For many people around the country, sharing videos online is just a bit of fun. However, for those who want to take it seriously, knowing the right YouTube equipment for beginners is a must.
This post was designed to assist you in making a successful YouTube channel without wasting time on research or money on equipment you don’t require.
I wasted way too much time when I first started my YouTube channel trying to find out what equipment I needed. Let’s check out the most common tools YouTubers use to promote themselves on social media and grow their online presence.
What Stuff do you Need to Start a YouTube Channel?
When you’re ready to start creating content for your YouTube channel, there are a few essential pieces of equipment that YouTubers recommend.
1. A high-quality Camera
You have so many options for choosing a camera to film your video material, so figuring out which one is best for YouTube is the first step.
Camcorders, DSLR cameras, and Webcams are the most in-demand video recording devices among YouTubers. Here are my top choices for each device:
Webcam
Webcams are the ideal alternative if you want an inexpensive and handy solution. Webcams are the perfect option if your channel demands you to shoot a lot in front of your computer (like gamers). If that’s your thing, they’re also fantastic for live streaming videos.
The Logitech C922x HD Pro is the webcam I suggest. It’s can record in HD and is the webcam that I currently use for the majority of my videos.
DSLR
Because they create high-quality footage, DSLR cameras are the most popular among YouTubers. They are more expensive than the other alternatives, but the investment is worthwhile if you intend to make YouTube videos professionally. The Canon EOS Rebel T5i is one of the most popular ones out there. If you wish to add the kit, you can purchase the body simply or the body plus kit.
Camcorder
Camcorders are excellent video recorders, making them a perfect choice for making YouTube videos. They’re also compact and light, and they’re not too expensive. Vloggers that are constantly on the move would benefit from camcorders. The Sony HDRCX405 Camcorder is an excellent choice for recording in full HD.
Action Camera
These cameras are the most flexible and small. They’re ideal for capturing first-person perspective photos while traveling or participating in sports. They’re compact, so they’re easy to transport, and they generate high-quality movies.
GoPro is the brand I suggest. The GoPro Hero 9 is a trusted option. You may capture movies at a resolution of up to 5K. It has a touch screen on both the front and back, making framing simple.
You can also perform live broadcasting in 1080p. It also has HyperSmooth stabilization for increased smoothness. It’s watertight up to 33 feet. GoPro Hero 9 is available for purchase everywhere these days.
Mirrorless Camera
Mirrorless cameras have grown in popularity as a result of their ability to shoot in the same way as DSLR cameras while being smaller and lighter.
When vlogging, for example, a mirrorless camera is considerably simpler to carry about than a DSLR camera. For video capture, the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is the finest option. You can also record beautiful, silky smooth films in 4K!
Plus, it has all of the features you’d expect from a mirrorless camera, like image stabilization, real-time HDMI output, and a flip-out screen for viewing your film. The body may be purchased alone or as part of a kit.
Smartphone
You can get started with a smartphone with an excellent camera if you have access to one and are on a low budget.
The iPhone 11 Pro or Max and the iPhone 12 Pro or Max are both excellent choices.
It’s easy to shoot YouTube videos in 4K utilizing an iPhone 11 Pro and the Filmic Pro software in log mode to allow for greater color grading in post-production. You can shoot videos without using an app if you have an iPhone 12 or Max.
Related Reading: How much do sponsors pay YouTubers – See Here
2. Tripod or Gimbal
Shaky video footage does not look professional and can be highly distracting to your viewers.
Improve your video production game with silky smooth footage by using tripods or gimbal stabilizers.
Tripod
Tripods are less expensive than gimbals. Although a basic tripod can do, it is preferable to invest in a robust tripod that is dependable and durable to avoid damaging your camera equipment.
The iKan E-Image EG01A2 comes highly recommended. It’s a reasonably priced, high-quality tripod. It can withstand 11 lbs. and stretch its legs up to 5 feet. When filming on the go, it’s effortless to pack and transport. It is only 10 pounds in weight.
Gimbal
If you shoot handheld, you’ll almost certainly wind up with shaky footage. You may get away with it if you use image stabilization and edit in post-production, but why not smooth out your movies while you’re shooting to prevent the extra work and potential quality loss?
For action cameras and cellphones weighing up to 200 grams, the iKan FLY X3 – Plus Gimbal Stabilizer is a wonderful solution. It’s a battery-powered gimbal that can last up to 5 hours.
3. Microphone
The two most significant aspects of video production are visuals and audio.
Most YouTubers are more concerned with the aesthetic aspect of their videos, ignoring the audio quality at the end of the day. But a mic is definitely important YouTube equipment for beginners.
The microphone on your phone may be adequate at times, but it is not ideal for long-term use. Instead, for excellent YouTube audio, consider these external microphones.
USB Mic
USB mics are an excellent choice for voice-overs or on-screen sessions. They’re a popular option among today’s YouTubers. Mics with USB or XLR connectors are simple to use and relatively inexpensive. I currently use the Samson Q2U and absolutely love it.
