How to Live Stream on YouTube?

Live streaming on YouTube means sharing video in real time so people can watch as you do things or talk. It can be fun to share your hobbies, games, or any topic with an audience. If you're new to this, don't worry. In this article, I'll show you simple steps on how to live stream on YouTube. We will cover using your webcam on a computer, using your mobile phone, and using streaming software (encoder).

How to Live Stream on YouTube?

Computer vs Mobile Live Streaming Requirements

How to Go Live on YouTube with a Webcam (Using OBSBOT Tail Air as an Example)

If you want a simple and stable way to go live on YouTube, using a webcam is a great choice. I personally like this method because it is easy to set up and works well even for beginners.

When I first started live streaming, I used a basic webcam. It worked, but the video felt flat and boring. Later, I tried OBSBOT Tail Air, and the experience was much better. The image was clearer, and I didn’t need to adjust the camera all the time.

Features of OBSBOT Tail Air

• NDI Support: With support for NDI|HX3, OBSBOT Tail Air makes you enjoy a higher-quality and low-latency live streaming experience via WiFi and Ethernet. 
  
• 4K Resolution: This makes your video incredibly sharp and detailed, providing a great viewing experience for your audience.
• AI-powered Tracking: The camera uses advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to track humans, pets, and objects.
• Wireless Connection: Enables you to break free from the constraints of traditional wired setups and stream with ease from anywhere.
• Easy-to-use Mobile App: Adjust the camera's parameters directly on your mobile device, and also change the real-time video signals.
  
• Multiple Connections: Support HDMI, USB-C, NDI, Ethernet.

Here, I will use OBSBOT Tail Air as an example to show you how it works:

Step 1: Connect OBSBOT Tail Air(Or other webcams) to Your Computer

First, connect your OBSBOT Tail Air to your computer.

You can use a USB or connect it through the same Wi-Fi network, depending on your setup.

Once connected, make sure your computer can see OBSBOT Tail Air as a camera. Most of the time, this works automatically. You don’t need to install anything complicated.

Step 2: Open YouTube and Go Live

Now, open YouTube in your browser and sign in to your account.

• Click the Create button (the camera icon with a plus) in the top-right corner
• Choose Go Live
• Select Webcam as your streaming method

Step 3: Select OBSBOT Tail Air as Your Webcam

YouTube will ask for permission to use your camera and microphone. Click Allow.

In the camera settings, choose OBSBOT Tail Air as your video source. If you are using an external microphone, select it here as well. If not, the built-in mic also works for simple streams.

Step 4: Set Your Stream Info

• Add a clear title for your stream
• Choose Public, Unlisted, or Private
• Check the video preview to make sure everything looks good

Take a few seconds to look at the preview. With OBSBOT Tail Air, you should see a smooth and sharp image, even if you move a little.

Step 5: Click Go Live

When everything is ready, click Go Live.

That’s it. You are now live on YouTube using OBSBOT Tail Air.

You can talk to your audience, answer comments, or just share what you want. The camera’s auto tracking is very helpful here, especially if you move around while speaking. I found this very useful during long streams because I didn’t have to stay perfectly still.

Step 6: End the Stream

When you are done, simply click End Stream.

YouTube will stop the live stream and save the video on your channel (if saving is enabled). You can later share the replay or review it to improve your next stream.

How to Go Live on YouTube with a Mobile Device

YouTube also lets you go live using a smartphone or tablet. This is great if you are on the move or don’t have a computer handy. Here’s how I do it:

• Open the YouTube app: Make sure you have the latest YouTube app on your Android or iPhone and sign in.
• Find the Create (plus) button: At the bottom of the app, tap the + (plus) button. Then tap Go Live.
• Verify your account (if asked): The first time, YouTube may ask you to verify your account by phone. Just follow the steps it shows to verify.
• Set your title and camera: Give your stream a title and pick if it’s Public or Private/Unlisted. Then tap Next. The app will show a preview from your camera.
• Go Live: Tap Go Live to start streaming with your phone camera. Now you and your viewers are live!

Using your phone is super easy for quick streams. Hold your phone steady (a tripod can help), and make sure you have good internet (Wi-Fi or a strong cell signal) so the video won’t freeze. You can try to speak clearly and look at the camera as if talking to a friend. That makes the stream feel natural and friendly.

