Why is my webcam picture black?

A black preview almost always means another app still has the camera open, or the browser was denied permission. Close other video apps like Zoom, Teams or Photo Booth, then reload and allow access. If it stays black, check the lens cover and that the right camera is selected in the picker.

Does this record or save my video?

No. The preview is shown to you and nothing else. There is no upload, no recording to any server, and no copy kept. A snapshot is only created if you press the snapshot button, and even then it stays on your device for you to save or discard.

Why does the resolution look lower than my camera supports?

Browsers request a sensible default resolution rather than the camera maximum, and they may lower it under poor light or a slow connection to the device. The number shown is what the camera is actually sending right now, which is what your video apps will use too.

Is my camera, microphone or data sent anywhere?

No. Every test runs locally in your browser on your own device. When a test needs your camera or microphone, the feed is shown to you and nothing else: it is never uploaded, never recorded to a server, and never stored. Close the tab and it is gone. You can confirm it by disconnecting from the internet after the page loads; the tests still work.

Webcam Test

Check your webcam works before a call or recording. Grant access and you see your live picture straight away, along with the resolution and frame rate the camera is sending. Switch between cameras, mirror the view, and grab a snapshot. Nothing is recorded or uploaded.

No app to install
100% free
Nothing is recorded
No sign-up, no email
Works on any device

Read the guide: How to Test Your Webcam

Live preview

Press Start camera and allow access to see your live picture.

How to use it

1
Allow camera access

Click start and accept the browser permission prompt. Your live picture appears in the preview.
2
Check the picture

Look for a clear, well-lit image and read the resolution and frame rate shown below it. Switch cameras if you have more than one.
3
Grab a snapshot

Take a still to inspect focus and colour, or just confirm the camera is working before you join a meeting.

When it comes in handy

Before a video call

Confirm the right camera is selected and the picture looks good before a meeting or interview, instead of finding out live.

New webcam setup

Test a webcam you just plugged in, check its real resolution, and frame yourself properly.

Troubleshooting

Work out whether a black picture is the camera, the cable or another app holding the device.

Instant & 100% private — nothing is recorded

The test runs right here in your browser. When it needs your camera or microphone, the feed is shown to you and nothing else: never uploaded, never recorded to a server, never stored. There is no sign-up and no email wall, and most tests keep working with no connection at all.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my webcam picture black?: A black preview almost always means another app still has the camera open, or the browser was denied permission. Close other video apps like Zoom, Teams or Photo Booth, then reload and allow access. If it stays black, check the lens cover and that the right camera is selected in the picker.
Does this record or save my video?: No. The preview is shown to you and nothing else. There is no upload, no recording to any server, and no copy kept. A snapshot is only created if you press the snapshot button, and even then it stays on your device for you to save or discard.
Why does the resolution look lower than my camera supports?: Browsers request a sensible default resolution rather than the camera maximum, and they may lower it under poor light or a slow connection to the device. The number shown is what the camera is actually sending right now, which is what your video apps will use too.
Is my camera, microphone or data sent anywhere?: No. Every test runs locally in your browser on your own device. When a test needs your camera or microphone, the feed is shown to you and nothing else: it is never uploaded, never recorded to a server, and never stored. Close the tab and it is gone. You can confirm it by disconnecting from the internet after the page loads; the tests still work.