Get Ready to Stream! The Best PC Gaming Streaming Equipment for You.
Are you an avid gamer? Are you looking for the best way to share your gaming success with the world? Believe it or not, there are plenty of ways you can achieve this. Streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Mixer is the most popular way gamers are taking their hobby to the next level. But did you know you can also stream game play directly from your PC to your console or even a web browser? Here, you’ll learn about different streaming equipment and the best ways to set it up.
Setting up a PC gaming stream can seem like a daunting task. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out what streaming equipment you’ll need, especially if you’re new to streaming. But fear not! This guide will walk you through all the basics so you can be up and running with your dream PC gaming setup in no time.
Before we get into the nitty gritty of streaming equipment, let’s discuss the two main requirements for successful streaming:
1. A fast internet connection
2. A working PC setup
It is absolutely essential that you have a strong, fast internet connection in order to stream. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of a stream and have it crash due to a weak connection. Make sure your connection can handle a decent bitrate for your stream (we recommend at least 5 Mbps for a good quality stream).
You also need a working PC setup, which means more than just a powerful CPU and GPU. You’ll need a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and any other gaming peripherals you prefer. Of course, the more powerful your PC, the better your stream will look. But don’t forget to account for all the other items you need for an effective gaming setup!
Now that we’ve covered the two basic streaming requirements, let’s get into the streaming equipment you’ll need.
The first piece of equipment you’ll need is a capture card. A capture card will help capture your gameplay while also displaying it on your monitor. This will allow you to see in real time what everyone else is seeing when they watch your stream. A capture card will also allow you to adjust your streaming settings on the fly without needing to stop and restart your stream. There are a variety of capture cards available, so research the best one for your streaming needs.
Next, you’ll need a streaming software. These programs allow you to record and stream your gameplay from your PC. Some software also comes with added features, like the ability to broadcast to multiple platforms at once or even switching between your PC and console. Depending on the platform you choose to stream, some come with their own dedicated software (like Twitch’s own streaming software).
In addition to software you’ll need an encoder. An encoder is a program that will process the video from your capture card and send it to your streaming platform. It’s important to pick the right encoding software to ensure you’re getting the best quality stream possible. Popular encoders include OBS Studio, XSplit, and Wirecast.
Finally, you’ll need a microphone and headset. A good microphone and headset will make all the difference in how professional your stream looks and sounds. You want to make sure you choose one that’s going to be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, has decent sound quality, and ideally is compatible with your computer’s operating system.
Now that you know the basics of what streaming equipment you’ll need, let’s look at some of the more optional but still useful pieces of streaming equipment.
First off, you might want to consider getting a green screen. Using a green screen is a great way to add a professional look to your stream. With a green screen you can add custom backgrounds and can even add images or text to your stream.
Next, you can also invest in lighting to help improve the overall look of your stream. Also, if your streaming space is dark, consider getting a good light setup to ensure you’re clearly seen on camera.
Finally, you might want to get a webcam, a separate microphone, and a streaming controller. A webcam is an especially good investment if you plan on vlogging or doing interviews on stream. A separate microphone, such as a lavalier, allows for better sound quality when you’re talking, and a streaming controller can make managing your stream a lot easier.
From hardware to software, there’s a lot to consider when setting up your PC gaming stream. This guide should help you get a good foundation to build on top of. Make sure to research and read up on reviews to decide what’s best for you. Now you’re all set to take your gaming to the next level — happy streaming!
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