Lavalier Mic
Because it is cordless and attached to your shirt collar, this lapel microphone gives you maximum freedom. The RodeLink Digital Wireless System is the most incredible wireless lavalier microphone, in my opinion.
Compact Wireless Mic
Rode Wireless Go is a small wireless microphone system featuring a built-in microphone for wireless audio that can be clipped on and off. It has a range of 70 meters and is extremely easy to operate. Vlogging, videography, and on-camera presentations are all possible with it.
Although the built-in microphone is adequate, I recommend the Rode SmartLav+ Omnidirectional Lavalier for iPhone and Smartphones if you wish to use it with an external lavalier microphone.
Shotgun Mic
Shotgun microphones are ideal for conducting interviews and working in the field. They are a little more expensive, but they are well worth it. For excellent audio quality, the Rode Microphones Videomic is the finest external microphone option.
4. Lighting
Building a studio with proper lighting isn’t a big problem if you want to record your videos outside. Most YouTubers, however, shoot inside in poor light, necessitating the use of the proper indoor lighting equipment. Lighting is important equipment for YouTube beginners.
Although lighting equipment is costly, there are specific lighting hacks you may use to improve the quality of your video recordings like:
- Make use of the natural light in your home.
- Use softbox lights to regulate the illumination.
- Hang LED lights from hangers or other things about the house.
- For video recording, you might use a ring light instead.
- RGB led lights may be used to produce fantastic effects and, as a backdrop, lighting to help you stand out and give your film depth.
Ring Light
You may erase shadows with ring light by shining soft light directly on the person, making their skin seem lovely. Fasten your camera in the middle of the ring when filming to ensure that your subject is equally illuminated.
For my YouTube videos, I typically use a ring light. It’s a great lighting tool for novices because it’s simple to set up. Just point, adjust the brightness and go. The TaoTronics Ring Light CL025, in particular, comes highly recommended.
It’s a 78-inch tripod light with a 12-inch ring light. Its LED light is dimmable and has a color temperature range of 6500K. A USB charging port, a carrying case, and remote control are included.
Softbox
Softboxes can be used to simulate natural light from a window. The softbox’s job is to diffuse direct light and reduce its intensity. You won’t get harsh shadows on your subject this way. To get started, I recommend the Mountdog softbox lighting kit. It comes with a reflector, and a remote-controlled 3-color temperature led bulb.
RGB Tube Light
When it comes to crafting a spectacular image, great lighting may make all the difference. There are several strategies to employ, as well as numerous instruments. Using RGB tube lights may provide you with the creative edge you want.
My favorite option is the Godox TL60 Tube Light Two-Light Kit, which I myself use in my Youtube studio setup. Because of the built-in Li-Ion battery, these tube lights can provide up to 2.5 hours of color control. You may use them to mount, gaffer tape, hold, or just lay them on a surface.
Each tube light comes with an internal battery, a power adapter, a DC power cable, power cable, an RJ-45 cable, a pair of wire ropes in case you wish to hang the light tubes, a toggle clip and fixed base, as well as a remote control and carrying bag.
RGB Pocket Light
RGB LED lights are commonly associated with gamers, but they have grown popular. They are now extensively used in many shooting setups, allowing you to create a more distinctive appearance. You may utilize them as a light source for the backdrop.
The IVISII G2 Pocket RGB Camera Light comes highly recommended by many folks. It has an adjustable stand, and a complete color gamut LED light panel that ranges from 2600K to 10000K and a built-in rechargeable battery. It’s simple to set up and transport if you’re filming on the go.
5. Video Editing Software
Although it is not strictly necessary, using a video editor will make making YouTube videos much more accessible.
Editing software allows you to add music and other unique effects to your videos, making them stand out from the competition.
Editing software may significantly assist you in making your films more entertaining for your audience.
Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro is software of the pros.
Because these YouTube recommendations are for those who are just getting started, I recommend using a simple editing program that won’t make you have a nervous breakdown every time you try to edit a video.
You don’t need to acquire Final Cut Pro if this is your first time editing video; it will most likely slow you down, confuse you, and ultimately frustrate you until you give up.
Honestly, Windows Movie Maker should suffice for basic videos. I actually use the editor that’s built right inside of Screen-cast-o-matic and love it. You could actually import videos into it to edit as well.
6. Teleprompter
It’s critical to maintain eye contact with your audience. It’s difficult not to look away from your viewer’s eye line if you need to utilize a script. It can definitely be important YouTube equipment for beginners.
Some make the decision to get a teleprompter. A teleprompter is a device that displays your script or notes in rolling text on a glass screen.
Because the glass screen is right in front of the camera, you can stare directly at the lens instead of glancing away.
It’s cool because it doesn’t show up on the recording while you can see your copy. The Desview T2 Teleprompter for smartphone, tablet, DSLR camera with remote control and lens adapter rings is popular.
