What Equipment Do I Need to Start a YouTube Channel in 2023

Majority of the users online prefer watching videos on youtube for entertainment, educational or for personal usage of their time. Since YouTube is the most popular video sharing platform for any online content, It is also a great way to showcase their talents, earn some extra bucks, advertise their brand, and ultimately even become a huge public figure. Every person that starts a youtube channel will ask himself/herself questions like “What Equipment Do I Need to Start a YouTube Channel?” or “I want to start a YouTube channel, but don’t know what kind of equipment is needed for starting a YouTube channel and making videos”

The best time to start your own youtube channel is right now.
You only need your phone, tablet, or PC. But what else do you think you really need? To ensure you get views and subscribers, it’s important to put some effort into the visual quality of your videos as a beginner.

Despite the fact that a YouTube channel can get you both good times as well as make you beneficial, you need to keep certain things on your mind in order to get started. The best way to begin or enhance what you already have is to start with a basic setup and build from there. The main thing you need to consider is getting quality equipment. In this article, I’ll talk about the software and hardware equipments that beginners NEED to have that they can easily buy on Amazon.

How to start a youtube channel for beginners and make money

Let’s start with creating a channel on Youtube. You need to go to the official website of youtube and sign up with an email for your channel and verify your account.

• Select a Profile Picture, give a name for your channel and click publish your channel.
• Create sub channels to your existing channel and check the details and confirm to create your channel.
• If you want to create a YouTube channel for a Brand Account that you already manage by choosing the Brand Account from the list. If this Brand Account already contains a channel, you can’t create a new one. You will be switched to the brand account channel when it’s clicked upon. 
• Fill out the given details to name your new channel. Select on Create. And this will create a new Brand Account.

Note: Verified accounts can upload videos up to 12 hours in length or 256 GB in size, whereas unverified accounts can only upload videos up to 15 minutes long or 256 GB in size.

How much can you make on a youtube channel : Do YouTubers Get Paid Well?

You can make money with your youtube channel with the following ways

1. Join the YouTube Partner Program after meeting the requirements
2. Promote your own products or services
3. Make sponsored content and add it in-between your videos
4. Have a Subscription plan for premium content
5. Start affiliate marketing and promote the links in the descriptions
6. Copyright and license your successful videos
7. Use crowdfunding to earn money
8. Optimize your YouTube channel for sales

In addition to making about $18 per 1,000 ad views, YouTubers can earn between $3 to $5 per 1,000 views through AdSense based on the average YouTube pay rate of $0.01 to $0.03. Your earnings may be quite impressive if you reach a lot of viewers. It’s very common to get above $200,000 each month from AdSense alone if you become a big creator.

Calculate a rough estimate as to how much you can earn from a youtube earnings calculator by channel name via social blade’s calculator

List of the Best equipment for youtube videos : What do you need to start a YouTube channel for beginners?

1. Camera

The most basic equipment for shooting any type of video is a camera and you can shoot any kind of video with the help of your phone or a dedicated camera. Ofcourse, any old camera suitable for video or a webcam would work, but a better camera will always result in a better video quality and will retain more customers.

DSLR

DSLR cameras are obviously the popular choice for YouTubers who want to create high-quality, professional looking videos. They offer a wide range of features and settings, including interchangeable lenses, manual controls, the ability to shoot in various formats and alot more. DSLRs are also great for low-light filming, thanks to their larger sensors and adjustable ISO settings. They often offer better image quality than other cameras, which can make your videos look more polished and professional.

Webcamera

Webcams are another popular option for those starting a YouTube channel. Webcams are a great option for those youtubers that teach with their PC. They’re affordable and easy to use. Webcams are designed to be used with computers, which means you can easily record and edit videos on the same device itself. Many webcams offer high-quality video recording and even have features like autofocus and noise reduction to help improve the overall quality of your youtube videos.

Camcorder

Camcorders might be a good choice for those starting a YouTube channel since they offer high-quality video recording, usually with built-in zoom lenses and in some, even good image stabilization, which makes it easier to capture footage without having to worry about the camera shaking. Camcorders also offer the ability to record for a long period of time, making them a great option for filming events or vlogs. Additionally, they also often have built-in microphones, which means you can capture high-quality audio without needing to invest in additional equipment.

