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The 25 Best Smart Devices for Live Streaming

Live streaming has evolved beyond computers and webcams. Today’s content creators rely on media streaming devices, tablets, smartphones, and smart TVs to enhance, support, or stream live.

We all know about typical media streaming devices like Roku, Fire TV, and Chromecast, but what about the smart devices you can use for live streaming? These are our top 25 picks for getting your stream out there.

Best Cameras for Live Streaming

The camera you use directly impacts the quality of your stream and whether it will appeal to other viewers. These are our top choices.

Sony ZV-1 II

Amazon

Sony ZV-1 II


A compact camera that features 4K video, a flip-out screen, advanced autofocus, and USB streaming in a lightweight, travel-friendly design, it’s a favorite. The image quality is top-notch, and it comes with a multidirectional microphone for streaming on the move.

See Pricing on Amazon

Panasonic Lumix GH5 II

Amazon

Panasonic Lumix GH5 II Mirrorless Camera


This mirrorless camera delivers pro-level video quality. Its 20.3MP Live MOS sensor, 4K 60p recording abilities, and advanced image stabilization make it a professional streamer's dream. Additionally, its capacity for live streaming via HDMI or the LUMIX Sync smartphone app makes it perfect for serious streamers.

See Pricing on Amazon

Insta360 X5

Amazon

Insta360 X5


A premier streaming camera for those wanting immersive, high-quality video, it captures sharp 8K 360° footage with dual 1/1.28" sensors, handles low light impressively with AI-powered image processing, and includes smart features like PureVideo mode and a wind-resistant mic. With user-replaceable lenses, the Insta360X5 is built for creativity, convenience, and all-weather, all-terrain streaming.

See Pricing on Amazon

Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K Webcam

GearBrain
Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K Webcam Review

The Logitech MX Brio Ultra HD 4K Webcam offers crystal-clear 4K resolution at 30fps or smooth motion in 1080p at 60fps. It performs exceptionally well in low light and uses AI to keep your face clear and well-lit. The dual microphones help minimize background noise and are made with sustainable materials, making them a solid choice.

Read our full review.

See Pricing on Amazon


Best Microphones for Streamers

AmazonElgato Wave Neo USB Condenser Microphone on Amazon.

Quality always matters; these microphones will make your voice heard loud and clear.

Blue Yeti

Amazon

Blue Yeti Microphone


A well-known plug-and-play with no extra software necessary, it has four pick-up patterns, so it’s flexible whether you’re streaming solo, doing interviews, or capturing ambient sound. The built-in LED meter helps monitor your levels on the fly.

See Pricing on Amazon

AKG Ara

Amazon

AKG Ara Microphone


The AKG Ara is ideal for streamers starting out or those on a tight budget. In addition to its budget-friendliness, it provides great sound quality and has a sturdy build that will protect it from day-to-day bumps and knocks.

See Pricing on Amazon

Shure MV7

Amazon

Shure MV7 Microphone


Inspired by the SM7B, this mic is built for streamers and podcasters. It features both USB and XLR connections, ensuring it remains future-proof as your setup evolves. The voice-isolating technology eliminates background noise, and the ShurePlus MOTIV app allows you to adjust tone and gain easily.

See Pricing on Amazon

Elgato Wave 3

Amazon

Elgato Wave 3 Microphone


This condenser mic is crisp and clear and comes with Wave Link software, a digital mixer that helps manage multiple audio sources in one place. Built-in Clipguard technology prevents peaking, so your audio stays clean even if you get loud.

See Pricing on Amazon

Rode NT-USB Mini

Amazon

Rode NT-USB Mini


A compact USB mic with pro-grade sound, its magnetic base is extremely convenient, and the sound quality exceeds its size. It also integrates with Rode Connect software, which supports up to four microphones and allows you to mix audio like a professional.

See Pricing on Amazon

Best Lighting for Live Streaming

GE LightingGE Lighting's Cync Reveal smart lights.

Like photography, good lighting is a deal-breaker. These lights give you the right illumination in every circumstance.

Elgato Key Light

Amazon

Elgato Key Light


Ideal for streamers, the light mounts to your desk via a clamp and connects wirelessly to your PC or phone using Wi-Fi. You can control brightness (up to 2800 lumens) and color temperature (2900K – 7000K) for warm or cool lighting. It’s bright enough to replace a softbox.

See Pricing on Amazon

Lume Cube Ring Light Pro

Lume Cube

Lume Cube Ring Light Pro


The Lume Cube Ring Light Pro is one of the best lights for live streaming thanks to its powerful brightness, adjustable color temperature, and built-in rechargeable battery. It’s easy to use, whether on the go, indoors, or outdoors, and lets you fine-tune your lighting with onboard dials and a remote.

Visit Lume Cube Amazon Store for Pricing

Buy on Lume Cube

Neewer TL40

Amazon

Neewer TL40 Light Bar for Streamers


The Neewer TL40 is a great light for streaming. It offers soft, flicker-free lighting with accurate colors and adjustable warmth. It’s easy to control from your phone or computer, and the flexible stand makes it simple to get the perfect angle.

