So, what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel? If you are searching for the right equipment needed to start a YouTube channel, you are in the right place! Whether you are new to YouTube or you have been using the platform for a while, it can be overwhelming figuring out the equipment you actually need to start a YouTube channel.
In this article, you will learn about the different types of equipment you may need for your YouTube channel. In addition, each category of equipment will also note whether it is necessary for a beginner, or if that piece of equipment is better for someone who has built their channel up a bit.
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The Best YouTube Equipment for Beginners
If you are trying to figure out what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, you are in the right place. This guide will explain the exact equipment required to start a YouTube channel and the type of equipment you should purchase once you gain experience.
What Camera Do You Need to Film YouTube Videos?
Contrary to popular belief, you do not need the nicest camera to begin filming YouTube videos. It is more important to start filming videos rather than to wait until you have a nice camera to film. When figuring out what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, you may be focused on video quality. While video quality is important, I would argue that content quality is more important than production value. With that being said, here are a few recommendations on where to start.
The Handy Dandy Smartphone – Beginner
When you consider how far technology has come in the last ten years, it really is no surprise that smartphones are an excellent choice when it comes to creating video content. Most content creators who create short-form video content utilize their smartphones. When researching what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, one of the top options is a smartphone. When you think about how much traction many of these creators get from content that they’ve created on their phones, it really is quite amazing. Also – the smartphone is absolutely a staple when it comes to YouTube equipment for beginners.
Vlogging Camera
I love vlogging cameras because they are so versatile. These cameras are incredibly easy to transport and also provide great quality. If you are looking for a camera that is a step up from a smartphone but not quite as advanced as a DSLR (because let’s face it – not everyone needs one), then a vlogging camera could be right for you. When considering what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, check out the vlogging cameras below.
GoPro HERO 9 Black – Beginner and Advanced
The GoPro HERO 9 Black is a fan favorite among YouTubers, mostly because of its mobility and high video quality. While the GoPro is technically an action camera, it could also be used for vlogging depending on the type of footage you are capturing. You can also customize this device with various accessories. The price of the GoPro HERO 9 Black is currently $299, making it a relatively cheap option when considering the quality of the video and the portability of the device.
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II – Beginner and Advanced
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III comes in at $749 and delivers 20.1 megapixels as well as 4.2x optical zoom to get the most detailed footage possible. The Canon PowerShot series is one of the most widely-used camera options for YouTube vloggers.
Sony ZV-1 – Beginner and Advanced
The Sony ZV-1 includes a built-in microphone and also offers 4k video capability. In addition, this camera delivers 20.1 megapixels with 3X optical Zoom. The Sony ZV-1 is currently available for $698 on Amazon.
Webcams
Webcams are an excellent choice for video creators who live stream a significant amount of content. If you have a high-quality webcam, you could also use this camera for filming sit-down videos as well!
Logitech C920x HD Pro Webcam – Beginner and Advanced
The Logitech C920x HD Pro Webcam supports full HD 1080p video quality and has a mic range of up to three feet. This webcam is currently available on Amazon for 69.99.
DSLRs
DSLR cameras are great for anyone who has an interest in videography or professional video production. I would not, however, consider a DSLR to be YouTube equipment for beginners. These cameras are also excellent for creators who have YouTube channels that have really taken off and want to take their equipment to the next level. It is, of course, totally fine to start out with a DSLR, but not necessary. This is especially important to keep in mind for beginners who may not be turning a profit from their YouTube channels yet.
Canon Rebel EOS T8i – Advanced
The Canon Rebel EOS T8i is an excellent choice for producing quality YouTube content. It has built-in WiFi to help you share your files instantly. The Canon Rebel EOS T8i delivers 24.1-megapixel quality as well as a 9-point autofocus system. Autofocus is really important for many YouTube creators so that you do not need to constantly manually adjust focus while filming. At about $899 USD, the Canon Rebel EOS T8i comes with a standard 18-55 wide lens. This is an excellent standard lens that is great for filming YouTube videos.
Canon EOS Rebel T7 – Advanced
If you are looking for a less expensive option, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 might be for you! The Canon EOS Rebel T7 comes with an 18-55 mm lens and delivers 24.1-megapixel quality along with autofocus capability. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 also provides HD video quality. This camera can be purchased with the 18-55 mm lens for $479 on Amazon.
