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TestLuma

Webcam

Webcam shows a black screen

A black picture means the browser can open the camera but receives no image. The test above shows "The picture is black" when this happens.

Last reviewed October 23, 2026

Start with a quick test

Steps

  1. 1

    Check the privacy shutter and camera key

    Many laptops have a sliding cover over the camera, or a key on the top row (often with a crossed-out camera icon) that switches it off electrically. External webcams may have a lens cap.

  2. 2

    Close other apps using the camera

    Call apps, camera utilities and other browser tabs can hold the camera. Quit them, including from the system tray or menu bar, then try again.

  3. 3

    Check privacy settings

    On Windows, Settings › Privacy & security › Camera. On a Mac, System Settings › Privacy & Security › Camera. Allow your browser or app.

  4. 4

    Try another USB port or cable

    External webcams need enough power and bandwidth. Plug directly into the computer, ideally a USB 3 port, not a hub.

  5. 5

    Pick a lower resolution

    In the test above, choose 720p. Some cameras show black when asked for a mode they can't deliver.

  6. 6

    Restart

    A restart releases devices that an app has frozen and reloads drivers. It fixes more problems than it should.

Still not working?

  • Reinstall the camera driver (Windows: Device Manager › Cameras).
  • Try the camera on another computer to check for a hardware fault.

Devices