Are you interested in becoming a live streamer but unsure where to start? The first step to take is building a good streaming setup.
Having the right set of equipment can jumpstart your career since it ensures the best experience for your audience without much difficulty.
But what types of gears do you need to include in a stream setup? How do you choose them and how much do they cost?
This article will answer those questions, so let’s read!
What Does A Good Streaming Setup Consist of?
A basic streamer setup consists of the followings:
- A computer
- Headphones
- A microphone
- A camera
- Lighting
- Streaming software
- A reliable internet Connection
Below we will explain what to look for when choosing each streaming setups. Also, there will be some gear recommendations for you.
Computer
You need a device to stream from, and a computer is the preferred choice for most live streamers. Not only because of the PC’s superior capability compared to mobile devices, but also since it allows you to access more streaming platforms.
You can even use a computer to stream to platforms that are more geared towards mobile users like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. It only takes the right software and camera choice, which we will talk about later.
So, what should you look for in a streaming computer? Let’s break it down below:
- Model
You are free to choose between a desktop or a laptop for a streaming setup. For some streamers, desktops work better since they do not need to worry about battery life. Furthermore, desktops offer better flexibility in terms of hardware upgrades and more USB slots to facilitate other streamer setup.
However, a laptop can be a better choice if you prioritize portability. It works well if you often move from one place to another while having a routine streaming schedule.
In case you decide to use a laptop to stream, though, make sure to choose one with high specifications. That way, you will not have to constantly buy a new laptop to get better performance.
- Specifications
A computer’s specs usually concern four components: the processor, the storage, the memory, and the graphics card. The higher the specs, the better your computer’s performance will be.
Though, depending on the type of content you plan to broadcast, getting the highest specifications for your streaming setup is not a must.
If you will only chat with the audience during live streams, a computer with an Intel Core i5 processor, 1TB SSD storage, 8GB DDR4 memory, and any standard graphics card is enough. These specifications enable your PC to run popular streaming software like OBS studio without any lag.
Read : Streamlabs vs OBS Studio in 2023
A laptop or desktop with a higher performance is only necessary if you plan to stream video games. Computers like that typically use an AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i7 processor, 1TB SSD storage, 16GB DDR5 memory, and Radeon RX 6650 XT or GeForce GTX 1070 graphics card at the minimum.
- Operating System
When it comes to operating systems or OS, Windows is often the number one choice for streaming setups due to its wide software and hardware support.
However, your choice depends on the streaming app you want to use and its compatibility. OBS, for example, supports Windows, MacOS, and Linux.
The compatibility of programs or games that you wish to stream also affects your option of operating system. So, make sure you read their minimum requirements before deciding on a streaming computer.
Now that you know the criteria of a good PC for a streaming setup, let’s take a look at a few recommendations below:
| Name | Specifications | Price |
| Acer Predator Orion 3000 | Processor: Intel Core i7 Memory: 16GB DDR4 Storage: 1TB SSD Graphics card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Operating system: Windows 11 Home | $1554 |
| Corsair One i300 | Processor: Intel Core i9 Memory: 32GB DDR5 Storage: 2TB SSD Graphics card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Operating system: Windows 11 Pro | $3299 |
| ASUS TUF F15 | Processor: Intel Core i7 Memory: 16GB DDR4 Storage: 1TB SSD Graphics card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 Operating system: Windows 10 Home | $1299 |
| ASUS ROG Zephyrus S17 | Processor: Intel Core i9 Memory: 32GB DDR4 Storage: 1TB SSD Graphics card: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 Operating system: Windows 10 Home | $2149 |
Headphones
In streaming setup discussions, audio output hardwares do not usually get a lot of attention despite its importance. With the right gear, you can reduce ear fatigue and fulfill streaming preferences.
First of all, you do not want to use speakers for live streaming. Doing so will let your microphone pick up in-computer noises, such as notifications, game audio, and audience’s voice. That being said, a pair of headphones is your best choice.
When looking for streaming headphones, there are a few things to bear in mind. The design is what you need to think about first.
There are at least three headphones designs: over-ear, on-ear, and in-ear. All of them work well in a streaming setup. But depending on your preferences, what matters more is the comfort.
To understand that better, pay attention to the description of each headphones design below:
- On-ear
The kind that sits on your ear, hence the name. It may not be comfortable to wear for a long time and does not completely isolate incoming and outcoming sounds. Nonetheless, it is usually lighter than over-ears.