Nikon 1588 D3500 – Advanced
Nikon is another excellent brand to choose from when purchasing YouTube equipment as a beginner. The Nikon 1588 D3500 delivers 24.2-megapixel quality, comes with autofocus, and provides HD video quality. This camera is currently available on Amazon for $1,049 and comes equipped with an 18-55mm VR Lens & a 70-300mm Dual Zoom Lens.
Computers
As someone who has been creating video content for the last ten years, I can honestly say that the type of laptop that you have doesn’t matter a whole lot. When researching what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, a laptop is likely high on your list. As long as your laptop isn’t incredibly slow and can handle large files, you will be fine. Many creators feel that they need to go out and purchase the nicest laptop in order to create quality YouTube videos, but this really isn’t the case. You can create quality YouTube videos and edit them on your phone and never open a laptop.
With that being said, I do want to recommend a laptop that I’ve been using for the last four years. This laptop has done a great job handling all of my large files – and trust me, I have a lot of them! As someone who owns a marketing company and produces quite a bit of video content (on top of being a video creator), this laptop has done a fantastic job.
Lenovo Yoga 730 – Beginner and Advanced
This is the newer version of my laptop and I’m a big fan! This laptop has touchscreen capability and a 15.6” screen. This laptop also has 16 GB of memory and a hard disk size of 512 GB. Check it out here.
Background Options
When it comes to the equipment needed to start a YouTube channel, I think that background options are usually the last thing that creators consider. Gathering the proper equipment and planning your video content can be super overwhelming, to begin with, so it makes sense that background options are one of the last things that creators consider.
With that being said, I did compile 30 of the best background options for YouTube into a blog post. Background options should absolutely be considered YouTube equipment for beginners. If you aren’t sure where to start, this blog post should help 🙂 You can check out the blog post here.
SD Cards
Oh, SD cards! We need them, yet they can be such a pain. The bottom line here is that if you are using any piece of equipment to film your YouTube videos other than a smartphone or a webcam, you will need an SD card (or three). This makes SD cards perfect YouTube equipment for beginners. This is especially true if you plan to shoot in 4k video. You may also need an SD card if you plan to upgrade your audio, as some recording devices need extra storage.
With that being said, here is one of my favorite SD cards:
SanDisk 128GB Ultra – Beginner and Advanced
This memory card provides up to 128 GB of storage and is currently available on Amazon for about $17. Check it out here.
The Best Tripods for YouTubers
Tripods are one of those pieces of equipment that are highly underrated – until you start actually filming. When considering what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, a tripod should be on your list. I don’t know about you, but when I first started creating video content back in 2012, I literally used a stack of books as a tripod until I could afford to purchase one. Tripods are incredibly useful because not only do they bring your camera to the height required to center you in the frame, but you can also typically tilt the tripod at an angle.
Here are a few excellent tripods and gimbals to consider:
Amazon Basics 60-inch Tripod – Beginner and Advanced
The Amazon Basics 60-inch Tripod currently costs about $29.99 on Amazon and can carry up to 6.6 pounds or 3 kilograms. This is an entry-level tripod that also has a level to see whether you placed your tripod evenly. This tripod is able to tilt and has three sturdy aluminum legs. Check it out here.
Vanguard VEO 2 GO – Advanced
At about $250, this tripod is built from carbon fiber and can carry up to 22 pounds or 10 kilograms. It is a sturdy piece of gear meant for the road and the studio.
Video Lighting
Lighting is absolutely make-or-break when it comes to creating excellent video content. If you are wondering what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, specific to lighting, keep reading. The good news is that even if you are an absolute beginner, you can achieve good lighting! If you are a beginner and do not have the budget to purchase a lighting kit, I’d recommend leveraging natural sunlight as much as possible. If you do have some budget, check out the options below.
Softbox
I can’t in good faith recommend a softbox setup for a beginner. Softboxes can be a fantastic way to light a video shoot, but they can be very cumbersome to set up. Part of this is because softboxes take up a lot of space. The other part is that most softboxes require you to set them up and take them down. For these reasons, I do not think that softboxes are good YouTube equipment for beginners. Check out some of the options I’ve listed below instead.
