Video calling has become one of the most popular ways to stay in touch, and it works just as well on a tablet or computer as it does on a phone — often better, because the larger screen makes it easier to see the person you are talking to. Here is how to get started, even if you have never done it before.
What You Need
- A device with a camera and a microphone. Most laptops, tablets, and desktop computers with a built-in or attached webcam have both.
- A working internet connection — Wi-Fi is ideal.
- An app or service to make the call.
Choosing an App
The right app depends on who you want to call. The simplest approach is to pick the app your contact already uses, so ask them which one it is. Free plans may limit group calls, so check the plan details before you rely on one for a group call.
- FaceTime — built into iPhones, iPads, and Macs. If the person you want to call has an Apple device, this is the easiest option.
- Built-in or browser options — some video calling services work in a web browser, and your device may already have a calling app. Check what your device already offers.
Before Your First Call: Check Your Camera and Microphone
It is worth testing these before your first call so you are not troubleshooting while someone is waiting on the other end. The steps below are for Windows computers and Macs. Tablets and phones vary by device. Menu names and places also change between versions, so treat the steps as a guide.
- On Windows, camera: Search for “Camera” in the Start menu and open the Camera app. If you can see yourself, the camera works.
- On Windows, microphone: Go to Settings, then System, then Sound, and look for the input section. Speak and watch for the bar to move. If you cannot find these, check your computer’s help for ‘microphone’.
- On Mac, camera: Open the Photo Booth app to test your camera. If you can see yourself on the screen, the camera is working.
- On Mac, microphone: Go to System Settings, then Sound, then Input, and speak to see the level move. Menu names change between macOS versions, so if you cannot find these, check your Mac’s help for ‘microphone’.
- Many video calling apps also have a test option, so you can check your audio and video before you join a real call. The test should usually show your picture and let you check your sound.
How to Start, Answer, Mute and End a Call
Each app places its buttons a little differently, and the labels can change between versions. The steps below describe the general pattern that most apps follow.
- Start a call: Open the app and choose the person from your contacts. Tap or click the video icon, which is often shaped like a camera, to start a video call. You should see a screen showing that the other person is being called.
- Answer a call: When someone calls you, a notification or full-screen alert appears. Tap or click the button that accepts the call. You should see the caller’s name or picture.
- Mute and unmute: Look for a microphone icon, usually at the bottom of the call screen. Tap or click it to switch your microphone off. Many apps change the icon to show that you are muted. Tap it again to speak.
- End a call: Look for the button that ends the call, usually at the bottom of the call screen. Tap or click it to leave the call. The call screen should close.
On some devices, the buttons may only appear when you move the mouse or tap the screen.
Simple Tips for Better Video Calls
- Sit with a light source in front of you, not behind you. A window behind you makes you appear as a silhouette. Face the window or a lamp instead.
- Position the camera at eye level. Propping your laptop on a few books makes the angle more natural for both parties.
- Use headphones if possible. They reduce echo and make it much easier for the other person to hear you clearly.
- Mute yourself when you are not speaking on group calls. This prevents background noise from being picked up.
- Check your background. Take a moment to look at what the camera will show behind you. A tidy, neutral background looks more professional. If tidying is not practical, many apps let you blur your background or replace it with a virtual one. Look in the call settings for this option, as names and places vary by app.
If the camera or microphone does not appear in your device’s settings at all, or it stays silent or dark after you have checked the steps above, the problem may be with the hardware. Contact the device maker’s support. If the device is for work, ask your IT team first.
Once you have made your first call, the whole process becomes second nature. Video calling is one of those technologies that, with a small amount of setup, brings a real benefit to everyday life — especially for keeping in touch with people who live far away.
Last updated: October 9, 2026