YouTube has become the biggest and most popular platform for sharing video content online. It’s also a great way for people to express their creativity, make some extra money, promote themselves or their business, and possibly even become a massive “Internet famous” celebrity. If you’re considering becoming an official YouTuber, there are several things you will need to prepare—the most important being your essential YouTube video equipment.
Creating quality YouTube videos is not as easy as it looks. Luckily, you don’t need to have a lot of technical know-how to produce the kind of content that people will enjoy watching—you simply need the right equipment.
Essential YouTube Gear: What Equipment Do You Need to Start a YouTube Channel?
If you have a great personality and truly unique and amazing content, you could probably get away with using just a smartphone. But do keep in mind that YouTube has become an extremely competitive space. As a beginner, it’s best to put some effort into the visual quality of your videos to ensure that you get views and gain subscribers.
Many established YouTubers use a wide array of sophisticated video production equipment (some even hire professional video editors and camera operators) to produce their videos—but you don’t need to go that far. Here is a list of the basic video production equipment you will need when you start a YouTube channel:
1. Camera
Obviously, the most important piece of YouTube equipment to have is the camera. But before you head to the camera store, know that you don’t have to purchase the most expensive DSLR. You can use pretty much anything that can record high-quality (at least 1080p) video.
Quality camcorders or webcams would suffice if you’re just starting out. However, DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are a good investment for when you’re ready to upgrade. Remember, the kind of camera you should purchase greatly depends on the type of Youtube content you wish to create. You can choose from any of the following types of cameras.
Camcorder
Camcorders are obviously a great option for creating YouTube content due to the simple fact that they’re specifically designed to record videos. Moreover, modern camcorders are compact, lightweight, fairly affordable, and built to handle almost any shooting situation. You can use them for when you’re just filming a video at home or for on-the-go vlogging.
The Sony HDRCX405 Camcorder is a good pick if you want a budget-friendly full HD camera with an image stabilization feature to reduce shaking and blurring when shooting handheld. It can shoot high-quality 1080p videos at 60fps and is equipped with a Carl Zeiss zoom lens with 27x true optical zoom for lossless magnification and excellent overall video quality. Uploading videos will also be a cinch, as this camcorder allows you to record in MP4 format so you can instantly upload them to the web.
Webcam
Webcams are the best choice for those who want an affordable, plug-and-play video camera, especially those who need to record in front of their computers—like gaming YouTubers. Webcams also make live streaming easier since they can be directly connected to your computer.
A good webcam for making YouTube videos is the Logitech C920s HD Pro Webcam, which features full HD 1080p and 720p video recording capabilities. It is also perfectly suited for those who want to record while playing games on their computer, as the C920 uses its own processor to encode videos instead of relying greatly on (and slowing down) your computer power. If you also you need something that can pan and tilt, this Logitech webcam does the job.
Action Camera
Action cameras are known to be the most compact and versatile type of camera. No wonder they’re a great piece of YouTube equipment. They are best suited for intrepid photographers and videographers who want to capture first-person POVs of their travels or extreme sports adventures. Despite their small size, many of them can produce the highest quality videos possible today, which is why many YouTubers use action cameras for the video quality and durability that they offer.
Arguably the best and most trusted action camera brand is the GoPro, and we highly recommend one of its latest products, the GoPro Hero10 Black. If you aren’t already familiar with this popular camera, it’s capable of recording 5.3K video at 60fps, has a touchscreen display, integrated voice control, and is waterproof (up to 10 meters underwater). It even already includes an image stabilization system and does better in low-lit areas than its predecessors so you’ll have better chances of capturing quality videos every time.
Mirrorless Camera
Mirrorless cameras have become the most popular type of camera for both video creators and photographers due to their capability to shoot like a DSLR, but with a significantly lighter and smaller body. While you can certainly use these for recording videos at home, they’re also great if you need a camera for vlogging while walking or moving around.
