These days, anyone with access to a smartphone can connect with fans and friends from all over the world. However, the more complex your stream, the more gear you’ll likely need. Each setup has advantages and disadvantages, and each can be customized to suit your specific needs.
Let’s take a look at the best livestreaming tools in several categories. Then, we’ll talk about how these pieces come together in a complete livestreaming setup.
The Editors’ Choice award recognizes exceptional video production equipment, software and services. These products must help videographers be more effective storytellers while being affordable, easy to use and dependable. The products must also deliver a superior user experience.
Best content creator I/O for livestreaming
Solid State Logic SL 2+
Strengths:
- High-quality preamps
- Easy to use
- Affordable
Weaknesses:
- No DSP
- USB 2.0 connection
The Solid State Logic SSL 2+ is our Best content creator I/O for livestreaming for its combination of professional features at an accessible price point. It boasts high-quality preamps and 24-bit / 192 kHz converters by AKM. The interface’s zero-latency direct monitoring and straightforward design make it exceptionally easy to use, ideal for both beginners and seasoned users. While it lacks onboard DSP and uses a USB 2.0 connection, these limitations are minor compared to its overall value and performance, making it an excellent choice for cost-conscious musicians and producers.
Top features:
- For Mac/Windows
- Two mic/line/instrument preamps
- Two headphone outputs
- Two 1/4-inch line
- Four RCA line out
- 24-bit / 192 kHz converters by AKM
- 48V, zero-latency direct monitoring
- Five-segment LEDs for metering
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Category runner-up
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Generation)
The Solid State Logic SSL 2+ wins our pick over the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Generation) due to its superior analog circuitry. It provides a cleaner and more professional sound signature. Additionally, the SSL 2+ features the Legacy 4K enhancement mode, derived from SSL’s classic consoles, which adds a distinct character and presence to recordings that the Scarlett 2i2 lacks.
Best content creator microphone for livestreaming
Shure MV7+
Strengths:
- Dual USB/XLR output
- Build quality
- Headphone monitoring
Weaknesses:
- Weight
The Shure MV7+ Podcast Mic offers versatility and professional-grade audio quality — ideal for podcasters and content creators. With a dynamic mic capsule with both USB-C and XLR outputs, you can integrate this mic into various recording setups. The MV7+ enhances user control with a customizable color LED touch panel and features like DSP for auto-level and noise reduction, alongside direct headphone monitoring. While its weight may be substantial, the mic’s robust build and dual-output capability make it a top choice.
Top features:
- USB-C and XLR outputs
- Physical and digital pop filters
- 3.5 mm jack with direct monitoring
- DSP for auto-level
- Noise reduction
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Customizable color LED touch panel
- High-quality 48 kHz / 24-bit audio
- Mac, Windows, iOS and Android
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Category runner-up
Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X
We choose the Shure MV7+ over the Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X because its very adaptable and user-friendly. The MV7+ offers dual connectivity with both USB-C and XLR outputs, providing flexibility for various recording setups, whether digital or analog. Additionally, its customizable features, including adjustable sound settings via software, enhance its functionality. This makes it a more versatile choice for podcasters and content creators who require quality and adaptability in their recording equipment.
Best content creator camera for livestreaming
Sony ZV-E10
Strengths:
- Has a headphone and mic jack
- Can shoot up to 120 frames per second in HD
Weaknesses:
- Overheats in some situations
- No electronic viewfinder
With a 24.2 megapixel APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor, it can record up to UHD 4K at 30 frames per second and in Full HD at 120 frames per second. With 425-Point Fast Hybrid autofocus, it offers Real-Time Eye autofocus and tracking, so you’re sure your subject’s in focus.
The ZV-E10 has a headphone and a microphone port. Having both is not typical for cameras under $1,000. With them, you can use an external microphone and listen to what you are capturing. This will greatly improve your ability to get clean and clear audio. Lastly, it offers a fully-articulating rear monitor, making it great for vloggers.
