Webcam Test
Check that your webcam works and see its real resolution and frame rate. Fix a camera that's blocked, missing or in use on Windows and Mac.
How to test
- 01Press Start and allow camera access.
- 02Check the live picture, and the resolution and frame rate shown beside it.
- 03Pick another camera from the list if you have more than one.
- 04Take a snapshot to check sharpness; it saves to your device only.
Resolution and frame rate
The test asks your camera for its highest mode, then shows what it actually delivers: the resolution of the picture and how many frames arrive each second. Those two numbers are what video calls and recording apps can get from it too.
Many webcams reach full resolution only at a lower frame rate, or only on a USB 3 port. If the numbers are lower than the box says, try another port and close other apps that might be using the camera.
Why webcams look grainy or choppy
In low light a webcam lengthens each exposure to collect more light. Longer exposures mean fewer frames per second and more noise, which is why a picture that looks fine at noon turns grainy and choppy in the evening.
Light in front of you, from a window or a lamp behind the screen, improves a webcam more than any setting.
Tips
- Wipe the lens: a fingerprint makes the whole picture soft.
- Check for a privacy shutter or a camera key (often F8 or F10) if the picture is black.
- Take a snapshot to check sharpness; it saves to your device only.
What your result means
A clear live picture
Your webcam works.
If an app still can't see it, pick the same camera in that app.
Permission blocked
The browser or your OS isn't allowing camera access.
Allow it in the address bar, then check the OS privacy settings.
Camera in use
Another app (Zoom, Teams, OBS) is holding the camera.
Close the other app and press Start again.
Black picture
A privacy shutter, a camera-off key, or a disabled camera.
Slide the shutter open or press the camera key (often F8 or F10).
Low frame rate (15 fps or less)
Usually low light: the camera lengthens exposure and drops frames.
Add light in front of you.
How to fix it
Windows
- Settings → Privacy & security → Camera: allow access for desktop apps and your browser.
- Close Zoom, Teams, OBS or other apps that might be using the camera.
- Device Manager → Cameras: update or reinstall the driver.
- Try a different USB port, preferably USB 3.
Mac
- System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera: allow your browser.
- Quit other apps that use the camera, then reload.
Browser
- Click the icon in the address bar and set the camera to Allow.
- Reload the page after changing permissions.
Questions
Is my video recorded or uploaded?
No. The picture goes from your camera to this page on your screen and nowhere else. Snapshots are saved only to your device.
Why is the resolution lower than my webcam's rating?
Browsers ask for the highest mode the camera offers, but some cameras only reach full resolution over USB 3, or at lower frame rates.
Why does my webcam look dark or choppy?
In low light, webcams slow down to let in more light, which lowers the frame rate and adds noise. Light from in front of you helps most.