The Essential YouTuber Equipment You Need To Start a Channel

Breaking onto the YouTube scene doesn't need to come with a high price tag.

Launching or growing a YouTube channel can feel like a big leap, especially when you're unsure of the equipment you need. Luckily, you can create high-quality YouTube videos without an elaborate setup. 

From cameras and lighting to editing tools and microphones, there are plenty of value-for-money options for producing great content. Read on to learn about beginner YouTuber equipment with tips to get started.

Camera

A good camera is crucial to making quality YouTube videos. It's where the content creation starts and adds professionalism to your work. Luckily, you don't need a high-end YouTube camera setup to start — there are plenty of beginner-friendly options that deliver excellent results without breaking the bank. 

Here are a few camera types to consider, each with ideal use cases, so you can find the best fit for your channel.

Smartphone Camera

If you're just starting out, your smartphone might be all you need to begin creating. Most newer models offer impressive video quality, with features like 4K recording and image stabilization, so your footage remains smooth even if the camera's moving. 

The last few iPhone models or Samsung Galaxies are some of the best cameras for beginner YouTubers, delivering high-quality visuals that rival standalone budget cameras. But these do have limitations, especially regarding lens options and shooting in low-light environments. If you’re a creator on a tight budget, though, you can use the phone you already own, and it'll make for an incredibly convenient and portable shooting option.

Webcam

Another good choice is a webcam, especially if your content involves shots for tutorials, streaming, or gaming, when it makes sense to film yourself stationary at a desk. Webcams are also relatively inexpensive and easy to set up. 

The Logitech C920 is a reliable option — it provides 1080p video quality and has autofocus. If you're looking for something newer, the Razer Kiyo Pro offers excellent low-light performance and buttery-smooth recording at higher frame rates. 

The downside to webcams is their limited mobility and lower overall image quality compared to dedicated cameras, but they're perfect for fixed recording setups. If you have an iPhone and a Mac, you can use Apple’s Continuity Camera feature to turn your phone into a webcam.

DSLR

If you're ready to elevate your video production and invest some money, DSLR cameras offer superior image quality and flexibility compared to webcams and smartphones. These dedicated cameras have interchangeable lenses, giving you more control over your shots’ look and feel.

Canon's EOS Rebel SL3 and Nikon's D5600 are beginner-friendly models that deliver professional results. The trade-off is that DSLRs are bulkier and pricier than other options. They’re worth the investment if you're committed to producing high-quality, cinematic videos for the long term.

You can also look at the Sony ZV-1F if you need a vlogging camera with a rotating screen or the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III if 4K video recording with a tilting touchscreen is a priority. The Sony ZV and Canon PowerShot G7 series are digital compact cameras, so they’re more portable than DSLRs while capturing high-res images and videos.

Action Camera

The action camera is a great pick for YouTubers who need portability and durability. Action cams are compact and let you capture fast-paced outdoor activities like sports and travel. 

The GoPro Hero12 and DJI Osmo Action 4 are waterproof, shockproof, and designed to withstand extreme weather and terrain conditions. However, they're more specialized than the other types and might not be your best fit if your content doesn't involve action or movement. They're not as pricey as DSLRS, but they aren't cheap, either.

Camera Stabilizer

Shaky footage can be distracting and makes your YouTube videos look unprofessional, but a camera stabilizer keeps your shots smooth, whether you’re filming at home or on the go. 

Here are three common tripod and stabilizer types to consider.

Basic Tripod Stand

Tripods are perfect for stationary footage like tutorials and gaming streams. Basic tripods are affordable, easy to assemble, and compatible with most YouTube cameras, including phones and DSLRs.

AmazonBasics offers various lightweight tripods at different heights, which are adjustable and stable for a low price. The downside is basic tripods get the job done but might feel plasticky and cheap. They also have limited flexibility and aren't ideal for dynamic shots or shooting on uneven terrain. Still, they're a reliable, budget-friendly tool that should be part of your YouTuber creator kit.

Tabletop Tripod

A tabletop tripod is a handy alternative to a basic tripod if you work in smaller spaces. It's compact and portable — perfect for shooting close-up videos or filming in tight areas like cars or desks, where a full-size tripod might be impractical.

Take the Joby GorillaPod 1K — it's versatile, light, and has a ball-head mount and flexible legs that let you adjust the angle and placement to film just about anywhere. The Ulanzi ST-27 is another option specifically for smartphones. It remains stable in portrait or landscape without a stand and has a lockable clamp to secure your phone.

