Knowing how to stream on Twitch will help you take the first step into the world of gaming and make your first Twitch broadcast in a professional and successful way.
If you’ve come to this article out of pure curiosity, it’s because it’s time for you to find out what it takes to stream on Twitch and how you can earn money like the streamers with the most followers on Twitch, considering that there are more than 4 million people connected to some of their transmissions, according to Forbes data.
but isn’t Twitch just for gamers? No. Actually, Twitch is for any content creator. That said, let’s find out how to stream on Twitch on PC, mobile or any other device, as well as some Twitch tricks, the latest trends and a series of free tools to help you master the platform like a PRO streamer.
So, get your hands on the commands and hit play!
1. Install a live streaming software
To learn how to stream on Twitch, you need to have a recording and streaming software like OBS Studio installed on your PC or Mac. There are others like XPlit or Gameshow, but we’ll stick with OBS Studio, since it’s free and, moreover, recommended by Twitch itself.
Keep in mind that to stream on Twitch, it is recommended that you do it from a computer, either a desktop or a laptop. However, there are some requirements for streaming on Twitch and technical aspects that your computer must have to guarantee a good transmission and avoid any inconvenience.
Requirements to stream on Twitch
A minimum 4-core processor. For example, Intel Core i5 – i7 or AMD FX 6300 or Higher
A minimum of 8GB RAM.
Minimum 1TBhard disk storage
An FPS resolution that has a 1280×720 30fps configuration.
A graphics card. Here you don’t need any specific reference, but it must be compatible with DirectX 10. Of course, the more powerful your graphics card is, the better your transmission will be.
Type of connection to stream on Twitch
When learning how to stream on Twitch, you are so enthusiastic about meeting the requirements mentioned above, that you may forget about fundamental elements related to connection and transmission speed.
This element is fundamental if you want to know how to stream on Twitch and on any other platform. In case you do not have an adequate speed for streaming, you will have countless problems and difficulties.
what do we mean? Punctually that without a good streaming speed you won’t be able to:
Produce or send content.
Receive or view content.
But don’t worry, we are here to help you. We will give you several tips and recommendations so that you can start making money on Twitch.
what do you need to know about connectivity?
To start streaming on Twitch, the first thing you need to know about connectivity is the following: when you stream over the Internet, you consume both upload bandwidth and download bandwidth.
Depending on the Internet service provider you have signed up with, both speeds (known as upload and download speeds) may be symmetrical. Although it is common for them to be asymmetrical, as stipulated by most plans. And this is important for streaming.
Therefore, you must know your network upload speed, as this speed is what makes the quality of outgoing transmissions possible. Higher quality streams are produced by having a higher bit rate. Bit rate is when the data of a stream, both audio and video, is processed for a period of time. And it’s your starting point for figuring out how to stream on Twitch.
If the bitrate of your stream is much higher than your upload bandwidth, your Twitch streaming will be unreliable for users and you will probably offer a poor quality product. For this reason, the bitrate must match the resolution (HD, SD or 4K).
what kind of connectivity should you have to stream on Twitch?
We recommend that you choose a fixed connection, as they are usually the most stable for streaming on Twitch. and what do we mean by this?
Fixed connections have several virtues:
They are much faster than the rest.
They are more powerful than mobile connections.
is it a good idea to learn how to stream on Twitch with a wireless connection? Whenever you can use cable it is better to do so, as cables are not prone to interference, unlike the remote signals of a WiFi, for example.
Resolutions suitable for streaming on Twitch
In order for you to generate the best streams and stream on Twitch like a pro, we recommend that you comply with these resolutions and speeds:
If you opt for SD size (what would come to be the standard resolution) it should be 640×360. To stream on Twitch with this format, you need at least 750 kbps upload speed (although this format is completely out of use).
For 480p, it must be 1Mbps in upload speed.
For 720p HD you should have 2.5Mbps upload speed.
And in 1080p Full HD, you must have 4.5 Mbps upload at least.
