How to test your webcam
- Press Start camera and allow camera access when your browser asks.
- Your live picture appears. Below it you see the real resolution, the measured frame rate and the aspect ratio.
- If you have more than one camera, choose it from the list. You can also request a different quality.
- Press Take a snapshot to grab a still image, then download it if you want to keep it.
The camera stays off until you press Start, and Stop turns it off again. Nothing is recorded or uploaded.
What the numbers mean
Resolution
This is the size of the picture your camera is actually sending, read from the video itself. Common values are 640 x 480, 1280 x 720 (720p), 1920 x 1080 (1080p) and 3840 x 2160 (4K). The number you get depends on what the camera supports and what the browser asks for, so try the quality list if it looks low.
Frame rate
The page counts how many new frames arrive each second. Most webcams aim for 30 frames per second, and some offer 60. The number in brackets is what the camera reports it is trying to deliver. A measured rate well below that usually means low light, a slow USB connection or a busy computer.
Aspect ratio
16:9 is the wide format used by most modern cameras. 4:3 is squarer and common on older or basic cameras.
Troubleshooting
No permission
Click the lock or camera icon in the address bar, set Camera to Allow, and reload. On a PC, also check the system Settings under Privacy and Camera, and make sure your browser may use the camera. On a Mac, open System Settings, then Privacy and Security, then Camera. On phones, allow the camera for your browser in the phone's Settings.
Camera is busy or black
- Close video call apps and other browser tabs that might be using the camera.
- Check for a privacy shutter or a camera key on laptops that turns the camera off.
- Unplug an external camera, plug it into a different USB port, then press Start again.
- Restart the browser if the camera was used by another app a moment ago.
Picture is dark, grainy or blurry
Face a window or a lamp so light falls on you, not behind you. Wipe the lens with a soft cloth. Grainy pictures are usually a lighting problem. Some cameras need a second to focus after they start.
Tips for video calls
Put the camera at eye level, sit an arm's length away, and keep the brightest light in front of you. A plain background helps the camera keep a steady exposure.
Check your sound too with the mic test and the speaker test.
Questions
Is my video recorded or uploaded?
No. The picture is shown only in your browser. A snapshot is created on your device and is saved only if you press Download. Nothing is sent anywhere.
Why is my resolution lower than my camera promises?
The browser and the camera agree on a mode together. Low light, a busy USB port, another app or the requested quality can lead to a smaller mode. Try the 1080p or 4K setting, close other camera apps, and use a direct USB port.
Why is my frame rate around 15 fps?
Many cameras lower the frame rate in dim light to collect more light per frame. Turn on more light and the rate often goes back up to 30.
Why does my picture look mirrored?
The preview is mirrored by default because that feels natural, like a mirror. Other people on a call usually see you the normal way. Use the Mirror button to switch.