Gear guide
What you need to stream
You don't need expensive equipment. Most streams start with a phone and a tripod. Pick the setup that fits you.
Simple setup
$0–$60
Trying it out, one court, or a solo streamer.
- Your phone
Any recent iPhone or Android works. - Free streaming app
Larix Broadcaster or PRISM Live. Paste your stream key and tap Go. - Tall tripod with phone holder
About 6 ft or taller so the camera sees over people. - Power bank
Keeps the phone alive for a full day of games.
Better setup
$150–$400 per court
Clubs streaming every weekend.
- Sturdy tripod or clamp mount
Clamp onto a railing or bleacher for a steady, high view. - Wide-angle phone lens or action camera
Fits the whole court in the picture. - Clip-on mic
Clearer sound for commentary or interviews. - Long charging cable (10 ft)
Run power to the camera so it never dies mid-game. - Hotspot or strong Wi-Fi
At least 5 Mbps upload per court.
Pro setup
$500+ per court
Tournaments, shows and creators who want TV quality.
- Camcorder or good webcam
Zoom, sharper picture and better low light. - Laptop with OBS
Free program for graphics, multiple cameras and replays. - Capture card (for camcorders)
Connects the camera to the laptop. - Wired internet
Most reliable connection for long streams.
Stream a video game
For PC games, add Game Capture in OBS. For Xbox or PlayStation, connect the console to an HDMI capture card and add it as a Video Capture Device in OBS. Use HDMI passthrough to keep playing on your TV or monitor.
No capture card? Use our Lightstream guide →
In OBS, choose Custom streaming, then paste your Player Stream TV server address and private stream key from Studio. Set 1080p at 30 fps and test your game sound and microphone. Open your chat separately on a phone or second monitor to reply while you play.
Some protected console video cannot be captured. Broadcast only games and music you have permission to stream.
Tips for gyms and fields
- ✓Set the camera up high near half court so viewers see both baskets.
- ✓Keep the phone plugged in and turn on Do Not Disturb so calls don't stop the stream.
- ✓Test your internet: you need at least 5 Mbps upload for each court streaming.
- ✓For a sharper stream, set your camera or streaming app to 1080p at 30 fps; viewers' picture quality may adapt to their connection.
- ✓Hold the phone sideways (landscape) and lock the screen rotation.
- ✓Do a 2-minute test stream before the first game to check sound and picture.
- ✓Use one phone per court, and keep score from a different phone at the scorer's table.
Prices are rough ranges for new gear and change over time. Player Stream TV doesn't sell equipment or earn anything from these suggestions.