Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Start a Successful YouTube Channel: Tools, and Equipment

Gear emoji 25 items
Starting a YouTube channel can seem challenging, but having the right fundamentals will set you up for success. When you're just starting out, determining what equipment is essential versus nice-to-have can be confusing. But don't worry – I'm here to...
Sections
6
 
 
 
 
 
 

Camera

While you can use your phone, it is always better and more professional to use a good camera. The resulting footage is almost always better. 

 
NechCloud profile picture
If you are interested in creating vlogs and filming various content on camera, the Sony ZV-1 is highly recommended. Its compact size and lightweight design make it very convenient to carry around.
Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera for Content Creators
 
NechCloud profile picture
One of the best mirrorless cameras for filmmakers, this video-centric beast is a fantastic piece of YouTube equipment if you’re looking to capture high-quality, professional-looking video
Sony Alpha a7S III Mirrorless Digital Camera
 
NechCloud profile picture
They say the best camera is the one you have with you, and smartphones really have taken that to a whole new level.
Apple iPhone 14 Pro

Microphones

If you're searching for equipment recommendations for your YouTube channel, it's important to understand that a good microphone is essential. Alongside a camera, it takes priority on any comprehensive checklist for YouTube channel equipment. The reas...

 
NechCloud profile picture
It boasts excellent, professional performance; it’s rugged, small and compact enough for most YouTube video equipment setups, and it won’t break the bank.
Rode VideoMic Pro+
 
NechCloud profile picture
Just a basic and cheap microphone that is great for beginners.
USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting
 
NechCloud profile picture
This is my personal favorite. Small microphone that is powerful enough to give you a clear audio for various YouTube projects.
RØDE NT-USB Mini
 
NechCloud profile picture
If you’re filming interviews or different pieces to camera and don’t fancy wires getting in the way, these wireless lav mics are perfect for clipping onto your clothes
Rode Wireless GO II

Tripod and Gimbal

While you can film everything handheld, you will need a tripod for stationary hands-free shots and camera gimbals from time to time.

 
NechCloud profile picture
Both flexible and rigid, this versatile, easy-to-hold tripod is perfect for vlogging handheld and also setting up all kinds of hands-free shots.
Joby JB01507 GorillaPod 3K Kit
 
NechCloud profile picture
The Manfrotto PIXI Mini Tripod isn’t as versatile as the Joby Gorillapod, but it’s much smaller and works very well with smaller cameras.
Manfrotto MTPIXIMII-B
 
NechCloud profile picture
If you find yourself frequently filming talking head videos or engaging in activities like cooking where a stable and stationary camera is necessary for extended periods, the Manfrotto 190 Carbon Fibre 4-Section tripod is an excellent choice. It prov...
Manfrotto 190 Aluminium 4 Section Tripod with Horizontal Column
 
NechCloud profile picture
Ronin-SC is designed to deliver smooth and stable shots, even in action-packed scenes. Its continuous stabilization feature makes it highly effective for capturing fast follows, sudden motions, and even complete changes in direction. With Ronin-SC, y...
DJI Ronin-SC - Camera Stabilizer, 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal for DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras, Up to 4.4lbs Payload, Sony, Panasonic Lumix, Nikon, Canon, Lightweight Design, Cinematic Filming, Black
 
NechCloud profile picture
CRANE-M2S, as a phone gimbal, is impressively compact and easy to carry around. Despite its lightweight design, it has robust stability that can securely hold different types of cameras such as phones, actioncams, and mirrorless
Zhiyun Crane M2S Camera Gimbal Stabilizer

Lighting

The lighting setup for your YouTube videos plays a crucial role in creating a visually appealing and professional look. Initially, it may seem overwhelming to grasp the technical aspects, but understanding the various types of lights and their capabi...

 
NechCloud profile picture
If you're planning to shoot talking head videos such as interviews, narration to camera, or tech reviews, it's crucial to have a key light and a shadow light. These lighting setups help ensure that your subject is well-illuminated and that the desire...
LED Desk Bi-Color Video Light Key Light Studio Streaming Lights Panel
 
NechCloud profile picture
When it comes to setting up your vlog lighting, you can count on one of these options. One great choice is a compact LED light box like the Aputure MC. These lights are not only small and lightweight but also pack a powerful punch, making them the pe...
Neewer 2-Pack Dimmable 5600K USB LED Video Light
 
NechCloud profile picture
If you find yourself frequently vlogging or filming content for platforms like TikTok or in the beauty industry, investing in a ring light is highly recommended. These lights are essential as they create a well-balanced and flattering illumination, h...
LED Selfie Ring Light with Stand,

Creative Assets

While YouTube channels dedicated to filmmaking may not rely on physical equipment per se, they do utilize a diverse range of creative assets to craft exceptional and polished videos. These assets contribute significantly to the production value and o...

 
NechCloud profile picture
A perfect place to get your sounds effects, stock videos, and templates with a simple subscription
Envato Elements: Unlimited Stock Videos, Music, Photos ...
 
NechCloud profile picture
This is my go-to editing software I use for my videos. Easy to learn and hard to master.
Adobe Premiere Pro
 
NechCloud profile picture
If you have a Mac, than this Final Cut Pro is an equivalent to the Premiere Pro
Final Cut Pro
 
NechCloud profile picture
An easy to use graphic editor that is excellent for thumbnail creation
Canva
 
NechCloud profile picture
For more advanced graphic designers, who want to make outstanding thumbnails.
Adobe Photoshop
 
NechCloud profile picture
Placeit lets creators build design assets from templates and mockups for everything from thumbnails to logos to banners.
Placeit
 
NechCloud profile picture
If you want to go all-out with YouTube channel optimization, vidIQ is a great option. This tool can automatically generate video ideas, track search keywords, and more.
vidIQ

Merch and Monetization Tools

As a content creator, it's important to diversify your sources of revenue. While it's great to earn from ad revenue through platforms like the YouTube Partner Program, relying solely on one source may not be sustainable in the long run. It's advisabl...

 
NechCloud profile picture
If you are looking to sell merchandise on YouTube, Shopify is the perfect solution for you. With a reputation trusted by millions, Shopify offers a seamless platform for delivering various products to your customers. Once your merchandise is ready, y...
Shopify
 
NechCloud profile picture
Just post your design, create merch and let the POD platform handle the rest.
Redbubble: Awesome products designed by independent artists
 
NechCloud profile picture
Squarespace offers a comprehensive platform that allows YouTube creators to have full control over their online presence. With Squarespace, you can effortlessly create a website, share videos, and even set up an online store for selling products.
Squarespace