Action cameras

Action cameras are usually small and lightweight that are designed to capture footage even in extreme environments. These cameras are perfect for adventure enthusiasts such as bikers, hikers or anyone who wants to record their outdoor activities like long rides, surfing, skiing, skydiving, and more.

GoPro is a well known brand in the action camera industry, and it has been dominating the vlogging market for many years. GoPro cameras are durable, waterproof, and they are easy to mount on different surfaces which makes them perfect for capturing quality footage from unique angles without holding it with your hands. They are ideal for recording fast paced action videos and extreme sports. If you’re a Youtube content creator who wants to showcase your outdoor adventures and record supreme activities, then GoPro is the way to go.

Insta360 is a new player in the action camera market, that has gained a lot of admiration among youtubers and content creators due to its innovative and unique features. Insta360 cameras are designed to capture 360° footage, which obviously means that you can record everything that’s happening around you. This feature is incredibly useful for YouTube creators who want to create mesmerizing videos that allows viewers to feel like they’re part of the action. With Insta360, capturing hyperlapse videos, slow-motion footage, and time lapses are more than just easy, giving you even more creative options for your content.

2. Microphone

Audio is the second most important thing when it comes to creating YouTube content because this is a major tool thats answers what equipment you need to start a YouTube channel. Launching a YouTube channel without an external microphone wherein you use the built-in features of the microphone on your mobile, tablet, webcam, and or your PC. Investing on a good external microphone will improve your audio quality and reduce all the unwanted noise. Before you buy a good microphone, ensure that you learn about the various types of microphones.

USB microphone

USB microphones are a great option for those starting a YouTube channel. They require minimal setup. USB microphones are very easy to use, just plug them into your PC and start recording. They’re also affordable and compact, making them a great option for those who don’t have a lot of space. Additionally, many USB microphones have features like gain control and headphone monitoring, which helps you get the best audio possible.

Lapel mic / Lavalier microphone

Lapel microphones, also known as lavalier microphones, are a great option for those who need to record audio on the go like vloggers. They’re small, lightweight, and can be clipped onto clothing, making them perfect for starting channels for vlogging or filming interviews. Lapel microphones can offer high-quality audio recording, even in noisy environments, thanks to their close proximity to the source’s sound. They’re also easy to conceal, which makes them a great option for those who want to avoid being too obvious about their recording.

Shotgun microphone

Shotgun microphones are a popular choice for those who need to capture audio from a distance. They’re long, directional microphones that can pick up sound from one specific area while ignoring other sounds in the environment. This makes them great for recording outdoor or live events or even movies, where there’s a lot of background noise. Shotgun microphones can be mounted on a camera or used on a boom pole for better flexibility. They are also great for capturing dialogue in film or video productions.

Condenser microphone

Condenser microphones are a versatile option for those who need high-quality audio. They offer a wide frequency response and can capture detailed sound with amazing accuracy. Condenser microphones are great for recording vocals, music, or even sound effects. They can be used in a variety of settings, including recording studios and home recording setups for singers and dubbing. Many condenser microphones offer features like switchable polar patterns and low-cut filters, which inturn can help you get the best sound possible.

3. Lighting

Lighting is a very crucial element when it comes to creating high-quality YouTube videos especially if you want to make a career out of it. Proper lighting can enhance the overall quality of your videos and make them look alot more polished and professional. Good lighting can also help you stand out in the sea of content on YouTube. It’s important to choose the right type of lighting for your videos based on your needs and budget. When choosing a light source, keep in mind what equipment you need to start a YouTube channel that best fits your goal.

Keylight with softbox

Keylight with a softbox is a popular option to create soft, even lighting for YouTube videos. A key light is the main source of light in your setup, and a softbox diffuses the light, creating a more flattering and smooth look. This type of lighting is great for beauty vlogs, interviews, shorts and product reviews. The soft, even lighting can make your videos look more attractive.