Top features:
- 24.2 MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor
- UHD 4K 30p and Full HD 120p video
- 3.0-inch side flip-out touchscreen LCD
- 425-point fast hybrid AF
- Real-time eye AF and tracking
- Background defocus and face priority AE
- Directional three-capsule mic and windscreen
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Category runner-up
Canon EOS R50
For content creators focused on livestreaming, while the Canon EOS R50 is a solid alternative, the Sony ZV-E10 provides dedicated features for streaming, advanced autofocus and extensive lens options. One of the main features that make it better for content creators is its directional three-capsule mic that allows for voice capture in front or behind the camera. This makes it an ideal choice for enhancing the quality and ease of live content production.
Best content creator PTZ camera for livestreaming
PTZOptics Move SE
Strengths:
- Autotracking
- Image quality
- Customizable presets
- Good low light performance
Weaknesses:
- Steep learning curve
The PTZOptics Move SE is a dynamic addition for anyone needing a high-resolution streaming and tracking camera, especially suited for classrooms, houses of worship or conference rooms geared toward remote meetings. It’s compatible with popular software platforms like Skype, Microsoft Teams and Zoom, making it a versatile choice for various virtual interaction needs. The Move SE camera stands out with its ability to capture up to 1080p60 resolutions over multiple outputs, including IP, HDMI, USB-C and 3G-SDI. Its auto-tracking feature is particularly beneficial in educational and corporate settings, allowing for smooth tracking of subjects moving around the room without needing a manual operator. This camera also boasts features like wide dynamic range, 3D noise reduction and excellent low-light performance, with an optional upgrade available for NDI|HX support.
Zoom capabilities are a strong suit of the Move SE, offering a 30x optical zoom and up to 16x digital zoom. This makes it adept at capturing fine details even from a distance. The camera comes with 255 programmable preset positions, which can be controlled via IP, RS-232 or RS-485 with separately available controllers or through IR control with the included remote, allowing for quick transitions between shots. The video output of the Move SE is highly efficient, utilizing H.265, H.264 or MJPEG compression formats. It supports the transmission of up to two simultaneous streams using various protocols like SRT, RTSP and RTMP, enhancing its streaming capabilities.
In terms of audio, the PTZOptics Move SE supports external audio input via a 3.5 mm stereo line-level jack. This enables high-quality audio embedding into streams. For power, users have the flexibility of using the included AC adapter or taking advantage of PoE (Power-over-Ethernet) on supported networks. This combination of high-resolution video capture, versatile zoom and robust streaming options make the PTZOptics Move SE a top choice for professionals seeking a reliable and feature-rich PTZ camera.
Top features:
- Capture up to 1080 60p
- Autotracking
- 12x optical zoom
- HDMI 1.3
- 3G-SDI
- USB-C and IP output
- Optional NDI|HX upgrade
- 255 presets
- 3.5 mm stereo audio in/out
- DC and PoE support
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Category runner-up
BirdDog X1
The PTZOptics Move SE is a superior choice for content creators doing livestreams over the BirdDog X1 due to its advanced auto-tracking capabilities, user-friendly interface and seamless integration with various streaming platforms. It offers excellent picture quality and is cost-effective, balancing features and price efficiently. Additionally, it is supported by a robust user community, providing valuable resources and assistance, making it a more accessible option compared to the BirdDog X1.
Best content creator light for livestreaming
Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light Pro
Strengths:
- Built in battery
- Durability
Weaknesses:
- Battery life
- Price
The Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light Pro won the Videomaker Best Content Creator Light for Livestreaming award because of its built-in battery and durability. The edge-lit ring light includes an internal rechargeable lithium battery, a remote control, and an adjustable 70″ stand and phone mount. Despite its higher price and limited battery life, its robust build quality and convenience make it a top choice for content creators.
