may be using the camera, permission may be blocked, or a privacy shutter is closed. Close Zoom, Teams, or Discord, open the lock icon to allow Camera, and try again.
Do you record or upload video?
No. The preview and resolution detection run in your browser only, and frames are not sent anywhere.
How do I switch cameras?
Use the device dropdown in the tester. If you only see one option, allow camera access first, then unplug and replug the external camera so the browser lists it.
Can I change resolution?
Resolution comes from the active video track. To change it, adjust camera settings in your OS or device utility, or pick a different camera that supports the size you want.
Why is the image mirrored?
Many webcams mirror the preview by default. This does not affect what others see. Turn off mirroring in your meeting app if it offers a toggle.