IRL Streaming Builds

Complete guides for building portable streaming setups, from budget builds to professional broadcast systems

Budget Tiers

Choose a build that fits your budget and streaming goals

$500-800

Budget Starter

Perfect for beginners who want to test IRL streaming

Equipment List:

  • Smartphone with good camera
  • Portable power bank (20,000mAh)
  • Basic smartphone gimbal
  • Lavalier microphone
  • Single SIM with unlimited data
  • Basic streaming app (free tier)

Pros:

  • Low cost
  • Easy to start
  • Portable

Cons:

  • Limited features
  • Single connection
  • Basic quality
Best for: Casual IRL streaming, testing the waters
$1500-2500

Mid-Range Setup

Balanced setup for regular IRL streamers

Equipment List:

  • Action camera (GoPro/DJI)
  • Capture card for phone
  • Multi-carrier bonding device
  • Professional microphone system
  • High-capacity power system
  • Streaming backpack
  • Multiple data plans

Pros:

  • Better quality
  • Reliable connection
  • Professional features

Cons:

  • Higher cost
  • More complex
  • Heavier
Best for: Regular streamers, content creators
$3000+

Professional Build

Premium setup for serious IRL streamers

Equipment List:

  • Multiple 4K cameras
  • LiveU Solo or Peplink device
  • Professional audio mixer
  • Multiple battery systems
  • Custom streaming backpack
  • Multiple carrier data plans
  • Professional streaming software

Pros:

  • Broadcast quality
  • Ultra-reliable
  • Advanced features

Cons:

  • Very expensive
  • Complex setup
  • Heavy equipment
Best for: Professional streamers, events, broadcasts

The Famous Gunrun Backpack Build

The famous IRL streaming backpack setup popularized by Gunrun, featuring a custom-built system for reliable outdoor streaming.

$5000-8000
Total Investment
Expert Level
Complexity Level
99%+ reliability
Reliability

Connectivity

  • LiveU Solo bonding device
  • 4x SIM cards from different carriers
  • External antennas for better signal
  • Ethernet connection for ground sources

Cameras & Audio

  • Main camera: Sony A7S III or equivalent
  • Backup camera: GoPro Hero series
  • Wireless microphone system
  • Audio mixer for multiple sources

Power System

  • V-mount batteries (multiple)
  • Power distribution system
  • DC power supplies
  • USB power banks for accessories

Backpack & Accessories

  • Custom streaming backpack
  • Cable management system
  • Protective cases
  • Mounting accessories and tripods
⚠️

Expert Level Build

This build requires advanced technical knowledge and significant investment. Consider starting with a simpler setup and upgrading over time.

Essential Equipment Guide

Detailed breakdown of equipment categories with recommendations and pricing

Camera Equipment

Primary Camera

$2000-4000
Sony A7S III
Canon EOS R5
Panasonic GH5

Action Camera

$200-500
GoPro Hero 11
DJI Action 2
Insta360 GO 3

Gimbal/Stabilizer

$300-800
DJI Ronin SC
Zhiyun Crane M3
FeiyuTech AK2000

Audio Equipment

Wireless Mic

$150-400
Rode Wireless GO II
Sennheiser MKE 600
Deity V-Mic D3

Audio Mixer

$100-300
Rode PodMic
Zoom PodTrak P4
Behringer XENYX

Lavalier Mic

$50-150
Rode smartLav+
Audio-Technica ATR3350iS

Connectivity

Bonding Device

$500-2000
LiveU Solo
Peplink MAX BR1
Speedify bonding

Hotspot Devices

$200-400
Verizon Jetpack
AT&T MiFi
T-Mobile 5G

Data Plans

$200-500/month
Multiple carriers
Unlimited plans
International roaming

Power Solutions

V-Mount Batteries

$100-300 each
Anton Bauer
Sony NP-F970
Neewer V-Mount

Power Banks

$50-200
Anker PowerCore
RAVPower 26800
Goal Zero Sherpa

Solar Chargers

$100-300
Goal Zero Nomad
Anker PowerPort Solar
BigBlue Solar

Build Process

Step-by-step guide to building your IRL streaming setup

1

Plan Your Build

Determine your budget, streaming goals, and technical requirements

Key Actions:

  • Set budget range
  • Define streaming scenarios
  • Research local carrier coverage
2

Choose Core Equipment

Select camera, connectivity, and power solutions based on your needs

Key Actions:

  • Pick primary camera
  • Select bonding solution
  • Choose power system
3

Test Components

Test all equipment individually before integrating into backpack

Key Actions:

  • Test camera quality
  • Verify connectivity
  • Check power duration
4

Build Integration

Integrate all components into your backpack or carrying system

Key Actions:

  • Cable management
  • Secure mounting
  • Easy access design
5

Field Testing

Test your complete setup in real-world conditions

Key Actions:

  • Different locations
  • Various weather
  • Long duration tests

Ready to Build Your IRL Setup?

Start with the essentials and upgrade over time. Remember, the best setup is the one you'll actually use.