Top features:
- Edge-lit
- Internal rechargeable lithium battery
- Runtime: 70 minutes
- Remote control and adjustable 70′-inch stand and phone mount included
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Category runner-up
Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit (18 inches)
We pick the Lume Cube Cordless Ring Light Pro over the Westcott Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit (18 inches) for content creators doing livestreams due to its superior portability and flexibility. Its cordless design and long battery life allow for easy positioning and extended use without relying on power outlets. Additionally, it offers high-quality, adjustable lighting and a durable, compact design, making it ideal for varied setups. Enhanced with an integrated smartphone mount, the Lume Cube is tailored for modern streaming needs.
Best content creator stream deck for livestreaming
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2
Strengths:
- Customizable keys
- User friendly
- Integration
Weaknesses:
- Price
The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 won our Best Content Creator Stream Deck for Livestreaming award for its customizable keys, user-friendly interface and integration with various software. It has 15 programmable LCD keys, allowing users to switch scenes, launch media, and adjust audio. Its drag-and-drop functionality simplifies key configuration, which can be saved as profiles for different needs. Despite its higher price, the Stream Deck MK.2’s versatility and compatibility with both Windows and macOS make it an invaluable tool for streamers.
Top features:
- 15 programmable LCD keys
- Switch scenes and launch media
- Adjust audio
- Drag-and-drop actions to keys
- Save key configurations as profiles
- Windows and macOS compatible
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Category runner-up
Loupedeck Live Console
The Elgato Stream Deck MK2 exceeds the Loupedeck Live Console for livestream content creators due to its customizable LCD keys and user-friendly interface, which simplify navigation and control. Its seamless integration with popular streaming platforms like OBS and Streamlabs, combined with a compact, modular design, enhances user experience by allowing quick adjustments and smooth transitions during broadcasts. Additionally, the Stream Deck MK2’s easy setup and robust community support make it a more accessible and versatile option for streamers compared to the Loupedeck Live Console.
Best content creator streaming software for livestreaming
OBS Studio
Strengths:
- Free
- Customizable
- Scriptable
Weaknesses:
- Steep learning curve
- Open-source software can be buggy
Streamlabs OBS is a free streaming app built on the open-source OBS (Open Broadcast Systems) app. The software provides a streamlined user interface and claims to have the fastest set-up process on the market. The all-in-one application is designed to make streaming simple, and it comes with built-in tools that will be especially helpful for streamers looking to build a consistent audience on platforms like Twitch or YouTube. These include tools for engagement, growth and monetization. Streamlabs also offers a mobile app, allowing users to access Streamlabs tools while streaming from a mobile device.
While some larger live productions may run into limitations with Streamlabs OBS, it’s accessibility and ease of use bump it up to the top of our list.
Top features:
- Free and open source
- Cross-platform
- Real-time video/audio capturing and mixing
- Modular ‘Dock’ UI
- Filters for video sources
- Audio mixer
- Custom transitions
- Scriptable
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Category runner-up
vMix
While vMix offers advanced features and a professional-grade experience, its cost, complexity and higher resource demands make OBS Studio a more accessible and practical choice for many content creators, particularly those starting out or working with limited resources.
Best content creator switcher for livestreaming
Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro
Strengths:
- Easy to use
- Price
Weaknesses:
- Limited input type
The Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro won the Videomaker Best Content Creator Switcher for Livestreaming award for its ease of use and competitive pricing. This 4-channel live stream HDMI switcher allows control of up to four BMPCC 6K/4K cameras and includes a 2-channel digital audio mixer per source. Despite the limitation of HDMI inputs only, it offers extensive features like HDMI output, Ethernet ATEM control, media player support and advanced keyers for professional transitions. Its user-friendly interface and affordability make it an excellent choice for content creators.
