Live streaming has become increasingly popular over the years, and it’s no wonder why. With no restrictions, anyone can start live streaming from their PC or notebook to their social media channels. Whether you want to share your expertise, showcase your creativity, or simply connect with others, live streaming provides a powerful platform to do so. However, to produce a high-quality live stream, you need the right equipment. In this article, we’ll take a look at the essential live stream equipment you need to get started and make your streams stand out.
- Microphone
- Camera
- Broadcasting Software (OBS Studio or Streamlabs)
- Live streaming platform – Facebook, YouTube or Twitch
- Stable Internet Connection
To explain how this process works, let me tell you a short story.
Microphone & Camera
If your computer has a built-in webcam and microphone, you can start live streaming right away.
However, if you want to improve the quality, I recommend investing in a better microphone for clearer audio and a good camera if you want to show yourself off live.
List of recommended microphone for gaming and streaming makes you sound professional.
For gaming, you don’t necessarily need to have a camera for your live streaming equipment but if you want to look professional and improve the quality of your stream.
I recommend you start with a low-cost camera first before moving on to a high-end camera setup.
Here are some of the best webcams for PC streaming.
Free Broadcasting Software to Live Stream
There are several apps that work with Facebook Live, YouTube & Twitch but the most popular are OBS Studio and Streamlabs.
Live Streaming Platforms
Live streaming platforms are video hosting solutions that allow you to upload and broadcast video content to your audience. Viewers can watch from a phone, computer or connected TV in real time.
Facebook Live lets you live-stream events, performances and gatherings on Facebook. You can go live on a Page, in a group or to an event on Facebook. Going live on a Page will give you access to more tools and capabilities than going live to a group or event.
YouTube
YouTube Live is an easy way for you to reach your community in real time. Whether it’s streaming an events, gaming, teaching classes or hosting workshops, YouTube has tools that will help you to manage live streams and interact with your viewers in real time.
Twitch
Twitch is an American video live streaming service that focuses on video game live streaming, including broadcasts of esports competitions, in addition to offering music broadcasts, creative content, and “in real life” streams.
Stable Internet Connection to Support Live Stream
Live streaming from OBS Studio or Streamlabs requires a good internet connection. You need fast internet speed and the most important thing is UPLOAD speed.
What Is A Good Upload Speed For Live Streaming?
- Facebook recommends 4,000 Kbps (4 Mbps) in order to stream in HD at 1080 p @ 60 fps
- For good quality live streams, 1,500 Kbps-4,000 Kbps is recommended for YouTube Live video
- At 720p, Twitch recommends 4,500 Kbps for 60 or 50 fps and 3,000 Kbps for 25 or 30 fps
It is highly recommended that you use a wired connection whenever possible because a wired connection is more reliable than Wi-Fi.
Testing the speed is simple. To check the upload speed for live streaming, visit Speedtest by Ookla and hit the “GO” tab.
In less than thirty seconds, you will get information about ping, download speed, and upload speed.