Forget fancy webcams and static Twitch banners. The real future of content creation is virtual — and animated. From cute 2D anime-style characters to fully rigged 3D avatars, VTubing is more accessible than ever. But with so many tools, terms, and tutorials floating around, knowing where to begin can be overwhelming.
That's why we've gathered the most popular and beginner-friendly VTuber avatar tools — as recommended by actual Reddit users — to help you get started with confidence.
In This Article
Quick Comparison: Popular Tools for Making VTuber Avatars
Now that you've seen a quick overview of the most popular VTuber avatar tools, let's take a closer look at each one. From 3D model makers to tracking software and asset libraries, every part of the VTuber setup plays a role. Below, we'll break down each tool based on real user feedback — what it does, what it's good at, and why it might (or might not) be right for you.
| Tool | Model Type | Price | Ease of Use | Community Feedback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VRoid Studio | 3D | Free | Beginner-friendly | Most recommended for starters (5+ threads) |
| Live2D Cubism | 2D | Free (basic) / Paid | Moderate to hard | Preferred by pros, but steep learning curve |
| VSeeFace | 3D tracking | Free | Easy | Most popular with VRoid users |
| VTube Studio | 2D tracking | Free / Paid upgrade | Easy | Go-to for Live2D face tracking |
| Booth.pm | Assets | Free / Paid | Moderate | Essential for textures, overlays, models |
| veadotube mini | PNGTuber | Free | Very easy | Great entry point for zero-budget creators |
1. VRoid Studio – The Best Free Tool for 3D Models
Overview:
VRoid Studio is a free character creation software developed by Pixiv. It's the most popular starting point for 3D VTubers—mentioned repeatedly across Reddit posts for its simplicity and flexibility.
Key Features
- Completely Free and available on Steam or VRoid's official site
- User-Friendly Interface with sliders and visual previews (no 3D modeling required)
- Export in .VRM Format, compatible with VSeeFace and most VTuber apps
- Supports Custom Textures and Outfits, which can be imported from Booth.pm
- Works on modest PCs, no need for high-end specs
- Regularly Updated by Pixiv with quality-of-life improvements
Real User Feedback
- “VRoid is the best beginner-friendly option.” – u/kowai_ika_studios
- “Start with VRoid to see if you even like VTubing first.” – u/StarlightAkari
- “I use VRoid and then tweak the model in Blender and Unity for more detail.”
- u/Shelbylove2
Pros
- 100% free and beginner-friendly
- No drawing or 3D modeling skills required
- Instant avatar creation with export-ready format (.vrm)
- Large community and asset ecosystem (Booth.pm, Twitter #VtuberAssets)
- Easy integration with tracking tools like VSeeFace
Cons
- Limited realism or uniqueness without heavy customization
- Male avatars require more manual adjustment to avoid “same-face” look
- Advanced rigging (like full-body physics) needs extra tools (e.g., Blender, Unity)
- Not ideal for those aiming for ultra-detailed or realistic avatars
2. Live2D Cubism – High-End 2D Models (with a Learning Curve)
Overview:
Live2D Cubism is the industry standard for 2D VTuber avatars. It requires layered illustrations (usually PSD files) that are rigged and animated to move naturally with your face tracking.
Key Features:
- Turns layered 2D illustrations into dynamic VTuber models
- Requires art separated into layers (eyes, mouth, hair, etc.) in PSD format
- Works with face tracking software like VTube Studio and PrprLive
- Free basic version available; Pro version offers commercial use and advanced features
- Compatible with webcam or iPhone for facial tracking
- Ideal for expressive, animation-style VTuber characters
Reddit User Feedback
- “Live2D is what most big VTubers use.” – u/NemoNightmare
- “It's a pain in the ass to learn how to properly rig a VTuber model.” – u/NemoNightmare
- “For Live2D, there are tons of tutorials on how to separate your drawing.” – u/EtherealNyx_
Reddit users consistently note that Live2D is powerful but not beginner-friendly. It's recommended to learn gradually or consider commissioning a model from an artist.
