This article is a list of essential items that will help you make your stream look amazing. Whether it’s for YouTube, Twitch or other streaming platforms such as Mixer and Facebook Live, these are the essentials any social media star should have in order to succeed on his live streams.
The “live streaming equipment setup for gaming” is a list of essentials that will help you make your stream look awesome.
If you’re new to streaming, whether on Twitch or YouTube, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on the “best” streaming equipment…
There’s a good possibility you already have everything you need to start streaming; all you have to do now is set it up.
But don’t worry if you have no idea what you’re missing…
This post will show you how to get started with streaming fundamentals so you can generate a high-quality broadcast like your favorite streamers.
In addition, I’ll discuss what additional optional basics you may get as your channel grows.
You’ll be able to locate some amazing streaming gear to add to your arsenal whether you’re a pure newbie seeking for information on the streaming industry or you’re on your way to developing your channel.
If you want to see what Dr Disrespect and shroud utilize to broadcast on a daily basis, we’ve written about their streaming settings.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
TL;DR: The 24 Essential Streaming Skills For A Professional Stream
We’ll divide your streaming necessities into two categories: goods that we suggest you start with if you’re new to streaming, and products that we recommend you start with if you’re a seasoned expert…
Also, there are certain optional items that you may want to buy later on. They aren’t required, but they may be beneficial in solving certain issues or as enhancements to your current system.
To Get Started With Streaming, Here’s What You’ll Need
Upgrades to Optional Essentials in the Future
Must-Have Streaming Requirements
The streaming gear listed below are essential to have before you begin streaming.
To begin with, you don’t need all of them, but they’re all fantastic entry-level solutions for delivering a professional and interesting streaming experience.
Face Cam No. 1
You’re effectively displaying yourself and your own brand when you broadcast.
As a result, having a face cam is essential. A jerky, low-FPS camera won’t cut it when it comes to allowing your audience to connect with you.
If you look at the best YouTube and Twitch broadcasters, you’ll notice that they all have crystal-clear, lag-free face cam quality.
Although streaming without a camera is feasible, we do not suggest it.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money up front to have good camera quality; the Logitech C922x, which is a good entry-level face cam, is a good place to start.
Microphone number two
Editors’ Pick
Selecting a Budget
As a streamer, having a good-sounding microphone is also essential.
Your personality, as shown via your comments and interactions with your audience, is what draws people to your stream.
You may get away with being one of the best players in your game, but remember that your followers become dedicated fans due of your personality, not simply your abilities.
You may choose between a condenser mic and a dynamic mic when picking a microphone.
There are a lot of distinctions between them that I won’t go through in this post, but here’s a handy comparison chart.
Condenser microphones provide higher-quality audio, but dynamic microphones are better at filtering out background noise.
Because dynamic microphones need an XLR input, you’ll need to utilize a Mixer and a Cloudlifter.
If you’re just getting started, a condenser mic like the Blue Yeti might suffice, since it simply requires a USB connection that you can quickly plug into. If you can stream with minimum background noise, they are ideal.
If you want the greatest quality microphone for streaming, acquire the Shure SM7B; while you’re at it, pick up a Mixer and Cloudlifter as well.
3. Boom Arm / Mic Stand
Instead of keeping your mic on your desk, which may be distracting and inconvenient, invest in a Mic Stand / Boom Arm, which allows you to set the mic at any angle or location.
Some streamers like to have their mic out of frame, generally at the top, whilst others, such as Dr Disrespect, prefer to have it right in front of their lips without interfering their face cam.
The RODE PSA1 is our top pick since it’s sturdy, flexible, and long-lasting. This is the Mic Stand / Boom Arm of preference for streamers like shroud and Dr Disrespect.
4. Use the Pop Filter
A pop filter is required for streaming because it decreases the “popping” noises you create when using words with “P’s” and “B’s,” for example.
A pop filter is a black shield that fits in front of your microphone and may be used with both condenser and dynamic microphones.
They’re low-cost add-ons that improve the sound quality of your microphone, so they’re worth investing in if you want crisp, high-quality sound.
5. Illumination
Selecting a Budget
When you stream, excellent lighting is essential because it helps your viewers feel like they’re right there with you and allows them to see the finer aspects of what’s going on.
It enhances your overall visual appeal and may make your stream seem professional and high-quality.
Lighting is important for your Face Cam since it affects how effectively your camera sensor picks you up and makes you seem nice on video.