With vertical/horizontal placements and left/right shooting, you may employ a variety of shooting/prompting combinations.
You can also use their free software with the remote controller to play/pause the script, speed it up/down, turn the page, adjust the font size, and change the backdrop color.
How much money do successful YouTubers make?
There are other methods for calculating a YouTuber’s earnings, and there are multiple ways they make money (like getting sponsorships) but it always boils down to views.
Why Views Matter
YouTubers can earn anything from $0.01 to $0.03 for each view. A good YouTuber may earn approximately $18 per 1,000 ad views, which equates to around $3-$5 per 1,000 video views. YouTubers are not compensated for each subscriber, but they are valuable because they drive fresh visitors to your channel.
Tips For Beginner YouTubers
1. Decide on a niche.
First and foremost, you must choose what your specialty will be. In your films, what industries do you wish to focus on? Select a few niches based on your hobbies and areas of expertise, and then expand from there.
2. Establish your goals.
What do you hope to achieve with your channel? That is the question you must respond to. Outline your goals for your YouTube channel so that your videos have a focus. This way, you’ll have a consistent procedure.
3. Create content and schedule uploads.
To keep your channel up to date, come up with video ideas and stick to a regular posting schedule. Make sure the material you’re producing will set you apart from the rest of the YouTube stars. You should create an easy-to-follow content plan; daily uploads may sound like a good idea at first, but they are a sure way to burn out quickly.
4. Use the right equipment.
Choose cautiously since the quality of your YouTube material will be determined by the equipment you use. The more money you spend on equipment, the higher the quality of your work will be. When it comes to video equipment, though, you can discover innovative ways to make up for the lack of funds.
At the end of the day, it’s not about the camera you have; it’s about how you use it to tell a story with it.
Audio and picture stabilization should be two of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a camcorder or camera. You want your viewers to be able to clearly hear what you’re saying rather than picking up muted background noises, and picture stabilization is also crucial because no one loves seeing choppy footage that makes them dizzy.
5. Boost your channel.
You’ll need to optimize your channel if you already have one. To attract as many readers as possible, devote a significant amount of effort to your name, “about” section, and keyword highlighting. After all, it’s via views that you generate money.
6. Vary your content.
It’s just as essential to take out as it is to leave in.
Too much of the same thing is one of the things that may ruin a potentially fantastic video. You don’t have to use every single clip of the Eiffel Tower in your film just because you recorded ten clips from slightly different perspectives. Select the finest images and discard the others.
Viewers will lose interest and go on to something else if you show too much of the same material, and it becomes monotonous. Your job is to keep the viewer engaged, even if it means parting with some of your videos.
7. Get inspired by other YouTubers. Don’t get discouraged.
There will always be channels that are more popular, have more experience, or are better at what they do than yours. You can use these channels to get ideas on how to film and what you want to accomplish, or you can let them paralyze you with self-doubt and never post anything.
The latter is obviously not what you want to happen.
Just keep in mind that every channel out there began the same way you did: with no subscribers, no views, and no audience. Yes, even the channels with over a million subscribers who now rely only on YouTube for their livelihood were once where you are now.
8. Be social
Go out there and make some friends since YouTube is a highly community-driven site. Find channels you enjoy watching and leave a comment – but not spammy ones like “Cool video!” or “Excellent stuff, man!” Take a genuine interest in the people you meet and the material they provide, and you’ll find that others are interested in you as well.
Also, don’t forget to post your films on social media. When you click the share button next to a video, you’ll see that it may be shared across 13 different social media sites – that’s a lot of possibilities! Not to mention the embed tab, which allows you to publish your video in custom sizes (maybe on your blog).
Don’t just post and forget about your movies if you want to gain more views — go social with them!
Novice YouTuber FAQs
Are there any skills that I need to be a successful YouTuber?
To be a successful videographer, you’ll need to master five abilities.
1. You should know all there is to know about your platform. You’ll be able to schedule your videos to reach the greatest number of viewers.
2. You must be able to do research and identify content.
3. You’ll need to know how to edit videos at a basic level. They’ll become better with time, but going in blind isn’t a good idea.
4. You must have a social media presence at the very least. To build a significant following, you must be active on all social media sites.
5. To reach a bigger audience, you’ll need a solid grasp of digital platforms.
Is it possible to start a YouTube channel with a smartphone?
With little more than your phone, you can easily create a YouTube channel. The finest phones for this are iPhones, although you may use any mobile phone. To produce excellent quality movies, you’ll need a phone mount, a tripod, and a stabilizer.
Related Reading: How to save a YouTube video
Final Thoughts
You’ll need a basic grasp of how to create a successful YouTube channel if you want to make making YouTube videos more than a pastime.
I’ve given you the lowdown on the best YouTube equipment for beginners, so I hope you use your newfound knowledge to conquer the YouTube space. Good luck and ping me on YouTube with your channel!
