Thinking of starting your own stream, but worried about the cost? You’re not alone. Many new streamers believe that high-quality content needs expensive gear, but that’s not true.

You can create a clean, professional-looking stream on a small budget. With the right tools and a few smart choices, you can start streaming without spending a fortune.

This guide breaks down everything you need: beginner gear, lighting, mics, software, and smart tips to get started with confidence — and with money left in your wallet.

The Basics: What You Really Need

Let’s keep it simple. Here are the core tools every streamer needs:

A sleek grey webcam designed for 720p video, featuring a clip mount for easy attachment to monitors.

1.A Reliable Camera

Use it to show your face or space.

• Starter picks: Logitech C270 (£25), Logitech C920 (£50–£65)

2. A Microphone

For clear voice and a professional sound.

• Starter picks: FIFINE K669B, Tonor TC-777 (both under £40)

3. Lighting

Even cheap lights can make you look polished.

• Starter picks: Ring lights like Neewer (~£25)

4. A Computer

Handles streaming and (maybe) gaming.

• Minimum specs: Intel i5 / Ryzen 5, 8GB RAM, GTX 1050+

5. Streaming Software

Controls your scenes and audio.

• Free pick: OBS Studio

Choosing the Right Computer

Gaming + Streaming on One Device?

You’ll need a stronger machine with a GPU. Look for second-hand options like a Ryzen 5 with a GTX 1660 Ti.

Streaming Non-Gaming Content?

For chatting, art, or commentary: A mid-range laptop can work fine. Look at models like Lenovo IdeaPad or ASUS VivoBook.

Pro Tip: Close background apps, run OBS as admin, and use a second screen if possible.

Budget Camera Options

Don’t overspend — lighting and framing matter more than resolution.

A sleek black 1080p webcam with a central lens and textured side grips

  • Logitech C920 – 1080p @ 30fps (~£60)
  • Logitech C270 – 720p @ 30fps (~£25)

Use Your Phone

Apps like DroidCam or iVCam can turn your phone into a solid webcam.

Great Sound Without Big Spend

People forgive a fuzzy picture — not bad audio.

A USB microphone on a tripod stand, featuring a volume control knob and a connected USB cable, set against a light blue background.

  • FIFINE K669B – Reliable USB mic with clear sound (~£35)
  • Tonor TC-777 – Comes with a stand and pop filter (~£30)

Bonus: If needed, a headset mic works for starting out — just apply OBS noise filters.

Lighting on a Budget

Even basic lights can make your stream look pro.

  • Ring Light – USB-powered and adjustable (~£25)
  • LED Panels – Neewer dimmable two-pack (~£45)

DIY Tricks

  • Use a blank white screen for soft light
  • Reflect desk lamps off walls
  • Diffuse light with baking paper (use safely)

Headphones That Don’t Leak Sound

Use headphones — never stream with open speakers.

  • Superlux HD681 (~£30)
  • Sony MDR-ZX110 (~£15)

Console Streaming? You’ll Need a Capture Card

Not needed for PC-only streams. For console or dual-PC setups.

  • Mirabox HSV321 – 1080p @ 60fps (~£50)

Free Tools You Should Be Using

  • OBS Studio – Professional-level software, totally free
  • Streamlabs – Easier UI, more built-in tools
  • Canva – For overlays, banners, and branding
  • Nightbot – Chat moderation
  • Voicemeeter – Audio mixing (advanced)

Looks Matter — Even on a Budget

Make your stream feel polished, even with basic gear.

Free Overlay Templates

• Nerd or Die

• StreamElements

• OWN3D (free section)

Design Tips

Use Canva. Pick 2–3 brand colours, 1–2 fonts. Stay consistent.

Stick to a Schedule That Fits

You don’t need to stream daily, but you do need consistency.

  • Start with 2–3 days/week
  • Choose fixed times (e.g., Tue & Thu at 8 PM)
  • Use Google Calendar or Trello to plan

Reminder: Take breaks. Streaming burnout is real.

Build an Audience (Without Spending)

Growth starts with community.

  • Greet viewers by name
  • Ask questions
  • Celebrate small wins
  • Join streaming groups on Reddit, Discord, or X

Sample Setup: All Under £250

Gear Item Approx. Price
Camera Logitech C920 £60
Microphone FIFINE K669B £35
Lighting Ring Light £25
Headphones Sony MDR-ZX110 £15
Software OBS Studio Free
Overlays Canva/StreamElements Free
(Optional) Capture Card ~£50


Real Example: Sam’s First Stream Setup

Sam, a student, streamed Stardew Valley and Valorant in 2024.

  • Refurb webcam – £40
  • FIFINE mic – £35
  • IKEA lamp + baking paper – Free
  • OBS Studio – Free
  • Canva for overlays – Free

“People kept asking what gear I used — they were shocked it was all budget stuff!”

You Don’t Need Fancy Gear to Stream Well

Flashy equipment isn’t the key to success. Smart planning is.

With just a few key items and some creativity, you can start strong without overspending. Whether you’re aiming for affiliate or streaming for fun, your setup doesn’t have to be expensive — it just has to work for you.

Your Turn to Share

What’s your must-have budget streaming gear? Got a clever setup trick?

Drop your tips in the comments. Tag a friend starting their stream journey. Subscribe for weekly streaming gear guides and helpful resources.