Most Chromebooks come with a built-in webcam, but not all

The short answer: most Chromebooks have a webcam built into the top bezel of the screen, but some budget models and older devices do not. If your Chromebook was made in the last five years and cost more than $200, it almost certainly has one. If you bought a very cheap model or an older refurbished unit, check the device itself or the manufacturer's spec sheet before assuming it's there.

The webcam location is almost always at the center top of the screen, above the display. It's usually a small lens you can see when you look at the top edge of your Chromebook closed. Some models have a physical shutter you can slide over it for privacy; others do not.

Key Takeaways

  • Most modern Chromebooks include a built-in webcam in the top bezel, but budget models under $200 and older devices may not have one.
  • You can check whether your Chromebook has a webcam by looking at the top center of the screen or by searching the model number on the manufacturer's website.
  • Built-in Chromebook webcams work with Google Meet, Zoom, and other video calling apps without needing drivers or additional software.
  • If your Chromebook does not have a built-in webcam, you can connect an external USB webcam that will work when ready without installation.

How to check if your specific Chromebook has a webcam

The easiest way is to look. Close your Chromebook and examine the top center of the screen bezel—the frame around the display. If there's a small dark circular lens there, you have a webcam. It's usually about the size of a pencil eraser.

If you cannot see one clearly or want to be certain, find your Chromebook's model number. On most Chromebooks, you can find this by clicking the clock in the bottom right corner, then clicking the settings icon (gear shape), then scrolling down to "About Chrome OS." The model name will be listed there. Search that model name plus "webcam specs" on Google, and the manufacturer's product page will tell you whether it includes one.

You can also test whether a webcam is working by opening Google Meet or any video calling app. If the app shows a live video feed from your camera, you have a working webcam. If it shows a black screen or says "no camera found," either there is no webcam or it is not connected properly.

Which Chromebook models typically do not have webcams

Very inexpensive Chromebooks—those under $150 when new—sometimes skip the webcam to keep costs down. Some older refurbished or used Chromebooks from 2015 and earlier may not have one either. Certain specialized models designed for specific business uses might also lack a camera.

If you are buying a used Chromebook, ask the seller directly whether it has a webcam, or request photos of the top bezel. If you are buying new, check the product listing on the retailer's website; the specs section will list "webcam" or "camera" if one is included.

How Chromebook webcams work with video calling apps

Chromebook webcams work with Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, and most other video calling platforms. When you open one of these apps in your browser, it will ask permission to use your camera the first time. Click "Allow," and the app can then access the webcam.

You do not need to install drivers or read software—the Chromebook operating system handles the camera automatically. If an app asks for your camera and you see a black screen instead of video, try refreshing the page or closing and reopening the app. If that does not work, check your camera permissions by clicking the camera icon in the address bar and making sure the app is set to "Allow."

Adding an external webcam if your Chromebook does not have one

If your Chromebook has no built-in camera, you can plug in a USB webcam. Any standard USB webcam will work—you do not need a special Chromebook version. Plug it into a USB port (or USB-C port with an adapter if your Chromebook only has USB-C), and it will be ready to use when ready. No drivers or setup required.

Popular external webcams that work well with Chromebooks include the Logitech C920, the Razer Kiyo, and the Microsoft LifeCam. Budget options like the VicTsing or AUSDOM models also work fine. When you open a video calling app, it will detect the external camera and let you choose it from a dropdown menu if your Chromebook also has a built-in camera.

Privacy and webcam shutters on Chromebooks

Some Chromebooks include a physical shutter—a small slider or cover—over the webcam that you can close when you are not using it. This is a hardware privacy feature that blocks the lens completely. If your Chromebook has one, you will see a small lever or button near the camera lens at the top of the screen.

If your Chromebook does not have a physical shutter, you can still control camera access through settings. Click the clock, then Settings, then Privacy and Security, then Site Settings, then Camera. From there you can see which websites have permission to use your camera and revoke access to any you do not trust. You can also cover the lens with a small piece of tape if you prefer a physical barrier.

Troubleshooting a Chromebook webcam that is not working

If your Chromebook has a webcam but it is not showing video, start by checking permissions. Open Settings (click the clock, then the gear icon), go to Privacy and Security, then Site Settings, then Camera. Make sure the website or app you are trying to use is set to "Allow" rather than "Block."

If permissions are correct but you still see no video, try restarting the app or refreshing the browser tab. If that does not work, restart your Chromebook—click the power button in the bottom right corner and select "Shut down." Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on. After restart, test the camera again in a fresh browser tab.

If the camera still does not work after restart, the hardware may be damaged or disconnected internally. Contact the manufacturer's support line with your model number, or visit a repair shop if your Chromebook is out of warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I disable my Chromebook webcam for privacy?

Yes. You can block camera access for specific websites through Settings > Privacy and Security > Site Settings > Camera, or you can physically cover the lens with tape. If your Chromebook has a physical shutter, slide it closed. Blocking through settings prevents apps from accessing the camera, but a physical cover is more visible proof that the camera is off.

Do all Chromebooks have the same type of webcam?

No. Different manufacturers use different camera sensors and resolutions. Most built-in Chromebook webcams are 720p or 1080p, which is fine for video calls. Some higher-end models have better cameras, while budget models may have lower resolution. The quality difference is usually not noticeable during a video call.

What if my Chromebook webcam is upside down or sideways?

This is rare but can happen if the camera sensor is installed rotated. Most video calling apps have a settings menu where you can flip or rotate the video. Open the app, look for Settings or Camera Settings, and choose the rotation option that makes your video appear right-side up. If the app does not have this option, try a different video calling platform.

Can I use my Chromebook webcam for streaming or recording videos?

Yes. You can use apps like OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) through the browser, or use built-in recording tools in Google Meet and other platforms. The quality will depend on your Chromebook's camera resolution and your internet connection. For streaming, make sure your Chromebook is plugged in, as video streaming uses a lot of battery.

Is a Chromebook webcam safe to use?

Chromebook webcams are as safe as any computer camera. The main risk is unauthorized access if a website or app you do not trust gains permission to use it. Always check what permissions you are granting before clicking "Allow" on a camera request, and revoke access to apps you no longer use. A physical shutter or tape over the lens provides extra peace of mind.