With much of the world still on lockdown restrictions due to the novel coronavirus, webinars have been having a (major) moment.
For those who have had to transition their in-person events to virtual ones, the stress of ensuring you have the right equipment can be overwhelming. Ever wonder how webinar pros make it look so easy, even from their home office? We thought you might – so here’s everything you need to put together your own webinar kit, regardless of your budget!
Microphone
There’s nothing more distracting during a webinar than poor audio quality, so make sure you have a great microphone that allows your attendees to hear you clearly. There’s a huge price range for microphones, but in general, the more expensive they are, the higher quality the sound. So depending on your budget and audio needs, you have a lot of options to choose from.
- Our recommendation: Rode NT-USB USB Microphone ($169.00)
- Comparable option: USB Microphone – Fifine Metal Condenser Recording Microphone ($29.99)
Microphone Boom Arm
You want to make sure your microphone picks up everything you say during the webinar, but you don’t want to have to hold a microphone like a talk show host the whole time. And if you’re an animated speaker, lavalier mics will pick up distracting noise with every movement you make. It’s best to set up your microphone close enough to pick up all dialogue while keeping your hands free.
- Our recommendation: Rode PSA1 Studio Boom Arm for Broadcast Microphones ($99.00)
- Comparable option: NEEWER Adjustable Microphone Suspension Boom Scissor Arm Stand ($12.50)
Earpieces
Not only do earpieces make you feel like a member of the Secret Service, they’re also super helpful when hosting a webinar. An earpiece allows you to stay connected with other webinar contributors while keeping your hands free.
- Our recommendation: Otto Engineering V1-10437 – Single IFB Earphone Kit ($44.95)
- Comparable option: MEE audio M6 Memory Wire In-Ear Wired Sports Earbud Headphones ($14.99)
Replacement Eartips
You never think about eartip replacements until it’s too late. Then you’re stuck using a worn-out eartip, or worse, none at all. And if you’re sharing an earpiece with other members of your team, you should at least have your own set of personal eartips to avoid sharing things you’d rather not share. Regardless, it’s a good idea to keep a stash of replacements on-hand and they’re inexpensive enough that it won’t hurt your budget.
- Our recommendation: Otto Engineering – Clear Eartip for Surveillance Kits Professional Models (10-pk) ($9.79)
- Comparable option: Replacement Eartip Earbuds (8-pk) ($5.00)
Lights
Lighting can change the look of your webinar from “ghoul broadcasting from under a bridge” to “model broadcasting from professional studio.” Of course, it all depends on what kind of feel you want for your webinar, but we always recommend great lighting help you look your best on camera.
- Our recommendation: Brightline i-Series (Brightline offers custom pricing based on your unique needs and set-up, but expect to pay a few hundred at least)
- Comparable option: Stellar Diva Desktop Ringlight ($89.00)
Green Screen
Using a green screen during your webinar lets you present in front of any background you can imagine. So if you don’t have a great office space, or you just want to add some pizzazz to your surroundings, you can with the help of a green screen.
- Our recommendation: Chroma Wall Retractable Green Screen ($389.00)
- Comparable option: Impact Collapsible Background ($57.95)
Virtual Background
Your green screen is worthless unless you have the software to project a background on to it.
- Our recommendation: SparkoCam Virtual Webcam ($39.95)
- Comparable option: You can probably find free options, but the SparkoCam is your best bet for the price!
Webcam
You have your audio and lighting all squared away, now it’s time to find the right camera. Find a high-quality HD camera so your video will look great on all monitors. Both of our webcam suggestions are great for webinars, video conferencing, and other streaming needs.
- Our recommendation: Logitech BRIO ($179.38)
- Comparable option: Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 ($45.99)
Optional Keyboard Stand
A keyboard stand isn’t a must-have item, but it’s a nice-to-have accessory in your webinar setup. Our recommended ergonomic keyboard stand is great if you use a stand-up desk for webinars.
- Our recommendation: Uncaged Ergonomics WorkEZ Keyboard Tray & Mouse Pad ($54.99)
- Comparable option: This recommendation is such a great price that it’s also the most affordable option.
Portable Cart
For those who think better when they’re on their feet, stay on your A-game with a stand-up desk! Adjustable stand-up desks are great for your regular work days, but they’re especially convenient if you need to move to a more video-friendly location for your webinar broadcast.
- Our recommendation: VIVO Mobile Height Adjustable Stand Up Desk with Storage ($109.99)
- Comparable option: Qwork Mobile Ergonomic Laptop Desk Cart ($49.90)
Webinar equipment can start to get expensive if you’re not careful, but there are affordable options available so you can host a professional-quality webinar on a budget.
GoToWebinar is everything you need for great webinars
As the leader in online events, we erase the headache and hassle from webinars. No matter your goal or skill level, you’ll quickly see why so many love GoToWebinar. Go from preparing a webinar to presenting in fewer steps – and have a lot of fun along the way! Visit our website for more information or get started for free today.
Expertise and Best Practices for Embracing Virtual Events
New to webinars and virtual events? We’re here to help! Check out our remote work Resource Center with tips and tricks on how marketers can master the shift while still driving demand and engagement.