Gimbal

A gimbal is the way to go if you want movement in your videos. Unlike static tripods, gimbals stabilize your camera even when moving, making them ideal for vlogs, action shots, and outdoor filming. The DJI Pocket and Osmo Mobile editions are popular choices, and the latter offers smooth stabilization and advanced features like gesture control for smartphone users. 

While gimbals provide unmatched mobility, they're usually more expensive than tripods, and there is a learning curve with some setup involved. But if you want professional-looking content while on the move, a gimbal is a worthy investment.

Microphone

Audio quality is just as important as video when creating YouTube content. Poor sound can be distracting and make it harder for viewers to connect with your message. Luckily, investing in a good external mic alongside your visual equipment doesn’t have to break the bank. 

Here’s a look at three microphone options to help you deliver clear, professional-sounding audio for your videos.

USB Microphone

A USB microphone plugs right into your computer, letting you record voiceovers, podcasts, and livestreams. They're readily available and relatively simple to set up. The Blue Yeti is a popular USB mic known for its plug-and-play convenience and high-quality sound. It offers multiple recording modes, called "polar patterns," so you can record solo, face-to-face, or with a group around a table. 

The Samson Q2U is another solid option, especially if you want a traditionally shaped mic to mount in different directions. One disadvantage is USB mics are less portable and need to connect to a computer, but they're a sturdy, solid choice for YouTubers who shoot most of their content from a desk.

Lavalier Microphone

A lavalier microphone (or a lapel mic) is a great option if you need something more portable. Lavalier mics are small, clip-on microphones that you can use to record interviews, vox pops, and vlogs on the go. They're discrete and offer hands-free operation, making them ideal if you need to move while shooting YouTube content. 

The Rode SmartLav+ and Sennheiser XS Lav USB-C are popular budget choices for creators. They connect directly to your smartphone, providing clear audio with minimal background noise. But while lavaliers are incredibly convenient, they can occasionally pick up rustling from clothing, so they work best in controlled environments where movement is limited and the background isn't exorbitantly loud.

Shotgun Microphone

A shotgun microphone captures directional sound, meaning it records audio from a specific direction based on how you position it. This is a good option for vlogs, interviews, and outdoor filming where you want to focus on your subject's voice and reduce background chatter. 

The Rode VideoMic GO II is a budget-friendly shotgun mic for YouTubers, offering crisp sound clarity while blocking wind noise. If you have a slightly higher budget, the Sennheiser MKE 600 provides excellent value. A shotgun mic is one of the most effective ways to capture focused audio, but it might require additional equipment like a boom pole or a stand to achieve the best results.

Lighting

Even the best cameras, no matter how expensive or high-tech, can't compensate for poor lighting. Inadequate or overly harsh lighting can cause your footage to look over or underexposed, too dark, or too bright. 

Luckily, there are several affordable options to achieve well-lit shots, regardless of your setup or filming style.

Softbox Light

A softbox light creates an even, diffused effect that removes harsh shadows. This is ideal for sit-down videos, tutorials, and product reviews, as they create a natural, soft light that's flattering for all skin tones. Depending on where you place them, softboxes can also provide light from one side of the shot to create a charming aesthetic.

The Neewer Softbox Lighting Kit and Godox 2 Pack SK400II Studio Flash Kit are excellent beginner options. They're sturdy, offer adjustable brightness, and come with lots of accessories — although you might have to buy a wireless trigger separately.

However, all these accessories mean softboxes have a large setup and take up more space, so they're best suited for YouTubers with a dedicated filming area. But if you have the space, the professional, studio-like results are well worth the investment.

Umbrella Light

Umbrella lights are a more portable solution than softboxes. They're easier to set up and transport, making it convenient to move gear around. The Godox SB series and HIFFIN E27 Studio kits provide soft, diffused light similar to softboxes but are typically more affordable and compact. 

The downside is that they might be less durable because of their umbrella-like design, and they require more adjustments to achieve the perfect lighting angle. Otherwise, they're a solid option for filming in multiple environments without breaking the bank.

Ring Light

A ring light is a must-have for any YouTuber, regardless of niche. Ring lights are compact, quick to set up, and evenly illuminate your face without brightening the scene. They're perfect for vlogs, makeup tutorials, and any video where you're talking directly to the camera. They also create a distinct circular reflection in the eyes, which is now synonymous with having a professional setup and a polished look.

Neewer's RP18B Professional ring light has an 18-inch diameter with adjustable brightness and color temperature features. It also comes with a sturdy metal stand, a carry bag, and a smartphone app for remote control. Keep in mind that ring lights can cast unwanted shadows, so place yours in an environment that isn’t overly dim for the best results.