There are many great mirrorless cameras on the market, but the Panasonic Lumix GH6 would be the definitive choice if you need something that’s designed more for video capture. This mirrorless camera is made to capture stunning pictures and Cinema 4K videos. It also comes with all kinds of useful features such as 7.5 stops of body image stabilization, a flip-out screen, and real-time output with HDMI for viewing your footage on an external monitor while you film. Check out our hands-on review of the GH6 with filmmaker Rob Adams to see its video capabilities in action.
DSLR
DSLRs have been great picks for YouTubers thanks to for their high-quality results. Their adaptability in low light situations and polished video recording quality are just some of the main reasons why they are an excellent choice for creating Youtube content. Though they are pricey, DSLRs are worth the investment if you wish to take videography (and photography) seriously.
Our recommended DSLR camera for making YouTube videos is the Canon EOS Rebel SL3. One good reason is that it’s suitable for both beginners and more experienced YouTube content creators. It can record 4K videos up to 24p, has a touch-screen display, and supports Movie Servo for continuous focus tracking so that you remain in focus even as you move around in front of the camera.
Plus, it’s pretty affordable.
2. External Microphone
Remember that your audio quality needs to complement your video. Even if you record high-quality cinema 4K footage, you’re going to have trouble keeping your viewers interested if the audio is terrible. Built-in laptop or camera microphones usually have bad audio quality as they are not able to record or eliminate ambient sounds effectively, so the next most important tool to have for making Youtube videos is a good microphone.
But before you go out and purchase one, make sure to learn more about the different types of microphones to ensure that you get the best one for your needs.
USB Microphones
USB microphones have gone from being totally unheard of to being one of the standard picks for YouTubers. These types of mics have earned their spot due for their ease-of-use and sound quality together with their versatility and affordability.
The Logitech ClearChat H390 is a great microphone headset for YouTube video making as it is super easy to use and provides clear, crisp audio quality. As a USB mic-headset, it immediately enables you to start recording after plugging it into your computer. It also has a canceling feature that reduces unnecessary noise for your audio.
Condenser Microphone
Another great USB microphone is the Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus. This condenser microphone doesn’t need a pre-amp and allows self-monitoring through its built-in headphone jack with volume control. It also offers mix control to allow you to blend your microphone audio with pre-recorded audio. As with many high-quality condenser microphones, the AT2020USB Plus has extended frequency response that makes it ideal for recording vocals for podcasting and home recording.
Shotgun Microphones
Shotgun microphones are a popular, high-quality option for video recording with a small, professional camera. They’re already made with shock mounts that help reduce noise that comes from mechanical vibrations around the mic. Another important feature is its ability to focus on capturing clear sounds and vocals directly in front of it, so it doesn’t pick up a lot of ambient sounds on the sides and behind the mic even when recording outdoors.
We recommend that you use the Rode Microphones VideoMic Pro R, which is a handy version that’s just perfect for your DSLR, mirrorless camera, or camcorder. It has a super-cardioid polar pattern system and is powered by 9V batteries so you can use it for up to 70 hours.
Lapel Microphone
Also known as a lapel mic, a lavalier mic is wireless and can be discreetly clipped onto your clothes or belt. It comes in a set that includes the transmitter, to which the lapel is connected, and the receiver, which can pick up the signal from the transmitter even from great distances.
A good choice is the highly versatile Rode Wireless GO II Compact Microphone System, which includes a dual receiver and single transmitter. It also features a series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission and 128-bit encryption, which provides a 200m range. Finally, it has a 3.5mm TRS analog output, USB-C, and iOS compatible digital audio output.
3. Tripod or Gimbal Stabilizer
Unsteady footage is a no-no for professional video production as it can distract your viewers or make them dizzy. Tripods and gimbal stabilizers are great tools for stabilizing your photos and videos. Depending on how you will be recording your video, you can choose either of them to increase the production value of your YouTube videos.
Tripod
A tripod is generally the more affordable choice. Many of them don’t go over $100 and are still able to do pretty well, depending on the weight of your camera setup. However, it’s still advisable to invest in a sturdier, more reliable tripod that can last long and to ensure the safety of your camera equipment. You can choose from a selection of budget-friendly tripods when watching spend.
