Webcam Test
Check your camera works and see its live preview — privately, in your browser.
The video stays in your browser — nothing is recorded, uploaded or stored.
How to use the Webcam Test
- Click “Start camera” and allow access when asked.
- Confirm you see yourself in the preview.
- The detected camera name and resolution are shown below.
About the Webcam Test
The webcam test uses your browser’s built-in getUserMedia feature to open your camera and show a live preview, then reports the detected camera’s name and the resolution it is streaming at. Click Start, allow access when prompted, and you should see yourself within a second or two.
It is the quick check to run before a video call, or when you have just plugged in a new or second-hand webcam and want to confirm it works and picks the right device. Crucially, the preview appears only on your own screen — the video is never recorded, uploaded or stored anywhere. That is a genuine privacy guarantee rather than a promise you have to take on trust, because the camera stream never leaves your device.
A few real limits: camera access needs a secure (https) page and your permission, so a blocked prompt means no preview; and if another app is already using the camera, the browser cannot open it until you close that app. The test confirms your browser can access the camera and at what resolution — it does not judge image quality. You can also check your microphone and your screen resolution.
Frequently asked questions
Is my video recorded or uploaded?
No. The preview is shown only in your browser and the video is never recorded, uploaded or stored. The stream stays on your own device.
Why will my camera not start?
Camera access needs a secure https page and your permission. If you blocked the prompt, or another app is already using the camera, the browser cannot open it. Allow access and close any app that might be holding the camera.
It says no camera found or the camera is in use — what now?
Close any other program that might be using the webcam, such as a meeting or camera app, then try again. Also check the camera is connected and, on a laptop, that no privacy shutter or switch is covering it.
Does it check image quality?
No. It confirms that your browser can access the camera and shows the resolution it reports. Judging sharpness, colour or focus is down to what you see in the preview.
Which browsers does it work in?
Any modern browser that supports getUserMedia on a secure page. If your browser does not support camera access, the tool will tell you instead of showing a preview.