To become a streamer and acquire the necessary equipment, here’s everything you need to know and have as a beginner in game broadcasting

Live broadcasting has evolved into a recognized activity, with streaming now considered a legitimate profession. Streamers have begun to wield more influence in the entertainment industry than journalists, with some earning more than the revenue of entire media outlets.

If you aspire to be a streamer and are wondering where to begin on platforms like YouTube or Twitch, this article will address the most frequent questions posed by budding streamers.

What kind of computer do I need for successful streaming?

When building a computer for streaming, it’s crucial to consider the types of games you plan to broadcast. For instance, online games like Valorant or World of Tanks, as well as indie games such as Phasmophobia and Enshrouded with minimal system requirements, can be managed with a budget setup.

Twitch, a prominent streaming platform, recommends a minimum of an Intel Core i5-4670 processor (4 cores @ 3.4 GHz), 8 GB of RAM, and a DirectX 11 compatible graphics card. The processor is the key component to focus on; it needs to be both modern and robust. The graphics card, on the other hand, should simply be current. For example, a modern integrated GPU may be more suitable than an older GTX 500 series or Radeon HD 5000 series card. If the graphics adapter is too outdated, it may struggle to stream even basic two-dimensional games like Hearthstone.

Below are two PC configurations | the first is tailored for beginner streamers focusing on less demanding games, while the second setup is designed for streaming most new titles in 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second.

Budget build — for Valorant, World of Tanks, and other online games

• Graphics | Gigabyte Radeon RX 6600 Eagle or MSI GeForce RTX 3060 Ventus 2X
• Processor | AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or Intel Core i5-10400F
• Cooling | Tesla RGB 940 or Mastero MC-125
• Motherboard | ASUS Prime B450M-K II or Gigabyte B560M DS3H V3
• RAM | Mastero DDR4 3200 CL16 16GB (8GBx2)
• SSD | Tesla M2 2280 512GB
• HDD | Any old model
• Power Supply | DeepCool DE600 V2 450W
• Case | Any preferred model

Optimal assembly (for any new game releases)

• Graphics | MSI GeForce RTX 4070
• Processor | AMD Ryzen 7 5700X or Intel Core i5-12400F
• Cooling | ID-Cooling SE-214-XT
• Motherboard | MSI MPG B550 Gaming Plus or ASUS Prime B660-PLUS D4
• RAM | Kingston Fury Beast Black DDR4 3200 16GB+16GB
• SSD | Kingston KC3000 1TB
• HDD | Any old model
• Power Supply | Xilence XN320 650W
• Case | Any preferred model

What internet speed do I need to stream?

For effective streaming, a fast and stable internet connection is crucial. Streaming content at 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second requires a minimum bitrate of 6000 kbps, which translates to an outgoing speed of at least 6 megabits per second—a standard that modern cable internet can fulfill. However, connection quality is paramount; without it, packet loss and transmission delays are inevitable.

A contemporary cable internet connection is necessary to meet these standards. Outdated ADSL or mobile data connections will likely struggle with streaming, as they often fail to provide the required communication quality, even if the speed is 100 megabits per second or more.

What other equipment do I need for successful streaming?

Even the most powerful computer does not guarantee high-quality picture and sound without a properly organized workspace. Below are its main components:

• A good microphone is crucial for streamers and vloggers, as clear and undistorted voice transmission is often more important than the visual aspect. There’s no need for expensive studio microphones; high-quality sound can be achieved with an affordable entry-level dynamic microphone, such as the Maono PM471TS or Creative Live! M3.
• Headphones are essential for streaming, and wired studio headphones with a neutral sound and comfortable design are ideal. Wireless models may cost more and can introduce a delay in sound, which is undesirable. It’s advisable to avoid using speakers during streams to prevent computer sounds from being captured by the microphone. Recommended headphone models include the Axelvox HD710 and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x.
• A webcam enables viewers to see the host’s reactions and emotions, adding to the show’s dynamics. Clear image quality is crucial for recognizing facial expressions and enhancing visual interaction. Investing in a webcam like the Logitech C922 is beneficial, but the Logitech C270 is also a suitable option for beginners. Alternatively, an iPhone can serve as a decent webcam.
• Chroma key is optional for streamers who want to hide their background, especially when streaming from a living room. Blurring or digitally removing the background can be effective, but using a chroma key or green screen is more reliable, allowing for the replacement of the background with various images, including animated or dynamic ones.
• Proper lighting is important to ensure the streamer’s face is clearly visible. Standard ceiling lighting or natural light may not suffice. A ring lamp with daylight settings positioned in front of the streamer is an ideal solution. Budget alternatives may also be considered for lighting.

How to set up a stream via OBS correctly?

Upon its initial startup, OBS will automatically configure the basic settings. Nonetheless, comprehending the functions of crucial settings is beneficial.

