Top PC Gaming and Streaming Secrets 2021: Boost Performance and Dominate Rankings
As more and more people are drawn to the exciting world of PC gaming and live streaming, the competition to be the best is fiercer than ever. The stakes are high, and gamers and streamers alike are constantly on the lookout for ways to boost their performance, increase viewer engagement, and dominate their chosen rankings.
If you’re one of those looking for the secrets to becoming a top-tier gaming and streaming pro, you’ve come to the right place. In this colossal guide, we’ll be revealing the top PC gaming and streaming secrets of 2021, helping you level up and achieve the success you crave.
1. Invest in Your PC Hardware
Gaming performance starts with the base of all gaming rigs: the hardware. No matter how skillful you are, inadequate hardware can hold you back or even lead to lower rankings. Here, we’ll discuss the crucial components that you should prioritize when building or upgrading your PC.
Graphics Card (GPU)
For a stellar gaming experience, a high-performing GPU is a must. It affects how smooth and enjoyable in-game graphics are, ultimately helping to enhance overall performance. Having a low-quality GPU can result in FPS (frames per second) dips or even unplayable lag. NVIDIA and AMD are the leading graphics card manufacturers, constantly releasing top-of-the-line models, such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series and AMD Radeon RX 6000 Series.
Processor (CPU)
A powerful processor is essential for running CPU-intensive games and maintaining smooth gameplay. A good gaming CPU should have a minimum of 4 cores and a high clock speed of at least 3.5 GHz. Look for processors from reputable brands such as Intel and AMD. Intel’s 10th Gen and 11th Gen Core processors and AMD’s Ryzen 5000 series are popular choices for gaming rigs.
RAM (Memory)
Having adequate RAM is essential to ensure that gaming and streaming applications run smoothly. A general rule of thumb is to have a minimum of 8GB of RAM for optimal gaming performance, but we recommend going for 16GB for more demanding games and multitasks. RGB RAM or high-speed memory can be appealing but prioritize capacity and compatibility with your motherboard.
Storage (HDD/SSD)
Storage is a critical aspect, as it affects boot and load times. Upgrading from a traditional spinning hard drive (HDD) to a solid-state drive (SSD) is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost performance. Steam games and other hefty applications can quickly fill up your storage, so aim for a minimum of 1TB.
2. Optimize Your Game Settings
Once you’re happy with your hardware, it’s time to delve into the in-game settings. Each game has a unique set of settings that directly impact gameplay, so it’s crucial to experiment and find the best balance of performance and visual appeal.
Resolution and Refresh Rate
Higher resolutions, like 1440p or even 4K, can greatly enhance in-game visuals. However, a high-resolution display requires a powerful GPU to maintain smooth gameplay. If your hardware can’t handle the stress, you may need to lower the resolution to maintain a high framer per second (FPS) rates. When gaming, it’s essential to find the sweet spot between resolution and refresh rate (Hz) to maximize performance and minimize input lag.
Graphics Settings
Many games offer predefined graphics presets (such as low, medium, high, or ultra) to suit various hardware configurations. Although it’s tempting to push for ultra settings, be mindful of your hardware limitations. A good practice is to start with a preset that makes sense for your hardware, then tweak individual settings to optimize further. These settings can include texture quality, anti-aliasing, view distance, and more.
Game Mode and Fullscreen Optimization
Windows 10 includes a Game Mode feature that, when enabled, prioritizes gaming performance over other applications. To activate Game Mode, go to Settings > Gaming > Game Mode and toggle it on.
Additionally, running your game in exclusive fullscreen mode can prevent screen tearing and reduce input lag. To enable it, go to your game’s options menu and look for the display settings.
3. Get the Right Peripherals
Having the right peripherals can make a huge difference in your gaming and streaming experience.
Monitor
As mentioned earlier, seek a balance between resolution and refresh rate based on your hardware capabilities. Additionally, consider response time and whether you prefer an IPS, TN, or VA panel. Recent models even support adaptive-sync technologies like NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync, which can further enhance your gaming experience by reducing screen tearing and input latency.
Keyboard and Mouse
Mechanical keyboards are the gold standard for gaming, as they offer precise actuation and a satisfying tactile feel. Look for a keyboard with anti-ghosting and N-key rollover to ensure every keypress is registered accurately, even during frantic in-game action.
For gaming mice, consider DPI (dots per inch) and the type of sensor. High DPI counts allow for ultra-precise movements, but can be unnecessary for certain games or playstyles. Focus on comfort, ergonomics, and the number of programmable buttons based on the types of games you play.
Audio Gear
Immersive and precise audio is crucial, especially in competitive gaming. Opt for a pair of good-quality headphones or speakers to enhance your gaming experience. Additionally, many streamers invest in a separate, high-quality microphone to ensure their voice is crystal-clear for their audience.
4. Enhance Your Streaming Setup
To truly stand out, you’ll need to invest effort and energy into your streaming setup. Your viewers will appreciate high-quality video and audio, a reliable connection, and an engaging presentation.
Software
Choose streaming software that suits your needs and preferences. Popular choices include OBS Studio, XSplit, and Streamlabs OBS. These platforms offer various features for customization, including overlays, integrations with chat services, and advanced audio and video settings.
Webcam and Green Screen
Choose an HD webcam to ensure your viewers can see you clearly. Some streamers also opt for a green screen setup, which provides a clean background and allows you to add special effects or custom images/animations.
Quality and Bitrate
Your internet connection and hardware will impact your streaming quality. For the best results, use a wired connection and aim for a minimum upload speed of 5-10 Mbps. When configuring your bitrate settings, aim for 720p or 1080p resolution with a bitrate of 2500-4000 kbps for 30 FPS, or 4000-6000 kbps for 60 FPS. However, always adjust these settings according to your hardware and internet capabilities.
5. Build Your Online Presence and Engage with Your Community
Lastly, success in gaming and streaming doesn’t come solely from your gaming prowess or hardware. Building an online presence and engaging with your community is crucial if you’re looking to dominate rankings.
Develop Your Brand
Start by developing a consistent brand identity that sets you apart from other gamers and streamers. This includes a unique logo, a consistent color scheme, custom overlays, and adding your personal touch to your channel.
Network and Collaborate
Building relationships with other gamers and streamers can not only make the journey more enjoyable but also help grow your audience. Attend events, join communities, and collaborate with others to keep expanding your network.
Engage on Social Media
Ensure your social media accounts are active, and engage with your audience across platforms. Share news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content to keep your audience interested and coming back for more.
Listen and Learn
When you interact with your viewers, pay attention to their feedback and preferences. Learn from your mistakes and constantly seek to improve and adapt. Over time, you’ll build a loyal audience that will support you on your journey to dominating the rankings.
Going from an average gamer to having thousands of viewers on your streams doesn’t happen overnight. However, by following these top PC gaming and streaming secrets, you’ll be well on your way to boosting performance and dominating the rankings. So, grab your gear, embrace your passion, and work your way to the top!
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