Lume Cube Broadcast Lighting Kit – Beginner and Advanced
The Lume Cube Broadcast Lighting Kit is an excellent option when it comes to YouTube equipment for beginners. While this light is not the end-all-be-all light setup for video, it can definitely make a difference if you want consistent video lighting. The Lume Cube Broadcast Lighting Kit costs about $99.99 on Amazon, which is much more affordable than other video lighting options. The Lume Cube Broadcast Lighting Kit is a cube light and provides adjustable brightness and color. My favorite thing about this light is that you are able to charge it using a USB port, so you don’t need to deal with batteries!
Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light Kit – Beginner and Advanced
The Neewer 20-inch LED Ring Light Kit costs $179 on Amazon and provides just about everything you need for optimal YouTube video lighting. I personally use this light and love the size. You are also able to change the color temperature as well as dim the light. This is a great feature because if you are filming video content on a really sunny day, you might not need really strong lighting.
What microphone do you need to film YouTube videos?
If you are wondering what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, you have probably asked yourself about microphones. What I will say about microphones is that they are not a necessity, but purchasing one can make a big difference in your content. The audio that you get from a DSLR or vlogging camera is typically not the best quality, so upgrading can make a big difference. Below are a few recommendations for YouTube equipment for beginners.
Blue Yeti USB Microphone – Advanced
The Blue Yeti USB Microphone is a great microphone for creators who plan to create podcast-style content or live stream. This microphone is currently available on Amazon for $129. Check it out here.
Comica CVM-V30 Pro – Beginner and Advanced
The Comica CVM-V30 Pro is a shotgun video microphone that attaches directly to your DSLR camera. This microphone includes a low-cut filter, a 3.5mm jack, as well as a wind muff. The Comica CVM-V30 Pro microphone is currently available on Amazon for $49.99. This mic is a great option when it comes to YouTube equipment for beginners.
Rode VideoMicPro – Advanced
Rode is one of my absolute favorite brands when it comes to microphones. The first external microphone that I purchased was a Rode shotgun mic, and it immediately improved the quality of my videos. The Rode VideoMicPro is a higher-end shotgun mic that you can attach to your DSLR. The mic is currently available on Amazon for about $178.
Tascam DR-10L – Beginner and Advanced
If you are looking to elevate the audio quality of your YouTube videos, you could consider purchasing a Tascam DR-10L lavalier microphone. I have owned this microphone for years and it consistently provides high-quality audio for my YouTube videos. When researching what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, this mic should be on your list if you want great audio. The Tascam DR-10L is currently available on Amazon for $179.
Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone – Beginners and Advanced
If you plan to vlog using your smartphone, a microphone would greatly improve your audio quality! The Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone can attach to your smartphone and immediately improve the quality of your audio. Check out this mobile video kit, which also includes the phone mount. This mic is a great option when it comes to YouTube equipment for beginners, and the kit is currently available on Amazon for $69.95.
Video and Audio Editing Tools
When I first started on Youtube, I edited all of my videos using Windows Movie Maker. Eventually, I made the switch to Premiere Pro and I haven’t looked back! Professional video editing software can make a difference if you want to add various effects and have more control over the graphics that you incorporate. I absolutely consider view editing software to be YouTube equipment for beginners. Also – if you are new to video editing, I’d recommend starting with the video editor that comes free with your computer. You likely won’t need anything more advanced than this when beginning.
Adobe Premiere Pro – Beginner and Advanced
My favorite video editing software is Adobe Premiere Pro. I have been using this software for years and it can do everything that I need from an editing standpoint. There are so many options to customize your video content and really take it to the next level. If you want to push the limits of your video content and maximize creativity, you should consider Adobe Premiere Pro. Adobe Premiere Pro currently costs $20.99 per month. If you are interested in learning how to use Adobe Premiere Pro, check out this article I wrote.
Final Cut Pro – Beginner and Advanced
Another great option for editing your video content is Final Cut Pro. I’ve seen other video creators use this program with a lot of success. There are also many options to edit and customize your video content. Final cut Pro costs $299.99 (a one-time fee).
DaVinci Resolve – Beginner and Advanced
DaVinci Resolve is another excellent choice for video creators who would like to hone their video editing skills. This tool also claims that combines “editing, color correction, visual effects, motion graphics, and audio post-production” in one software. This software is currently available for $295.
Streaming software
If you plan to create a lot of live-stream content, you may want to consider purchasing streaming software. Some of the benefits of streaming software are that you can customize your screen with overlays and branding. Below are a few streaming options to consider:
YouTube Equipment For Beginners – Other Equipment Options
When it comes to the equipment used to start a YouTube channel, the options are limitless! As mentioned in the article, you can absolutely start a YouTube channel with something as simple as a Smartphone and basic editing software. Below is a list of other equipment options that you may want to consider based on your situation and the types of videos that you plan to create.