Backlight

Backlights, such as strip lights, are a great way to add more depth and dimension to your videos. These lights are positioned behind the subject, creating a halo effect around them that separates the main subject. This type of lighting is great for music videos, dramatic shots, and creating a cinematic look. Strip lights are also great for creating interesting backgrounds with multiple colors and can be used to add texture to your videos.

Other Lighting Sources

Other lighting sources, such as ring lights and fluorescent lights, are also very popular and trending choices for YouTube creators. Ring lights are circular lights that provide good lighting and create a unique catchlight in the eyes of the subject. These lights are also suited for beauty vlogs, tutorials, and product reviews. Fluorescent lights are affordable and provide bright, even lighting. They’re used for lighting larger spaces and can be used for a variety of video types.

4. Tripod

A tripod is an essential tool for any YouTube creator since no one likes to view videos that have no camera steady and a lot of camera shake, resulting in smoother and more professional-looking videos. With so many options available, it’s important to choose the right type of tripod for your needs and budget.

Gimbal

A gimbal is a type of tripod that uses motors to keep the camera steady and balanced. This type of tripod is great for creating smooth, cinematic shots and is perfect for vloggers who are always on the go. Gimbals are especially useful for shooting footage while walking or running, which can make your videos look more professional.

Dolly or Slider

A dolly tripod is a type of tripod that’s mounted on wheels. This type of tripod is great for creating smooth and fluid camera movements. It’s ideal for creating panning or tracking shots and is often used in music videos, commercials, and films. Dollies are also useful for creating interesting camera movements in product reviews and tutorials like b-rolls.

Ball / Tilt head tripod

A ball/tilt head tripod is a versatile type of tripod that allows you to adjust the angle and orientation of your camera very quickly and easily. This type of tripod is great for shooting videos where you need to change angles frequently, such as in sports videos or vlogs. Ball/tilt head tripods come in different sizes and weight capacities, so it’s important to choose the right one suitable for your camera and the type of videos you’re creating.

Best Tilt Head Tripod / Ball Head Tripod
Neewer Folding Z Flex Tilt Head Tripod Ball Head with Quick Shoe QR Plate – Aluminum Alloy Camera Bracket with Bubble Level, Compatible with Canon Nikon Sony Camera Camcorder, Tripod, Slider Rail

Basic Tripod

Lastly, a normal tripod is a basic type of tripod that is often used by the majority of YouTube creators. It’s affordable and easy to use, making it a great option for those just starting out. A normal tripod is a great tool for creating stable shots, especially if you’re filming in low light or using long exposures.

5. Screen

Using background screens like a green screen or any plain color screen is becoming increasingly important for creating certain high-quality YouTube videos. These screens allow you to change your background to anything you want making the main subject more focused, without the need for expensive sets or locations.

Green screen

A green screen is a popular equipment for YouTubers as it allows for a lot of flexibility in terms of the background you can use. With a green screen, you can change your background to anything you want, from a scenic location to an animated backdrop, the limit is your imagination. This is particularly useful for creators who make tutorial videos, product shoots or product reviews, as it allows them to add relevant visuals to their videos.

Plain screen

A plain color screen is another great option for YouTube creators. This type of screen is usually used as a background for a specific scene or a shot. For example, a white screen may be used for a product unboxing video, while a black screen may be used for a dramatic moody shot. A plain color screen is also useful for creating a consistent look and feel across all of your videos.

6. Editing Software

Video editing software is one of the most essential tools for creating extremely high-quality YouTube videos. These programs allow you to play with a lot of settings like cut, edit, and enhance your footage, add special effects and music to create a professional-looking final product that will be ready to post and to get you views on youtube that goes viral.

Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most recommended video editing software for YouTube creators. It offers a wide range of features, including color correction, audio editing, and visual effects. Premiere Pro is great for all types of video production, from short vlogs to long documentaries.

Davinci Resolve

Davinci Resolve is another popular video editing software for creating YouTube videos. It’s known for its powerful color correction / color grading tools and is often used by filmmakers and cinematographers. Davinci Resolve is also free to use, making it an accessible option for beginner YouTube creators.

Apple Final Cut Pro

Apple Final Cut Pro is a professional-level video editing tool that is very famous among Mac users. It’s known for its intuitive interface and powerful editing tools. Final Cut Pro is a great option for YouTube creators who want to create cinematic videos.

