Do I need 4K for streaming?

No — Twitch caps at 1080p60 and most YouTube streams run at 1080p. However, 4K cameras produce sharper 1080p output through downscaling, and the extra resolution gives you digital zoom flexibility. It's a nice-to-have, not a need.

How important is lighting vs camera quality?

Lighting is more important. A $50 webcam with good lighting looks better than a $300 webcam in a dark room. Invest in lighting first, then upgrade your camera. The combination of both transforms your stream quality.

Best Streaming Camera Setups 2026