• “Resolution” and FPS | High values enhance image quality but also increase system load. FPS is more crucial than resolution; 60 FPS provides a smoother image than 30 FPS. As many viewers use smartphones, streaming at 720p at 60 FPS is preferable to 1080p at 30 FPS.
• “Service” | Select a streaming platform. Twitch leads the market, with YouTube as the second choice for gamers.
• “Server” | Automatic selection is advised.
• “Video Bitrate” | A higher bitrate improves image clarity and minimizes interference. Twitch’s maximum bitrate for standard accounts is 6000 kbps, while YouTube has no bitrate limit, but high bitrates may restrict stream accessibility for those with slow or mobile internet.
• “Encoder” | Hardware encoding is recommended. NVENC for GeForce graphics card users, AVC for Radeon users. Software encoding (x264) is suitable for high-end CPUs (new Core i7/Ryzen 7 or higher) or with a secondary computer.
• “Process Priority” | Influences broadcast latency and smoothness. Setting the priority below average is not advised as it may cause transmission issues. “Above Average” and “High” priorities should be reserved for high-end CPUs.
• Render, Color Format, Color Space, and Color Range | These settings are more adjustable for computer graphics training streams. Most gamers should stick to default settings to preserve color accuracy and black levels.

How do I learn how to stream games?

The foundation of success lies in consistent practice. It is this practice that will enable you to gradually overcome nervousness and broadcast with confidence. Additionally, we can offer several tips drawn from our colleagues’ experiences:

• Seek inspiration from fellow streamers. Observe their communication styles and streaming methods. Notice the templates they use for titles and tags. How do they engage with their audience during broadcasts?
• Don’t stay quiet! Regardless of your viewer count or whether you’re on camera, it’s crucial to express your thoughts and maintain contact with your audience. Initially, streaming with a friend can be beneficial, as you’ll communicate via voice chat.
• Interact with your viewers. In the beginning, there may not be many, but it’s essential to connect with each one | share your gaming experiences, seek advice, and discuss various subjects. Eventually, some will grow fond of interacting with you and return.
• Simply enjoy the journey. View live streaming as a chance to spend quality time with like-minded individuals. Avoid starting a streaming career with the expectation of quick success or as a side job—this can lead to quick burnout.

How to get a lot of viewers?

Typically, the growth of presenters’ channels can be rapid, often falling into one or more of four distinct categories:

1. Professional esports players attract viewers who enjoy watching high-level gameplay and perhaps learning from it. These players often indulge their subscribers with giveaways, offering game skins, keys, or exclusive merchandise as prizes.
2. Experts in various fields offer broadcasts not centered on gaming but on their areas of expertise, such as cooking, crafts, travel, or personal life anecdotes.
3. Charismatic individuals captivate their audience with their vibrant personalities, unique communication styles, humor, and the interesting knowledge they share. Often, the most renowned streamers possess all these traits simultaneously.
4. As for female streamers, they may find it easier to attract viewers, with many tuning in even if their gaming skills are lacking. However, those who focus solely on their looks are seldom taken seriously.

Is it possible to make a lot of money from streaming?

Streaming revenue is primarily earned by professional gamers. When starting out, it’s best to view streaming as an engaging hobby that offers the chance to meet new people and interact with interesting individuals.

The primary income sources for streamers include:

1. Donations from viewers are a well-known source of income, but they should not be solely relied upon, especially in the beginning. Even with a growing audience, the amount of donations for the upcoming month remains unpredictable. Thus, donations are best considered a welcome bonus to the main revenue stream.
2. Paid subscriptions are a primary income source for many professional streamers. Subscribers gain privileges such as access to exclusive content, gaming sessions with the streamer, invitations to private Discord channels, and more. To enable paid subscriptions, one must join the streaming platform’s affiliate program, which requires consistent streaming and a stable viewership.
3. Sponsored streams and brand advertising are common for prominent streamers with large followings. Game developers and gaming product manufacturers often approach them with advertising offers, which may include promoting new games, displaying brand logos, sharing referral links, or using specific gaming equipment during streams for compensation. The details of these payments are typically confidential.

Discussing streamers’ earnings, it’s more accurate to consider their success levels. Top streamers, for whom streaming is the primary job, can earn more than typical IT monthly salaries, mainly from advertising contracts, sometimes reaching hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. However, such success isn’t guaranteed for everyone.

Streamers with less recognition often make about one or two median monthly salaries in their country. Newcomers usually earn less and may need to work alongside streaming. For these less-known hosts, income primarily comes from paid subscriptions and donations, with the latter often being more significant for female streamers.

Game streaming is open to all and doesn’t require significant effort to start. It offers gamers a chance to explore a new role. One shouldn’t focus solely on income or global recognition; the key is to share experiences with a global community of like-minded individuals and to enjoy the process.