Questions and answers
How the tests work, what happens to your camera and microphone, and why a number or a key sometimes doesn't show up.
Using TooLab
Is TooLab.io free?
Yes. Every test is free, there is nothing to install and you don't need an account.
Do I need to install anything?
No. The tests run in your browser. A recent version of Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari is all you need.
Can I run several tests at once?
Yes. Each test opens in its own window on the desktop. You can move, resize and snap the windows side by side, for example the camera next to the microphone.
What does Test everything do?
It walks you through the main tests one at a time. After each one you mark whether it worked, and at the end you get a report you can copy or save as a PDF.
Can I send a test to someone else?
Yes. Every test has its own address, such as toolab.io/tools/keyboard. Send the link and the test opens directly, in their language.
Privacy
Are my camera and microphone recorded or uploaded?
No. The picture and the sound are processed in your browser and never leave your device. A photo or a recording stays in its window until you choose to save it.
Why does the browser ask for permission?
Browsers protect the camera and the microphone, so every website has to ask first. You can change your choice at any time from the lock icon in the address bar.
Do you use cookies?
Yes, for your settings, sign-in, security and usage statistics. The Cookie Policy lists each one and how long it lasts.
Results
Why doesn't TooLab show how much RAM I have?
Browsers hide the installed amount for privacy and give websites only a rounded hint that stops at 8 GB. Showing that number would be wrong for most computers, so we leave it out. Here's how to see the real amount on Windows, Mac and Linux.
A key doesn't light up in the keyboard test. Is it broken?
Not always. Fn never reaches the browser, and the system keeps some keys for itself, such as the Windows key and Print Screen. If an ordinary letter, number or arrow stays grey, the key is likely dirty or faulty. What to do about it.
Why is the refresh rate lower than my screen's?
Laptops on battery and power-saving modes often run the screen slower. Plug in the charger, close other tabs and measure again.
Can the Wi-Fi test show my signal strength?
Not directly. Browsers don't reveal the radio signal strength (dBm), so the test measures response time, jitter and lost requests every second. That's how a weak signal shows up in a call or a game. More about it.
The battery meter says no battery was found
A desktop computer has no battery to read. A laptop that is plugged in and fully charged looks the same to the browser, so unplug the charger for a moment and the battery appears. Firefox and Safari don't share battery details at all.
Browsers and devices
Which browsers work best?
Recent versions of Chrome and Edge support every test. Firefox and Safari run most of them, but a few, like the battery meter, need features they don't offer.
Does it work on phones and tablets?
Yes. The camera, microphone, speaker, touch screen and display tests work on phones and tablets. The keyboard and mouse tests need those devices connected.
Which languages are available?
English, Hebrew, Russian, Arabic, Spanish, French, Italian and Portuguese. Pick one from the language button next to the clock or in the start menu.