Back-up battery
Depending on your method of filming, you may need a backup battery for your camera. This could also be a good idea if you plan to create vlog-style content or create travel videos. If you plan do film a lot of content, a backup battery could be considered YouTube equipment for beginners.
Camera Lens
We could talk about camera lenses all day due to the limitless number of options available. When considering what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, a camera lens could be at the top of your list if you own a DSLR. Below are a couple of recommendations for lenses that are great staples to have in any video kit.
Canon 18-55 mm Lens – Advanced
The Canon 18-55 mm lens is the standard lens that comes with most Canon cameras. This lens is great because it provides some versatility when capturing your shot. Because it is a Zoom lens, you are not limited to just one perspective – you can Zoom in and out without losing too much quality. This lens in particular offers an f stop ranging from f/4-f/5.6. The lower the aperture, the better for low-light scenarios. This lens is currently available for $249 on Amazon. Check it out here.
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens – Advanced
This lens is best used on Canon cameras with an EF mount and APS-C or full-frame sensors. The Canon EF 135 mm lens is a prime lens, which means that you cannot change its zoom. The closest that a subject can be for this lens to focus is about 3 feet. It is important to keep this in mind when considering the types of YouTube videos that you will create. This lens is currently available on Amazon for $689.
Canon Mount Adapter EF – Advanced
If you are purchasing an EF lens but your camera is not compatible with this type of lens, be sure to purchase this Canon EF mount. I use this mount with my Canon camera. The mount doesn’t add too much extra weight and I barely notice it. The mount is available on Amazon for $199.
Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Zoom Lens – Advanced
This Nikon zoom lens is excellent for those that prefer Nikon for shooting video. The Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED Zoom Lens (whew, what a long name!) provides a Zoom range from 24 to 70 mm. This lens also features a low f stop at f/2.8, which means it does great in low-light situations. This lens is definitely pricey and is currently available on Amazon for $1596. Because it is so expensive, one alternative is the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8.
Screen Recording Software
Screen recording software can be useful for any niche! I love incorporating screen recordings if I’m creating a how-to or educational video. Screen recording is very user-friendly and considered to be excellent YouTube equipment for beginners.
Below are a few recommendations for screen recording software options:
Loom – Loom is an excellent tool for screen recording! The cool thing about Loom is that there is also a free version available. Check it out here.
Vidyard – Vidyard is a great tool for screen recording as well! Like Loom, Vidyard also has a free version available.
Whiteboard Animation Software
If you create videos that are more technical in nature, you might benefit from whiteboard animation software. Below are a few recommendations:
Camtasia Whiteboard Animation – I haven’t personally used Camtasia, but I have heard that this is a great tool for Whiteboard animations! You can purchase this software for $299.99.
Youtube SEO Tools
I have had the opportunity to use TubeBuddy, VidIQ, and MorningFame, and I like each of them for different reasons.
TubeBuddy – TubeBuddy is an excellent tool if you are looking for insights into the search volume of a keyword or need more keyword ideas. TubeBuddy is also super affordable for newbies, costing creators with fewer than 1,000 subscribers only $4.50 per month. Check it out here.
VidIQ – VidIQ is a great tool because you receive keyword recommendations upon video upload, and you also receive daily video ideas.
MorningFame – I like MorningFame because it presents YouTube analytics in a different way and also provides an SEO tool.
YouTube Equipment for Beginners Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of frequently asked questions related to YouTube equipment for beginners, as well as starting a YouTube channel.
What equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel?
The best YouTube equipment for beginners includes a camera and microphone. If you are not able to purchase a light, you could also use natural light. I think that it is better to purchase a light because your light source will be more consistent, but it is not an absolute requirement. If you are wondering what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, keep reading!
Can I start a YouTube channel without a camera?
While I do think that it is best to create a YouTube channel with actual video content, there are a lot of YouTube channels that are based primarily on audio. As an example, many people will create a podcast, and then upload it to YouTube. The podcast itself might not actually have video content but instead, feature an image while the audio plays in the background. Another example of YouTube channels that do not need a camera include gaming channels. The gaming screen is recorded and the YouTuber talks in the background.
