The Non-Negotiables of Beginning a YouTube Channel

Essential YouTube Equipment For Starting Your Channel - What Do You Really Need?

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Premium Live Streaming System: Expertly Chosen Equipment Lists for YouTubers

Best YouTube Live Streaming Software and Hardware You Should Know

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

• Part1.Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube
• Part2.Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube
• Part3.Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube
• Part4.Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

Best Video Editor for You

Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube

1.OBS:

Price: It is available for free.

OBS or Open Source Broadcaster is a popular recording and live streaming software tool that can be easily operated by all beginners. The best is that you can avail this software tool as an open source so it is possible to customize things as per need.

Key Features:

• It works perfectly on Linux, Mac and Windows.
• Advanced video editing tool with customized transitions.
• Filters, audio mixers, noise suppressor and automatic gain booster added for development of classic videos.
• Users can easily access light and dark themes as per their need.

2. Wirecast Play:

Price:

• Wirecast Play 6: Free/ $9.99
• Wirecast Play Studio 6: $279
• Wirecast Play Pro 6: $549.

Wirecast play allows users to enjoy professional kind of stuff with impressive live recording facilities. Users can easily encode all live streams over multiple platforms or servers.

• The professional version of this software tool allows users to add web stream, Ip cameras and input sources.
• It possesses so many professional level editing features such as advanced audio controls, virtual sets, reply and live scoreboards.
• With its interactive user interface, Wirecast is rated as one of the most useful multicamera type live streaming package.

3. XSplit Broadcaster:

Price: Free and Paid

Here is a simple yet highly powerful live streaming software tool that can produce rich video content with its impressive user interface. It possesses all basic video development tools along with audio support feature. You will be glad to know that Xsplit offers Full HD recording ability; other then this you can access social features, in game annotations, in game production control as well as unique live production features.

Key Features:

• XSplit supports almost all capture cards.
• It possesses so many custom integrations and plugins.
• Easy video editing supported with professional production tools.
• You will be able to access notifications and chat option for organizing uploads in interactive manner.

Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube

1. XSplit Gamecaster:

Price: Free and Paid

If you love gaming then Xsplit can assist you to share your memorable gaming moments on social media sites so that viewers can come to know about your creativity. Xsplit Gamecaster works perfectly with console games as well as on personal computers.

Key Features:

• It extends its support to all latest capture card designs.
• Users can easily switch to webcam mode and background can be easily removed.
• It offers loads of professional quality editing features.
• There are so many customizable integrations and plugins.
• Chat and notification feature supported.

2. Gameshow (Mac/Win):

Price: $29

It is possible to start live streaming within few seconds using your gameshow oftware tool. Gameshow will help you to pick right template, adjust widgets and start streaming content within few seconds. It is possible to stream content directly to all popular social media platforms like Hitbox, YouTube and Twitch.

Key Features:

• It offers multiple layer combinations for development of interactive videos.
• Users will have complete control over scene development.
• It is possible to create playlists using transitions and customized timing effects.
• It works with low CPU usage hence will not affect your device performance.

Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube

1. Airserver:

Price: $7.99 to $11.99 only for educational needs, $14.99- Consumer License and $19.99 for Business License.

AirServer is one of the most advanced and interactive screen mirroring type software receiver tools for Xbox, PC and Mac etc. Using this tool, users can easily receive content from chromcast device, Apple TV, Miracast Streams, Google Cast and AirPlay etc.

Key Features:

• It is designed with zero client footprint feature that means everything is just ready for your needs and you will not even need any third party support.
• This software tool enables collaboration between various applications that are working on different platforms.
• It is compatible with Windows, Chrombook and Android platform.
• Comes with retina quality mirroring that can effectively improve picture quality.

2. Wirecast Go (iOS device only):

Price: Free and upgrades demand payment of $5.99 only.

It is possible to stream rich video content from iPhone directly to Youtube using Wirecast platform. Users will be able to stream their interactive videos with effective editing and customization tools like text, replays and graphics etc. This software tool is compatible with iPod Touch, iPad and iPhone.

