So you want to start streaming, but you are not sure about the things you need to be a streamer on Twitch?
Never fear!
In this post, we will go over the things you need to be a streamer:
ITEM #1: PC or laptop
First and foremost, you will need a gaming PC or laptop.
This is the most important piece of streaming equipment, as it will be running the games you will be playing and broadcasting.
You do not need an expensive top-of-the-line machine, but it should be powerful enough to run the games you want to play without any lag or issues.
A mid-range gaming PC should do the trick.
I highly recommend going with a PC over a laptop, as they are usually more powerful for the same price.
However, laptops can be more convenient if you plan on moving your setup around or traveling with them.
ITEM #2: Streaming software
The next thing you will need is streaming software. This is what will allow you to broadcast your gameplay to the world.
There are many different streaming software programs available, but I recommend using Open Broadcaster Software (OBS).
It is free to use and relatively easy to set up.
Once you have OBS installed, you will need to create a new scene.
This is where you will add all of the different elements of your stream, such as the game you are playing, a webcam feed, and any overlays or graphics you want to use.
You can also use OBS to set up hotkeys, which will make it easier to start and stop your stream, switch between scenes, and so on.
Everything You Need to Be a Streamer
ITEM #3: Webcam
A webcam is optional, but strongly recommended if you want to show your face on stream.
People like to see who they are watching, and it helps create a more personal connection with your audience.
Plus, it can be really fun to interact with viewers while you are playing games.
You do not need an expensive webcam, as even a basic one will do the trick.
Just make sure it has a good image sensor and produces clear video.
If you do not want to use a webcam, you can always just show your face in a static image or overlay.
ITEM #4: Microphone
A microphone is also optional but highly recommended if you want people to be able to hear you.
If you do not plan on talking on stream, you can get away with just using the built-in microphone on your webcam (or headset, if you have one).
However, if you want to interact with your viewers or do any sort of commentary, you will need a dedicated microphone.
Again, you do not need an expensive one — a simple USB microphone will do the trick.
Just make sure it picks up your voice well and does not sound too tinny or muffled.
ITEM #5: Headset
A headset is not strictly necessary, but it can be very helpful.
Having a good headset will allow you to hear your game audio clearly and also avoid disturbing anyone around you with loud noises.
It is also helpful for talking to your viewers, as it frees up your hands and prevents feedback from your microphone picking up the game audio.
You do not need an expensive headset, but it should be comfortable to wear and have good sound quality.
Things You Need to Be a Twitch Streamer
ITEM #6: Capture card (optional)
A capture card is not strictly necessary, but it can be very helpful if you want to stream console games.
A capture card allows you to connect your console to your PC and stream the gameplay directly.
Without a capture card, you would need to use a webcam to record your gameplay, which would result in lower quality video and make it more difficult to interact with viewers.
If you want to stream console games, I recommend getting a capture card.
However, if you only plan on streaming PC games, you do not need one.
ITEM #7: Green screen (optional)
A green screen is not strictly necessary, but it can be very helpful if you want to use a webcam while also displaying your game footage.
A green screen allows you to superimpose your webcam feed over your game footage, so it looks like you are in the game.
This can be a fun effect and makes it easier to interact with viewers, as they can see your face while you are playing.
If you want to use a green screen, I recommend getting one.
However, if you do not want to use a green screen, you can still use a webcam without one.
What You Need for the Best Twitch Stream
ITEM #8: Lighting (optional)
Lighting is not strictly necessary, but it can be very helpful if you want to use a webcam.
Proper lighting will make your face look better on camera and help avoid any shadows or glare.
If you want to use a webcam, I recommend getting some lighting.
However, if you do not want to use a webcam, you do not need any lighting.
ITEM #9: Games
Of course, you need games to stream!
You can stream any game you want, but some games are more popular on Twitch than others.
Some of the most popular genres on Twitch include first-person shooters (FPS), multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBA), and real-time strategy (RTS).
If you are not sure what games to stream, I recommend checking out the Twitch game directory to see what is popular.
You can also look at other streamers’ channels to see what games they are playing.
Once you have decided on a game (or games) to stream, you are ready to start streaming on Twitch!
In conclusion:
These are the essential items you need to start streaming on Twitch.
Of course, you can always add more bells and whistles as you get more experience (and more viewers), but these are the bare essentials.
With just these nine items, you can start streaming today and begin building your own Twitch channel.
I hope you find this post helpful.
As always, have fun gaming!
-The Zombie Writing Team