- Over-ear
The kind that covers your ears and the areas around them. It typically provides more comfort than on-ears because the cup sits around your ear, though can be heavier. Also it has better sound isolation for most users, compared to on-ears.
- In-ear
The kind that you plug into your ears. It offers the best portability and sound isolation, but may be the least comfortable to wear in the long run depending on the shape.
Please note that each headphone design comes in different shapes, which is especially true for in-ears. Due to that, it will help your buying decision if you can try each design before getting a streaming setup.
Another aspect of headphones that you need to think about is the connection type. Both wired and wireless headsets are excellent for streaming, but you need to know their advantages and disadvantages.
Wired headphones offer a very low latency, so you will hear in-computer sounds immediately. This is especially important in highly competitive gameplays like first person shooting, where delayed sounds can result in defeat.
Since wired headphones use your computer as its power source, you do not need to worry about running out of battery and charging them before every streaming session.
However, the cable on these headphones can limit your movement and make your streaming setup look a little messy. For that reason, wired headphones are not suitable if you often move around during live streams.
Wireless headphones, on the other hand, allow you to move around within its specified working distance. Nonetheless, you need to pay attention to their battery life.
Also, even the most expensive wireless headphones still present higher latency than that of their wired counterparts. That is why these headphones are better for non-gaming purposes.
Now that you know what to look for in headphones for a streaming setup, here are some wired and wireless recommendations:
| Name | Connection Type | Price |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | Wired | $179 |
| Sennheiser Game ONE | Wired | $122 |
| Steelseries Arctis 7 | Wireless | $225 |
| Astro A50 | Wireless | $299 |
Microphone
Your streaming setup may already have a built-in microphone on the laptop or headphones. However, nothing beats a standalone microphone when it comes to sound quality.
Most dedicated mics can produce better clarity. Not only that, you can equip them with a pop filter, which reduces plosives and sibilance that happen when you speak. These two qualities are detrimental to your audience’s comfort and experience when watching your show.
Apart from that, more expensive standalone mics usually offer outstanding noise cancellation. That means they can block most ambient noise that may ruin your stream.
Benefits aside, not all microphones are built the same. When you plan to buy one for your streaming setup, pay attention to the following criteria:
- Type
There are two types of microphone: dynamic and condenser. Dynamic mics are not very sensitive but can handle loud sounds. Therefore, they are more suitable for live streamers who tend to shout or speak loudly.
Condenser mics, on the other hand, are very sensitive. Thus, they can pick up delicate sounds with ease. Live streamers who do not need to talk loudly and ASMR artists favor this type of microphone because of its characteristic. Read : How to make an ASMR Video
- Polar pattern
A polar pattern signifies the direction of which a microphone can pick up sound. There are three polar patterns: cardioid, bidirectional, and omnidirectional.
Cardioid mics are more sensitive to sounds from the front of them, so it is an excellent choice for a streaming setup.
Bidirectional and omnidirectional are not very conventional for live streaming since they pick up sound from multiple directions. Nonetheless, they may work for interview-type live streaming in a quiet room.
- Connection type
Microphones come in two connection types: XLR and USB. XLR requires an audio mixer to be able to work, but they produce better audio quality than USB.
USB mics may not be as good as XLR options, but they are easier to set up since they do not need an audio mixer.
Below are a few recommended microphones that you may want in a streaming setup for beginners:
| Name | Specs | Price |
| Behringer XM8500 | Type: dynamic Polar pattern: cardioid Connection: XLR | $25 |
| HyperX SoloCast | Type: condenser Polar pattern: cardioid Connection: USB | $49 |
| Logitech Blue Yeti | Type: condenser Polar pattern: multiple Connection: USB | $99 |
| Sennheiser Profile | Type: condenser Polar pattern: cardioid Connection: USB | $129 |
Camera
Whether you use a desktop or a laptop for a streaming setup, do not settle with the built-in webcam. This type of camera is most likely blurry, does not work well in low light conditions, and has a fixed focus.
Instead, you should get a dedicated webcam that offers a much better capability. Or, if you are willing to spend hundreds of dollars, a webcam, mirrorless or a DSLR camera for streaming can provide more customization.
Whichever you choose, there are some aspects to bear in mind, including:
- Resolution
The resolution is measured in pixels and affects video clarity. The higher resolution your camera can produce, the sharper your video can be.
The highest resolution supported by video streaming platforms today is 1080p. Nonetheless, do not worry if your camera maxed out at 720p as this is still sharp enough.
