How to test your camera and mic on Windows 11 and 10

Works with laptop cameras, USB webcams, headsets and USB microphones on Windows 11 and Windows 10. Click the buttons and allow access.

Runs entirely in your browser. Nothing is recorded or uploaded.

Camera

Click the button and choose Allow when your browser asks to use the camera.

Microphone

Click the button, choose Allow, then say a few words.

Test your webcam on Windows

  1. Click Test my camera and choose Allow.
  2. If you have several cameras (laptop + USB webcam), switch between them in the device menu.
  3. Check the resolution, frame rate and picture-quality tips.

Test your microphone on Windows

  1. Click Test my microphone and speak. The bar should move.
  2. Record 5 seconds and play it back.
  3. Windows has its own test too. Windows 11: Settings → System → Sound → your input → Test your microphone → Start test. Windows 10: Settings → System → Sound → Input shows a level bar while you talk.

Turn on camera and microphone access

Windows can block access for all apps or just desktop apps (which includes your browser). The path differs between versions:

  1. Windows 11: Settings → Privacy & security → Camera: turn on Camera access, Let apps access your camera and Let desktop apps access your camera. Then the same three switches under Microphone.
  2. Windows 10: Settings → Privacy → Camera: turn on Allow apps to access your camera and Allow desktop apps to access your camera. Then the same under Microphone.
  3. Restart your browser.
  4. Switches greyed out with "Some settings are managed by your organization"? A work or school policy controls them — ask your IT admin.

Problems?

Microphone stuck at volume 0, webcam not detected or "in use"? Follow the detailed fixes in camera not working and microphone not working.

Frequently asked questions

How do I test my webcam on Windows 11?

Click "Test my camera" above and allow access. You can also open the built-in Camera app from the Start menu.

How do I test my microphone on Windows 11?

Use the test above, or open Settings → System → Sound, choose your input device and click "Start test" next to Test your microphone.

Why are the camera or microphone switches greyed out?

If Settings says "Some settings are managed by your organization", a work or school policy controls them — ask your IT admin. On a personal PC, sign in as an administrator.

How do I tell if an app is using my microphone on Windows?

Windows shows a microphone icon in the taskbar while the mic is in use. For the camera, open Settings → Privacy & security → Camera and look at Recent activity.

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