How to Set Up Game Streaming on PC (For Beginners in 2025)

Game streaming from your PC is simpler than ever in 2025! But only if you know where to begin. Whether you're looking to become a Twitch star, share highlight plays with the world on YouTube, or just get down live with pals, setting up your PC to game stream is the first step.

We will guide you with how to set up game streaming on PC from the ground up. No experience required! With inexpensive gear, available software, and high-speed internet being the norm, the gateway to entering the world of streamers is wider open than ever before. This guide will take you through detailing everything from software and gear to suggested platforms and initial-stream tips. So, let's get started!

What You'll Need to Start Streaming on PC

Before you hit "Go Live," you'll need a few essential pieces in place.

1. A Stream-Ready PC

Streaming and gaming simultaneously can tax your system. Here are the minimum and recommended specs for smooth PC streaming in 2025:

Tip: Streaming via GPU (NVENC for NVIDIA) lightens the CPU load, keeping your gameplay smoother.

2. Internet Speed

Streaming is bandwidth-intensive. You'll need solid upload speeds:

• 1080p at 60 FPS: at least 6–9 Mbps
• 720p at 30 FPS:3–5 Mbps

Pro tip: Use an Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi for a stable connection.

3. Streaming Software

Two top choices in 2025:

• OBS Studio: Free, open-source, highly customizable, the top choice for people who need a modular setup.
• Streamlabs: Easier for beginners with built-in widgets and a less scary UI. Try this for a broadcasting software solution if you’re new to streaming and tech.

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4. Webcam

A webcam personalizes your stream, and is often seen as a must-have to make your stream worth hanging around for. Here are two top-notch webcam choices for game streaming:

• Best budget webcam: Insta360 Link 2C (4K resolution for cheap)

Insta360 Link 2C is a budget-friendly webcam that offers 4K quality at a great price. It's ideal for those who want sharp, high-quality streams without overspending. With its simple setup and compact design, it’s perfect for both newcomers and those looking for an easy upgrade.

• Premium webcam: Insta360 Link 2 (4K + AI tracking on a gimbal)

For those seeking top-tier features, Insta360 Link 2 is a premium option that goes beyond standard capabilities. It offers impressive 4K resolution and comes with smart AI tracking that lets the camera follow your movements smoothly, thanks to its gimbal design. This means you can move around during your streams and always stay in the frame.

5. Microphone

Clear audio keeps viewers engaged. Options include:

• USB Mic: Blue Yeti X or Elgato Wave:3
• XLR Mic: Shure MV7 or SM7B (requires audio interface)

6. Streaming Account

Pick your platform and create an account:

• Twitch: Largest game-streaming community
• YouTube Live: Great for discoverability and content repurposing
• Kick: Newer platform with high revenue splits

How to Stream Games on PC?

Streaming games on PC is a popular way to share gameplay, build an audience, and connect with fans. Here’s a quick rundown of game streaming on PC, with key steps to get your stream up and running smoothly.

Step 1. Choose the Right Streaming Platform (Twitch, YouTube, etc.)

When you're ready to go live, you need to choose where to stream. The most popular options in 2025 are Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Kick. Each platform has different features, so it's good to understand what works best for you. This section will help you pick the right one and show you how to connect it to OBS using your stream key.

Twitch – The Most Popular Game Streaming Platform

Twitch is the top platform for live game streaming. It‘s best for those who want to focus on gaming, grow a fan base, and chat live with viewers.

💡 Twitch stream setup tip: Use OBS with 6000 Kbps bitrate for smooth 1080p video. Turn on low-latency mode to see chat responses faster.

Read more: How to Stream on Twitch: A Comprehensive Guide

YouTube Gaming – Great for Videos and Replays

YouTube is perfect for streamers who want to go beyond live streaming. It lets you share tutorials, game reviews, and guides along with live gameplay, reaching both live viewers and those who prefer watching on demand.

💡 YouTube game stream PC tip: Use a bitrate of 6000–9000 Kbps for 1080p. Choose Ultra Low Latency in stream settings to reduce delay with viewers.

Kick – A New Option with Better Payouts

Kick is a newer platform that‘s been gaining attention, especially among gamers and content creators. It offers streamers a bigger share of their earnings, e a great choice for those looking to make money quickly and get in early on a rising platform.

💡 Kick setup tip: Use OBS or Streamlabs with Kick's RTMP server. Promote your streams on social media to get more viewers.

Read more: How to Stream on Kick: The Ultimate Guide for Beg

Step 2: Download and Install OBS Studio

• Visit obsproject.com
• Choose your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux)
• Install and launch OBS

OBS will run an Auto-Configuration Wizard to optimize settings based on your hardware and internet speed. Accept the defaults for now—you can tweak later.

Step 3: Add Your Sources

Once OBS is open:

• Create a new Scene – Name it "Game + Cam" or similar.
• Add Sources:
  • Game Capture: Captures a specific game window (ideal for performance).
  • Display Capture: Captures your full screen.
  • Video Capture Device: Adds your webcam.
  • Audio Input/Output Capture: Adds your microphone and desktop audio.

