How can I test my webcam before a video call?
Press Start camera and allow camera access in your browser. Check that you can see yourself, that the lens is clean and that you are well lit from the front. The camera list appears after you allow access, where your browser permits it. If you have more than one camera, select the one you intend to use for the call.
How can I test whether my microphone is working?
Press Start microphone, allow access and speak normally. The input meter should respond. If it stays still, check the selected microphone, physical mute switch, headset connection and your computer or phone’s input settings. A moving meter shows that this browser is receiving a signal; it does not prove that every calling app has the right input selected.
How do I hear what my microphone sounds like?
With the microphone running, press Record 5 seconds and say a short sentence. Wait for Sample ready, then press Play. Nothing plays automatically and there is no live monitoring through your speakers. Try headphones while listening. Clear sample removes the clip from this page; it is also cleared when you stop all tests, hide or leave the page.
Why is camera or microphone permission blocked?
Check the permission controls beside the web address and your device’s camera or microphone privacy settings. A hardware privacy shutter or mute switch can also block input. If another app is using the device, close it and retry. Browser tests need a secure HTTPS page; your organisation may also restrict access. A browser can remember an earlier refusal, so it may not show a new prompt until you change that site permission.
Why does my webcam look backwards?
Mirror preview gives a familiar mirror-like view and can make framing easier. Untick it if you want to check text or logos without mirroring. It changes only this page’s preview, not your camera settings or another app’s video.
Can I test a USB webcam, Bluetooth headset or phone camera?
Use any input your browser and operating system expose. Connect a USB device or pair your headset through your device settings first, then select it here after allowing access. Bluetooth audio mode, browser processing and device settings can change microphone quality. This tool cannot choose devices that your browser does not make available.
Does passing this test mean Zoom, Teams or Google Meet will work?
This checks your local browser’s camera and microphone input. Your call app has its own device selection, permission settings and network connection, so it may behave differently. Use that app’s own pre-call check too. If you need help, share the browser and device checker with your support team, or read our guide to getting help with Windows Quick Assist.
Is this webcam and microphone test private?
Video is shown locally and is not recorded by this tool. Microphone input is analysed locally; a five-second audio clip is created only if you press Record 5 seconds. No media, device names or recorded clips are uploaded to us or sent to Google Analytics. The page does not create a call or a connection to a video-call server. See the privacy details.
Should I buy a new webcam or microphone?
Try the checks above before replacing equipment. Good lighting, a clean lens, the correct input selection and fixing a muted headset may solve the problem. For an upgrade, consider how you will connect it, where it will sit and whether a headset would reduce room noise or speaker feedback. If you want to replace a built-in camera, the Logitech BRIO 4K webcam (opens in a new tab) (affiliate link) is one option to consider. Check your device’s compatibility and your calling app’s supported resolution before buying; a new webcam cannot fix a slow connection or poor lighting. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Browser features: camera and microphone permissions, stopping device tracks, and local media recording.