When it comes to lighting, you want to achieve the ideal balance of brightness and contrast. A softer, more natural-looking light will usually provide the best results.
The Elgato Key Light is a high-quality studio light with a lot of adjustability, but if you want to start small, the Neewer studio light is a good option.
6. Headphones
If you’re a committed player, you’ve probably already invested in a headset.
A high-end headset will offer you with acoustic cues that you may employ to gain a strategic advantage over your opponents.
Headsets are required for most PVP games in which you are competing against another player, and you will almost always see pro/famous FPS players using one.
Your headset should be comfortable to use for extended periods of time and provide a 3D environment so you can identify your foes’ precise location.
You could select a headset with a detachable microphone because you like the sound of your external condenser/dynamic microphone.
Simply set up your microphone so that you may switch between speaking in-game and speaking to your audience.
Audio Mixer (#7)
An audio mixer is the way to go if you want to add some style to your voice to make your broadcast more interesting.
Here’s an example of some amusing content you may include in your stream: courtesy of Dr. Disrespect
An audio mixer enables you to alter the pitch of your voice in real time, as well as add echo, distortion, and other effects.
It also serves as a control panel for controlling the microphone’s level, which is a great addition.
If you choose a dynamic microphone with an XLR input, your mic will function with the audio mixers without a hitch.
Mixers are available at a variety of pricing ranges and are used by a wider range of professionals in the music and film industries, so you don’t have to spend a lot of money on one.
Stick to the essentials, such as the GoXLR, which is simple to learn and integrate into your streaming setup.
Elgato Stream Deck is number eight on the list.
Because of the vast amount of customisation you can make to optimize your streaming process and boost your productivity, the stream deck is unique to Elgato and may be a game-changer for broadcasters.
The stream deck’s goal is to remove the need for keyboard shortcuts and enable you to create whole sequences with a single click.
Switching between scenes, loading media, playing sound FX, adding on-screen GIFs and photos are just a few of the “streamer” things you can perform with a stream deck with the touch of a button.
Every button may be customized to the point that you can even choose the icon that appears on the LCD screen.
The stream deck will be an ideal purchase if you’re a huge admirer of simplifying your workflow and enhancing your productivity.
It takes a few hours to set up and has a minor learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, you can get your creative juices flowing and optimize any process you use often.
Although a stream deck is not required for beginners, the advantages of owning one are well worth the investment.
You can start small with a 6-key deck for roughly $85 or go big with an XL 32-key deck for around $250.
9. A Comfy Gaming Chair
Pick of the Week
Editors’ Pick
As a streamer, you’ll be sitting in your chair for lengthy periods of time, so choosing a comfortable and ergonomic chair is critical for your health.
It’s great if you sit with good ergonomics, which means you’re not bent over, your eyes are level with the top of your gaming display, and your lower back and neck are properly supported.
An adjustable chair helps you to find the ideal position regardless of your frame.
You may pick between three distinct materials: PU Leather, Mesh, or Fabric, each having its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Mesh is the most breathable, cotton is the most comfortable, and leather has a “luxury” appearance and is easier to clean.
Herman Miller, in particular, has been lauded as the “golden standard” for chair ergonomics, and is, in our view, the most comfortable chair now available.
They do, however, come at a premium price, and Herman Millers are recommended for people who are in desperate need of an ergonomic chair.
Alternatively, the GTRacing gaming chair is comfy, accommodates huge frames, and is reasonably priced.
Optional Streaming Add-Ons to Consider Purchasing in the Future
You should now have all of the necessary components for a high-quality broadcast. Upgrades to the following goods should only be considered when your channel grows or if you have additional finances.
Note that although they are optional, they are fundamentals that many well-known streamers possess.
The Tenth Monitor
Editors’ Pick
Selecting a Budget
You may get by with a single monitor arrangement, but switching to a two-monitor system drastically boosts your productivity.
According to a poll conducted by the New York Times, having a dual-monitor arrangement enhances productivity by 20 to 30%.
Getting a second monitor is self-explanatory; you’ll have additional screen space to work with.
Most prominent streamers have at least two displays, one “primary” monitor for gaming and one “secondary” monitor for monitoring their broadcast and interacting with their viewers.
You don’t need a high-end gaming display for your secondary monitor since you’ll be utilizing it for more screen real estate rather than visual quality.