Organize your layout with drag-and-drop positioning.

Step 4: Configure Your Streaming Settings

Output Settings

Go to Settings > Output:

• Output Mode: Advanced
• Encoder: NVENC (for NVIDIA GPUs) or x264 (CPU)
• Bitrate:
  • 720p: 2500–4000 Kbps
  • 1080p: 4500–6000 Kbps
• Keyframe Interval: 2
• Preset: Quality or Max Quality
• Profile: High

Video Settings

Go to Settings > Video:

• Base (Canvas) Resolution: Your monitor resolution (e.g., 1920x1080)
• Output (Scaled) Resolution: Match base or reduce to 1280x720
• Downscale Filter: Lanczos (best quality)
• FPS: 60 or 30 (based on your system)

Audio Settings

Go to Settings > Audio:

• Sample Rate: 48kHz
• Channels: Stereo
• Set your Mic/Auxiliary Audio device to your microphone

Step 5: Link Your Streaming Platform

No matter which platform you choose, you need to link it to OBS using a stream key. This tells OBS where to send your stream. Here's how to do it:

• Log in to your streaming account (Twitch, YouTube, or Kick)
• Find your stream key:
  • Twitch: Go to Creator Dashboard > Settings > Stream
  • YouTube: Go to YouTube Studio > Go Live > Stream Settings
  • Kick: Go to Creator Dashboard > Settings
• Copy your stream key
• Open OBS Studio and go to Settings > Stream
• Pick your platform (Twitch, YouTube, etc.)or choose "Custom" for Kick
• Paste the stream key, click Apply, and then OK

hat's it! Your OBS is now ready to go live on your platform.

Use OBS with 6000 Kbps bitrate for smooth 1080p video. Turn on low-latency mode to see chat responses faster.

That's it! Your OBS is now ready to go live on your platform.

Recommended Gear for Better Game Streaming on PC

Upgrading your gear can take your stream from basic to pro.

Webcams

If you’re looking for the best webcam for streaming, we’ll always suggest checking out our Link 2 series! With two options to choose from, Insta360 Link 2 or Insta360 Link 2C (non-gimbal), there’s a high-quality, 4K option out there for you.

Microphones

You’ll want a clear microphone that makes your audio pop. Here’s a few popular choices.

Lighting

Lighting makes your webcam feed pop:

1. Ring Light: Budget-friendly
2. Elgato Key Light: Premium, app-controlled brightness

Capture Cards (for Console Streaming)

1. Elgato HD60 X: External 1080p60 or 4K passthrough
2. Elgato 4K60 Pro: Internal PCIe, pro-grade performance

Your First Stream—Tips & Tricks

Now that your setup is ready, it's time to go live. Your first stream doesn't have to be perfect—it's all about getting started and learning as you go.

Here are some easy tips to make your first stream smooth and stress-free.

1. Test Everything Before You Go Live: Check your mic, webcam, game capture, and internet to avoid problems during your live stream.

2. Set Up Scenes for Switching: Create scenes for gameplay, chatting, and breaks so you can smoothly switch during your stream.

3. Use Streamlabs for Alerts: Use Streamlabs to add alerts and overlays that show when someone follows or chats—great for engaging viewers.

4. Talk to Your Chat: Even with no viewers, talk while playing to build good streaming habits and keep things entertaining.

5. Keep It Simple: Don't stress over perfection. Just start, learn as you go, and enjoy the process of streaming.

Streaming FAQs

Q1. How to become a PC game streamer?

Start by choosing your streaming platform, setting up the right equipment (PC, webcam, mic), and installing streaming software like OBS Studio. Practice regularly, engage with your audience, and improve your content consistently.

Q2. What equipment do I need to stream gaming?

You’ll need a powerful gaming PC, a high-quality webcam, a clear microphone, a stable internet connection, and optionally a capture card for consoles like Xbox.

Q3. What is the best platform to stream games on PC?

Twitch is the most popular platform for PC game streaming, but alternatives like Kick offer unique features and growing communities depending on your goals.

Q4. How do I set up live streaming on my PC?

Install and configure OBS Studio or other streaming software, connect it to your streaming platform with a stream key, add your game and webcam sources, and optimize settings for smooth performance.

Q5. What's the easiest platform for new streamers?

Twitch is the most popular and beginner-friendly. YouTube is also great if you already have a channel or want long-term content.

Conclusion

Game streaming in 2025 doesn't have to be complicated. With the right gear like Insta360 Link 2 or Insta360 Link 2C, some quick setup, and a bit of practice, anyone can go live from their PC and start building an audience. Whether you're playing casually with friends or aiming to reach affiliate status on Twitch or YouTube, this guide gives you the foundation to begin streaming confidently. Start simple, keep learning, and enjoy the journey.

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