Pros
- High-quality, smooth animations
- Professional-grade results used by top VTubers
- Strong facial expression support
- Works well with widely-used tracking apps
Cons
- Requires drawing skills and layered artwork
- Rigging process is technical and time-consuming
- Hiring artists for art + rigging can be expensive
- Not ideal for complete beginners
3. VSeeFace – Most Popular Free 3D Face Tracking Software
Overview:
VSeeFace is the go-to software for animating .vrm 3D models in real time. It's lightweight, free, and works well even with low-end webcams or iPhones (for higher tracking quality).
Key Features:
- Tracks facial expressions and head movement using a webcam
- Supports .vrm avatars exported from VRoid Studio
- Can be used with an iPhone for higher tracking precision
- Integrates easily with OBS for recording or livestreaming
- Offers hotkey-based expression changes (like winks or smiles)
- Lightweight and doesn't require a powerful computer
Reddit User Feedback
- “You don't even need a fancy webcam. I use a $12 one from Amazon and it still works pretty decently.” – u/Purple_Freak7610
Pros
- Completely free and easy to install
- Actively used and supported by the VTuber community
- Runs well on average PCs
- Works smoothly with VRoid avatars (.vrm format)
- Can be used with basic webcams or iPhones
- Allows real-time interaction with OBS (no post-editing needed)
Cons
- Doesn't support 2D models (Live2D not compatible)
- User interface is simple and may feel outdated
- Expression setup (via hotkeys) is manual and can take time
- No built-in overlays or backgrounds—needs OBS for visuals
4. VTube Studio – Trusted Tracker for 2D Live2D Models
Overview:
VTube Studio is the primary face-tracking software for Live2D avatars. It supports webcams and iPhones, integrates easily with OBS, and is praised for its intuitive UI.
Key Features (based on community use)
- Runs Live2D models with facial tracking using webcam or iPhone
- Supports hotkey-triggered expressions and motion
- Compatible with OBS for recording or livestreaming
- Has both free and paid versions (free includes watermark)
- Offers mobile and desktop versions
- Allows use of backgrounds, toggles, and basic scene control
Reddit User Feedback
While Reddit posts you shared mention VTube Studio more briefly than VRoid or VSeeFace, several users still refer to it directly or indirectly when talking about Live2D tracking:
- “Use VTube Studio. It is completely free.” – u/Purple_Freak7610
Even when not named directly, users discussing Live2D setups almost always assume the use of VTube Studio as part of the workflow. Its minimal barrier to entry and flexibility with webcams makes it a reliable choice.
Pros
- Free version works well for most users
- Lightweight and optimized for low- to mid-range PCs
- Clean and intuitive interface for controlling models and expressions
- Works seamlessly with OBS and other streaming tools
- Widely supported by the Live2D community and tutorial creators
- Available on PC, iOS, and Android
Cons
- Only works with Live2D models (not compatible with VRM or 3D avatars)
- Requires a properly rigged Live2D model, which can be difficult or expensive to create
- Free version includes a small watermark (removable with upgrade)
- Expression toggling requires setup and testing, especially for more advanced rigs
5. Booth.pm – The Ultimate Free/Paid Asset Store
Overview:
Booth.pm is a popular Japanese marketplace where VTubers can find both free and paid assets for their models and streams. It's regularly mentioned on Reddit threads as the go-to place for customizing VRoid avatars, upgrading textures, or downloading overlays. Users often discover it while searching for ways to improve their model without needing to draw or create assets from scratch.
Although it's not designed specifically for English speakers, many Reddit users still recommend it because of the sheer variety and quality of available content.
Key Features (based on community use)
- Offers free and paid assets for 3D (VRoid) and 2D (Live2D) models
- Popular categories include hair, clothes, eyes, makeup, skin texture, and full model templates
- Widely used for stream overlays, background,, and accessory packs
- Works seamlessly with VRoid Studio — just download, import, and apply
- Many items tagged as “free to use” or “free with credit”
- Accessible without an account for browsing and downloading
Reddit User Feedback
Booth.pm was mentioned in multiple threads, especially when users asked about customizing models or finding overlays without drawing skills.