Some people may tell you to get a 4K camera for a streaming setup, but it is unnecessary considering that streaming platforms will compress your video to 1080p.
- Frame rate
The frame rate is measured in fps and affects the smoothness of your video. A higher frame rate will result in smooth movement and animation.
Many cameras offer the ability to shoot at 30fps, which is a good frame rate for most situations. However, 60fps is better if you want to stream high-speed actions like dancing.
Your streaming setup may include a webcam that offer variable frame rate. However, note that increasing the frame rate may limit you to a lower resolution. For instance, you may shoot at 60fps but only with a 720p resolution, while shooting at 30fps allows you to have a 1080p resolution.
- Field of view
As you can guess, the field of view is how much of a scene can be captured by a camera. Webcams’ field of view commonly goes from 60 to 120 degrees, and you should choose the one that fits your streaming preferences.
If you only want to show your head and shoulders, 60 degrees is enough. Meanwhile, 70 to 90 degrees is good for showing more of your surroundings, which fits content types like cooking, dancing, and crafting. Anything wider than that is only necessary if you want to show multiple people in the video.
That being said, what is the best webcam for streaming? Below are some of the recommended options for your streaming setup:
| Name | Specs | Price |
| Nexigo N60 | Resolution: 1080p Frame rate: 30fps Field of view: 110 degrees | $40 |
| Logitech C922 Pro Stream | Resolution: 720p & 1080p Frame rate: 30fps (at 1080p) and 60fps (at 720p) Field of view: 78 degrees | $99 |
| Logitech Brio | Resolution: 720p, 1080p, and 4K Frame rate: 30fps (at 4K), 60fps (at 1080p), and 90fps (At 720p) Field of view: 65 to 90 degrees | $200 |
| Insta360 Link | Resolution: 1080p and 4K Frame rate: 30fps (at 4K) and 60fps (at 1080p) Field of view: 67 to 79.5 degrees | $299 |
Lighting
Some streamers may take lighting for granted. However, having a decent amount of light will help your camera to focus on your face, resulting in a sharper video.
Not only that, having the right kind of lighting in a streaming setup will improve the look of your video. Here are some aspects that you should look for in a lighting:
- Light type
There are three types of light: key, fill, and ring. Key light serves as the main source of illumination, while fill light is a secondary lighting to reduce harsh shadows. Ring light, on the other hand, provides a flat look, which is desirable for makeup tutorials and vlogs.
To create a professional look to your streams, having at least one key light and fill light in a streaming setup is enough. Nonetheless, you may play with more combinations to your desire.
- Light tone
There are generally two light tones: warm and cool. Simply put, warm light has a slight yellow tint, while cool light offers a slight blue tint.
If you often stream during the day and use a natural light source like sunlight from an open window, warm light is a good choice since it blends well with the ambient lighting.
In case you stream from a dark room without any ambient lights, though, add a cool light to your streaming setup as it can add visual flair to your video.
- Bulb type
You can find different bulb types in the market, including compact fluorescent, halogen, and LED. Among all of them, LED is the most recommended for its power efficiency.
Apart from that, some LED lightings offer a tone switcher. Because of that, you can use them in both dark or bright environments.
So, which lighting options to add into your streaming setup? Here are some of them:
| Name | Specs | Price |
| Elgato Key Light Mini | Type: key light Tone: adjustable Bulb: LED | $80 |
| Neewer 700W | Type: key and fill light Tone: adjustable Bulb: compact fluorescent | $120 |
| Elgato Ring Light | Type: ring light Tone: adjustable Bulb: LED | $129 |
| Neewer CB60 | Type: key light Tone: cool Bulb: LED | $140 |
Streaming Software
Once you get all the equipment mentioned above, your basic streaming setup is complete. However, you will not be able to broadcast videos without a streaming software.
There are a couple of software options to choose from, so you can get confused. Nevertheless, paying attention to the following criteria can help you pick the best choice:
- Learning curve
Every streaming app requires your dedication to get used to. However, what sets them apart is the learning curve.
Generally, you will want to choose software that is easy to learn. But as you get familiar with various features, you may look into other software that will fit your preferences.
- Supported operating systems
When choosing a software for a streaming setup, you need to check the operating systems that it supports. Some options are only compatible with Windows computers, while some others can be used in MacOS and Linux as well.
You can also find browser-based streaming app like StreamYard. These software are helpful if you often change between PCs with different operating systems.
- Compatible streaming platforms
Where do you plan to stream? Twitch? Facebook? YouTube? Whichever it is, make sure that you choose a streaming app that is compatible with the platform.