The iKan E-Image EG01A2 is a great, low-cost, quality tripod that can handle most DSLRs and camcorders. It can hold up to 11lbs and is capable of extending its legs higher than 5 feet, so you can shoot from interesting vantage points. It’s also super handy and compact—it can collapse down to 33 inches and merely weighs 10lbs so it’s easy to pack and carry when you’re on the go.
Gimbal Stabilizer
No matter how steadily you try to hold the camera, handheld shooting will produce shaky and jarring videos. Gimbals are specialized stabilizers that are built with motors or weights to carefully balance your camera and smoothen out your videos, even if you purposely make big and sudden movements. This is particularly helpful for YouTubers who are using lightweight cameras like GoPros and are constantly moving.
The DJI Ronin-SC is perfect if you’re going to use lightweight mirrorless cameras. It has a 3-axis stabilizer system with brushless motors that will really smoothen out your camera movements and has battery life that can last up to 11 hours. For a motorized gimbal, it’s definitely a great investment that’s worth the price.
4. Lighting
Lighting equipment is necessary if you’re primarily recording indoors and in dimly lit areas. And even if you’re shooting where there’s ample ambient light, lighting equipment can modify the mood and even out the brightness of your setup. Below are the types of lighting equipment that you can use when recording your YouTube videos.
Softbox
Softboxes can emulate the natural, soft lighting from a window. This is due to the white diffusion panel that diffuses and decreases the intensity of harsh, direct light. This type of lighting gear is ideal if you want to add lighting without producing harsh shadows for a scene or your subject.
The CLAR SoftBox, for example, already comes with a 70W fluorescent light unit and an AC plug so you can plug it in and use it right after setting it up. The kit can be used with camcorders and digital cameras, and are great for indoor subject interviews.
Ring Light
Ring lights are a favorite among vloggers. When its ring shape emits light all around a subject, it eliminates shadows from every direction, making anybody look more attractive in front of the camera. This is why this type of YouTube lighting equipment is often used by beauty and makeup vloggers since they’re able to beautifully light up the face and eliminate shadows that tend to highlight blemishes.
Our choice for a ring light is the Flashpoint 19-inch ring light. This fluorescent ring light uses 80W power that doesn’t emit too much heat, so you can place it closer to the subject. Its 19-inch diameter build is also very light and easy to carry. If you’re doing videos that need facial close-ups, the Flashpoint 19 would be the ideal pick for you.
On-Camera Lighting
On-camera lights provide continuous lighting and can be mounted on cameras. These can be great for recording certain types of videos such as wedding videos, documentary channels, or YouTube content that involves people and dimly-lit locations.
The iKan iLED-MA Micro Flood Light is a great option for indoor shooting. This small and lightweight LED light could fit right in your hand but can emit a dimmable, wide 120-degrees beam of bright 5000K+ Daylight with 21 1.2-watt LEDs. It’s chargeable with a MicroUSB cable and has a shoe mount that’s fixed to a back holder so you can position it vertically or horizontally once mounted onto your camera.
5. Video Editing Software
When you’ve gotten all the hardware you need, you’ll also have to find a good video editing software for post-production. YouTube has its own video editor, but it would be great to have your own software so you have more freedom to modify your video to your liking.
Adobe Premiere Elements 2023 is a very popular choice for videographers in general. Coming from the top industry leader in video editing software programs, it ensures very usable tools and a wide range of editing options (like video trimming, freeze frames, bounce-back effects, animations, and more) so you can turn your material into professional-quality videos that your viewers will love—and possibly subscribe to your YouTube channel for.
DaVinci Resolve 18 is a non-linear editor (NLE) that is free for users. If you require more features, the full Studio Version is available for a one-time fee. The program is divided into seven workspace — Media, Cut, Edit, Fusion, Color, Fairlight, and Deliver Pages — to make post-production easy and intuitive for new users.