Top features:
- Four-channel livestream HDMI switcher
- Control up to four BMPCC 6K/4K cameras
- Two-channel digital audio mixer per source
- HDMI output
- Ethernet ATEM control
- Media player
- Computer input support
- Upstream and downstream keyers
- DVE transition
- Chroma/luma keyers
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Category runner-up
IOGEAR UpStream Pro
For content creators focused on livestreaming, the Blackmagic Design ATEM Mini Pro is the superior choice because of its ease of use, built-in streaming and recording capabilities, multiview monitoring, advanced audio features and strong support community. These aspects make it a more versatile and efficient tool for live production compared to the IOGEAR UpStream Pro.
Best content creator tripod for livestreaming
Manfrotto 502AH Video Head & MT055XPRO3 Aluminum Tripod Kit
Strengths:
- Fluid head
- Adjustbale legs
- Build quality
Weaknesses:
- Preium price
The Manfrotto 502AH Video Head & MT055XPRO3 Aluminum Tripod Kit takes our spot as the best content creator tripod for livestreaming due to its fluid head, adjustable legs and superior build quality. The kit features the 502AH Pro Video Head with a flat base and the MT055XPRO3 tripod with a center column, supporting a 22 lb payload and an 8.8 lb counterbalance. With a maximum height of 67 inches and a standard height of 55 inches, it provides excellent stability and flexibility for livestreaming setups. While the kit comes at a premium price, it’s a worthy investment if you have the budget.
Top features:
- 502AH pro video head with flat base
- MT055XPRO3 tripod with center column
- 22 lb payload, 8.8 lb counterbalance
- 67 inches max height with column raised
- 55 inches standard max height
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Category runner-up
Benro A3883 Reverse-Folding Aluminum Travel Tripod with S6Pro Fluid Video Head
The Manfrotto 502AH Video Head & MT055XPRO3 Aluminum Tripod Kit is better suited for content creators doing livestreams due to its superior stability, higher load capacity, smoother fluid head performance and additional features like the versatile center column. These attributes make it a more reliable and professional choice for static, high-quality livestreaming setups.
Best content creator webcam for livestreaming
OBSBOT Tiny 4K
Strengths:
- Resolution
- AI tracking
- Easy set up
Weaknesses:
- Price
- Poor low-light performance
With its impressive 4K resolution, AI tracking capabilities and easy setup, the OBSBOT Tiny 4K is the market’s best webcam content creators can get for livestreaming. The OBSBOT Tiny 4K is a 4K USB PTZ webcam that features a 1/1.5-inch CMOS sensor with dual-native ISO, providing excellent image quality and reliable zone, hand, voice and gesture tracking. It includes built-in omnidirectional mics and a tally LED, along with a fast USB-C 3.0 connection for seamless integration. While this is an excellent webcam, note that it does have low-light performance. So, if you want to use the OBSBOT Tiny 4K, make sure to have a good lighting setup.
Top features:
- 4K USB PTZ 4x webcam
- 1/1.5-inch CMOS
- Dual-native ISO
- Zone/hand voice/gesture tracking/control
- Built-in omnidirectional mics
- Tally LED
- Dual omnidirectional microphones
- Fast USB-C 3.0 to Type-A host connection
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Category runner-up
Razer Kiyo Pro
The OBSBOT Tiny 4K surpasses the Razer Kiyo Pro as the best webcam for content creators because of its 4K resolution. It also features advanced AI capabilities, including auto-tracking and gesture control, which ensure dynamic presentations and ease of use. Additionally, the OBSBOT Tiny 4K’s dual omnidirectional microphones, compact design and versatile software customization make it an ideal choice for livestreaming, offering enhanced audio quality and seamless integration into various streaming setups.
Essential livestreaming gear
There are many paths to a successful livestream. Let’s break down each component to see how it fits into the overall setup.
The foundation
First of all, whether you’re streaming from your phone or a dedicated livestreaming system, you’ll need a reliable internet connection. The bandwidth requirements will vary based on resolution, frame rate, encoding method and scene complexity, but most standard hardwire or cellular connection will be enough to support some level of streaming. You may need to experiment to see what your connection can support.
While a smartphone provides an all-in-one solution, it’s likely you’ll eventually want more flexibility.