And if your dream is to stream Twitch in 4K over the Internet, we assure you that it won’t be long now. For now, if you follow these recommendations, you will do great. When you have all these points ready, it’s time for the next step on how to stream on Twitch.
Source: Pinterest
2. Log in to your Twitch account and define your stream
The next step on how to stream on Twitch is that you have to log into your account to set up your channel. To do this, go to the user menu and open the settings. Set up your profile, public name, upload a profile picture and add a brief description of your channel.
Finally, go to your Twitch control panel (Broadcast Manager) and edit the information of your broadcast. Place a title, a live broadcast notification text, the category, tags and the language of the broadcast.
what can I stream on Twitch?
Although one of Twitch’s strong points is video game broadcasts, this does not mean that it is an exclusive platform for gamers and followers of this type of content.
In addition to streaming e-sports events, interviews, talks, you can find channels from different categories, such as science, technology, fashion, art, fitness, music, etc. For example, there are photographers with a channel on Twitch who stream the whole process of editing their images. If you are a photographer, you might be interested in knowing how to stream on Twitch.
On the other hand, if you like baking or making crafts, you can also open an account on Twitch and stream your preparations or the process of your creations. There are several channels with these contents on Twitch, such as Nia’s, a Japanese streamer who cooks miniature food.
3. Configure OBS Studio
Now back to OBS Studio. Once you have downloaded and installed it, you need to configure it to be able to broadcast on Twitch. Go to Settings, click on Broadcast and under Service choose Twitch (it already comes by default in OBS Studio).
Test your audio and video equipment beforehand
Before you start setting up OBS Studio, make sure all the hardware you need is connected to successfully stream on Twitch.
This means connecting your webcam and microphone to your computer. If you plan to add an additional computer monitor to your setup or wish to use a green screen, you should also test this in advance.
Additionally, set up your webcam at a good angle and check the audio levels of your microphone. Finally, check the room in which you will be streaming on Twitch and adjust the lighting if you are using lights.
4. Insert the stream key and start recording!
You are now at the last step on how to stream on Twitch successfully. At this point, you must insert the broadcast key, you can find it in the control panel of your Twitch channel (Preferences > Channel).
In OBS Studio go to Source and choose the recording source. For example: the Screenshot option streams everything that happens on your computer. Everything is ready for you to make your first broadcast, just click Start Streaming in OBS Studio and go live!
Source: Metricool
Other devices to stream on Twitch
As you can see, knowing how to stream on Twitch from PC or Mac is a bit tedious, as you need to install additional software to stream live. However, on other devices or consoles such as the PS4 or Xbox One it is simpler, just like the smartphone, as it only requires downloading the Twitch app.
let’s see how to do it on each one!
how to stream on Twitch with PS4?
To stream on Twitch from your PlayStation 4, you don’t need to download a separate streaming software. You just need to download the Twitch app directly from the PlayStation store and apply the following steps:
Start playing the video game you want to stream.
When you are in the game, press the SHARE button on your PS4 controller. A drop-down menu will open where you must select the “Stream Gameplay” option.
Then, you must select Twitch.
Log in to your Twitch account.
You will see the broadcast menu where you can configure the voice and camera settings and enable or disable viewer comments.
Finally, click on the “Start Broadcast” option. and that’s it!
Source: YouTube Channel PlayStation Spain
how to stream on Twitch from Xbox One?
The process to stream on Twitch from Xbox One is very similar to that of PS4. You must also have the Twitch app downloaded on your console. When you do, follow these steps to stream on Twitch from Xbox One:
First, log into your Twitch account from your computer.
Then, access the Twitch app from your Xbox One.
A message will appear asking you to enter the twitch.tv/activate address from an external device (it can be your computer or your cell phone). When you enter this page, you must enter the 6-digit code provided by your Xbox One. This will link your Twitch account to your console.
Start playing the game you want to stream. When you are in the game, press the start button and select the Twitch application.
Press the “Stream” tab. Here you can configure the parameters of your stream such as its resolution, camera or microphone.
Finally, select the “Start Streaming” option, and that’s it!
Source: YouTube Channel Kloky
how to stream on Twitch from your cell phone?
