Using Zoom on a laptop

Follow this article for tips on using or setting up Zoom meetings on a laptop. These tips are centered on laptop users who don't have external accessories like a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Prerequisites for using or setting up Zoom on a laptop

• Before using Zoom on a laptop (Windows, Linux, or macOS), make sure it meets the requirements for Zoom.
• If you’re using the Zoom PWA client, make sure you have the latest version of the Chrome browser.

This article covers:

• How to set up Zoom on a laptop
• How to use an integrated webcam
• How to use integrated audio devices
• How to use external earphones or headset
• How to suppress background noise
• How to use keyboard shortcuts 
• How to use video quality enhancements

How to set up Zoom on a laptop

Follow the support article to download and install the Zoom desktop client on your laptop (Windows, Linux, or macOS).

If you’re using Zoom on a Chromebook (laptop with ChromeOS), install the Zoom for Chrome PWA client available on Google Play.

How to use an integrated webcam

Most laptops have an integrated webcam that allows you to use Zoom without an external webcam.

Follow these steps to test your integrated webcam and switch to it if necessary.

1. Sign in to the Zoom desktop client.
2. In the top-right corner, click your profile picture. If you don’t have a profile picture, click your initials.
   
3. Click Settings.
4. Select the Video tab and confirm that the video preview is working.
5. If you don’t see your video, click the Camera drop-down menu and select Integrated Camera, or something similar like Built-In or Internal.

You can also test your integrated camera by joining a test meeting.

How to use integrated audio devices

Most laptops have integrated audio devices (speakers and mic) that allow you to use Zoom without external accessories.

Follow the support article for testing audio in Zoom. If you’re unable to successfully test your speakers or microphone, make sure to select one of these devices during the testing process:

• macOS: Select the option that states your laptop model; for example MacBook Pro Speakers or MacBook Pro Microphone.
• Windows: Select the option that states the audio driver name. In most cases, this will be Realtek.
• Linux: Select the option that states Internal or Built-In.

How to use external earphones or headset

When using Zoom on a laptop, you can choose from one of these audio setups:

• USB or Bluetooth headset: If you’re using a USB headset with speakers and a mic, you can switch audio settings to both functions. When selecting your device in audio settings, select the options that contain the brand name of your device; for example, Logitech or Sennheiser.
• Earphones with mic connected to a supported 3.5mm audio jack: If you’re using earphones with a built-in mic and it’s connected to a supported 3.5mm audio jack on your laptop, you can use the earphones as your speaker and mic. When selecting your device in audio settings, select the speaker option that states the audio driver name. In most cases, this will be Realtek.
  Note: If you’re not sure if your 3.5mm audio jack is supported, look for a headset/mic icon next to the audio jack. Most modern laptops support this.

Follow the support article for testing audio in Zoom to confirm your device is working. If your mic and/or speakers are not working, consider using an integrated device.

How to suppress background noise

If you’re using your laptop’s integrated mic or earphones with a built-in mic, you may notice it’s sensitive to background noises like keyboard typing or dog barking. You can adjust the noise suppression setting to help remove distracting noises that are picked up by participants' microphones and improve audio quality.

How to use keyboard shortcuts

If you’re not using an external mouse with your laptop, consider using keyboard shortcuts for common tasks during a Zoom meeting. You can also use shortcuts for editing chat messages.

How to use video quality enhancements

Some integrated webcams have poor video quality. Follow the instructions to improve meeting video and picture quality by enabling HD, adjusting video for low light, and touching up your appearance.