What Equipment Do You Need for a Gaming YouTube Channel? 7 Essential Items

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

If you’re wondering what you need to start a gaming channel on YouTube, you’ve come to the right place. In addition to a good gaming platform and a stable internet connection, you’ll also need a few basic items, like a good camera, a microphone, and a video capture app. [1] In this article, we’ll talk you through the essentials, plus a few extras that can take your gaming videos to the next level.

1

Invest in a webcam or digital camera.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Part of the fun of YouTube gaming videos is watching the gamer’s reactions and facial expressions as they play. If you want to be included in your videos, you’ll need a decent camera. You can even get cameras that are specifically designed for livestreaming on YouTube or Twitch. [2]
    • You can buy a basic HD webcam for as little as $20. Most cameras marketed as vlogging cameras cost between $50 and $200, but there are also higher-end models on the market that cost a lot more.
    • Many webcams and vlogging cameras are designed to clip directly to your computer monitor. However, you can also set up a tripod if you want more control over the positioning of your shot.
    • A few cameras that are popular among gaming YouTubers include webcams such as the Genius WideCam F100 and the Logitech c920 Camera, as well as more traditional digital cameras like the Canon Rebel T5i or the Panasonic HC-V770.
    2. Advertisement
2

Buy a basic lighting kit.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b5\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    To avoid harsh lighting or unflattering shadows, invest in a lighting kit designed for taking videos. Even a simple selfie ring light will make a big difference. If you want to get really fancy, look for a kit that includes a backdrop so you can have more control over what your environment looks like. [3]
    • If you’re on a tight budget, a couple of simple desk lamps can provide decent lighting for a video. Just don’t aim the lamps directly at yourself, since the results will look pretty harsh. Turn them so they reflect off the wall behind your desk and cast a soft light on your face. [4]
3

Get a good microphone.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While most digital cameras have some sort of microphone built in, it’s worthwhile to invest in a directional USB mic that can offer good sound quality without picking up lots of background noise. If you’re going to be playing online with other people, opt for a headset that includes a microphone. [5]
    • A headset can also be helpful for preventing your external microphone from picking up sounds from the game, which can create distracting echoes or feedback in your video or livestream.
    • For the best possible sound quality, look for a mic that comes with a pop filter. These filters help prevent unpleasant popping sounds when you say words that start with certain letters, like “p” and “t.” [6]
    • While there are lots of pricey options on the market, you can get a decent-quality microphone for as little as $40. Some popular gaming mics that aren’t super expensive include the HyperX SoloCast, the Blue Yeti X, and the Rode NT-USB Mini.
    2. Advertisement
4

Install a screen capture app for PC or mobile gaming.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    It will also give you a much higher-quality result than simply pointing a camera at your screen. [7] The best kind of software for this purpose depends on whether you’re gaming on a PC or some other platform, such as a phone or tablet, as well as what operating system you’re using. For instance: [8]
    • If you’re using a PC that runs on Windows 10 or 11, you can use the built-in Xbox Game Bar app to capture your gameplay. Go to Settings , then Gaming , select Xbox Game Bar , and toggle on the switch under Enable Xbox Game Bar . Use the default shortcut ⊞ Win + Alt + R to start or stop recording. [9]
    • If you’re running a Mac using macOS Mojave or higher, use the shortcut ⇧ Shift + ⌘ Command + 5 to start the built-in screen recording feature. [10]
    • If you want a screen capture app with more features, such as built-in audio mixing and video editing, download the free OBS Studio app. OBS Studio runs on Mac, Windows, and Linux computers.
    • For mobile games, Loom and Screencast-O-Matic are popular screen capture apps. Both come with free versions or subscription plans that offer additional features.
5

Purchase a capture card for gaming consoles.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    While many modern gaming consoles have some built-in screen recording or streaming features, a good capture card can help ensure that you get high-quality footage. It will also reduce lag and help your console run more smoothly. [11] Capture cards can also record longer videos than some of the native video capture features—for instance, you can only record 30 seconds of video with the screen capture feature on the Nintendo Switch. [12] To use a capture card: [13]
    • Plug the USB cable attached to the capture card into your computer.
    • Connect an HDMI cable to your game console, then plug the other end into the HDMI Input jack on the capture card.
    • Plug a second HDMI cable into your TV, then connect the other end to the HDMI Output jack on the capture card.
    • Your gameplay will now stream directly to your computer via the capture card. You’ll need to use some type of video capture software, such as OBS Studio or Xbox Game Bar, to record the footage. Or, you can use an app such as Streamlabs OBS or Wirecast to livestream your gameplay directly to YouTube. [14]
    2. Advertisement
6

Get some good video editing software.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cc\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cc\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Even the most basic editing software can give your videos an edge and help them feel more professional. You can do basic editing with all-in-one apps like OBS Studio. If you’re interested in doing more advanced edits, try something like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. [15]
    • There are also a variety of free video editing programs you can try. Some of the most popular options include HitFilm Express 16, Apple iMovie, and Lightworks.
7

Spring for a few nice gaming accessories.

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-What-Equipment-Do-You-Need-for-a-Gaming-YouTube-Channel-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    They can also make your gaming experience more comfortable and fun. [16] For example, consider investing in:
    • A gaming chair
    • A backlit gaming keyboard and mouse
    • Custom video game controllers that reflect your personal brand
    2. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Do LED lights work as a basic lighting kit for a YouTube gaming channel?
    Leilani C.
    Community Answer
    Yes. If anything, it would be cooler and more game-like to have LEDs in your background.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 4
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      4 Easy Ways to Download Music from YouTube: Mobile & Desktop
      6 Ways to Watch YouTube Unblocked on a School Computer
      Bypass Age Restrictions on YouTube Videos: 7 Simple Methods
      How to
      Download Audio from YouTube
      How to
      Watch Deleted YouTube Videos with a URL
      5 Ways to Block YouTube Shorts: Extensions, Apps, & More
      12 Ways to Make Money on YouTube: Ads, Subscriptions, & More
      How to
      Find Unlisted YouTube Videos Without a Link
      3 Tricks to Download Part of a YouTube Video in HD Quality
      How to
      Watch YouTube Offline
      5 Simple Ways to Stop Ads from Appearing on YouTube
      Simple Ways to Get YouTube Premium for Free
      8 Easy Ways to Contact YouTube Support
      How to
      Create a YouTube Subscription Link for Your Channel
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/2853856?hl=en
      2. ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/games/2020/aug/17/beginners-guide-to-streaming-video-games
      3. ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/253247
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/rGcAM1CNEU0?t=125
      5. ↑ https://www.pcworld.com/article/399223/how-to-set-up-a-dual-pc-stream-for-twitch-or-youtube.html
      6. ↑ https://www.theguardian.com/games/2020/aug/17/beginners-guide-to-streaming-video-games
      7. ↑ https://support.google.com/youtube/answer/2907883?sjid=12990701261176265783-AP
      8. ↑ https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-record-the-screen-on-your-windows-pc-or-mac
      9. ↑ https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/fix-problems-with-game-bar-on-windows-74a718a1-2fbf-2ce3-5fbe-e959be352277
      1. ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/102618
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/WwXagfbp41k?t=22
      3. ↑ https://en-americas-support.nintendo.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/27540/~/how-to-capture-and-edit-gameplay-video
      4. ↑ https://youtu.be/WwXagfbp41k?t=131
      5. ↑ https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/how-to-stream-games-on-youtube-gaming
      6. ↑ https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-video-editing-software
      7. ↑ https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/05/cnn-underscored/beginner-gaming-pc/index.html

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 33,919 times.

      Is this article up to date?

      Advertisement