On-Camera Light

An on-camera light is an ultra-portable solution for creators who are constantly on the move and don't have a fixed filming location or the time to set up an elaborate rig. These small lights attach directly to your camera or smartphone, making them a great option for vlogging or outdoor filming. Most will fit in regular backpacks, while some are even pocket-friendly. 

For example, the Lume Cube Panel Mini has two-way colors with adjustable brightness in a compact format. Like other on-camera lights, it might not be as powerful as studio lights, but it's convenient to tote around if you need some quick lighting.

Natural Light

Don't underestimate the power of natural light. If you're filming during the day, the sun's rays during golden hour can be your best friend. Natural light is free and provides a beautifully soft, diffused effect, especially near windows. The downside is that natural light can be unpredictable, so it's not always a reliable lighting source if you're filming for long periods. 

To make the most of it, position yourself or your subject in front of a window for even, flattering lightning. You can also add a thin curtain or sheet for more diffusion. Otherwise, the direct sunlight can create harsh shadows and make it difficult to film, especially if it gets in your eyes and you struggle to maintain eye contact.

A Quiet Environment With a Clean Background

Having a dedicated filming environment ensures your audio is clear and free from distractions. Background noise, such as traffic, conversations, or even a fan, can pull attention away from your content and make the video seem less professional.

If you're recording a tutorial, viewers should be able to focus on your voice without picking up on competing sounds. Filming in a quiet room or using soundproofing techniques (like adding pillows or acoustic panels to absorb sound) can significantly improve your videos' audio quality.

In addition to a noise-free setting, you should have a clean, uncluttered background. A messy or overly busy backdrop is distracting. Keeping it simple helps center the focus on you and what you're saying. 

For example, you can use neutral-colored walls or minimalist setups to make sure your viewers' attention stays on the subject. Complementary colors, like a sky blue backdrop for a navy-colored product, subtly make the content more pleasing to the eye.

Audio and Video Editing Tools

Once you've filmed your content, the next step is editing to polish up your video and make any changes. Here are two beginner-friendly options for audio and video editing.

YouTube Editor

YouTube Editor is the platform's built-in editing tool. You can use it to trim videos, add music, and make basic adjustments without additional software or technical expertise. It's a fine option for beginners because it doesn't require any downloads or complicated hardware setups. However, the tool is limited to those basic editing features, and you'll eventually need to branch out to give your YouTube videos a more professional touch.

Captions

Captions is the best alternative to the YouTube Editor. It has advanced editing features to add royalty-free music, create AI avatars, and apply automatic dubbing to support your content creation process. You can also convert your videos in multiple languages and add subtitles to make your YouTube videos more accessible to a global audience. 

Captions' user-friendly interface means you can focus on creating high-quality YouTube content without the technical details weighing you down. Try it today.

FAQs

Can I Use Any Music I Find Online in My YouTube Videos?

You can't use any music or soundtrack you find online for your YouTube videos. Copyright laws protect many tracks, and using copyrighted music without permission can prompt YouTube to take down your videos, disable your monetization, or block your account. It's best to use royalty-free music from Captions or obtain the proper licenses to use music legally without worrying about copyright issues.

Are There Free Resources Available To Help Me Learn About YouTube Equipment?

There are plenty of free resources to help you get started with YouTube equipment, like the Captions blog. It has detailed guides and tips for everyone, whether you're just starting out or you’re a full-time creator. Beginners can up their YouTube game by following Captions' articles without spending money on courses or tutorials.

How Much Space Do I Need To Set up a Home Studio?

You don't need a lot of space or an elaborate setup to create a functional home studio. A corner of a room works just fine as long as it's quiet and well-lit. Ideally, you'll want enough room for your camera, a tripod, a microphone, basic lighting, and a clean background. Many successful YouTubers film in spaces as small as a desk area or bedroom corner, proving you can create high-quality content even in tight spaces.

What Cameras Do YouTubers Use?

YouTubers use different camera types depending on their content style and budget. Smartphones are convenient and portable, DSLRs like the Canon PowerShot G7 capture high-resolution visuals up to 4k, and action cameras like the GoPro Hero12 are perfect for recording on the move. 

Some creators also use mirrorless cameras — known for their lightweight design, speedy autofocus, and fewer moving parts — to record professional-level footage with less bulk. Your choice should depend on your filming requirements, but many creators begin with their smartphones before upgrading to more advanced cameras as their channels grow and start making money.

What’s The Best Editing Software for YouTube?

There are many editing tools available, including Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and YouTube's own Editor. The YouTube Editor offers basic editing features, while the others require a significant learning curve. Captions is the best option for beginners and pros. It has AI features that do the heavy lifting for you so you can focus on your setup and film high-quality content.