The Best PC Gaming Streaming Hardware: Stream Like a Pro.
The gaming industry is rapidly evolving and as such, the way people consume video games is also changing. Streaming PC gaming content is now more popular than ever, due to increase in technology capabilities and the rise of e-sport tournaments. To be able to stream your PC gaming content and look like a pro, you need the best streaming hardware. There is a huge selection of streaming hardware out there, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. So to help you look like a pro and stream your PC gaming content at its best, here is a breakdown of the best PC gaming streaming hardware.
Broadly speaking, the PC gaming streaming hardware you need falls into three categories: A PC, graphics card, and a capture card. Depending on what type of streaming you’re looking to do, you may need additional hardware items. This article will cover the main hardware items that make up a top-notch gaming stream.
First, let’s cover your gaming PC. This is the heart and soul of your streaming setup, so it pays to go all out and get yourself the best gaming PC you can afford. You can spend anywhere from a few hundred dollars on a budget gaming PC that can easily handle streaming up to several thousand dollars on a fully decked out powerhouse. Whether you choose to build or buy your gaming PC is up to you; however, most serious streamers are going with the build option, as it allows for the most customization at the best prices. A good gaming PC should have at least 8GB of RAM, a core i5 processor, and either a GTX 1060 or RX 580 graphics card. This setup will allow you to stream at the highest quality settings.
Next, let’s move on to the graphics card. This is an essential part of any gaming PC and the best way to get the most out of your gaming experience. You don’t need a top of the line graphics card, since streaming is mostly CPU-dependent, but you should definitely get a card that’s up to the task. Nvidia’s GTX 1060 and AMD’s RX 580 are great cards that provide excellent performance with 1080p gaming. They won’t break the bank either, so they are definitely worth considering. Once you have the card, make sure to install the latest drivers to ensure optimal performance with your stream.
The last and possibly most important streaming hardware item is a capture card. This is the hardware item you will use to record or stream your gameplay. There are a few different capture cards on the market, ranging from basic cards to much more advanced ones. The basic ones are usually USB-based and allow you to record your gameplay or stream directly from your PC. The more advanced ones are usually PCIe-based and allow for higher quality recordings, and usually come with added features like built-in video editors. When choosing a capture card, make sure it has the features you need and can handle the resolutions you plan to stream at.
Once you have the essential PC gaming streaming hardware, all you need to do is configure the software that comes with your capture card. Most capture cards come with the popular streaming software, like OBS or XSplit. Make sure to spend some time learning one of these programs, as they will be the backbone of your streaming setup.
Finally, make sure you have a good microphone and a decent headset. This will make all the difference when talking to your viewers, so getting a good one is a must. Don’t skimp on these, as they are the main form of communication you have with your viewers. Invest in a good microphone and headset, and you’ll be able to engage with your viewers more effectively.
PC gaming streaming is becoming more popular every day, and having the right streaming hardware is essential if you want to look like a pro. This article covered the essential PC gaming streaming hardware you need to make sure your streams look and sound great. Don’t forget to invest in a good microphone and headset as well, to ensure that you can communicate effectively with your viewers. Good luck, and happy streaming!
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