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If LockDown Browser shows a blank webcam image or a spinning wheel, first update the browser, restart the computer, and close other apps that might be using the camera. Then run the webcam check in LockDown Browser’s Help Center and select the physical camera—not a virtual splitter or filter. A failed check does not by itself mean the camera is broken: permissions, another program, or a camera utility can block access.
Work through these checks in order
- Update LockDown Browser. Exit the webcam check. In LockDown Browser, select the toolbar information icon (a Globe on Mac) and check for an update. Install any offered update.
- Restart and free the camera. Restart the computer, then close video-meeting apps, recording tools, camera utilities, and other programs that may be using the webcam. An application can hold the camera and prevent LockDown Browser from accessing it.
- Run the built-in diagnostic. Sign in to your learning management system (LMS), open a course in LockDown Browser, and open Help Center. Run the system check, then the webcam check. If the camera image appears in that check, Respondus says it should also appear in the pre-exam check. See Respondus’ Help Center instructions.
- Select the physical camera. If the check offers “change my webcam,” choose the actual built-in camera or external USB webcam. Do not select a device labeled “splitter” or “filter.”
- Check permissions and privacy controls. Allow camera access for LockDown Browser in the operating system’s privacy settings. On Windows, Respondus specifically calls out the camera permission for desktop apps; check microphone permission too if audio is part of the problem. On macOS 12 and newer, a first-time user may need to grant LockDown Browser camera and microphone access in system settings. Menu names vary by OS release. Also check antivirus software and camera-utility privacy settings, which may block access. Respondus lists these causes in its camera troubleshooting guidance and blank-image and spinning-wheel guidance.
- Review recent driver changes. If the camera stopped working after a driver update, Respondus says reverting to the previous driver may help in some cases; updating may also help in others. Avoid changing drivers indiscriminately, and follow your computer maker’s guidance.
- Try an external USB webcam if the built-in camera still fails. Connect a physical webcam, select it in the webcam check, and run the check again. Respondus identifies an external webcam as a possible workaround, not a guaranteed fix: it will not necessarily resolve blocked permissions, camera contention, or device incompatibility.
- Ask your institution for exam-specific help. Use the institution’s LockDown Browser download link and confirm any device rules with its help desk. For a pre-exam webcam problem, Respondus also directs students to its “It’s not working” support path, which offers live chat.
Tell whether the problem is the camera or its setup
When both a built-in and external camera are available, compare them in the Help Center webcam check. For each device, note whether the operating system detects it, whether LockDown Browser displays a usable image, and whether camera permission is granted. Then confirm that your institution permits that device for the exam. Respondus does not publish model-by-model webcam rankings or a success rate for external-camera fixes.
Confirm your computer meets current requirements
Respondus’ requirements page, published July 1, 2026, lists Windows 10 and 11, macOS 12 or newer, Chromebooks running at least the ChromeOS version available in the Long Term Support channel, and iPadOS 15 or newer when the LMS integration is compatible. For webcam exams on Windows and Mac, it specifies at least 4 GB of available RAM. Requirements can change, and iPad support depends on LMS integration, so check the current Respondus requirements and your institution’s exam instructions before test day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
Sale
EMEET C960 1080P Webcam with Microphone, 2 Mics, 90° FOV, Computer Camera
- 1080P Webcam with Cover for Video Calls - EMEET computer webcam provides design and Optimization for professional video streaming. Realistic 1920 x 1080p video, 5-layer anti-glare lens, providing smooth video. C960 computer camera delivers 1920x1080 video with fixed focus (11.8–118.1 inches), so as to provide a clearer image. C960 USB webcam has a cover and can be removed automatically to meet your needs for privacy. For optimal image performance, use the webcam in a well-lit environment.
- Built-in 2 Omnidirectional Mics - EMEET webcam with microphone for desktop features 2 built-in omnidirectional microphones, picking up your voice to create clear audio for communication. When installing the webcam, select EMEET C960 as the default microphone input device in your computer and video applications and select C960 as the default device in Zoom/Teams and ensure microphone permissions are enabled for proper use. Please note that C960 does not include built-in speakers.