Key Features:

• One click type YouTube streaming option.
• Unlimited streaming available even for free version users.
• One can easily add graphics, logos and images for stream content.
• It replays all highlights for live broadcasts.

Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

1. Elgato Game Capture HD 60:

Price: $179.95 only

Elgato Game Capture HD 60 is well known for its wide range of compatibility, efficiency and set of powerful features that assists in top quality content development. You can develop videos with 1080p resolution at 60fps frame rate using Elgato tool.

Key Features:

• Rich content quality with Full HD video support.
• It can easily record your overlays, webcam, audio and gameplay with additional facility to separate them as per need so that users can access anything upon selection.
• Easy editing functions that assist in direct upload.

2. Webcaster X1 for YouTube:

Price: $329.95 only.

Webcaster allows users to enjoy interactive video uploading experience while offering easy connectivity to DSLR and dedicated Video camera units so that videos can be directly sent to YouTube.

Key Features:

• It offers easy setup options and starts automatically when you pair it up with a device using pairing code.
• This software tool can accept high quality audio content via HDMI inputs.
• It is possible to use advanced configuration options like keyboard, mouse and monitor connectivity for precise live streaming.
• One can easily make selections between Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for content uploading.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

• Part1.Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube
• Part2.Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube
• Part3.Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube
• Part4.Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

Best Video Editor for You

Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube

1.OBS:

Price: It is available for free.

OBS or Open Source Broadcaster is a popular recording and live streaming software tool that can be easily operated by all beginners. The best is that you can avail this software tool as an open source so it is possible to customize things as per need.

Key Features:

• It works perfectly on Linux, Mac and Windows.
• Advanced video editing tool with customized transitions.
• Filters, audio mixers, noise suppressor and automatic gain booster added for development of classic videos.
• Users can easily access light and dark themes as per their need.

2. Wirecast Play:

Price:

• Wirecast Play 6: Free/ $9.99
• Wirecast Play Studio 6: $279
• Wirecast Play Pro 6: $549.

Wirecast play allows users to enjoy professional kind of stuff with impressive live recording facilities. Users can easily encode all live streams over multiple platforms or servers.

• The professional version of this software tool allows users to add web stream, Ip cameras and input sources.
• It possesses so many professional level editing features such as advanced audio controls, virtual sets, reply and live scoreboards.
• With its interactive user interface, Wirecast is rated as one of the most useful multicamera type live streaming package.

3. XSplit Broadcaster:

Price: Free and Paid

Here is a simple yet highly powerful live streaming software tool that can produce rich video content with its impressive user interface. It possesses all basic video development tools along with audio support feature. You will be glad to know that Xsplit offers Full HD recording ability; other then this you can access social features, in game annotations, in game production control as well as unique live production features.

Key Features:

• XSplit supports almost all capture cards.
• It possesses so many custom integrations and plugins.
• Easy video editing supported with professional production tools.
• You will be able to access notifications and chat option for organizing uploads in interactive manner.

Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube

1. XSplit Gamecaster:

Price: Free and Paid

If you love gaming then Xsplit can assist you to share your memorable gaming moments on social media sites so that viewers can come to know about your creativity. Xsplit Gamecaster works perfectly with console games as well as on personal computers.

Key Features:

• It extends its support to all latest capture card designs.
• Users can easily switch to webcam mode and background can be easily removed.
• It offers loads of professional quality editing features.
• There are so many customizable integrations and plugins.
• Chat and notification feature supported.

2. Gameshow (Mac/Win):

Price: $29

It is possible to start live streaming within few seconds using your gameshow oftware tool. Gameshow will help you to pick right template, adjust widgets and start streaming content within few seconds. It is possible to stream content directly to all popular social media platforms like Hitbox, YouTube and Twitch.

Key Features:

• It offers multiple layer combinations for development of interactive videos.
• Users will have complete control over scene development.
• It is possible to create playlists using transitions and customized timing effects.
• It works with low CPU usage hence will not affect your device performance.

Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube

1. Airserver:

Price: $7.99 to $11.99 only for educational needs, $14.99- Consumer License and $19.99 for Business License.

