So a lot of people have been asking me lately how to get started on Twitch/Mixer/Youtube etc. So instead of typing it out every time I’ve decided to make this short page to give you everything you need to know to take your very first steps. We are keeping the budget to an absolute minimum coming in at $93.97.
You only need 4 things to start your first stream:
1. Software
The first thing you are going to need is streaming software. It’s 2020, don’t use anything besides StreamlabsOBS. The setup is immediate and it has quickly become a giant in the industry. There’s little reason to download OBS Studio and have to deal with HTML & CSS… StreamlabsOBS is a no brainer.
StreamlabsOBS: https://streamlabs.com/editor?promo=chillrogg-2c7b-10
2. Webcam
Normally I would recommend the Logitech C920, but the COVID-19 crisis seems to have skyrocketed the price of that webcam (lots of people need to skype from home now). So instead, we are going with the Unzano, which is actually a better quality camera anyway.
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/2UOqeIa
You can attach this to the top of your computer monitor for now. Down the road you should get a mountable arm so you are able to freely adjust the camera for the best look.
3. Streaming Light
This is necessary! The audience is there to connect and interact with you, their preferred streamer. You aren’t going to be able to attract an audience to connect with them if they can’t see you. I recommend the below cheap ring light to get started.
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/39vmqky
The ideal spot for this light (if you only have one) is directly behind the camera. As your streaming career progresses you should upgrade to a three light setup.
4. The Microphone
Don’t use your built in headset microphone for streaming… just don’t…
Audio quality is something viewers pay attention to and you should as well. For now, we can go with an inexpensive USB microphone:
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/2QWP47y
As your streaming career progresses, you should upgrade to an XLR microphone with a mixer. This easily becomes the most confusing part of streaming and you should tread cautiously when upgrading to expensive audio hardware.
5. Capture Card (only for console players +$99.99)
Sadly, console players cannot stream without a PC, and a PC cannot import footage from your console without a capture card :/. Sorry console homies. If you want to stream on your PS4, XBOX One, Nintendo Switch, etc, I recommend the below capture card:
Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3axw2fK
- Remember single PC streamers do not need a capture card
- Remember console players need a capture card, but they also need a PC powerful enough to stream.
The streaming journey has a lot of steps and can be intimidating. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out and I will be happy to help. You can reach me anywhere below:
