Camera Test checks the camera on your laptop, desktop or phone in a few seconds. Allow access and you see a live picture with its resolution, the highest resolution the camera supports and the measured frame rate. If the camera does not start, the page tells you why and how to fix it. Nothing is recorded or uploaded.
How to test your camera
- Click Test my webcam and allow the camera.
- Check the live picture: is it sharp, bright enough and the right way round?
- On a phone or a computer with several cameras, switch under Camera.
- Try a Resolution to see what the camera really delivers.
- Click Take a photo to save a PNG test shot, for example to compare two cameras.
Which camera is which
| Device | Cameras you may see |
|---|---|
| Laptop | Built-in camera; a virtual camera from video software |
| Desktop | USB webcam; a capture card or camera adapter |
| Phone | Front camera, back camera, sometimes several back cameras |
| Tablet | Front and back camera |
Virtual cameras created by streaming or effects software appear in the list like real ones. If the picture is black or shows a logo, pick the physical camera instead.
Quick fixes by device
Windows laptop. Look for a slider over the lens or a key with a camera icon. In Settings → Privacy & security → Camera, turn on camera access and let desktop apps use it.
Mac. Open System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera and turn on your browser. Quit and reopen the browser after you change it. Close FaceTime, Photo Booth or a video call that may still hold the camera.
Android phone. Allow the camera in the browser prompt. If you blocked it before, open the site settings from the address bar and set Camera to Allow.
iPhone and iPad. Use Safari or another browser and allow the camera. If it was denied, open Settings, find your browser, and allow Camera.
USB webcam. Plug it straight into the computer rather than a hub, try another port, and pick it under Camera.
Before an exam, interview or call
- Test with the same browser you will use for the meeting.
- Close other apps that use the camera, such as Zoom, Teams or FaceTime.
- Sit facing the light, with the camera at eye level.
- Check the frame rate: if it is low, add light so the camera does not slow down.
- Test your microphone too with the Mic Test.
For all details and numbers, see the Webcam Test.