If you wish to reduce desk space, you may also mount both monitors on a twin monitor stand.
Mechanical Keyboard No. 11
Upgrading from a membrane keyboard to a mechanical keyboard is like night and day.
Membrane switches pale in comparison to mechanical switches. They are far more pleasurable to push, act quicker, and are very configurable.
With the exception of a few high-quality membrane keyboards, the majority of today’s top-rated gaming keyboards are mechanical.
There are three kinds of mechanical switches: linear, tactile, and clicky.
A center bump on tactile switches provides feedback when you are about to activate a key.
Clicky switches are tactile switches that make a loud “clack” sound when activated. These switches have the most resemblance to the sound of an ancient typewriter.
Finally, for competitive gaming, Linear switches are the ideal switch. They don’t have a tactile bump in the centre, so you can press a key with your fingertip and it will activate.
Linear switches are the greatest since they can be actuated quickly, but your mechanical switch is a matter of personal choice.
Three distinct kinds of keyboards are shown below, each with three different types of switches.
Gaming Mouse No. 12
A gaming mouse is similar to a mechanical keyboard in that it is a significant enhancement above any conventional keyboard.
Switching from a conventional office mouse to a performance-oriented gaming mouse can offer you a significant advantage, particularly in titles like First-Person Shooters, where precise mouse clicks are vital.
Gaming mice have gone a long way, and you can now get high-quality mice for a reasonable price.
The weight, build quality, sensor, and comfort in your grasp are all factors that contribute to an excellent gaming mouse.
When holding a mouse, you may utilize one of three grips: palm grip, claw grip, or fingertip grip.
If you’re not sure which grip you’re using right now, check out our mouse grip tutorial here.
Three mice that are highly rated and tailored for various mouse grips are listed below. Choose the grip that works best for you and stick with it.
Large Mouse Pad (#13)
To fully profit from the advantages of a gaming mouse, you need also get a big mousepad.
Mousepads provide your gaming mouse’s sensor a smooth surface to grab on.
A mouse pad guarantees that your optical or laser sensor can read a smooth surface, resulting in clean and consistent mouse movements.
A hard cloth and a soft fabric are the two kinds of mouse pad surfaces.
Mousepads made of hard fabric are more “slippery,” enabling you to move your mouse more quickly. A firm fabric mousepad has the disadvantage of making it more difficult to manage your mouse movements.
Soft fabric mousepads, on the other hand, are the polar opposite. They provide greater friction, allowing you to better control your mouse movements. The disadvantage is that they are slower.
Again, it’s a matter of personal taste. A soft fabric mouse pad is ideal if you desire greater control over your mouse pad.
If you perform a lot of flicks or need to move your mouse quickly, a firm cloth pad may be best for you.
There are a variety of mouse pad sizes to pick from, and the larger the mouse pad, the better, since you’ll never run out of room, no matter how irregular your mouse movements are.
Green Screen (#14)
Green screens are a great addition to your streaming backdrop since they enable you to be more creative with your streaming effects while also hiding a messy background.
They’re inexpensive to buy and use, and they’re simple to set up.
Green screens, on the other hand, do take some upkeep; you’ll need to make sure your green screen is receiving enough light to keep your backdrop constant.
Green screens also limit your mobility since you can only set up your camera in one location.
Aside from that, you may have fun using green screens, and they can add a layer of enjoyment to your broadcast while also making it appear more professional, particularly if you want a cooler-looking backdrop.
Acoustic Panels That Are Sound-Proof
Soundproofing your space may be really beneficial, particularly if you’re streaming in a loud environment.
Background noise, reverberation, and echo are all reduced by using acoustic panels.
This may be a game-changer for streaming since your microphone will no longer pick up background noise, which will benefit your audience and broadcast quality overall.
On the other hand, it also muffles your own sounds. If you have a family or roommates and need to keep noise to a minimal at night, acoustic panels may help.
Soundproofing a room requires time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it.
16. Switcher for video
Do you want to improve the quality of your streaming? Using a live video switcher is one method to do this.
While live broadcasting, you may use this handy gadget to switch between many cameras at once.
During professional settings such as live games or interviews, these gadgets are more typically employed in video production.
However, the same may be said about your stream. Instead of having your Face Cam on you 24/7, you can flip between various camera perspectives with a little imagination.
