Microphone, Webcam & more – The best Streaming Setup for Starters

Looking forward to start streaming on Twitch, YouTube or other platforms? Streaming setups do not need to be expensive to be good. In the end your success depends a lot more on your content and interactions with your chat. xQc and Tyler1 have already proven that you do not need an expensive setup to find success. Here are our recommendations for a beginner’s streaming setup.

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Webcam

You might be tempted to just skimp out on your webcam, but we do not recommend buying the cheapest one. While webcams like the Logitech C270 can give you acceptable video for cheap, you most likely have a better camera built into your mobile. You can also use that camera for your streaming purposes.

If you own an Android phone like the Pixel 6, you can just use an app like IP Webcam, that is available for free in the Google Playstore. Just connect it to OBS to replace a classic webcam. Of course iPhones also have their options like Droidcam, also available for free.

The problem with using your phone is the drain on battery power and not being able to use it for anything else. Another alternative is using a camera you already own. To utilize those you don’t need to purchase the brand products from Elgato to do so. A cheaper Capture Card can also do the trick.

But cheaper Capture Cards do have their downsides. They will in most cases limit the video to 30 FPS or 720p. If you are willing to invest more you can go for Elgato’s Cam Link


Microphones

It is important for your viewers to understand you during your streams, but you do not need to buy professional radio microphones like the Shure SM7B. A simple in-built microphone on your headset is more than enough to build an audience.

 

One prominent example would be Tyler1 using a Logitech G432. It offers a strong all-around package with great audio and an acceptable microphone.

If you are looking for higher quality you can also purchase a cheaper stand-alone microphone. That allows you to filter out background noises like your keyboard and improves your stream’s audio.

But you should not just go for the cheapest option, if you invest 10-20 US-Dollars more you will get a long-lived microphone. We recommend the Razer Seiren Mini for $50 on Amazon.

For better quality you can go with the Blue Snowball iCE, which provides you great audio performance for its price.

 

Lighting

Lighting is an often underrated aspect of streaming. With the proper setup you can have a great video, even with a budget camera. The easiest option is of course just using your desk lamp, but that is hardly consistent and does not provide optimal light.

Our recommendation is a ring light that offers balanced lighting without blinding you. Most ring lights are also compact and do not take up too much space. Some even come with the option to also have your mobile there. An ideal option if you plan on using it as your stand-in camera. Check out the wide variety of options on Amazon

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What streaming setup are you using? Join the discussion on social media or our Discord!

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