Final Cut Pro is an Apple program available that allows for video editing, color grading, and motion graphics on Mac computers. It has a flat fee for $299.99. It supports faster exporting of H.264 or HEVC on Macs. If you are already a Mac users, this is a great option to keep all of your media organized, and utilize a one-step output.
iMovie is a free program available on Mac devices. It offers a less detail and customizability than Final Cut Pro. Although, this is a fantastic option for beginners and those that don’t need to do an intense amount of editing.
What Gear Do YouTubers Use?
What’s great about YouTube videos is that you don’t need the latest and greatest equipment. Purchasing YouTube equipment on a budget is absolutely possible, and in fact recommended, for beginners! There are tons of content creators that make lists on which equipment is right for your budget.
Many popular YouTubers and influencers like to stay on top of new gear developments. They always need the most efficient, highest-quality YouTube equipment in their kits, so they can keep creating at home or on the road.
Some YouTubers rely on very technical kits, while others prefer to work with a more portable setup. Here is some of the gear that popular YouTubers rely on to create their content:
Sailing La Vagabonde
This family of three sails the world and captures their adventures with a small and portable collection of gear. Here’s what they recommend:
- Canon EOS 6D
- Canon G7X
- GoPro
- Deadcat windscreen
Fearless & Far
Mike Corey is a filmmaker with a serious YouTube following. He travels the world in search of new experiences, capturing his adventures using a large collection of gear. He made a video explaining his gear choices, but here are a few of the key items in his kit:
- Sony a7s Camera
- Sony RX100 V
- GoPro Hero
- Sony 16-35mm f/4
- Sony 55mm f/1.8
- Rokinon 24mm f/1.4
- Sony 90mm f/2.8
- Rode VideoMic Pro
- Rode Deadcat
Matti Haapoja
Matti is a vlogger who regularly checks out and reviews new gear for his subscribers. Here’s a list of some of his favorite gear for filming content at home and on the road:
- Canon EOS-1DX Mark II
- Canon EOS R
- Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art DG HSM Lens
- Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM
- Rode VideoMic Pro+
- JOBY GorillaPod 5K
Are There Youtube Starter Kits?
There are so many great starter kits designed for vloggers and content creators on the market. They range from super portable and low-tech using your phone, a mic, and a tripod, to more involved and professional. Here are some of the best options out there:
- Saramonic SmartMic MTV Smartphone Vido and Vlogging Kit for iPhone & Android
- Rotolight Ultimate Vlogging Kit
- Sony ZV-1 20.1MP 4K HD Digital Camera Bundle with Mic, Tripod and more
- Insta360 ONE R 4K Edition (CINAKGP/C) – With Vlogging Accessory Kit
- Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII Digital Camera – With RODE VideoMicro Mic Bundle
- Sony Cyber-shot RX0 II Digital Camera with vlogging Accessory kit
Can you use your phone for YouTube Videos?
As phone technology continues to improve, this question gets asked more and more often. The answer: absolutely you can use your phone for YouTube videos. One thing to keep in mind is the microphone and quality of the video. Most phones can shoot at 4K, which is incredible, but the built-in microphone could have an echo and may not be clear.
If you do plan on shooting with your phone, we strongly recommend an external microphones — such as the Rode Lavalier GO. Just remember, some phones may not have that input anymore. The other downside of recording with your phone is that you won’t be able to see what you’re recording as the screen will not be facing you. Unless you purchase extra YouTube equipment, you’ll have to line up your shot and hope you’re in the frame when you record.
What is a good starter camera for YouTube?
If you are looking to upgrade from a phone setup to a camera setup, you’ll tend to see better stabilization, autofocus, and quality. Some specs you should look out for in the best cameras for vlogging are:
- Camera resolution. You definitely want to find a 1080p resolution or higher, especially since technology moves so fast.
- Zoom capabilities. If you’re just recording yourself, then a wide zoom might not be necessary. However, if you have an amazing background you want to show off, or want to get up close and personal to objects, then you want to make sure the camera can capture all of it.
- Autofocus: most cameras nowadays have incredible autofocus capabilities. You always want to double check to make sure the camera you get can easily focus on your face while you’re talking and moving.
Once you’ve selected your necessary YouTube equipment, look to the top accessories to improve your vlogs and bring your videos to the next level.