AirServer is one of the most advanced and interactive screen mirroring type software receiver tools for Xbox, PC and Mac etc. Using this tool, users can easily receive content from chromcast device, Apple TV, Miracast Streams, Google Cast and AirPlay etc.

Key Features:

• It is designed with zero client footprint feature that means everything is just ready for your needs and you will not even need any third party support.
• This software tool enables collaboration between various applications that are working on different platforms.
• It is compatible with Windows, Chrombook and Android platform.
• Comes with retina quality mirroring that can effectively improve picture quality.

2. Wirecast Go (iOS device only):

Price: Free and upgrades demand payment of $5.99 only.

It is possible to stream rich video content from iPhone directly to Youtube using Wirecast platform. Users will be able to stream their interactive videos with effective editing and customization tools like text, replays and graphics etc. This software tool is compatible with iPod Touch, iPad and iPhone.

Key Features:

• One click type YouTube streaming option.
• Unlimited streaming available even for free version users.
• One can easily add graphics, logos and images for stream content.
• It replays all highlights for live broadcasts.

Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

1. Elgato Game Capture HD 60:

Price: $179.95 only

Elgato Game Capture HD 60 is well known for its wide range of compatibility, efficiency and set of powerful features that assists in top quality content development. You can develop videos with 1080p resolution at 60fps frame rate using Elgato tool.

Key Features:

• Rich content quality with Full HD video support.
• It can easily record your overlays, webcam, audio and gameplay with additional facility to separate them as per need so that users can access anything upon selection.
• Easy editing functions that assist in direct upload.

2. Webcaster X1 for YouTube:

Price: $329.95 only.

Webcaster allows users to enjoy interactive video uploading experience while offering easy connectivity to DSLR and dedicated Video camera units so that videos can be directly sent to YouTube.

Key Features:

• It offers easy setup options and starts automatically when you pair it up with a device using pairing code.
• This software tool can accept high quality audio content via HDMI inputs.
• It is possible to use advanced configuration options like keyboard, mouse and monitor connectivity for precise live streaming.
• One can easily make selections between Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for content uploading.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

• Part1.Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube
• Part2.Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube
• Part3.Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube
• Part4.Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

Best Video Editor for You

Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube

1.OBS:

Price: It is available for free.

OBS or Open Source Broadcaster is a popular recording and live streaming software tool that can be easily operated by all beginners. The best is that you can avail this software tool as an open source so it is possible to customize things as per need.

Key Features:

• It works perfectly on Linux, Mac and Windows.
• Advanced video editing tool with customized transitions.
• Filters, audio mixers, noise suppressor and automatic gain booster added for development of classic videos.
• Users can easily access light and dark themes as per their need.

2. Wirecast Play:

Price:

• Wirecast Play 6: Free/ $9.99
• Wirecast Play Studio 6: $279
• Wirecast Play Pro 6: $549.

Wirecast play allows users to enjoy professional kind of stuff with impressive live recording facilities. Users can easily encode all live streams over multiple platforms or servers.

• The professional version of this software tool allows users to add web stream, Ip cameras and input sources.
• It possesses so many professional level editing features such as advanced audio controls, virtual sets, reply and live scoreboards.
• With its interactive user interface, Wirecast is rated as one of the most useful multicamera type live streaming package.

3. XSplit Broadcaster:

Price: Free and Paid

Here is a simple yet highly powerful live streaming software tool that can produce rich video content with its impressive user interface. It possesses all basic video development tools along with audio support feature. You will be glad to know that Xsplit offers Full HD recording ability; other then this you can access social features, in game annotations, in game production control as well as unique live production features.

Key Features:

• XSplit supports almost all capture cards.
• It possesses so many custom integrations and plugins.
• Easy video editing supported with professional production tools.
• You will be able to access notifications and chat option for organizing uploads in interactive manner.

Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube

1. XSplit Gamecaster:

Price: Free and Paid

If you love gaming then Xsplit can assist you to share your memorable gaming moments on social media sites so that viewers can come to know about your creativity. Xsplit Gamecaster works perfectly with console games as well as on personal computers.