- Automatic Light Adjustment - Automatic exposure adjustment is applied in EMEET HD webcam 1080p so that the streaming webcam can deliver stable image performance. EMEET C960 camera for computer also features color adjustment and exposure optimization to help you look your best. For optimal video quality, it is recommended to use the webcam in normal or well-lit environments and select suitable video settings in your application. Proper lighting helps achieve a clearer and more balanced image.
- Plug-and-Play & Upgraded USB Connectivity - New C960 webcam features both USB Type-A & A-to-C adapter connections for wider compatibility. For stable performance, connect the webcam directly to the computer's main USB port and ensure the device is recognized correctly. If a hub or docking station is used, please ensure it provides sufficient power and stable data transmission, as limited ports may affect performance. 90° wide-angle lens captures more participants without frequent adjustments.
- High Compatibility & Multi Application - C960 webcam for laptop is compatible with Windows 10/11, macOS 10.14+, and Android TV 7.0+. Not supported: Windows Hello, TVs, tablets, or game consoles. It works with Zoom, Teams, Facetime, Google Meet, YouTube and more. Please select C960 webcam as the default camera and microphone device in your application and ensure camera/microphone permissions are enabled, especially on macOS. (Tips: Incompatible with Windows Hello)
Rank #3
Xweiryn Webcam for PC, HD 1080P USB Plug-and-Play Computer Web Camera, High Definition Webcam for Desktop Laptop, Ideal for Online Class, Video Conference, Live Streaming & Gaming
- 1080P HD Webcam: This HD webcam delivers crisp 1080p video quality, ideal for PCs, desktops, and laptops. Perfect for video calls, online classes, meetings, live streaming, gaming, and everyday recording. It provides clear, sharp images and smooth video at up to 30 frames per second. This live streaming webcam works with platforms such as Zoom, Teams, FaceTime, Google Meet, and YouTube.
- USB Plug and Play Webcam: Designed for PCs, this webcam is easy to use. No drivers or software are required; simply connect the webcam to your computer and start using it immediately. Operation is smooth and convenient. XWEIRYN webcams are compatible with multiple operating systems, including Mac/Windows XP/7/8/10/11/PC/Laptops.
- Widely Compatible Webcam: This versatile webcam is compatible with most operating systems and major video platforms. As a reliable computer webcam, it supports video conferencing, remote learning, live streaming, and gaming, meeting your various needs for daily work and entertainment.
- Smooth and Stable Performance: This webcam uses a stable transmission chip to ensure smooth, lag-free video streaming, synchronized audio and video, and no dropped frames. Even after prolonged use, this durable webcam maintains stable performance. It performs excellently even in low-light environments. It automatically adjusts to adapt to low-light conditions, reducing noise and restoring vibrant colors, ensuring clear and sharp images even without additional studio lighting.
- Compact and Adjustable Design: This lightweight and portable webcam saves space and comes with an adjustable clip. Our USB webcam uses a reliable USB 2.0/3.0 connection and comes with an upgraded 1.5-meter (5-foot) braided cable. It is compatible with Desktop most monitors and Laptop. Its portable design makes it easy to place and carry, ideal for home, office, or travel use.
Rank #2
Sale
Logitech Brio 101 Full HD 1080p Webcam for Streaming and Meetings - Black
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Auto-Light Balance: RightLight boosts brightness by up to 50%, reducing shadows so you look your best—compared to previous-generation Logitech webcams (1)
- Privacy with a Slide: The integrated webcam cover makes it easy to get total, reliable privacy when you're not on a video call
- Built-In Mic: The built-in microphone lets others hear you clearly during video calls
- Easy Plug-And-Play: The Brio 101 works with most video calling platforms, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet—no hassle; it just works
#1 Best Overall
Sale
Logitech C270 720p Webcam Plug-and-Play Wide Screen Video Calling - Black
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch 2’s new GameChat mode
- Crisp HD 720p/30 fps video calls with diagonal 55° field of view and auto light correction. Compatible with popular platforms including Skype and Zoom.
- The built-in noise-reducing mic makes sure your voice comes across clearly up to 1.5 meters away, even if you’re in busy surroundings.
- C270’s RightLight 2 feature adjusts to lighting conditions, producing brighter, contrasted images to help you look good in all your conference calls.
- The adjustable universal clip lets you attach the camera securely to your screen or laptop, or fold the clip and set the webcam on a shelf. You’re always ready for your next video call.
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