Step 1: Test the camera
Click Test my webcam and allow access. If you see yourself, Mac is fine and an app has the wrong device — see Zoom, Teams or Discord. If the preview is black, follow the Mac fixes below.
Step 2: macOS camera permission
- System Settings → Privacy & Security → Camera: enable the app or browser, then quit and reopen it — macOS applies the change only after a restart.
Step 3: Clear a stuck camera
- Close every other app that may be holding the camera.
- If the preview is still black, restart the Mac to clear a stuck camera process.
- For an external webcam, try a different USB port and cable.
Step 4: Last resorts
- Remove any physical privacy shutter or tape over the lens.
- Update your webcam/USB drivers and reboot.
- Test the same camera in a second app to confirm whether the fault is system-wide.
FAQ
My camera previews in this test but not in my app on Mac — why?
The camera is fine. The app has the wrong Camera selected or another app is holding it. Pick the right device in the app and close rival video apps.
Why is my webcam black on Mac?
Another app is usually holding the camera, the lens is covered, or the camera permission is off. Close other video apps, remove any shutter, check the permission, and reload.
Does this webcam test record video?
No. The preview and any snapshot stay only in your browser and never leave your device.