Why It Matters
You can start VTubing with what you have but if you have a bit of money to invest into your channel, you can really boost the quality of your content.
Here are a few items I would consider picking up. Please note that these are not professional recommendations but rather items I personally have experience with and liked.
Note: This section may contain affiliate links. This means that, I may receive a small commission if any purchases are made from using these links.
Computers
If you are looking to buy a pre-built computer, a computer that I’ve seen recommended at a price point that checks all these boxes is the NZXT “Player: One” at $829 at time of writing. While this isn’t an endorsement for this product or company, you can use this as a benchmark in computer specs and price when shopping for other pre-built computers.
Microphones
Note: If you plan on doing voice work or performing cover songs, there are better guides out there for recommendations based on your needs.
Budget Pick: Blue Snowball iCE
The Blue Snowball is a good balance between quality and affordability. I’ve had mine for 5 years and only very recently upgraded to a Blue Yeti. The Blue Snowball iCE is a cheaper version with less features; however, the audio quality should be the same.
| Image | Product | Price |
 | Blue Snowball iCE USB Microphone |
$34.99
|
| Blue Snowball iCE USB MicrophoneRenewed |
$24.89 |
At $25 for a renewed Blue Snowball, I wouldn’t even consider looking at cheap no-brand microphones or headsets.
Upgrade Pick: Blue Yeti
If you’re have the budget for it, I would recommend getting the Blue Yeti, which has more features, better audio quality, and a sturdier aluminum build.
| Image | Product | Price |
 | Blue Yeti USB Microphone |
$115.99
|
| Blue Yeti USB MicrophoneRenewed |
$78.99
|
Comparison
The video below compares the Blue Snowball and Blue Yeti audio recording with the Rode NT1, a $300+ microphone in order to give you a view of what each sounds like compared to each other. It highlights that the Blue Snowball and Yeti, although “budget”, can still produce good sound quality that can level up your streaming game.
Microphone Accessories
I would recommend investing in a microphone arm stand if you don’t already have one. They allow for a lot more flexibility on where your microphone is stationed, saving precious desk space, and ensure your voice is being picked up properly without messing with your face tracking.
From my experience, any microphone arm will do so feel free to browse for one that fits your budget and style. I’ve actually had more expensive microphone arms like the Blue Compass ($100 MSRP) give out within a few years, whereas the sub-$20 Neewer one I have has been holding up for over 8 years without issue.
| Image | Product | Price |
 | Neewer Suspension Boom Scissor Microphone Arm |
$16.57
|
iPhone / Face Tracking Camera
iPhone vs Webcam
Contrary to popular belief, you do not need an iPhone for face tracking in VTube Studio. However, according to DenchiSoft, the creators of VTube Studio, face tracking on iOS is “generally better” and “provide much smoother and more detailed tracking”.
I found this video by Cutie Dragon that does a really good job side-by-side showcase of the key differences between iPhone and webcam tracking:
What iPhone Do I Need for VTubing?
VTube Studio utilized Apple’s Face ID technology for face tracking. That means older versions of the iPhone that do not support Face ID will not work. You can find the full list of iPhone (and iPad) models that support Face ID on Apple’s Support website but in short, the oldest iPhone model that supports Face ID is the iPhone X (2017). The iPhone X is going for ~$130 refurbished on eBay at time of writing.
iPhone Accessories
USB Hub / Phone Charger
The Anker 7-port USB 3.0 hub with a built-in power adapter is the only USB hub that I found and tested that had a port that both connected to your computer and is powered. That means that this USB hub will allow you to use your iPhone for face tracking without fear of having it run out of battery mid-stream.
| Image | Product | Price |
 | Anker Powered 7 Ports USB 3.0 Data Hub |
$44.99 |
Phone Holders
When using your iPhone for face tracking, it’s important to be aware of where your phone needs to be for the most accurate tracking.
Phone Holder Stands
If you need something minimal just to hold your phone, you can search for “adjustable phone stand” on Amazon for some cheap options. You can get these for as little as $5-10. Just be sure the one you choose can meet your desired height and aren’t too tall to where it’s blocking your monitor.
I personally have used the iOttie Easy One Touch phone holder in my car and it’s been able to support multiple different positions and orientations across multiple phones.
| Image | Product | Price |
 | LISEN Adjustable Cell Phone Stand |
$9.99
|
 | iOttie Easy One Touch Universal Phone Holder |
$17.99
|
Phone Holder Arms
If you need something a bit more complex or need something that you can adjust between multiple positions, I would recommend getting an arm.
You can search for “phone arm” on Amazon and get something for $10-20. I am personally not too fond of the fully flexible “gooseneck” ones, as while they are extremely customizable, I find them really hard to adjust or get them into the same position after changing them.
The ones I would recommend are a bit more expensive but you can probably find similar products for cheaper since they are both from “no brand” companies. I’ve listed the two that I’ve personally had experience with: one from jusmo which I’ve used as a top-down camera for some unboxing videos and one from FOUTOUKEEP that has been holding up a mini projector for over a year without any issues.
| Image | Product | Price |
 | jusmo Camera Desk Mount(includes phone holder) |
$43.95 |
 | FOUTOUKEEP Overhead Camera Mount(includes phone holder) |
$35.99 |
