Starting a video call on Teams requires only a single click from your chat or calendar window. If you are wondering how to video call on teams, this guide will walk you through every step, from initiating your first call to managing advanced settings. Microsoft Teams has become a central hub for remote work, and knowing how to make video calls efficiently can save you time and frustration. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this article covers everything you need.
Video calls in Teams are not just for meetings. You can start them instantly from a chat, schedule them in advance, or join a call from a link. The platform works on desktop, web, and mobile devices, so you can stay connected anywhere. Below, we break down the process into simple, actionable steps.
How To Video Call On Teams
To begin, open Microsoft Teams on your computer or mobile device. The interface is intuitive, but the exact steps vary slightly depending on where you start. Here is a complete breakdown of the most common methods.
Starting A Video Call From A Chat
This is the fastest way to make a video call. Follow these steps:
- Open the Teams app and go to the Chat section on the left sidebar.
- Select the conversation with the person or group you want to call.
- Look for the Video Call button (a camera icon) at the top right of the chat window.
- Click the button. Teams will immediately start a video call with that person or group.
- Wait for the other person to answer. You can also turn your camera off before answering by toggling the camera icon.
If you are in a group chat, clicking the video call button will ring everyone in the chat. This is perfect for quick team check-ins or impromptu discussions. Remember, you can also start a call from a one-on-one chat by clicking the same icon.
Starting A Video Call From The Calendar
Scheduled meetings are another common way to video call. Here is how to join or start one:
- Go to the Calendar tab on the left sidebar.
- Find the meeting you want to join. It will have a Join button.
- Click Join a few minutes before the scheduled time. Teams will open the meeting window.
- You can choose to turn your camera and microphone on or off before entering.
- Click Join Now to enter the call.
To schedule a new video call, click the New Meeting button in the top right of the Calendar tab. Fill in the details, add attendees, and set a time. Teams will send an invitation with a link to the video call.
Starting A Video Call From The Teams Tab
If you are working within a specific team channel, you can start a call directly from there:
- Go to the Teams tab on the left sidebar.
- Select the team and channel where you want to call.
- Click the Meet button (camera icon) at the top right of the channel.
- Choose Meet now to start an instant call. The call will be visible to everyone in that channel.
- Alternatively, select Schedule a meeting to plan ahead.
This method is great for team-wide discussions or stand-ups. Everyone in the channel can see the call and join if they want.
Joining A Video Call On Teams
Joining a call is just as simple. Here are the main ways to do it:
Joining From A Link Or Invitation
When someone sends you a meeting link, click it. Teams will open in your browser or app. You will see a pre-join screen where you can check your audio and video settings. Click Join Now to enter.
Joining From The Calendar
As mentioned, open the Calendar tab and find the meeting. Click Join to enter. You can also join from the meeting reminder that pops up on your desktop.
Joining From A Phone Number
Some meetings include a dial-in number. You can call that number and enter the conference ID to join via audio only. This is useful when you cannot use your computer.
Managing Video And Audio Settings
Before or during a call, you can adjust your settings to ensure a smooth experience. Here is how:
Turning Your Camera On Or Off
During a call, look for the camera icon at the bottom of the screen. Click it to toggle your video on or off. You can also do this before joining a call on the pre-join screen.
Muting And Unmuting Your Microphone
The microphone icon works the same way. Click it to mute or unmute yourself. Use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+Shift+M (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+M (Mac) to toggle mute quickly.
Changing Your Background
Teams lets you blur your background or replace it with an image. On the pre-join screen, click Background effects. Choose a blur, a default image, or upload your own. You can also change it during a call by clicking the three-dot menu and selecting Apply background effects.
Adjusting Device Settings
Before a call, go to your profile picture and select Settings > Devices. Here you can choose your speaker, microphone, and camera. Test them to ensure they work properly.
Advanced Video Call Features
Teams offers several features to enhance your video calls. Here are the most useful ones:
Sharing Your Screen
To share your screen during a call, click the Share button (a square with an arrow) at the top of the call window. Choose to share your entire screen, a specific window, or a PowerPoint file. This is great for presentations or collaboration.
Recording A Call
If you need to save a call for later, click the three-dot menu and select Start recording. The recording will be saved to Microsoft Stream or OneDrive, depending on your organization settings. Notify participants before recording.
Using Live Captions
Turn on live captions to see real-time text of what is being said. Click the three-dot menu and select Turn on live captions. This helps with accessibility or when you are in a noisy environment.
Raising Your Hand
In larger meetings, use the Raise hand feature to indicate you want to speak. Click the hand icon at the top of the call window. The host will see your hand raised and can call on you.
Using Breakout Rooms
Hosts can split participants into smaller groups using breakout rooms. During a call, click the Breakout rooms icon and assign participants. This is useful for workshops or brainstorming sessions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with a good setup, issues can arise. Here are solutions to common problems:
Camera Not Working
If your camera is not detected, check that it is connected and not being used by another app. In Teams, go to Settings > Devices and select the correct camera. Restart the app if needed.
Audio Problems
If others cannot hear you, check your microphone settings. Make sure you are not muted. Also, test your microphone in Settings > Devices. If the issue persists, try a different microphone or headset.
Poor Video Quality
Low video quality is often due to a weak internet connection. Close other apps that use bandwidth, or switch to a wired connection. You can also turn off your camera to improve audio quality.
Cannot Join A Call
If you cannot join a call, check your internet connection. Try joining from the web version if the desktop app fails. Also, ensure you have the latest Teams update installed.
Video Calling On Teams Mobile
The Teams mobile app works similarly to the desktop version. Here is how to make a video call on your phone:
Starting A Call On Mobile
- Open the Teams app on your iPhone or Android device.
- Go to the Chat tab and select a conversation.
- Tap the Video Call button (camera icon) at the top.
- The call will start immediately. You can switch between front and rear cameras by tapping the camera flip icon.
Joining A Meeting On Mobile
Tap the meeting link in your calendar or email. The app will open and show a pre-join screen. Tap Join Now to enter. You can also join from the Calendar tab in the app.
Mobile-Specific Features
On mobile, you can use the same features like screen sharing, muting, and background effects. However, some features like breakout rooms are only available on desktop. The mobile app is best for quick calls or when you are on the go.
Tips For Better Video Calls On Teams
To make your calls more professional and efficient, follow these tips:
- Use a headset with a microphone for clearer audio.
- Find a quiet, well-lit space to avoid distractions.
- Test your equipment before important calls.
- Keep your camera at eye level for a natural angle.
- Mute yourself when not speaking to reduce background noise.
- Use the chat feature to share links or notes during the call.
These small adjustments can significantly improve the experience for everyone on the call.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start a video call on Teams without scheduling?
You can start an instant video call from any chat by clicking the video camera icon. No scheduling needed.
Can I video call on Teams with multiple people?
Yes, you can start a group video call from a group chat or schedule a meeting with multiple attendees.
Why is my video not working on Teams?
Check your camera settings in Teams and ensure no other app is using the camera. Restart the app if the issue persists.
How do I share my screen during a Teams video call?
Click the Share button at the top of the call window and choose what you want to share.
Can I record a video call on Teams?
Yes, click the three-dot menu and select Start recording. The recording will be saved automatically.
Now you have a complete guide on how to video call on teams. From starting a call to troubleshooting issues, these steps will help you communicate effectively. Practice these methods to become confident with Teams video calls. If you encounter any problems, refer back to the troubleshooting section or check Microsoft’s support page for updates. Happy calling!