Key Features:

• It extends its support to all latest capture card designs.
• Users can easily switch to webcam mode and background can be easily removed.
• It offers loads of professional quality editing features.
• There are so many customizable integrations and plugins.
• Chat and notification feature supported.

2. Gameshow (Mac/Win):

Price: $29

It is possible to start live streaming within few seconds using your gameshow oftware tool. Gameshow will help you to pick right template, adjust widgets and start streaming content within few seconds. It is possible to stream content directly to all popular social media platforms like Hitbox, YouTube and Twitch.

Key Features:

• It offers multiple layer combinations for development of interactive videos.
• Users will have complete control over scene development.
• It is possible to create playlists using transitions and customized timing effects.
• It works with low CPU usage hence will not affect your device performance.

Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube

1. Airserver:

Price: $7.99 to $11.99 only for educational needs, $14.99- Consumer License and $19.99 for Business License.

AirServer is one of the most advanced and interactive screen mirroring type software receiver tools for Xbox, PC and Mac etc. Using this tool, users can easily receive content from chromcast device, Apple TV, Miracast Streams, Google Cast and AirPlay etc.

Key Features:

• It is designed with zero client footprint feature that means everything is just ready for your needs and you will not even need any third party support.
• This software tool enables collaboration between various applications that are working on different platforms.
• It is compatible with Windows, Chrombook and Android platform.
• Comes with retina quality mirroring that can effectively improve picture quality.

2. Wirecast Go (iOS device only):

Price: Free and upgrades demand payment of $5.99 only.

It is possible to stream rich video content from iPhone directly to Youtube using Wirecast platform. Users will be able to stream their interactive videos with effective editing and customization tools like text, replays and graphics etc. This software tool is compatible with iPod Touch, iPad and iPhone.

Key Features:

• One click type YouTube streaming option.
• Unlimited streaming available even for free version users.
• One can easily add graphics, logos and images for stream content.
• It replays all highlights for live broadcasts.

Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

1. Elgato Game Capture HD 60:

Price: $179.95 only

Elgato Game Capture HD 60 is well known for its wide range of compatibility, efficiency and set of powerful features that assists in top quality content development. You can develop videos with 1080p resolution at 60fps frame rate using Elgato tool.

Key Features:

• Rich content quality with Full HD video support.
• It can easily record your overlays, webcam, audio and gameplay with additional facility to separate them as per need so that users can access anything upon selection.
• Easy editing functions that assist in direct upload.

2. Webcaster X1 for YouTube:

Price: $329.95 only.

Webcaster allows users to enjoy interactive video uploading experience while offering easy connectivity to DSLR and dedicated Video camera units so that videos can be directly sent to YouTube.

Key Features:

• It offers easy setup options and starts automatically when you pair it up with a device using pairing code.
• This software tool can accept high quality audio content via HDMI inputs.
• It is possible to use advanced configuration options like keyboard, mouse and monitor connectivity for precise live streaming.
• One can easily make selections between Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for content uploading.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

• Part1.Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube
• Part2.Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube
• Part3.Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube
• Part4.Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

Best Video Editor for You

Best Software for Live Streaming Video to YouTube

1.OBS:

Price: It is available for free.

OBS or Open Source Broadcaster is a popular recording and live streaming software tool that can be easily operated by all beginners. The best is that you can avail this software tool as an open source so it is possible to customize things as per need.

Key Features:

• It works perfectly on Linux, Mac and Windows.
• Advanced video editing tool with customized transitions.
• Filters, audio mixers, noise suppressor and automatic gain booster added for development of classic videos.
• Users can easily access light and dark themes as per their need.

2. Wirecast Play:

Price:

• Wirecast Play 6: Free/ $9.99
• Wirecast Play Studio 6: $279
• Wirecast Play Pro 6: $549.

Wirecast play allows users to enjoy professional kind of stuff with impressive live recording facilities. Users can easily encode all live streams over multiple platforms or servers.