- “You can find nice free and paid assets on booth.pm and creating textures/custom clothes is pretty simple too!” – u/greenejewel
- “I just try to find some copyright-free images and edit them, or look on Booth.” – u/Shirojime
Pros
- Huge variety of free and paid assets
- Easy to use with VRoid (drag-and-drop style)
- Saves time and effort for non-artists
- Trusted by many in the VTuber community
- No drawing or rigging skills needed to apply assets
- Many creators allow use with simple crediting
Cons
- Site is mostly in Japanese (though many users navigate it fine)
- Asset quality varies; some trial and error may be needed
- Not all downloads are free—some high-quality sets cost money
- Some files require knowledge of VRoid/Unity to apply properly
6. Veadotube Mini
Overview:
veadotube mini is a free, lightweight desktop app designed for PNGTubers — creators who use static images instead of full animated models. It lets you set up a simple avatar using just two PNG files (usually one with mouth open and one closed), and triggers image switches based on your microphone input.
On Reddit, veadotube mini is frequently recommended as the best tool for complete beginners or creators who want to start VTubing without making a full 2D or 3D model. It's especially popular among streamers who don't have a webcam, a powerful PC, or a Live2D/VRoid setup.
Key Features:
- Mic-activated switching between two or more PNG images (e.g., talking vs. idle)
- Extremely simple setup — no rigging, drawing, or tracking required
- Runs on low-end computers
- Works alongside OBS for streaming or recording
- Supports image layering, simple bounce/motion effects, and transparency
- No login, no installation — it's portable and ready to run
Reddit User Feedback
veadotube mini was mentioned multiple times as the easiest way to start as a VTuber without complex software or models.
- “If you don't want to use a webcam, become a PNGTuber. Get PNGs, then animate them using a program like veadotube mini — it's what I do.” – u/RottedHood
- “There are even picrews that are free to use for creating your PNGTuber sources.” – [deleted]
- “Start small, dream big.” – general Reddit advice that fits PNGTuber workflow
Pros
- 100% free and beginner-friendly
- No model-making or rigging skills needed
- Very low system requirements
- Perfect for testing the VTuber experience before committing
- Pairs easily with OBS or other streaming tools
- Allows creativity with minimal setup
Cons
- Only supports basic mouth-open/closed animation
- Limited expression or movement control
- Not suitable for creators wanting face or body tracking
- Visuals are static — not comparable to Live2D or 3D models
FAQ about VTuber avatar tools
1. Do I need to know how to draw to become a VTuber?
No. Tools like VRoid Studio and veadotube mini allow you to create and use avatars without any drawing skills. You can also download free assets from sites like Booth.pm.
2. What's the difference between a 2D and a 3D VTuber avatar?
A 2D avatar is drawn and animated using layers (usually in Live2D Cubism), while a 3D avatar is fully modeled in 3D space using tools like VRoid Studio or Blender. 3D models allow more movement, but 2D avatars can be more expressive.
3. Can I start VTubing for free?
Yes. Many Reddit users start with free software like VRoid Studio, VSeeFace, veadotube mini, and OBS. You can even find free overlays and accessories on Booth.pm.
4. What kind of computer do I need to run VTuber tools?
Most tools like VRoid Studio, VSeeFace, and VTube Studio work on mid-range PCs. PNGTuber apps like veadotube mini can run on almost any device.
5. Which setup is best for beginners?
A common beginner setup is:
VRoid Studio (for 3D avatar) + VSeeFace (for tracking) + OBS (for recording/streaming).
For 2D avatars: Live2D Cubism + VTube Studio.
For no-animation setups: PNG + veadotube mini.
Final Takeaway: Recommended Paths Based on User Needs
Whether you're creating a simple PNG avatar or a fully rigged 3D character, the VTuber world offers endless ways to express yourself. Each tool has its own strengths — from the customization of VRoid Studio to the high-level polish of Live2D, or the simplicity of veadotube mini.
The best part? You don't need a big budget or a background in design to get started. Thanks to a supportive online community and a wide range of free tools, anyone can join the virtual stage. Pick the tools that match your style and skill level — and start building your VTuber persona today.
Try LitVideo: Bring Your VTuber Ideas to Life with AI Videos
LitVideo makes it easy to create dynamic AI videos featuring your VTuber avatars. Animate characters, craft scenes, and turn your creative ideas into viral content — all with just a few prompts and no editing experience needed.
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