Quick answer
Most webcams run at 1280×720 or 1920×1080 and about 30 fps. Start the test and allow camera access to see your camera's real resolution and frame rate.
How to use the Webcam Test
- Click Start webcam test and allow camera access.
- Check the live preview. You should see a smooth, clear image.
- Read the resolution and frame rate below the video. HD webcams typically show 1280×720 or 1920×1080 at around 30 fps.
- If you have more than one camera, choose another one from the Camera list.
- Take a snapshot to save a still image, then click Stop to turn the camera off.
Example
You bought a webcam advertised as “1080p”. The test shows 1920×1080 at 30 fps in good light, so it delivers what it promises. In a dim room, the frame rate drops to 15 fps: the camera lengthens its exposure to collect more light. Adding a lamp in front of you brings it back to 30 fps and makes the image sharper.
How it works
The tester asks your browser for a video stream with the getUserMedia API, requesting up to Full HD. The browser then reports the resolution the camera actually delivers. The frame rate is measured by counting the frames the camera sends each second, which is more reliable than the advertised value.
Max supported shows the highest resolution and frame rate the camera reports through the browser, where available. The image is processed only on your device and is never uploaded.
The mirror option flips the preview like a mirror, which feels natural when you look at yourself. Other people in a video call see the unmirrored image.
Look better on video calls
- Light from the front, not behind: sitting with a window behind you turns your face dark. Face the window or put a lamp behind your screen.
- Camera at eye level: raise your laptop on a few books so the camera is level with your eyes, not looking up at your chin.
- Grainy image: that's almost always low light. A cheap desk lamp improves image quality more than an expensive webcam.
- Flickering stripes: your lights flicker at the mains frequency. Look for a “power line frequency” or “anti-flicker” setting in your camera software and set it to 50 Hz (Europe, Asia, Africa) or 60 Hz (Americas).
- Wrong camera on laptops with an external webcam: pick the right one from the Camera list here, then do the same inside your call app.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my webcam showing a black screen?
Another app (Zoom, Teams, Skype or your camera app) may be using the camera. Close it and try again. Also check any physical privacy shutter, a camera on/off key on your laptop (often F8 or F10), and your system privacy settings for the camera.
Why is my frame rate lower than 30 fps?
Most webcams lower their frame rate in dim light to get a brighter image. Add light in front of you. A busy USB hub or an old USB 2.0 port can also limit high-resolution video.
Is my video recorded or sent anywhere?
No. The preview is shown directly from your camera to this page. Snapshots are created in your browser and only saved if you download them.
How do I allow camera access again after blocking it?
Click the lock or settings icon in the address bar, set Camera to Allow, and reload the page.
Does this work on phones?
Yes. On phones you can switch between the front and back cameras using the Camera list.