Cyberlink PowerDirector 365

Cyberlink PowerDirector 365 is a user-friendly video editor that is great for beginner YouTube creators. It offers a range of features, including audio editing, motion graphics, and color correction. PowerDirector 365 is also affordable, making it a great option for youtubers that are on a budget.

7. SEO Tools

The final equipment on what equipment you need to start a YouTube channel is a ranking tool. In today’s digital era, creating and uploading videos on YouTube has become a source of engaging with audiences. However, for a video to gain visibility, it needs to rank well in search engine results pages (SERPs). This is where SEO (Search Engine Optimization) tools come into picture. These tools can help youtube creators optimize their youtube videos and channels for better visibility, engagement, and organic growth.

Best SEO Tools for YouTube Free and Paid

• One of the best and recommended SEO tools for YouTube is Tubebuddy. It provides keyword research, video optimization, and promotion tools to help creators grow their channels faster. 
• VidIQ is another tool that offers similar features. It helps creators analyze competitors, track video performances, and optimize videos based on real time data-driven insights.
• Ahrefs and Semrush are powerful SEO tools that offer keyword research, backlink analysis, and competitor research. While they are not specifically designed for YouTube, they can be a great asset for creators who just want to optimize their channels for search engines as well.
• Keywords Everywhere is a free SEO tool that provides keyword ideas, search volume, and competition data for YouTube and other platforms. 
• Rapid tags is another free tool that helps youtube creators generate relevant tags for their youtube videos.
• YouTube Studio is a built-in tool for YouTube creators that provides insights of your video performance, audience engagement, and growth of your channel. 
• Google Keyword Planner is a free tool that helps creators find relevant keywords and estimate their search volume and competition. 
• Google Trends, on the other hand, provides insights into trending searches and helps creators identify booming topics for their youtube videos.

If you are struggling to rank your videos higher even when you know the videos are worth ranking for, you may consider hiring a SEO team that does the work for you and make sure you get the exposure you deserve. Check out the best SEO agency in Bangalore for helping your youtube journey.

What do I need to start a youtube gaming channel?

While a niche option, gaming-based YouTube channels are popular. If you are interested in gaming and love to share your gameplay and stream with others, starting a YouTube gaming channel can be the best way to do that. However, before you begin, it’s important to know what equipment you need to start a YouTube channel. And now I think you almost know the answer to it.

Since a gaming channel is already a tough market nowadays, you need a computer or laptop with a decent processor and a good graphics card to be able to capture and edit high quality gameplay footage. You will also need a good microphone to record your voiceover, and headphones to monitor your audio.

Next, you might need a video capture device or software to record your gameplay. There are various options available, such as OBS, Fraps, or Nvidia Shadowplay. You can also use a console’s built-in recording features, but it may limit your options.

Once you have your footage, you will need to edit it into a well-polished video. You can use free editing software like DaVinci Resolve or paid software like Adobe Premiere Pro. Editing software will allow you to add effects, transitions, and music to your videos, making them more engaging.

Lastly, you will need a YouTube account to upload and share your videos. You can also use social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to promote your youtube channel and gain more subscribers.

Starting a YouTube gaming channel requires some essential equipment, including a computer, microphone, video capture device or software, editing software, and a YouTube account. With the right equipment and dedication, you can create engaging and entertaining content for your viewers. The storage limit on consoles restricts the amount of footage you can save for gameplay. Purchasing a video capture card is the best option if you want to record or live stream gameplay. 

Conclusion : You have everything on your youtube equipment list ready!

Hopefully, you have realized by now that everything you need to launch or start your YouTube channel either already resides in your ownership ,or is easily affordable. The question on what equipment do you need to start a youtube channel is finally answered. If you’re googling “equipment for YouTube channel,” learn this- A YouTube channel equipment checklist prioritizes all the other equipment equally. The secret formula is very simple: if you want to be successful on YouTube, you need great equipment and greater skills. You have the ultimate essential YouTube equipment checklist right here.

So now it’s high time to hit record, create and upload your first video on YouTube. Best of luck!