Introduction to Streaming Set Ups

Getting Started

When you start streaming, there are some basic essentials you need to get started, but you don’t have to break the bank! Budgeting can be an issue for many hobby streamers, so if you have to prioritize which items to spend on and which to save for later, the most important things to consider are:

A solid internet connection;
Your streaming software;
A machine that will run your content;
And audio and visual peripherals.

Streaming Software

There are many options when it comes to streaming software. You can run OBS , Streamlabs Desktop , and or Xsplit . You can dive deeper here in this help article to find the software that’s right for you!

Hardware

Your machine is the essential component needed when it comes to your stream. Running your stream software will be the main task on your PC, so you need to make sure it’s built with the minimum requirements for the software you use, in addition to encoding. Most mid-tier computers (including PCs and Macs) should be able to run a basic game, webcam/audio software, and your broadcasting software.

Audio

Providing good audio can significantly change the perception of your stream, and sometimes even make or break the entire viewing experience for your audience. From budget to high end to headset microphones, the cost and quality aren’t as impactful to your audio as how you set it up. To increase the quality of whichever microphone you use, make sure you assess the type of content you create and choose your microphone accordingly. Is the area you stream in noisy or soundproofed? A condensed microphone will pick up lots of environmental sound, while a dynamic microphone will pick only what is directed at it. With proper research and consideration, your audio will be great and your stream will thrive!

Video

While many streamers choose to show their facial reactions while they stream, you certainly don’t have to! However, if you do plan to stream with a camera, you don’t need to start with the most high-end option. What you should consider however, are aspects like camera location, angle, lighting, and positioning. These can enhance even the most basic camera without breaking the bank.

As with audio, the type of content you create may help determine how much effort and budget you place into your camera. For example, if you plan on streaming to “Just Chatting” or stream non-gaming content like Art & Illustration, you may want to consider investing more in a camera or lighting since this is your primary content. If the majority of your stream focuses on a game you are playing, the camera you choose will have less of an impact on the overall quality of your stream.