• The professional version of this software tool allows users to add web stream, Ip cameras and input sources.
• It possesses so many professional level editing features such as advanced audio controls, virtual sets, reply and live scoreboards.
• With its interactive user interface, Wirecast is rated as one of the most useful multicamera type live streaming package.

3. XSplit Broadcaster:

Price: Free and Paid

Here is a simple yet highly powerful live streaming software tool that can produce rich video content with its impressive user interface. It possesses all basic video development tools along with audio support feature. You will be glad to know that Xsplit offers Full HD recording ability; other then this you can access social features, in game annotations, in game production control as well as unique live production features.

Key Features:

• XSplit supports almost all capture cards.
• It possesses so many custom integrations and plugins.
• Easy video editing supported with professional production tools.
• You will be able to access notifications and chat option for organizing uploads in interactive manner.

Best Software for Live Streaming Game to YouTube

1. XSplit Gamecaster:

Price: Free and Paid

If you love gaming then Xsplit can assist you to share your memorable gaming moments on social media sites so that viewers can come to know about your creativity. Xsplit Gamecaster works perfectly with console games as well as on personal computers.

Key Features:

• It extends its support to all latest capture card designs.
• Users can easily switch to webcam mode and background can be easily removed.
• It offers loads of professional quality editing features.
• There are so many customizable integrations and plugins.
• Chat and notification feature supported.

2. Gameshow (Mac/Win):

Price: $29

It is possible to start live streaming within few seconds using your gameshow oftware tool. Gameshow will help you to pick right template, adjust widgets and start streaming content within few seconds. It is possible to stream content directly to all popular social media platforms like Hitbox, YouTube and Twitch.

Key Features:

• It offers multiple layer combinations for development of interactive videos.
• Users will have complete control over scene development.
• It is possible to create playlists using transitions and customized timing effects.
• It works with low CPU usage hence will not affect your device performance.

Best Software for Live Streaming Mobile to YouTube

1. Airserver:

Price: $7.99 to $11.99 only for educational needs, $14.99- Consumer License and $19.99 for Business License.

AirServer is one of the most advanced and interactive screen mirroring type software receiver tools for Xbox, PC and Mac etc. Using this tool, users can easily receive content from chromcast device, Apple TV, Miracast Streams, Google Cast and AirPlay etc.

Key Features:

• It is designed with zero client footprint feature that means everything is just ready for your needs and you will not even need any third party support.
• This software tool enables collaboration between various applications that are working on different platforms.
• It is compatible with Windows, Chrombook and Android platform.
• Comes with retina quality mirroring that can effectively improve picture quality.

2. Wirecast Go (iOS device only):

Price: Free and upgrades demand payment of $5.99 only.

It is possible to stream rich video content from iPhone directly to Youtube using Wirecast platform. Users will be able to stream their interactive videos with effective editing and customization tools like text, replays and graphics etc. This software tool is compatible with iPod Touch, iPad and iPhone.

Key Features:

• One click type YouTube streaming option.
• Unlimited streaming available even for free version users.
• One can easily add graphics, logos and images for stream content.
• It replays all highlights for live broadcasts.

Hardware for Live Streaming to YouTube

1. Elgato Game Capture HD 60:

Price: $179.95 only

Elgato Game Capture HD 60 is well known for its wide range of compatibility, efficiency and set of powerful features that assists in top quality content development. You can develop videos with 1080p resolution at 60fps frame rate using Elgato tool.

Key Features:

• Rich content quality with Full HD video support.
• It can easily record your overlays, webcam, audio and gameplay with additional facility to separate them as per need so that users can access anything upon selection.
• Easy editing functions that assist in direct upload.

2. Webcaster X1 for YouTube:

Price: $329.95 only.

Webcaster allows users to enjoy interactive video uploading experience while offering easy connectivity to DSLR and dedicated Video camera units so that videos can be directly sent to YouTube.

Key Features:

• It offers easy setup options and starts automatically when you pair it up with a device using pairing code.
• This software tool can accept high quality audio content via HDMI inputs.
• It is possible to use advanced configuration options like keyboard, mouse and monitor connectivity for precise live streaming.
• One can easily make selections between Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections for content uploading.

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett