How to stream video games on Twitch and YouTube on a budget

With content creators now able broadcast gaming through smartphones, computers and consoles, streaming is easier than ever. And contrary to popular belief, those looking to dip their toes into more elaborate streaming options — or even pursue streaming as a career — don’t need to start with a wildly expensive setup, either. Although there is some barrier to entry, you have many streaming options that are affordable.

The first thing potential streamers should think about is which platform they plan to use. Given their dominance and size, Twitch or YouTube seem to be the best options. Facebook Gaming is an alternative, however, it’s more difficult to get access for those with lower budget streams.

The Twitch app is available on modern consoles. This allows content creators from their home to stream games to Twitch directly. After six months of streaming from the PlayStation 4, I decided to invest in gear that was within my budget. Razer and HyperX offer affordable headsets like the Razer Kraken and the HyperX Cloud Stringer. These can either be streamed directly to your console or via your computer with very little adjustments for good audio quality.

Begin small and then buy secondhand

It is important to not fear starting small. Budget is one of the key factors in becoming a streamer. Even if your budget is not sufficient to purchase a gaming console or an interface card that allows you to stream games from your console directly from your computer to streaming software and your desktop, streamers can still make a living.

And don’t be afraid to buy second hand. You should set a budget to invest over time in streaming. You don’t need expensive equipment. Second-hand capture cards are the best way to stream content from your consoles to your PC. It’s one of the first external Elgado HD capture cards that was made available, and it has proven to be incredibly reliable and easy to use. The Elgado 60 S is an older model than the more recent, capable of 4K capture.

Remember that buying older hardware can mean you might need to look online for appropriate drivers in the event of an error.

Because of multiple reasons, it is essential to slow down when streaming investment. At the top of the list: Your health is more important than anything else, and people who show up to your streams will want to see you doing well rather than barely scraping by to provide a “better” experience for them.

Is VTubing really the best way?

New streaming options have seen a surge in popularity. This shows that not only can you interact with your audience, but there are also other ways. VTubing allows streamers and viewers to communicate with each other through the use of virtual avatars. This trend is growing rapidly. Most VTubers who are instantly recognizable and most well-known are those associated with HoloLive Production. This Japanese talent agency represents many of the best and most well-known VTubers. However, there are also independent VTubers such as AICANDIIThey have helped bridge this gap, and encourage other creators to follow this model of interaction.

Image by AICANDII

VTubing may seem daunting at first glance. However, streamers with dedicated computers can go VTubing if they have the appropriate gear and a budget. However, VTubing costs a lot and anyone who wants to make their avatars fully functional should be aware of the upfront investment.

My own $1,500 spent on a Live2D VTuber Model. It took me several months to locate an artist or rigger who would best help me realize my avatar. The price included artwork and rigging to create a half-body basic model. There were no extras. Prices for Live2D models vary from artist to rigger. Prices for Live2D models can range from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on their complexity.

VTubing at a cheap price

Potential VTubers may consider pursuing a lower-cost alternative. PNG artwork is used to make a reactive image for streamers. Prices for PNGs will vary between artists, since you’re effectively commissioning an art piece to use for streaming. Look around to find what fits your needs and budget. Budgeting and saving money are essential, because VTubing can be expensive. This is not an accident! The community’s foundation is built on the work of artists and Riggers.

VRoid Studio is a free tool that allows you to make a 3D VTuber. You will need to have some experience using the program. A basic knowledge of Blender is helpful. If you want to create your own VTuber model, there are tutorials out there that will teach you to do this on your own, but it will require a lot of practice if you are not already familiar with the process of 3D modeling or rigging 2D models depending on what you’re looking to pursue. You can download some of the most powerful software available to load your model for free. VSeeFace 3D model software and VTube Studio Live2D model software are both free.

There is one final expense those pursuing VTubing should know about and that’s the potential cost of a camera or smartphone to make sure that their expressions are picked up properly through the program. iPhones currently represent the gold standard in VTubing, and capturing the expressions of streamers. Because the iPhone has several cameras, this is possible. You can use any standard webcam, or any mobile phone to VTubing. However, you should be aware that quality may differ. If you’re serious about streaming, then this is a good time to look around for a second-hand iPhone.

The good news is that streaming has become much more affordable thanks to the many options available. There are many free programs, including OBS to help you get started. This program allows you to stream video directly from your computer to the streaming site of your choice. And once you feel comfortable you can start to invest in your stream, be it overlays, special alerts, or even a VTubing avatar if that’s something you’d like to pursue. Just remember that success is relative to what you make it, and that you shouldn’t have to stream at the expense of yourself or your wellbeing.