# Livestream Equipment Checklist for Beginners — free download from DollarWise (dollarwise.xyz)

Work through this checklist before your first stream and again before every stream after that. Most beginner problems — bad audio, dark video, dropped connections — are caught by the test steps here.

# Livestream Equipment Checklist for Beginners — free download from DollarWise (dollarwise.xyz)

Work through this checklist before your first stream and again before every stream after that. Most beginner problems — bad audio, dark video, dropped connections — are caught by the test steps here.

## Planning

1. Decide your topic and format: Q&A, tutorial, gameplay, chat, or interview.
2. Pick a platform and check its streaming requirements (account age, followers, software).
3. Choose streaming software: OBS Studio is free and works for most beginners.
4. Test your internet speed: aim for at least 10 Mbps upload for 720p, 20 Mbps for 1080p.

## Connection and software

5. Use a wired ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi whenever possible.
6. Camera: a phone or basic webcam is fine to start; upgrade later.
7. Lighting: face a window or use one affordable ring light — never sit with light behind you.
8. Audio: use a USB microphone or headset mic; built-in laptop mics sound echoey.
9. Test audio levels before going live: your voice should peak in the green-to-yellow range.
10. Set up your scene: camera, screen share, and any overlays you want.

## Camera, light, and audio

11. Write a clear stream title and a short description with the topic and schedule.
12. Create a thumbnail or cover image that matches your topic.
13. Prepare a simple run-of-show: greeting, main segment, Q&A, closing.
14. Have water nearby and silence phone notifications.
15. Do a private test stream first to check audio, video, and connection.
16. Set up chat moderation: enable slow mode and basic filters if you expect many viewers.

## Before you go live

17. Prepare two or three talking points in case chat goes quiet.
18. Tell your audience in advance: post the time and topic a day before.
19. Start a few minutes early so early viewers see you setting up, not a blank screen.
20. Greet viewers by name when they join — it builds loyalty fast.
21. Keep an eye on chat, but do not read every message aloud.
22. Take a short break every hour on long streams and say when you will return.
23. Save the recording: download it for highlights and clips afterwards.
24. Thank viewers and regulars by name at the end of the stream.

## During and after the stream

25. After the stream, note what worked and what to fix next time.
26. Share highlights as short clips to attract viewers to the next stream.
27. Back up your stream settings (OBS profile) so a crash does not cost your setup.
28. Check copyright rules before playing music on stream.
29. Keep a backup plan: if the connection drops, post an update where your audience will see it.
30. Have fun: relaxed streamers keep viewers longer than perfect ones.