Can I start a YouTube channel using only my phone?
When wondering what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, you may be wondering if you can use a smartphone. Yes, you can absolutely start a YouTube channel using only your phone. A phone is considered excellent YouTube equipment for beginners. While this is a very basic setup, it can definitely get the job done if this is all that you have. You can start off using your phone and once your YouTube channel grows, you can then start to upgrade your equipment.
How do I monetize my YouTube channel?
There are so many ways that you can monetize a YouTube channel. Even if your YouTube channel has not yet been approved by the YouTube Partner program, you can still monetize your channel by using affiliate links and selling products or services. You could also monetize your channel through YouTube partnerships, products, and services. Check out this article that I wrote which explains a variety of YouTube partnership options for small channels.
How do you make your first YouTube video popular?
When it comes to setting up your YouTube channel for success, a big part of this is doing keyword and topic research. One way to help your first YouTube video succeed is to create a video around a trending topic or a keyword with low competition. It is important to note that trending topics may provide a lot of views for your videos initially, but targeting a keyword and optimizing your content for search will help to sustain viewership over the years.
What do YouTubers shoot videos with?
Most YouTubers create video content using either their phone or a DSLR camera. Some YouTubers also use point-and-shoot cameras. Since this article reviews what equipment do you need to start a youtube channel, you could check out the camera section.
How many views do you need on YouTube to make money?
While this article reviews what equipment you need to start a youtube channel, you might be wondering how to actually make money from YouTube. To monetize your YouTube channel you need a combination of 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 hours of watch time. As you can see, monetizing your YouTube channel relies primarily on how long people have watched your videos and how many subscribers you have instead of how many views you have alone.
What kind of lights do YouTubers use?
Most YouTubers rely on ring lights to film YouTube videos. Many vloggers, however, do not use extra lighting in their videos since they are always on the go. When considering YouTube equipment for beginners, if you do not have the budget for lights you can also use natural light.
What types of videos do well on YouTube?
Most YouTube videos fall into three categories. These categories include blog content, educational content, and entertainment. To help your video content succeed, it is also really important to conduct topic research.
How long should your first YouTube video be?
The length of your first YouTube video really depends on the type of video that you are creating. As an example, if you create vlogs, you might want to make your video at least 10 minutes long. Alternatively, if you create educational content, creating shorter videos might be better because they help your audience to find the answers that they are looking for much faster.
How Much Money Do You Need To Start A YouTube Channel?
While this article review what equipment you need to start a youtube channel, you may be wondering if it costs money. When it comes to starting a YouTube channel, you do not need to spend any money! You can create video content using your smartphone. You can edit your videos on your phone r in the YouTube video editor.
How Much Money Do Youtubers Make
The money that YouTubers earn depends on their niche, how often they post, and if they sell additional products or services. You can make as much or as little as you want, but it is not easy.
What Is the Best Time to Upload on YouTube?
Learn more about the best time to upload to YouTube here.
YouTube Tips for Beginners
Define your target audience
It is incredibly important to know who your target audience is before you start making videos. You want to ensure that you are creating videos for one specific audience so that YouTube understands what your videos are about. Once YouTube understands this, the algorithm will begin recommending your content to others.
Create your content pillars
Once you have identified your target audience, you can outline 3-4 content pillars. Content pillars are the topic areas that will guide your YouTube videos. As an example, my content pillars could be 1) Social media tips, 2) Video content creation tips, and 3) Entrepreneurship tips.
Determine how often you will post
This is important because once you begin to build an audience, they will want to see your content regularly! Posting consistently also helps to build your channel a bit faster than if you were to post sporadically.
Create a process for planning, filming, editing, and publishing videos
It is important to have a process in place for how you plan to create your content. This helps to ensure you are as efficient as possible and create content consistently.
Collaborate with other YouTubers
Collaborating with other YouTubers through long-form or short-form videos can be a great way to get visibility from new audiences.
Be consistent – don’t give up!
Growing on YouTube can take a lot of time. Don’t worry, this is normal! Keep going, be consistent, and don’t give up!
Summary – So, what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel?
When it comes to YouTube equipment for beginners, you can work with as much or as little equipment as you would like. If you are asking yourself what equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel, this is entirely up to you. This all depends on the types of videos you are creating, your budget, and your comfort level. I truly hope that this post was helpful. If you have any questions at all, be sure to leave a comment below!
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Morgan
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