How to Start VTubing for free or on a low budget

Start before you spend

One of the most common things I hear while streaming is: “I want to become a VTuber, but I cannot afford to spend thousands on a model.” The good news is that you do not need an expensive model to begin.

My honest advice is to start streaming first and find out whether you enjoy it. Streaming is not for everyone, and a beautiful custom model cannot replace the time, effort and consistency it takes to build something you are proud of. Spending a lot at the beginning will not create instant success, so give yourself room to experiment before taking a big financial risk.

There are four routes I recommend looking at when you want to try VTubing for free or on a smaller budget.

Option 1: Make a free 3D model with VRoid Studio

I began streaming as a 3D VTuber using VRoid Studio. It is a free program that lets you build a 3D avatar through a character creator that feels much more approachable than traditional 3D modelling software.

You can start with the built-in options, then customise your avatar as much as you like. If you are creative, you can make something surprisingly distinctive without paying for a fully custom model. Marketplaces such as BOOTH also offer textures, outfits and hair assets, with both free and paid options.

If you decide you want something more personal later, you can commission individual textures or assets instead of replacing the entire model at once. There are also many beginner-friendly VRoid tutorials available, so take your time and learn as you go.

Option 2: Buy a premade 2D or 3D model

If building a model does not appeal to you, a premade model is the next route to explore. Premade models can be 2D or 3D, and many come with very good artwork and rigging for much less than a one-off commission.

The trade-off is exclusivity. Other creators may have bought the same model, and your options for changing it can be limited. That does not make it a bad way to start: it lets you experience performing with a tracked avatar before deciding whether a custom design is worth the investment.

BOOTH and Etsy are common places to browse, but always read the artist’s terms of use before buying. Check whether streaming and commercial use are allowed, whether credit is required, and what kinds of edits you may make.

Option 3: Choose a customisable premade model

Customisable premade models sit between a fixed premade and a fully commissioned model. They usually cost more than a non-customisable model, but let you adjust features such as hair, colours, outfits or accessories so the result is closer to the persona you imagined.

Some also offer more advanced rigging or tracking features. The resource list below includes examples from Suiika, Wanilmith, MizuVee and kyoki_studio II, covering feminine, masculine and stylised character options. They are examples rather than the only choices available, so keep looking until you find a creator and licence that suit you.

Option 4: Start as a PNGTuber

PNGTubers are real VTubers, and I will stand by that. A PNGTuber uses artwork that reacts when you speak, and it can include multiple expressions or extra movement depending on how it is prepared.

It is less fully tracked than a 2D or 3D model, but it is a wonderful way to start with artwork that feels specifically yours. Commissioning a PNGTuber is often much more affordable than commissioning a complete model, and it gives you a visual identity that can later inspire a 2D or 3D version if you decide to upgrade.

Artist platforms such as VGen make it easier to compare styles and prices. Browse carefully, choose work you genuinely love and remember that starting simple does not make your content less valid.

Before you buy or commission anything

Read every licence and terms-of-use page, even when you are buying from a familiar marketplace. Confirm that the model or artwork can be used for monetised streams, whether alterations are permitted, and how the creator wants to be credited.

Double-check the artist and listing before sending money. Watch for copied work, impersonation, scams and undisclosed AI-generated art. If something feels wrong or the usage rights are unclear, pause and ask the creator before buying.

The model is only the beginning

The best starter model is the one that lets you begin without putting yourself under financial pressure. Try streaming, learn what you enjoy and listen to how you feel when the camera goes live. If you love it and can comfortably afford an upgrade later, you will make that decision with real experience behind you.

Whatever route you choose, focus on expressing yourself and making something you want to return to. Your first model does not need to be your forever model—it just needs to help you start.