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The Best PC Gaming Streaming Equipment: Setting Up for Success.
Are you thinking about streaming your gaming experience, but don’t know where to start? The right equipment can make an enormous difference in your stream, and if you’re looking to get the most out of your setup then having the best PC gaming streaming equipment is key.
From the perfect video capture card to the all-important audio equipment and even the accessories you’ll need, in this guide we’ll take a look at the best PC gaming streaming equipment you can buy in 2021. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to know.
A Quick Overview of PC Gaming Streaming Equipment
Any serious gamer streaming their gameplay will need a complete setup of essential equipment and tools. The following list covers all the components you need for a professional gaming stream.
• Video Capture Card: A video capture card allows your gaming system to be recorded and broadcast from your computer. It captures the video signal from your console or PC and sends it either live or to be stored for later use. If you want to record and stream your gaming PC or console, then the video capture card is an absolutely essential part of the setup.
• Audio Equipment: Audio quality is an important part of any streaming setup, as it determines how well your viewers can hear you. You will need a microphone and headphones for streaming, as well as a good sound card for capturing and improving your voice and game audio.
• Streaming Software: Streamers need special software to manage their streams. This software helps you set up your stream, as well as allowing you to add special effects, graphics and other features to enhance your viewers’ experience. The software also gives you access to analytics so you can track the success of your streaming.
• Streaming Accessories: Finally, you will need a variety of accessories for your streaming setup. These include a webcam for streaming yourself, a green screen to add background graphics, a tripod to mount your equipment, and lighting to ensure your stream looks great.
Now that we’ve had an overview of the equipment you need, let’s take a look at the best PC gaming streaming equipment of 2021.
1. Video Card: Elgato HD60 Pro
The Elgato HD60 Pro is one of the most powerful and reliable video capture cards on the market. It can capture images up to 1080p at 60 frames per second, providing excellent video quality without any lag or latency. The Elgato HD60 Pro also allows you to stream and record your gameplay on multiple devices, with simultaneous output to both a PC and a monitor or TV.
This versatile capture card can also be used in a variety of ways, from recording videos for YouTube to streaming for higher frame rates. There is also a multi-language function that lets you switch between different languages during a live stream.
2. Microphone: Shure SM7B
The Shure SM7B is one of the most popular microphones for streaming and recording. It offers exceptional sound quality, allowing you to pick up subtle details in your voice that are normally hidden.
The SM7B offers two separate modes that let you adjust the frequency response and reduce interference. You can also make use of its high-pass filter to cut out unwanted frequencies. This microphone also boasts excellent noise reduction technology that helps remove any unwanted background noises.
3. Headphones: HyperX Cloud Alpha
As a streamer, you need headphones that deliver clear and detailed sound. The HyperX Cloud Alpha is the perfect choice, offering superior audio accuracy and clarity.
These headphones are equipped with dual-chamber drivers that separate the bass and mid-high frequencies, ensuring you can hear every nuance of your game and chat audio. The headphones come with extra foam ear cushions for superior comfort, and can be folded flat for easy storage in your gaming bag.
4. Sound Card: Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5
The Creative Sound BlasterX AE-5 may be small, but it delivers big sound. It offers a superb audio experience, with excellent virtual surround sound technology and Dolby Digital decoding, as well as a number of great features for streamers.
The sound card is capable of producing excellent sound for both game audio and chat, and comes with the Scout Mode feature to give you an in-depth awareness of your gaming environment. The sound card also comes with a suite of utility tools that allows you to easily adjust your audio settings.
5. Streaming Software: OBS Studio
Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) Studio is a popular and powerful choice for streaming software. It allows you to easily add text and images to your broadcast, as well as interact with viewers using a chat function. OBS Studio can also help you manage your stream, allowing you to set up and control your stream with ease.
OBS Studio also offers excellent streaming performance, thanks to its GPU-accelerated encoding technology. It offers excellent support for both Twitch and YouTube streaming, as well as allowing you to adjust your settings to get the best out of your stream.
6. Webcam: Logitech C920
The Logitech C920 is one of the best webcams for streaming, offering superior picture quality and excellent features. It can capture 1080p footage at 30 frames per second, and the wide-angle lens ensures you can capture a large area in front of your stream.
The C920 also offers autofocus, as well as allowing you to adjust the exposure and other settings to get the best results. The webcam also comes with a built-in microphone that offers excellent sound quality.
7. Green Screen: Neewer Chroma Key
The Neewer Chroma Key is one of the best green screens for streamers. It provides a large surface area, with a wrinkle-resistant fabric that eliminates shadows and reflections.
The Neewer green screen is also highly portable, and comes with three suspended net pockets for storing your equipment. It also includes four quick-release buckles that allow you to quickly and easily set up your backdrop.
8. Tripod: Manfrotto MT190XPRO3
The Manfrotto MT190XPRO3 is the perfect choice for mounting your streaming equipment. This tripod is lightweight and highly portable, boasting an aluminum construction that makes it durable and long-lasting.
The Manfrotto tripod offers a 3-way pan and tilt head to ensure you can capture the perfect angle, and comes with quick release plates that are compatible with most DSLR cameras. The rubber feet grip the floor securely to ensure your tripod doesn’t slip or move during your stream.
9. Lighting: Neewer CN-160
The Neewer CN-160 is a great option for those looking to improve their streaming setup. This light is highly portable, with an adjustable head and four adjustable legs that allow you to make minor adjustments for maximum accuracy.
The CN-160 features a dimmable control knob, as well as a built-in diffuser to ensure you get the perfect lighting in your stream. It is also UV coated, protecting your equipment from potential damage.
Conclusion
Having the right equipment is essential for any streamer who wants to get the most out of their streaming setup. With the best PC gaming streaming equipment, you can ensure that your streams look great, sound excellent and run smoothly.
This guide has covered all the essential components you need for a professional stream, including video capture cards, audio equipment, streaming software, accessories and more. With these high-quality components, you can ensure that your streams look and sound great.
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