What Equipment Do You Need to Be a YouTuber in 2024?

So, you're ready to jump into the world of running your own YouTube channel. You're passionate, driven, and ready to climb.

It's a great place to be, but it raises one very big question: What gear do I actually need? 

Trust me, I get it. As someone who's been in the video creation trenches myself, I know the struggle of trying to figure out which equipment is essential and which is just hype.

You don't need a Hollywood budget or a fancy studio to create awesome videos. That's why this guide is all about the essentials for small to medium creators like you. 

We'll focus on gear that delivers bang for your buck for your home studio and helps you connect with your audience without breaking the bank. We'll touch on the core tools you need to get started: cameras, microphones, and lighting. Plus, I'll throw in some bonus tips to help you choose the right gear for your unique style and budget.

Camera: Lights, Camera... Awesome Videos!

First up, cameras, because you're recording video. Duh.

But woah, hold your horses and in no one do you need to (nor should) run out and buy the most expensive DSLR video camera you can find. That's actually the worst thing you can do.

To put this bluntly, unless you're aiming to keep your YouTube channel a hobby, you need to treat it as a business from Day One, and this means making smart investment choices. 

And quite simply, why put all your money into a camera when you can buy a cheaper beginner model or mid-range used camera with acceptable results and invest your savings into your actual video content?

So, options. You can;

• Use your phone (perfectly acceptable since the video works so well

• A high-quality webcam. Hit and miss because you need a really good one.

• A camera. The best option, as long as you're spending your money in the right place.

Let's go deeper.

iPhone Continuity Camera (Low budget, but big impact!)

Got an iPhone? Boom, you've got an excellent camera right in your pocket. If you're rocking a newer model iPhone (and a newer MacBook), you can use Apple's Continuity Camera feature to transform your phone into a high-quality webcam. It's also really great for producing Shorts content.

The quality is truly amazing – think FaceTime, but even better, beamed directly to your computer. This is the ultimate hack for those just starting, and it won't cost you a dime. 

That said, you will need a microphone because audio is so important. Viewers are WAY more likely to tune out when you have bad audio. You need quality audio and acceptable video quality, and then scale your equipment as you grow your channel.

Sony A6400 (Mid-range, but packs a punch!)

If you're looking for a decent DSLR option, the Sony A6400 is fantastic. 

Released in 2019, this is a mirrorless option that's becoming a favorite among YouTubers. It shoots in stunning 4K, has great build quality, and won't totally break the bank.

You're also future-proofing yourself. Instead of buying a real basic camera and wishing you had more when you start getting really good, you stick to the first step and have a camera that'll give you everything you need for the first two to three years.

You can buy this used or new anywhere between $400 and $1,200. eBay and Facebook Marketplace are good options here.

Sony A7 (High-end, but even more future-proof!)

If you're looking for the big guns, either to future proof yourself for up to five years, or you need real quality for your productions (depending on your niche), the Sony A7 delivers.

This professional-grade beast is used for filmmaking and photography, so you know it delivers exceptional quality. 

Despite being released in 2013, it's still over $3,000 new, so it looks preowned. As long as it works, no one's going to know the difference.

Extra Bits and Bobs

A few more things to consider when choosing your camera:

• Capture Card/Cam Link: Older Sony camera models might need one to connect to your computer. Don't worry, they're not too expensive.

• Lens: Want that beautiful blurred background effect? Consider upgrading to a Sigma lens for a more professional look.

• Tripod/Mount: No one likes shaky footage. Invest in a tripod or mount to keep your camera steady and your videos looking polished.

• Dummy Battery: If you plan on filming for hours on end, this handy little gadget will keep your camera powered up and prevent any unexpected shutdowns mid-shoot.

Microphone: Sound Like a Pro (Even if You're Not!)

Here's a hard truth: even if your videos look like a million bucks, bad audio can make them sound like they were recorded in a tin can. Again, viewers are far more forgiving of a slightly imperfect image than cringe-worthy sound.

So, get the sound right, and you're onto a winner.

Blue Yeti (Entry-level, but sounds amazing!)

When I started streaming on Twitch (and sharing vids on YouTube), this was my go-to, and to be honest, it is for a lot of content creators to the point where it's almost a meme.

A real crowd-pleaser; even pros still use this. Setup is effortless since you can just plug it in and go, and it's compatible with pretty much any tech you have. The sound quality is also surprisingly good for its price point, which sits around $100 to $150. 

Again, it's probably cheaper to buy used.

Shure SM7B (High-end, the holy grail of audio)

As a bit of insight into the top end of video sound, the Shure SM7B is the way forward and is used by so many podcasters, YouTubers, and professional broadcasters. It's the highest of the high and the best of the best. It's recording studio quality in your house.

Seriously, go to the Huberman Lab podcast, Diary of a CEO, Joe Rogan, The Mel Robbins Show, and more - they're all using it. New, it's about $500 with the preamp built-in.

Oh, and whatever microphone audio set-up you get, make sure you invest wisely and don't invest beyond your means (great gear is nothing if you can't invest in the content itself), and don't the boom or stand. 

One with a flexible arm can help out a lot.

Lighting: Shine Bright Like a Diamond (on a Budget!)

The third point of the video creation trinity is lighting.

Cameras only work when you have good lighting. Light comes in, bounces off a surface (or you) and into the camera and the camera records what it gets. Recording in a dark and dingy room will result in dark and dingy video content.

So, how to get better quality video, even when you're using basic gear? 

You increase how much light you're working with. Here are some options to consider:

Softbox: Your One-Stop Shop for Glowing Skin

Don't let the fancy name intimidate you. A softbox is basically a light with a big diffuser that creates a soft, flattering light. It's like having your own personal sunshine on demand! The best part? You can snag one of these for around $50 or even less.

I got a kit a few years ago from Amazon for two of these for $25, and they worked amazingly, so shop around.

Having a softbox in your setup means you can:

• Film anytime, anywhere: Say goodbye to those "it's too dark to record" excuses.

• Look amazing on video calls: Impress your clients and colleagues with your perfectly lit visage.

• Create a professional vibe: Elevate your videos to the next level with high-quality lighting.

Pro Tip: If you're feeling fancy and have a bit more budget, consider investing in multiple lights for a more sophisticated setup. But even with just one softbox, you'll be amazed at the difference it makes!

Here's a video that goes into the science of it.

That said, simply opening your curtains and letting some natural light in, or filming next to the window, can work absolutely wonders.

And with that, you have pretty much everything you need to kick your YouTube journey off in the best possible way. Use some free video editing software like Da Vinci, and you'll be up and running in no time.

Additional Tips for Your Video Gear Journey

Alright, we've covered the essentials: cameras, microphones, and lighting. But I've got a few more tricks up my sleeve to help you navigate the wild world of video gear:

Hack Your Home Lighting

Don't underestimate the power of lamps you already have at home! Get creative and experiment with different combinations and placements. You might be surprised at what you can achieve with a little ingenuity.

Here are a few tips:

• Bounce the Light: Place a lamp behind a white sheet or bounce it off a white wall to create a softer, more diffused light.

• Multiple Light Sources: Use several lamps to create a more even light and eliminate harsh shadows.

• DIY Diffuser: Cover a lamp with a thin white cloth or parchment paper to soften the light.

Embrace the DIY Spirit

Not everyone has a wad of cash lying around for top-of-the-line gear, and that's totally okay. Remember, creativity and resourcefulness are a YouTuber's best friends. If you're on a tight budget, try these hacks:

• Natural Light Is Your Friend: Find a well-lit spot near a window for filming. Just avoid harsh sunlight, as it can create unflattering shadows.

• Hack Your Lighting: Get creative with lamps you already have at home. Experiment with different placements and angles to create a soft, even light.

• Free Editing Software FTW: Don't shell out for expensive editing software just yet. There are plenty of free options out there that can get the job done.

Choose the Right Gear for You

Before you hit that "add to cart" button, take a step back and consider your specific needs:

• What kind of videos do you create? Different genres might require different types of gear.

• What's your recording style? Do you sit at a desk, move around, or film outdoors?

• What's your budget? Be honest with yourself about what you can afford.

Do Your Research

Don't just blindly follow my recommendations (even though they're pretty awesome, right?). 

Take the time to research different brands and models. Read reviews, watch comparison videos, and see what other creators in your niche are using. The more informed you are, the better equipped you'll be to make the right choice for your setup.

See what options are available to you right now, in your area, and in your budget.

Use Free Editing Software: Your Secret Weapon

Don't let fancy editing software scare you away. There are plenty of free options out there that are surprisingly powerful and easy to use. Here are a few popular choices:

• DaVinci Resolve: This professional-grade software is free to use and offers a wide range of editing tools and features.

• OpenShot: This open-source video editor is simple to use and perfect for beginners.

• HitFilm Express: This powerful editor offers advanced features like visual effects and compositing.

Remember, the best gear is the gear you have. Get creative, be resourceful, and don't let a limited budget hold you back from creating awesome videos!

Check out our complete list of video tools for creators here for more!

Have Fun and Experiment!

At the end of the day, creating videos should be fun. 

Don't get too caught up in having the "perfect" gear. There's no such thing. There's just the gear you've got to work with.

Start with the essentials, experiment with different setups, and, most importantly, have fun expressing your creativity.

Conclusion

Congrats, you've officially made it to the end of our video gear guide. You're now armed with the knowledge you need to choose the right tools for your YouTube journey.

Remember, investing in quality gear is an investment in your channel's success. But don't feel pressured to buy everything at once. 

Start with the essentials, upgrade as you grow, and most importantly, have fun creating awesome content that resonates with your audience!

Now, I'd love to hear from you: What gear are you most excited to try out? What other questions do you have about video equipment? 

Leave a comment below – I'm here to help you every step of the way.