While consoles are quite focused on streaming gaming content, smartphones are less so. Twitch’s smartphone app only lets you stream from your phone’s camera, so if you want to stream mobile games, you’ll have to deal with third-party apps. Likewise, we’ll show you how to stream on Twitch from mobile.
1. Download and install the Twitch application
Before you can stream on Twitch from mobile, you’ll first need to install the app on your smartphone. Simply download the Twitch app from the Play Store or App Store.
2. Log in to the app
Once installed, you’ll need to go through Twitch’s entire two-factor authentication process to log into the app.
3. Press your profile picture button in the top left corner
The other step on how to stream on Twitch from mobile without a PC is to go to your profile picture and click on it. Automatically, you will get a screen where you will see the “Live” button.
4. Click the “Live” button
Here you will have to allow access to your camera and/or microphone before you can stream on Twitch through the application.
5. Set up the stream on Twitch and go live!
Before making your first broadcast on Twitch from your smartphone, follow these simple steps:
Give your broadcast a name.
Select one of the content categories from the drop-down menu.
Choose the camera you want to use.
Share a link to your stream through the applications you have on your phone.
With these tips, all that’s left to do is press the “Start Streaming” button and you’ll be online for the whole world. That’s how easy it is to learn how to stream on Twitch from your cell phone.
Source: OSX Daily
how to make money on Twitch?
To make money on Twitch, you need to have affiliate status. How to become an affiliate on Twitch? You have to comply with the following rules:
Have 50 followers.
Stream for eight hours.
Stremear seven different days.
Maintain an average of 3 viewers.
The Twitch affiliate category also offers you a series of benefits: loyalty badges, emoticons, etc.
Well, having clarified this point, we will now tell you how much streamers earn according to their number of followers and reach level. Keep in mind that this is an approximate cost, since this amount may vary due to several factors.
how much does a big streamer earn on Twitch?
On Twitch, a big streamer, that is, a popular user with many followers, can earn about 20 thousand dollars a month, taking into account that there are many ways to earn income just by streaming: bits in Twitch (the official currency), subscriptions, ads, donations and sponsorships.
how much does a small streamer earn on Twitch?
On the other hand, a small streamer (with an average of 50 and 140 viewers) can earn between $80 and $120 per month.
Well, having this point clear, we will now tell you how much streamers earn according to their number of followers and reach level. Keep in mind that this is an approximate cost, since this amount may vary due to several factors.
how much does a big streamer earn on Twitch?
On Twitch, a big streamer, that is, a popular user with many followers, can earn about 20 thousand dollars a month, taking into account that there are many ways to earn income just by streaming: bits in Twitch (the official currency), subscriptions, ads, donations and sponsorships.
how much does a small streamer earn on Twitch?
On the other hand, a small streamer (with an average of 50 and 140 viewers) can earn between $80 and $120 per month.
The streamers with the most followers on Twitch
While we’ve already told you how to stream on Twitch, you’re probably wondering: who are the streamers with the most followers?
Just as you have favorite youtubers or influencers that you follow on Instagram for their content, on Twitch there are a large number of users who have a very high volume of followers and a community that does not miss their transmissions.
These are the 10 streamers with the most followers on Twitch:
1. Ninja (16.6 million)
Ninja is an Internet celebrity. His real name is Richard Tyler, but he has managed to build his identity in such a way to gain incredible recognition and become one of the most popular streamers on Twitch worldwide.
Ninja’s content is mainly focused on video games, specifically the famous Fornite. His skills in this battle royale led him to participate in major tournaments and obtain his own skin within the game.
Although his YouTube channel is quite active, when he broadcasts on Twitch they become a trend in a matter of minutes.
. Tfue (9.9 million)
In the second position on the list of streamers with the most followers on Twitch is Turner Ellis Tenney, better known as Tfue.
Like Ninja, Tfue’s content is geared towards video games such as Fortnite, Minecraft or Call of Duty: Warzone.
