Whether you're testing a new camera or trying to determine how compatible your new laptop is, the process is simple. You can test your webcam by using the Camera app, but there are also several other tools.
The webcam is an essential part of any camera connected to the internet. To test a webcam, you'll first need to ensure it's plugged in. Most models require a USB socket, while some have a "ON/OFF" switch. Once it's connected, you should be able to hear the sound and view the footage. If it's not recording, you may need to restart your laptop to restore access.
Testing your webcam should be a top priority, especially when you're using web conferencing software. You'll also want to check to see if your camera's built-in camera app is actually capable of recording video. If yours isn't, you can purchase an external camera or use your laptop's camera.
To see if your webcam actually has a video or audio feed, you can turn on your camera's mic and audio controls. Then, check the video or audio windows in the Camera app. Alternatively, you can go to the Video and Audio menu in System Preferences to see if your camera is actually recording video or sound.
Aside from the built-in camera app, you can also test your webcam by visiting the Cameras page in Windows 10's Settings app. The Camera app should have a test-mode button and should automatically show a preview of your webcam feed.