Streaming Gear and Desk Setup for Beginners
~Starting your streaming journey doesn't require thousands of dollars in equipment. With smart choices and proper setup, you can create professional-looking streams on a beginner budget. This guide covers everything you need to know about gear and desk setup for new streamers.
Essential Gear: The Basics
You need these items to start streaming. Everything else is optional.
1. A Computer
Your streaming machine needs:
- CPU - Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or better
- RAM - 16GB minimum
- GPU - Depends on games; entry-level fine for non-gaming streams
- Storage - SSD for faster performance
2. Internet Connection
The often-overlooked essential:
- Upload speed - At least 10 Mbps for 720p, 20+ for 1080p
- Stability - Wired connection strongly preferred over WiFi
- Low latency - Especially important for interactive streams
3. Streaming Software
- OBS Studio - Free, powerful, industry standard
- Streamlabs - OBS with built-in widgets
- StreamElements - Cloud-based alternative
Audio Gear: Often Overlooked
Good audio matters more than good video. Viewers will tolerate mediocre video but leave for bad audio.
Microphone Options
- Budget ($30-60): Fifine K669B, Blue Snowball
- Mid-range ($80-150): Quality USB mics, Blue Yeti, Audio-Technica AT2020
- Professional ($200+): Shure SM7B, Rode PodMic (require interface)
Audio Setup Tips
- Position mic close to mouth (4-6 inches)
- Use a boom arm to save desk space
- Add a pop filter to reduce plosives
- Consider acoustic treatment for echoey rooms
Video Gear: Being Seen
Webcam Options
- Budget ($50-80): Logitech C920/C922
- Mid-range ($100-200): Quality webcams, Elgato Facecam, Logitech C980
- Alternative: Use your smartphone with a capture app
Lighting Basics
- Key light - Main light source, front-facing
- Ring lights - Affordable, flattering, easy to use
- Panel lights - More professional look
- Natural light - Free but inconsistent
Desk Setup Optimization
Ergonomics
- Comfortable gaming chair - You'll sit for hours
- Monitor at eye level
- Keyboard and mouse at elbow height
- Feet flat on floor or footrest
Cable Management
- Route cables out of camera view
- Use cable clips and ties
- Consider under-desk cable trays
- Label cables for easy identification
Desk Space Planning
- Leave room for peripherals and future upgrades
- Keep frequently-used items within reach
- Consider monitor arms to free desk space
- Add a drink holder to protect electronics
Background and Set Design
What Viewers See
- Your camera background is part of your brand
- Keep it tidy and intentional
- Add personality with decor and lighting
- Avoid messy or distracting backgrounds
Budget Background Ideas
- Floating shelves with curated items
- LED strips for color
- Posters or tapestries
- Plants for life and color
Upgrade Path
Start basic and upgrade strategically:
- Get the basics working first
- Upgrade audio first (biggest quality impact)
- Improve lighting second
- Better webcam third
- Add production elements (overlays, emotes)
Ready to build your streaming setup? Browse our streaming audio gear, webcams, and room decor to get started!
