Webcam Test
Click start, allow camera access, and you'll see your live feed below. Use this to check a new webcam, confirm your camera works before a call, or diagnose a black screen.
Live preview
Nothing is recorded or uploaded — the video stream stays in your browser.
How to use the webcam test
Click "Start camera" above and your browser will ask for permission to access your webcam. Once you allow it, you'll see a live preview instantly. If you see yourself clearly, with normal color and no lag, your webcam is working correctly. If you have more than one camera, a dropdown will appear so you can switch between them and test each one.
Why test your webcam
A webcam that "should" work isn't the same as one that does. People run this test before job interviews, client calls, and important meetings — the last thing you want is to discover a black screen two minutes before a call starts. It's also useful after buying a used laptop or webcam, to confirm the hardware works before you're past the return window.
Troubleshooting a webcam that won't show a picture
- Black screen after allowing permission: another app (Zoom, Teams, Skype) may already be using the camera. Close other video apps and try again.
- "Permission denied" or no prompt appears: your browser may have blocked the camera previously. Check the camera icon in your address bar, or your browser's site settings.
- Camera not listed in the dropdown: for external webcams, unplug and reconnect the USB cable, or check it's recognized in your operating system's device manager first.
- Image is very dark or grainy: this is often a lighting issue rather than a hardware fault — try facing a window or light source.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test record or save my video?
No. Your camera feed is displayed live in your own browser and is never recorded, uploaded, or stored anywhere.
Why does my webcam work in this test but not in Zoom?
The issue is usually with that app's camera permissions or settings rather than the hardware itself — check the app's video settings and make sure it's set to use the correct camera.
Can I test a phone's camera with this tool?
Yes — open this page in your phone's browser and you'll be able to test and switch between the front and rear cameras the same way.