Check your camera before the call starts
Joining a call and finding a black square or a blurry, dark picture is a bad start. This webcam test shows the live picture, lists every camera your browser can use, and measures what the camera really delivers: the resolution in pixels, the frame rate in frames per second (fps) and whether there is enough light. You can switch between a built-in camera, a USB webcam or a phone used as a webcam and compare them side by side.
- Resolution: the size of the picture the camera sends. 1280 × 720 (720p) is enough for most calls, 1920 × 1080 (1080p) looks sharper when your video is shown large.
- Frame rate: 30 fps is smooth for talking. Below about 20 fps, movement starts to look jerky.
- Light: measured from the brightness of the picture. Dark pictures look grainy and make cameras slow down.
When the numbers look wrong
If you get less resolution than you asked for, the camera does not offer that mode, or not at the current frame rate. Try the next lower step; many webcams deliver smooth 720p but only choppy 1080p. A low frame rate with a dark picture is almost always a lighting issue: sit facing a window or put a lamp behind your screen. If the picture freezes, another tab or app may be using the camera at the same time.
Everything looks good? Record a message with the webcam recorder, or check your sound with the mic test. For a recording of your screen, use the screen recorder.
How to test your webcam
- 1Press Start webcam test and allow the camera when your browser asks.
- 2Look at the picture and the numbers. Pick another camera or resolution to compare.
- 3Take a snapshot to check sharpness and framing, and press Stop camera when you are done.
Frequently asked questions
Is the camera picture sent anywhere?
No. The preview is shown by your browser and never leaves your device. Nothing is recorded or uploaded. A snapshot is only made when you press the button, and it stays in this tab until you download it.
Why is my picture black?
A closed privacy shutter or a cover over the lens is the most common reason, followed by another app that is still using the camera, such as Zoom, Teams or the camera app. Close those apps, open the shutter, and press Start again. On a Mac, also check System Settings, Privacy and Security, Camera.
My webcam says 1080p but shows 720p. Why?
The browser asks for the resolution you pick and the camera answers with the closest mode it supports. Some cameras offer full HD only at a lower frame rate or over a faster USB port, and some laptops limit the built-in camera. The numbers shown here are what the camera actually delivers.
What frame rate is normal?
Most webcams deliver 30 frames per second, some 60. In a dark room many cameras drop to 15 to 24 fps on purpose to collect more light per frame, which makes motion look choppy. More light in front of you usually brings the frame rate back up.
Why is my picture mirrored?
The preview is mirrored like a bathroom mirror, because that is how people are used to seeing themselves. Other people in a call see you the right way round. Turn the mirror off to check how text on a shirt or a whiteboard looks to them.