So, you want to start selling on Whatnot. You got your items, you’re looking for sellers, and you’re all fired up and ready to go! Great! Whatnot is full of collectors and serious shoppers searching for everything from rare Funko Pops and holographic Pokémon cards to vintage tees and unique collectibles. But before you hit that “Go Live” button, there’s one big question to tackle: What kind of streaming gear do I need to get started on Whatnot without spending a whole fortune?
Fortunately, you don’t need a Hollywood-level setup, but you do need to look and sound clean and professional if you want people to stick around and buy from you. First impressions matter, especially when you’re selling in real time. Let’s break down the gear you need to go live confidently in Whatnot, based on Whatnot’s recommendations and some insights from pro streamers and creators.
1. Smartphone: All You Need to Start Streaming
If you have an iPhone 12 or newer (or even a decent Android from the past couple of years), you already have your camera. Most new phones shoot crisp HD video and handle low light surprisingly well. If your camera isn’t blurry, and your voice is clear, you’re already off to a solid start.
Pro Tip: Use the rear camera if possible for better video quality, but only if you can monitor the stream.
2. Tripod: Keep Your Stream Stable and Hands-Free
No one wants to watch a shaky livestream when you’re constantly adjusting and re-adjusting your camera, even if you’re selling excellent items or collectibles. A tripod provides a steady, hands-free setup, allowing you to focus on engaging, not adjusting.
Top Tripod Picks:
- UBeesize 50” Tripod: Lightweight, comes with a phone mount, under $30.
- Joby GorillaPod: Flexible legs for uneven surfaces or tight setups.
Pro Tip: Make sure it can hold your phone vertically. Whatnot streams in portrait only.
3. Lighting: Make Your Products Stand Out
You could be selling a holographic Pokémon card, a vintage band t-shirt, or some ultra-rare Funko Pop, but if your lighting is not good, no one will see the magic. If they can’t see the item you’re selling, they won’t buy it. A ring light is a game-changer. It smooths out shadows and makes your products pop!
Some Beginner-Friendly Lighting:
- Neewer 18” Ring Light Kit: Classic, reliable, and powerful.
- Lume Cube Broadcast Light: Smaller, great for desktops or tight spaces.
Pro Tip: Even a cheap desk lamp is better than nothing! Just avoid backlighting and yellow bulbs, as they can make everything look weird.
4. Audio: Have Clean and Crisp Sound Quality
People will forgive an average-quality video, but bad audio quickly kills sales. You need to be heard clearly. The built-in mic on your phone is decent, but if you want to sound more polished, an external mic is worth the price tag.
Best Beginner Mics:
- Rode VideoMic Me-L (For iPhone) or Me-C (Android)
- BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Mic: Just plug it in and clip it on!
- Shure MV88L: A step up in quality if you’re feeling serious (as you should).
Pro Tip: If you’re on a budget, start with the BOYA. It’s under $20 and makes a huge difference in audio quality.
5. Background: Create a Clean, Professional Setup
Your background doesn’t need to be fancy, but it definitely shouldn’t be messy. Buyers want to focus on your items, not the pile of boxes you have behind you. Fortunately, this is an easy fix.
Simple Background Ideas:
- Use a blank wall or a neutral backdrop.
- Add a light tablecloth or poster board as a clean surface.
- Use small strands or risers to elevate items closer to the camera.
Pro Tip: If your setup looks chaotic, people might assume your shipping could be too.
6. Internet Connection: Stream Without Interruptions
This one’s obvious and non-negotiable. You’re livestreaming an auction, with buyers from all over the internet. If your stream drops, you lose bidders and potentially sales.
At a minimum:
- 10 Mbps upload speed
- Strong Wi-Fi, or even better, Ethernet via an adapter
- Test your connection before going live with tools like Speedtest.net
Pro Tip: Avoid streaming during peak hours if your internet is shaky.
7. Extra Gear to Level Up Your Whatnot Setup
If you’ve got the basics covered and want to upgrade, here’s what you might consider next:
- Second device (tablet or phone) to monitor chat and bids
- Multi-angle mounts, if you’re going to show your face and your hands
- Display shelves or bins to organize inventory for faster flow during live shows
Pro Tip: You don’t need these to start, but they can help as you scale up.
Start Simple and Grow Over Time
Don’t let gear paralysis stop you from starting. Many top sellers began with a phone, a ring light, and a positive attitude. Focus on clarity, consistency, and confidence, then upgrade over time as your business grows.
Want more seller tips, gear guides, and strategies to succeed on Whatnot? Subscribe to the Resale Pro newsletter for expert insights that will help you launch strong and build a profitable reselling business.