Next, you’ll need to decide how you will get the camera signal or signals streaming to your destination of choice. With a built-in camera and network connectivity, the modern phone is an all in one device perfect for livestreaming. You can take it with you and stream anywhere you have an internet connection and most streaming platforms make it easy to stream through their mobile app. But while a smartphone provides an all-in-one solution, it’s likely you’ll eventually want more flexibility.
Streaming with a computer
If you choose to stream from a computer, you’ll also need appropriate livestreaming software in order to send your video and audio to the web. It’s the job of your streaming software to manage your video and audio inputs, encode them to the proper specs and then send your stream to the streaming server according to the correct protocol. Options range from simple and free to complex and extremely expensive. Choose the right option for you based on the complexity of your stream and its destination.
Bringing your camera feed into your computer
A capable computer and the right streaming software are really all you need to start streaming. You can stream gameplay and other screen-based activities to the web without any additional hardware, but you won’t be able to show your viewers anything else. If you want to appear on screen as a host, you’ll need some kind of camera.
When it comes to camera choice you have a few different options. The most convenient cameras to use for a livestream are USB webcams or the built-in camera on your computer. Most livestreaming platforms and software will identify these cameras without any issues, making them easy to set up. However, they provide mediocre video quality and are more limited in terms of placement and camera movement.
If you want the absolute best quality and the most control, you’ll want to use a dedicated DSLR or mirrorless camera. But connecting your camera to your computer can pose another challenge. Some cameras allow for USB live view tethering, but not all. If your camera doesn’t support this feature, you‘ll need to buy an internal or external I/O device to connect the camera to your computer via HDMI, VGA or SDI.
Multi-camera livestreaming
What’s better than one camera? More than one camera. Multi-camera livestreaming is the most complex setup and will almost certainly require additional gear. However, adding multiple camera angles is an excellent way to give your stream a more polished look.
As soon as you add a second input, you’ll want to be able to switch between them. It’s possible to use streaming software on your computer to switch between inputs, but the tactile control of a switcher can make directing your stream easier. A dedicated switcher also allows you to connect multiple camera inputs while sending the output signal to either a computer or standalone livestream encoder. From there, it can be sent to the web.
Some switchers even combine the functionality of a switcher and streaming encoder. That means you can use a device like the Blackmagic ATEM Mini Pro to stream, even without a computer or encoder nearby.
Streaming without a computer
We’ve mentioned the option of using a livestreaming encoder, but so far, we haven’t explained what that is. In this case, livestreaming encoder refers to a device that accepts a video input and encodes it for livestreaming. The device then sends the stream to your destination of choice via an Ethernet, Wi-Fi or cellular data connection. If you already have a switcher and just need to get your signal to the web, a livestreaming encoder can fill that gap. These can also allow you to stream a single camera feed to the web without having to connect it to a computer first.
Turn-key streaming
If you want all of this functionality in a turn-key solution, look to a dedicated streaming box. Streaming boxes will have a number of HDMI or SDI input and come pre-loaded with streaming software that allows you to switch between inputs as well as add graphics and effects.
You can control the stream through the software interface, but if you plan to stream often and want to use a more complex multi-cam setup, you may want to invest in a control surface made specifically for livestreaming and switch. This control surface will give you more tactile control when switching between inputs, which helps ensure smooth transitions between different inputs.
Developing your livestreaming setup
Your equipment needs will scale with the size and complexity of your production. Our best advice is to start simple and build up your set up as you get more experience and figure out where your pain points are. Poor quality audio? Upgrade your microphone or add a mixing board. Want to add another camera? You may need to get a capture card or streaming box that supports a larger number of inputs. There are plenty of fancy, eye-catching streams online, but many streamers attract a loyal audience with nothing more than a webcam. The important thing is that you are using the live format to engage with your audience in a way not otherwise possible.
Got everything you need to go live? Read Going live, step by step.