See Pricing on Amazon

Top Capture Cards

Taking the video signal from your source device to a computer, these are our favorite capture cards.

Elgato HD60 X

Amazon

Elgato HD60 X


This external capture card lets you stream or record 1080p at 60fps while passing through up to 4K60 HDR10 to your monitor. It supports VRR and works with both PCs and consoles.

See Pricing on Amazon

Razer Ripsaw HD

Amazon

Razer Ripsaw HD


This capture card supports 1080p 60fps capture with 4K passthrough. It features a built-in audio mixer and works with most streaming platforms.

See Pricing on Amazon

AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus

Amazon

AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus


This one’s handy because it doesn’t need a PC to work. It can record directly to a micro SD card at 1080p. It also offers 4K passthrough and zero-lag streaming via USB, making it a great option for console users.

See pricing on Amazon

Smart Accessories for Streamers

Everything is going smart these days, and your accessories can too.

Elgato Stream Deck MK.2

Amazon

Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 – Studio Controller


With 15 customizable buttons, you can assign actions like switching scenes, muting your mic, or sending messages in chat. It speeds up your workflow and helps avoid mistakes midstream. You can also create folders and multi-actions for advanced control.

Learn more about Elgato Stream Deck Lineup

See Pricing on Amazon

GoXLR Mini

Amazon

GoXLR Mini


This compact audio interface gives you easy control over your mic, music, game audio, and chat. You can mute channels instantly and adjust audio levels in real time. It has built-in preamps, so your mic always sounds clear and punchy.

See Pricing on Amazon

Rode Streamer X

Amazon

Rode Streamer X


The Rode Streamer X combines a capture card and audio interface. It features XLR and line inputs for microphones or instruments, as well as HDMI input and output for video. It's perfect for a clean, all-in-one desk setup, eliminating the need to juggle multiple devices.

See Pricing on Amazon

Headphones and Audio Monitors

iStock

A gamer who solved his lag issues with excellent headphones and a monitor.

Whether you’re streaming a podcast or playing Minecraft on a dedicated server, good input and output audio is key to live streaming success.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

GearBrain
audio-technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless Headphones unboxed

These studio-grade headphones, featuring crystal-clear sound and deep bass, are closed-back, which blocks out background noise and prevents microphone bleed. They’re comfortable for long sessions and trusted by audio pros.

Read our full review.

See Pricing on Amazon

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro

Amazon

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Headphones


A premium gaming headset with dual audio inputs, active noise cancellation, and a broadcast-quality mic that connects to your PC and another device, so you can manage the game and chat separately.

See pricing on Amazon.

Smartphones and Tablets: More Than Just Accessories

AppleiPhone 16 and 16 Pro: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

Phones and tablets aren’t just used for watching streams. They increasingly act as mobile streaming studios and control panels, and their portability and app compatibility make them vital parts of your toolkit.

iPhone 15 Pro

Amazon

iPhone 15 Pro


This phone shoots 4K60 video with cinematic stabilization, making it a strong option as a streaming camera. Apps like Camo turn it into a webcam, and you can also use it as a second monitor or portable control deck.

See Pricing on Amazon

iPad Pro (M2)

Amazon

iPad Pro (M2)


Your iPad Pro can be a full-blown productivity tool. Use it for stream monitoring. It works well with Twitch chat, Discord, or even as a live control surface with apps like Stream Deck Mobile. The large screen and fast M2 chip make multitasking a breeze.

See Pricing on Amazon

Extra Tools That Make a Difference

Use these tools to elevate your streaming once you have all the basics.

TP-Link Deco XE75 Mesh Wi-Fi 6E

GearBrain
Tp-Link Deco AEX5400 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6E towers

Buffering ruins streams. This mesh system offers fast, stable Wi-Fi across your space, with support for 6GHz bandwidth. When used with Roku devices, it can significantly improve your streaming experience by providing faster speeds, reduced buffering, and more reliable connections throughout your home.

Read our full review.

See Pricing on Amazon

Ulanzi MT-08 Tripod

Amazon

Ulanzi MT-08 Tripod


It’s small but mighty. This versatile tripod works as a mini stand, selfie stick, or handheld grip. It’s sturdy enough to hold webcams, phones, or mirrorless cameras, and is ideal for mobile streamers or travel setups.

See Pricing on Amazon

Logitech Litra Glow

Amazon

Logitech Litra Glow


It’s a compact, USB-powered key light that clips onto your monitor. It provides soft, natural lighting and is certified safe for all-day streaming. You can adjust the brightness and color to suit the ambient lighting in the room.

See Pricing on Amazon




Final Thoughts

Tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, and smart home ecosystems are reshaping what it means to be “streaming ready.” Devices like Roku have evolved into full-fledged smart home hubs, expanding our understanding of the role of streaming brands.

You don’t need all 25 of these products to get started, but choosing the right mix can elevate your setup and create a more professional, reliable stream. Whether you’re just starting or scaling up, investing in smart streaming tools pays off.

Check out The GearBrain, our smart home compatibility find engine, to see the other compatible products that work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant-enabled devices.


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