How to Go Live on YouTube with Streaming Software or an Encoder

If you want extra features (like overlays, multiple cameras, or screen sharing), you can use free streaming software (called an encoder) like OBS Studio. Follow these steps:

• Download OBS: Install OBS Studio on your computer and open it.

• Get your stream key: On YouTube, click the camera icon and Go Live, then choose Stream. Copy the Stream Key from the settings.

• Paste the key into OBS: In OBS, go to Settings > Stream, choose YouTube, and paste your stream key.

• Set up your scene: In OBS, add what you want to show (like your webcam or your computer screen) and make sure your microphone is set up. To avoid black bars or stretched video, it’s also important to set the correct video aspect ratio for YouTube live streams.

• Start streaming: Click Start Streaming in OBS. Then go to YouTube Studio and click Go Live. Your OBS video will now broadcast on YouTube.

It might sound not very easy, but it works. The first time I tried this, I was confused by the stream key, but once it worked, I felt like it was magic. Now I can add text or graphics and switch cameras like a pro. Even if you don’t need fancy effects, using an encoder gives you more control over your live stream.

Tips for Successful Live Streaming on YouTube

• Prepare Your Setup: Check your camera, microphone, and lighting. Sit facing a light or a window so people can see you clearly. I also test my sound by recording a few seconds. If it sounds quiet, I adjust the mic volume.
• Check Your Internet: Use a strong Wi-Fi or cable connection so your video doesn’t freeze. I make sure no other apps or devices are using the internet before I start.
• Have a Simple Plan: Think about what you will do or say. You can write a short outline or bullet points on paper. Having a plan helps me feel more confident and keeps the stream on track.
• Engage with Viewers: Talk as if your viewers are friends. Say hi to people in the chat by name. I like to answer a few comments or questions during the stream. Being friendly and clear makes people want to stay and watch.
• Stay Positive and Have Fun: It’s normal to be nervous at first. If you make a mistake, just laugh or say “excuse me” and continue. I once yawned on camera, but I smiled and kept going. Remember, your energy and mood come across, so enjoy yourself.

FAQs about How to Live Stream on YouTube

1. Can Anyone Live Stream on YouTube?

Yes, almost anyone can. You just need a YouTube account and to follow YouTube's rules. Make sure your channel is verified (you might need to confirm your phone number). You should not have any live-streaming strikes on your channel. Then you can click the camera icon (with a plus) and choose Go Live to start your stream.

2. What Equipment Do I Need to Start?

You need a device with a camera and internet. This can be a computer with a webcam or a smartphone. For better quality, a dedicated camera and a good microphone can make a big difference. For example, using a webcam-style camera like OBSBOT Tail Air helps keep the image clear and stable, especially if you move while talking. Good lighting also helps a lot—try sitting in front of a window or a lamp so people can see you clearly.

3. How Many Subscribers Do I Need to Live Stream?

YouTube does not require a minimum number of subscribers to go live from a computer. You can start streaming even with 0 subscribers. But on the YouTube mobile app, you need at least 50 subscribers to see the Go Live option. You also need to verify your account with a phone number first.

4. Is't Free to Live Stream on YouTube?

Yes, it's completely free. You don’t pay YouTube to go live. You just need your device and the internet. YouTube might ask you to verify your account (which is also free). There are no fees or special memberships needed to start streaming.

5. How Do I End the Live Stream When I'm Done?

When you finish, just go back to YouTube or the app you used and click End Stream or Finish. The stream will stop, and YouTube will end your broadcast. YouTube will also save the video on your channel (if you choose to save it) so you can watch it later or share it.

What If Something Goes Wrong?

Don't worry if there are small glitches. Sometimes the video or audio might freeze, or the stream might stop. If it happens, try a few fixes: check your internet, refresh the stream page, or start the stream again. For example, I once had my video freeze, and I just ended the stream and started a new one – it fixed the issue.

Conclusion

That covers the most common questions. Now you know how to live stream on YouTube using different devices, plus tips to help you along the way. Give it a try – you'll get better each time. Good luck and have fun sharing your live moments with the world!