If you are unsure of which software to pick for your streaming setup, consider one of the followings:
| Name | Compatibility | Unique Features | Price |
| OBS Studio | Operating system: Windows, MacOS, Linux Streaming platform: All popular platforms | – Multiview – Studio mode – Audio mixer – Adjustable menu layout – Customizable hotkeys | Free |
| Streamlabs | Operating system: Windows, MacOS, iOS, Android Streaming platform: All popular platforms | – Face masks – Chat moderator – Streaming themes – Mobile streaming – Merchandise shop | Free with some limitations, $19 per month for all features. |
| XSplit Broadcaster | Operating system: Windows Streaming platform: All popular platforms | – Professional layout options – Scene preview editor – Stream to multiple platforms | $180 for a lifetime |
| StreamYard | Operating system: Browser-based Streaming platform: All popular platforms | – Multiple guests on stream – Giveaway tool – Professional- looking stream invitation | Free with some limitations, $20 or $39 per month with more features. |
Good Internet Connection
You need a reliable internet connection apart from a streaming setup. If your network speed is slow, your live stream can be laggy or even stop at times. Such incidents should be avoided if you want to build strong branding as a streamer.
The slowest internet connection that you can use for streaming is 5Mbps. This speed allows you to stream a video output up to 1080p with little to no issues.
However, streaming multiple outputs like video and game obviously requires a faster connection. To be able to do that, you need at least 30Mbps.
What’s more important, you should use a wired connection instead of WiFi. This is because a dedicated internet connection is more stable, which is essential in ensuring your stream’s smoothness.
Additional Streaming Setup Gears
Apart from the mandatory stream setup listed above, you may or may not need additional equipment depending on your needs. They include:
Capture Card
A capture card is the equipment that allows you to stream video and audio from sources outside of a streaming PC. That includes gaming consoles, DVD or Blu-ray players, and camcorders.
With that in mind, getting a capture card is not necessary as long as you only stream your video or play games on the computer. Furthermore, certain streaming apps let you broadcast PlayStation and Xbox gameplay without setting up a capture card.
Audio Mixer
The audio mixer is a device that you use to adjust sound levels within the streaming setup. That being said, it enables you to control the volume of the microphone, computer programs, and background music.
While some streamers prefer to have an analog audio mixer for its tactile control, its importance has decreased since many streaming apps already come with a built-in digital mixer.
Nonetheless, as mentioned when we talked about microphones, your streamer setup has to include an analog audio mixer to use an XLR-type mic.
Green Screen
As you can guess, a green screen is a blank green sheet to use as your studio backdrop. This gear is an important part of streaming setups if you want to have a virtual background.
Having a green screen is also useful if you want to show your video on top of gameplays without distracting objects. Doing so can give an immersive experience to your audience.
Though, note that using a virtual backdrop requires you to choose a streaming software and a camera that supports a chroma key function. This feature enables you to exclude the video background and replaces it with a different picture.
Stream Deck
A stream deck is a physical panel with multiple buttons that you can program to do various tasks, including switching camera angles, sending a message to the chat, and adding a sound effect.
That being said, having a stream deck in a streaming setup makes it easy to engage with the audience while running your main activity. Though, it is not a mandatory streaming equipment for beginners. Especially, if you do not need to multitask a lot during the stream.
HD Monitor
Most Twitch streaming equipment for beginners already include a monitor, especially if you decide to use a laptop. For most occasions, this default screen can provide a nice viewing experience for you.
However, your streaming setup may need an HD monitor for gaming. Not only does it offer a sharper image, it also has a higher refresh rate, which makes animations look more fluid.
Ergonomic Chair
As someone who is just starting, you can use any kind of chair as long as they keep you comfortable for a long period.
If you want to upgrade your streaming setup for beginners, though, getting a more ergonomic option like a gaming or office chair is preferable. These types of chairs not only offer a professional look but also adjustments. Therefore, they can be more comfortable than a stationary chair.
Let’s Prepare Your Streaming Setup
In this article, we have discussed all equipment needed for a basic stream setup. They may include but are not limited to a computer, microphone, and streaming software.
The good thing is, you can start small and get an affordable option for each of the mentioned equipment. After all, they provide everything that you need for a successful live stream. Only after you need more specific features you should upgrade to an expensive streamer setup.
We hope that this article helps you to get the right streaming setup for beginners. If you want more insights related to live streaming and content creation, make sure you subscribe to our blog!
