What is Streaming?
Streaming is a way for gamers to broadcast their gameplay to the world. Whether you’re playing video games on a console or on a PC, you can stream your gameplay to the internet and potentially have thousands, if not millions of people watch you play. It’s no wonder that a lot of gamers are looking to get into streaming.
Streaming isn’t just limited to popular video game titles either. You can pretty much broadcast anything you’re playing to the internet – be it board games, RPGs, or even the classic Super Mario Bros.
What You Need To Stream
The first thing you need to consider when looking to start streaming is what you need. While you don’t need much more than a computer and an internet connection, there are a few pieces of equipment that can help you get started with streaming.
PC Streaming Equipment
For streamers that are looking to start streaming from a PC, there are a few pieces of equipment that are highly recommended.
Graphics Card
One of the most important pieces of equipment for streaming on a PC is a graphics card. Without a good graphics card, you won’t be able to get the best possible performance from your streams. It’s important to get one that offers the best performance for whatever type of gaming you’re looking to stream.
Microphone
Another piece of equipment you’ll need to stream on a PC is a microphone. While a lot of gamers are content to play without a microphone, streaming is a different beast. If you’re looking to commentate on your streams, you’ll need a good microphone – preferably one that has noise cancelling and is built for streaming.
Video Capture Card
Finally, you’ll need a capture card to start streaming your PC. Without a capture card, you won’t be able to capture the video you’re playing and stream it over the internet. There are plenty of capture cards available that offer excellent performance for streamers.
Console Streaming Equipment
Streaming from a console is a little bit different than streaming from a PC. While the same basic principles apply, there are some key pieces of equipment you’ll need if you’re looking to stream from a console.
Stream Deck or Elgato Stream Command
The first piece of equipment that you’ll need is a stream deck or Elgato Stream Command. This is a device that allows you to control your stream without having to use your controller. You can use these devices to start and stop your stream as well as adding overlays, changing scenes, and more.
Capture Card
For capturing the video of your console gaming, you’ll need a capture card. Just like for streaming from a PC, capture cards capture the video from your console and stream it over the internet. You can find capture cards for both the Playstation and Xbox consoles.
Headset
Finally, you’ll need a headset if you’re looking to stream on a console. This is another piece of equipment that can drastically improve the quality of your streams. There are plenty of headsets available that are specifically designed for streaming and will help you sound crystal clear on your streams.
Conclusion
No matter if you want to stream on PC or on a console, there are some key pieces of equipment that you’ll need to get started. For PC streaming, you’ll need a graphics card, a microphone, and a capture card. For console streaming, you’ll need a stream deck or Elgato Stream Command, a capture card, and a headset. Once you have the necessary equipment, all you need to do is start streaming!
Image Credit: Pexels