Tfue is considered one of the best Fornite players and a great exponent in electronic video games, belonging to important teams with a high participation in championships.
visit Tfue’s channel
Source: Esports
3. Shroud (8.9 million)
Unlike Ninja and Tfue, Shroud has been a professional video game player in the shooter genre for almost a decade. He has participated in various tournaments and is recognized in the industry as one of the best exponents of shooter video games.
Since the creation of his Twitch channel and his ability to stream, his growth has been unstoppable, totaling around 395 million views in his broadcasts. His content focuses on transmitting video game games such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive , Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds , Apex Legends or Valorant.
Undoubtedly, Shroud is one of the most popular streamers on Twitch that you can’t miss if you are interested in shooting video games.
visit Shroud’s channel
Source: The load out
4. Rubius (8.1 million)
You’ve probably heard of the Rubius, right? If not, we tell you that he is one of the most important Spanish-speaking youtubers with an immense participation on the Internet, social networks and media.
He has published several books, participated in different events and since migrating to Twitch has become one of the most popular streamers with many years of experience in content creation.
His video game content is very varied, transmitting games of Fornite, Minecraft, Rust, or even, broadcasts on Twitch to talk with his followers, exchange opinions and have a good time.
visit el Rubius’ channel
Source: YouTube
5. xQc (7.5 million)
Felix Lengyel, known as xQc, is a professional e-sports player who has participated in important championships of the popular video game Overwatch, noted for his skills and his trajectory in the world of e-sports.
Despite being one of the most popular streamers on Twitch, he has been suspended several times by different platforms due to inappropriate messages and homophobic comments, as well as for breaching Twitch’s policies.
visit xQc’s channel
Image: BBC
6. Pokimane (7.3 million)
Of Moroccan origin, Imane Anys is a streamer who has gained popularity due to her charisma, her way of interacting with the public and her skills in the video game League of Legends.
Due to the good quality of her content, Twitch established a partnership with Anys since July 2018 that has allowed her to participate in different events on the platform, becoming an exemplary streamer for broadcasting and content creation.
She has been nominated for different awards and is currently one of the most popular streamers on Twitch.
visit Pokimane’s channel
Image: Hyperxgaming
7. Myth (7.2 million)
Like Ninja, Myth’s (Ali Kabbani) content is mainly focused on Fornite, being a professional player of this title and one of the most popular streamers on Twitch.
He started his career as a streamer on YouTube in late 2013 and was gaining popularity thanks to Paragon, a battle royale that closed its servers in early 2018.
Since then, Myth has been growing in the field of streaming, e-sports and currently has a very established community.
visit Myth’s channel
Image: Forbes
8. AuronPlay (7.2 million)
AuronPlay (Raúl Álvarez) is another of the most important Spanish-speaking streamers who has gained a lot of popularity due to his humor and sarcastic opinions on different current affairs.
Currently, AuronPlay’s broadcasts are more conversations with his followers than video game broadcasts, adding up to more than 200,000 viewers per live session. He is one of the most popular streamers on Twitch with whom you can spend hours of fun.
visit AuronPlay’s channel
Image: The load out
9. TheGrefg (6.5 million)
To give you an idea of what TheGrefg means to his community, in early January he broke the record for the most people on a Twitch stream, totaling 2.5 million concurrent viewers while announcing his own Fornite Skin.
His growth has been unstoppable, and he is currently one of the most popular streamers on Twitch with a community that supports him wholeheartedly.
visit TheGrefg’s channel
Image: Dexerto
10. TimTheTatman (6.1 million)
The last position on the list of streamers with the most followers on Twitch is occupied by Timothy Jon Betar, whose content focuses on different video games, such as Fortnite, Overwatch or World of Warcraft.
TimTheTatman has been a full-time creator for Twitch since 2014 and his channel has grown exponentially.
visit TimTheTatman’s channel
Source: YouTube
Twitch Cheats
are you a new Twitch user? You may have some questions about how it works. we’re here to help you! If you want to learn how to stream on Twitch like a PRO, below, we will share with you some tricks to get the most out of this social network.
how to get drops on Twitch?
