How to Become a VTuber (Equipment, Cost, & Hololive)

Co-authored by Hannah Madden

Last Updated: January 31, 2023 References

If you’ve been on YouTube for a little while, you’ve probably noticed the VTuber trend that’s been popping up since 2017. VTubers, or Virtual YouTubers, talk to their audience through an avatar instead of showing their faces. As this trend becomes more and more popular (and VTubers get more and more subscribers), tons of people want to know: how do they do it? We’ve answered your questions about becoming a VTuber so you can achieve your virtual dreams on YouTube.

Question 1 of 6:

What equipment do you need to become a VTuber?

1
Get a good quality computer with high-speed internet. No matter what kind of content you’re creating, this will be key. In general, you’ll probably want a newer desktop computer with at least 8 GB of RAM. A laptop works too, but it may run a little bit slower with the software you’ll need for VTubing. ^{[1]
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You need a motion-tracking webcam. Pick out a webcam that will recognize your face and translate your expressions onto an avatar. You can find a decent webcam like this for under $100, like the Logitech Pro or the Microsoft LifeCam.^{[2]
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3
You can upgrade to a VR rig if you want to later on. It’s not necessary to track all of your movements (like your hands, legs, and feet) when you’re first starting out. However, if you ever want to upgrade your avatar to a full-body one, you might consider getting a VR, or virtual reality setup. You can find a decent VR headset for around $400.^{[3]
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Question 2 of 6:

Which software should I use for VTubing?

Facerig, Luppet, VSeeFace, and VTube Studio are a few popular ones.^{[4]
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Research source} You can download most of these applications on both Windows and Mac. Some of them will help you create an avatar, while others are strictly for capturing motion and streaming your character.^{[5]
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- Wakaru, 3tene, and Puppemoji are also good options.
- Most of these websites require a monthly or a one-time download fee. The price varies greatly depending on which one you’re using, but you can expect to spend around $100 on your software.

Question 3 of 6:

How much does it cost to become a VTuber?

Expect to spend between a few hundred and a few thousand dollars. The exact amount depends a lot on what you already have and how much you want to upgrade your equipment and your avatar. At minimum, you may have to shell out a few hundred dollars for a new webcam and a program to create a 3D model.^{[6]
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- Feel free to get started as a VTuber with a limited amount of equipment. Over time, as you get better and start making money, you can upgrade your situation.

Question 4 of 6:

How do I create a 3D model?

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Make your own in an online studio. If you want to customize your model, try using programs like Blender, Daz3D, or Pixiv.^{[7]
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Research source} In these studios, you can create a model from scratch, sculpting the facial features, body, and clothing items on your own. Both Blender and Pixiv have free versions, but they are slightly limited in what you can do. If you want to upgrade your account, you can pay a monthly fee of around $5 for full access.^{[8]
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Commission an artist to make you one. If you aren’t feeling super artistic, try reaching out to an animator or a Photoshop expert to make a model for you. Find an artist in the community by searching “3D model commission” on Twitter or Google. Rates vary, but you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 for a commission.^{[9]
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Question 5 of 6:

Can you be a VTuber on mobile?

Yes, if you download VTube studio. This app lets you upload your 2D model directly onto your phone and track your facial movements. Keep in mind, though, that it doesn’t support 3D models just yet.^{[10]
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- The iOS version (for Apple devices) has pupil tracking, but the Android version doesn’t.
- To download VTube studio, visit https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.denchi.vtubestudio&hl=en_GB.

Question 6 of 6:

How do I join Hololive?

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Find out when they’re holding auditions. Hololive holds auditions every time they want to find new VTubers. They don’t have a set schedule, so you can check the website periodically to find out when they’re open by visiting https://en.hololive.tv/audition.^{[11]
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Submit an online application. After you hit “Apply” on the Hololive auditions page, you’ll be transferred to an online questionnaire. Usually, the questionnaire will ask you to submit a 5-minute video explaining who you are and what your online persona is.^{[12]
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Go through the interview process. If your application is accepted, you’ll be invited to interview with the Hololive team! If you live near the offices, you can head there in person; otherwise, they’ll do it over the phone. They’ll ask you questions about your YouTube experience, why you want to join Hololive, and if you can keep up with the content they require.^{[13]
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Expert Q&A

Question

Can you make money being a VTuber?

Timothy Linetsky
Music Producer & Instructor
Timothy Linetsky is a DJ, producer, and music educator that has been making music for over 15 years. He is a certified Ableton trainer and creates educational YouTube videos focused on producing electronic music. He has over 90,000 YouTube subscribers.

Timothy Linetsky

Music Producer & Instructor

Expert Answer

Sure! There’s always the ad revenue—it’s not a huge amount, but it's a couple hundred dollars a month—and sponsorship opportunities for YouTubers.
Question

I wear eyeglasses, and I can't use my webcam with the face capture because of the glare. Is there any way to get around this without using contact lenses?

Cros Saint

Community Answer

If you aren’t severely nearsighted, you can probably get around not wearing glasses while streaming. Otherwise, you can try to adjust the lighting to be behind you or in a specific angle in which it doesn’t reflect onto the screen.