A video switcher like the ATEM Mini is a wonderful device to add to your live streaming stack owing to its productive nature, even if it isn’t a necessary need.
17. Desk that can be adjusted
As you spend more time streaming, you’ll notice that you’re sitting at your workstation for longer periods of time.
It’s critical at this time to make sure your ergonomics are up to snuff. You should already have a comfortable chair, and an adjustable desk is the next best purchase.
An adjustable desk allows you to lift your desk to the point where you may stand, which has several health advantages that you should take advantage of.
Decreasing your risk of weight gain, lowering blood sugar levels, reducing back discomfort, and enhancing energy levels are just a few of the advantages.
An adjustable desk can assist you maintain your optimal posture even if you have a nice chair.
Capture Card No. 18
While being caught, capture cards travel through the primary signal you’re collecting and back via your main display.
In basic words, whether you’re recording your gameplay or live streaming, you may utilize a capture card as the main recording device.
Due to its pass-through technology, capture cards enable you to game and record with zero latency, depending on the model you pick.
Capture cards should be utilized on a separate PC since they require your CPU to encode your films once they’ve been taken.
Popular streamers often have a second PC dedicated to broadcasting, which relieves the stress on their regular PCs and allows them to focus their resources on running their chosen game at its best.
You’ll need a capture card to record your games if you’re planning to broadcast on a console.
Dedicated Streaming PC (19.)
Archangel Gaming Computer by Skytech
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU (3.6GHz, 6-Core, 12-Thread) (4.2 GHz Max Boost)
- AMD High-Performance Wraith Cooler Motherboard
- 500GB SSD
- Graphics Card: GeForce GTX 1660 6GB GDDR5 (Brand May Vary)
- DDR4 3000MHz Gaming Memory (8GB) with Heat Spreaders
- Windows 10 Home 64-bit is the operating system.
- FREE KEYBOARD AND MOUSE FOR GAMING
- Cooling: 3 x RGB RING Fans with High Air Flow
- Skytech Archangel Gaming Case – White with Tempered Glass
- 1 Year Parts and Labor Warranty, as well as Lifetime Free Technical Support
Check the Costs
If you make a purchase, we will get a commission at no extra cost to you.
Note: Building your own PC is always preferable since you’ll have more control over the components you choose and you won’t have to pay the “premium” for having the PC pre-assembled.
As game graphics improve, so does the need for resources, and running your streaming software while playing these resource-intensive games might tax your machine.
So the quick-fix option is to set up a dual-PC arrangement, with one devoted to gaming and the other to streaming.
OBS, Streamlabs, and XSplit are all video capture tools that consume your computer’s resources, particularly its CPU and GPU.
Because your streaming software isn’t as resource-intensive as video games, you don’t need to purchase top-of-the-line PC components. Instead, you may get a more economical PC.
Buying a dedicated streaming PC can alleviate your troubles if your primary PC is overburdened by the programs and software you’re utilizing.
Camera No. 20
As your fame grows in the streaming world, you’ll want to improve the quality of your streams, and moving from a webcam to a mirrorless camera will help you achieve exactly that.
Famous YouTubers in both filming and photography utilize mirrorless cameras. As a result, you may be certain that a mirrorless camera outperforms a webcam in every regard.
There is a significant increase in megapixels, which provides:
- Image quality is better.
- Improved auto-focus to keep you in focus.
- In low-light situations, the quality is better.
Not to add that your FPS will be much higher with minimal to no lag.
Mirrorless cameras are more robust, allowing them to be used for extended periods of time without overheating, breaking down, or becoming clogged.
A mirrorless camera is worth considering if you have the funds to switch from your typical webcam to a more professional, high-quality camera.
21. Camera Connection (HDMI Display Adapter Converter)
You can broadcast live from a DSLR or mirrorless camera using an HDMI converter like the Elgato Cam Link.
It takes, records, and encodes what your camera catches, which is most likely what you’re doing on camera while you’re streaming.
They’re compact and may be purchased in USB format, making them conveniently portable and enabling you to take your streaming gear with you on your next trip.
In compared to a normal webcam, your HDMI display adapter, together with your DSLR/mirrorless camera, will deliver better face cam quality for your streaming.
Camera Lens No. 22
Many elements of the film produced by your camera will be affected by different camera lenses, including how effectively it records you in low-light settings, how much you can zoom in or out, and overall video quality.
