How to Test Your Webcam and Microphone Before a Video Call
Check camera, microphone, speakers and internet before a Teams, Zoom or Meet call.
1. Open the camera before the meeting
Use the Webcam Test and allow camera access when the browser asks. Confirm that the image appears, the camera is physically positioned correctly and another application is not holding the device exclusively.
2. Confirm the microphone is receiving sound
Open the Microphone Test, speak normally and watch the level meter. A moving meter confirms that the browser is receiving audio; it does not automatically guarantee that your meeting app has selected the same microphone, so check that app too.
3. Test left and right audio
The Speaker Test produces simple tones. If you hear nothing, check the operating-system output device, volume and whether Bluetooth headphones are connected to another device.
4. Check connection quality, not just “online”
Video calls care about latency and consistency as well as raw download speed. Run the Internet Connection Test. High jitter or delayed responses can explain choppy audio even when websites load.
5. Fix permission problems
Camera and microphone access require HTTPS and browser permission. If you previously blocked access, use the site-permission controls in the browser address bar, allow the device and reload the page.
6. Use the combined check
If you are in a hurry, the Laptop Check runs a short readiness sequence covering browser, connection, screen, camera, microphone and local browser storage.
What a successful pre-call test should tell you
A useful check is not just “the browser can see a camera.” You want a stable preview, a microphone meter that responds to normal speech, audible speaker output and an internet connection that is not showing large latency swings. If one element fails, troubleshoot it separately before reopening the meeting app.
Also verify that the device selected in Zoom, Teams or Meet matches the device that worked in the browser. External webcams, Bluetooth headsets and docking stations can change the default input or output after reconnecting.
Run the test from your real meeting setup
Use the same desk, Wi‑Fi connection, headset and browser you expect to use during the call. A perfect test beside the router is less useful if the meeting will happen two rooms away. Close large downloads and cloud backups, then test again so the result reflects normal meeting conditions.
Related guides
Useful MyLaptopTools checks
Use these free browser tools to test the relevant part of your setup: