You can buy a basic HD webcam for as little as $20. Most cameras marketed as vlogging cameras cost between $50 and $200, but there are also higher-end models on the market that cost a lot more. Many webcams and vlogging cameras are designed to clip directly to your computer monitor. However, you can also set up a tripod if you want more control over the positioning of your shot. A few cameras that are popular among gaming YouTubers include webcams such as the Genius WideCam F100 and the Logitech c920 Camera, as well as more traditional digital cameras like the Canon Rebel T5i or the Panasonic HC-V770.

If you’re on a tight budget, a couple of simple desk lamps can provide decent lighting for a video. Just don’t aim the lamps directly at yourself, since the results will look pretty harsh. Turn them so they reflect off the wall behind your desk and cast a soft light on your face. [3] X Research source

A headset can also be helpful for preventing your external microphone from picking up sounds from the game, which can create distracting echoes or feedback in your video or livestream. For the best possible sound quality, look for a mic that comes with a pop filter. These filters help prevent unpleasant popping sounds when you say words that start with certain letters, like “p” and “t. ”[5] X Research source While there are lots of pricey options on the market, you can get a decent-quality microphone for as little as $40. Some popular gaming mics that aren’t super expensive include the HyperX SoloCast, the Blue Yeti X, and the Rode NT-USB Mini.

If you’re using a PC that runs on Windows 10 or 11, you can use the built-in Xbox Game Bar app to capture your gameplay. Go to Settings, then Gaming, select Xbox Game Bar, and toggle on the switch under Enable Xbox Game Bar. Use the default shortcut ⊞ Win+Alt+R to start or stop recording. If you’re running a Mac using macOS Mojave or higher, use the shortcut ⇧ Shift+⌘ Command+5 to start the built-in screen recording feature. If you want a screen capture app with more features, such as built-in audio mixing and video editing, download the free OBS Studio app. OBS Studio runs on Mac, Windows, and Linux computers. For mobile games, Loom and Screencast-O-Matic are popular screen capture apps. Both come with free versions or subscription plans that offer additional features.

Plug the USB cable attached to the capture card into your computer. Connect an HDMI cable to your game console, then plug the other end into the HDMI Input jack on the capture card. Plug a second HDMI cable into your TV, then connect the other end to the HDMI Output jack on the capture card. Your gameplay will now stream directly to your computer via the capture card. You’ll need to use some type of video capture software, such as OBS Studio or Xbox Game Bar, to record the footage. Or, you can use an app such as Streamlabs OBS or Wirecast to livestream your gameplay directly to YouTube. [10] X Research source

There are also a variety of free video editing programs you can try. Some of the most popular options include HitFilm Express 16, Apple iMovie, and Lightworks.

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