Professional-grade lenses offer a larger range of flexibility and often deliver higher-quality films and photos, thus they might cost more than your mirrorless camera in the camera industry.
You won’t have to pay a lot of money to get a good camera lens for streaming.
You can get by with a mid-priced lens like the Sigma 16mm (f/1.4), which will provide your stream premium-quality clarity.
Accessories for Cable Management 23.
Cable management should be higher on our list since it may help you de-clutter your desk, giving you a clearer mind and making you feel more productive.
I didn’t include it since it isn’t required.
It’s preferable to complete all of your cable management in one go and then maintain it on a weekly basis.
When you’re sat at your desk, cable management entails arranging your cords in a neat and out-of-the-way manner.
It’s easy to become caught up in a tangle of cables, particularly if your peripherals are mostly wired rather than wireless.
The good news is that cable management takes very little time, and the sensation you get after straightening up your cords is really rewarding.
We could go off on a tangent on wire management, but utilizing a cable raceway, cable ties, and cable clips are the simplest methods to tidy up your cables.
If you’re into competitive gaming, you’ll also benefit from purchasing a mouse bungee, which allows you to utilize your mouse without tangles.
Gaming Router (number 24)
Finally, purchasing a gaming router will guarantee that your internet connection remains stable and that you get the most out of your ISP (Internet Service Provider).
Because the internet is the sole link between you and your audience, having technical issues with your router may be quite unpleasant.
YouTube recommends 1.5 to 4 Mbps upload speed per second, while Twitch recommends 2.5 to 4 Mbps upload speed per second, with even greater numbers if you wish to broadcast in HD or even 4K.
When you first get your Internet Service, a gaming router is a significant increase over the standard router. WiFi is more dependable, and in certain circumstances, the router may also boost your internet speed.
For greatest consistency, it’s essential to have a direct connection from your router to your PC.
If your home is built up in such a manner that you must depend on WiFi connections, you may always pair your gaming router with a WiFi Mesh Extender, which boosts your WiFi power without requiring you to connect to another network.
The Requirement for Video Streaming on the Internet at a Minimum
The following are the criteria for Twitch and YouTube streaming:
Twitch
- 6 Mbps at 1080p 60FPS (NVIDIA NVENC/x264)
- 4.5 Mbps at 1080p 30FPS (NVIDIA NVENC/x264)
- 4.5 Mbps at 720p 60FPS (NVIDIA NVENC/x264)
- 3 Mbps 720p 30FPS (NVIDIA NVENC/x264)
YouTube
- 20 Mbps for 4K
- 5 Mbps in 1080p
- 2.5 Mbps in 720p
- 1.1 Mbps at 480p
- 0.7 Mbps in 360p
Minimum PC Requirements for Streaming Video
The minimal prerequisites for streaming on Twitch and YouTube are listed below, but we’ll also provide our recommendations on what you should have in order to have a high-quality broadcast.
The following are the minimum requirements:
These specifications are just for Twitch/YouTube and do not account for the game you’ll be broadcasting.
- Intel Core i5-4670 processor (Or AMD Equivalent)
- 4 GB of RAM
- N/A for the GPU. Although it is a must for gaming,
Requirements that are recommended:
These specifications are the bare minimum for streaming and gaming at high frame rates.
- Ryzen 5 3600 CPU
- 16 GB RAM
- RTX 2060 / RX 570 GPU
Final Thoughts
To create a professional and interesting broadcast, you don’t need top-tier peripherals and components.
It’s wise to start modest and expand your collection as your channel grows.
If you’re interested in starting to broadcast, our beginner’s streaming guide may help you get started.
If you need assistance getting started with streaming or need some advice on how to improve the quality of your broadcast, leave a comment below; we’d be happy to assist!
Have fun streaming!
Streaming is an excellent way to share your thoughts and ideas with the world. This article will give you 24 essential tips that will help you make your stream look awesome. Reference: streaming essentials for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make my stream more attractive?
A: To help improve your streams attractiveness, be sure to include various graphics that allow viewers to easily follow along with the game. This includes using overlays like the chat box and sidebar during gameplay.
What every streamer should have?
A: Two computers, a microphone, and an Xbox One controller.
Why do streamers do 24 hour streams?
A: There are many reasons as to why people choose 24 hour streams. One of the most common is that it allows them to reach a much wider audience and gives those who cannot watch for longer periods of time an opportunity to see what theyre doing!
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