Drops are a new way to earn points after watching your favorite streamers on Twitch. To do this, you must link your game account with Twitch to get drops.
While browsing Twitch you can search for drops, as they are visible in the navigation, both in the game itself and on the channel pages.
Click on the icons to get drops, but first you must link your game account; and if necessary, Twitch will notify you and ask you the same. After you have linked it you can watch some streamer’s broadcast to have a chance to earn drops on Twitch.
Source: hongkiat
how to appear offline in Twitch chat?
When you want to hide your online status on Twitch, here’s what you should do: click on your profile icon in the top right corner and click on Invisible. This way, you’ll hide your status from everyone, including friends, and you’ll also temporarily stop sharing your activity with your friends.
Source: Hongkiat
how to view the chat log on mobile on Twitch?
Although Twitch offers its mobile app with chat functionality, it deletes the chat history once you switch channels or close the app. If you don’t like this functionality and envy other messaging apps like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp that keep your chat history, this Twitch trick is for you.
The trick involves using TChat for Twitch, a third-party app for Android that is designed to enhance the chat functionality offered by the official app. It also allows you to watch Twitch streams and chat live on multiple channels.
Source: hongkiat
how to enable the “Do not disturb” option on Twitch?
In case you feel overwhelmed by all the new messages and can’t watch your favorite streamer, you can put yourself in “Do Not Disturb” mode to mute new messages. Just click on the gear icon and choose the “Do Not Disturb” option to enable it.
Source: hongkiat
how to pop up the video player on Twitch?
If you are only interested in watching a live game on Twitch and want to hide the page including other details, you can switch to full-screen mode. However, what if you want to watch the video within a different window?
In such a situation, click the gear icon on the video player. Then, select the “Popout Player” option name and you will see the video in a new window.
Source: hongkiat
how to play music on Twitch?
Before you know how to put music on this platform or look for a free sound effect pack, you should be careful not to commit a Twitch copyright infringement. how do you avoid this? By making sure that the music you use is copyright free.
Youtuber Lemosky recommends you answer these two questions:
is the material protected by copyright?
did you obtain the music clip from a legal source?
If you want to know more about how to play music when streaming on Twitch, check out this tutorial:
how to become a partner on Twitch?
A partner on Twitch is basically an affiliate but much better! Being a partner is feeling part of an exclusive club (it practically is). In fact, there are currently only about 30,000 Twitch partners worldwide.
And you may be wondering how to become a partner on Twitch? Needless to say, many of those who stream on Twitch find themselves looking for a coveted spot in this exclusive club. But getting there is not easy, to be a partner on Twitch you must meet the following requirements:
Stream a minimum of 25 hours in the last 30 days.
The average number of simultaneous viewers must reach a minimum of 75 in the last 30 days.
Stream a minimum of 12 different days in the last month.
However, meeting the requirements is not enough. This is because, in addition to the requirements, Twitch also analyzes your content and its value to the community. Twitch looks for streamers who have a strong community, good values and represent them well.
These are the benefits of being a Twitch partner:
Custom joy emoticons.
Up to 50 subscriber emoticons in total.
Guaranteed access to stream transcoding, which means you can stream at the quality you want.
Your past Twitch streams are stored for longer (60 days).
You get a partner manager, who will help you with streaming and any Twitch related issues.
You get the verification mark, i.e. the verified badge next to your name.
You get access to the Twitch Partner lounge at TwitchCon and special treatment at other gaming events.
Differences between partner and affiliate on Twitch
It can be difficult to know the real difference between becoming an affiliate or partner on Twitch. what options are available to you at each level? what does it take to become an affiliate or partner on Twitch?
That’s why we’re here to answer your question and explain the differences between partner and affiliate on Twitch.
While, in principle, affiliates and partners on Twitch are granted essentially the same streaming features, there are some monetization options and badges of honor that Twitch retains strictly for its partners or associates. For example, Twitch affiliates can receive bits; while a partner on Twitch can have a verified chat badge.
As a partner you will be able to earn money with Twitch in the same way affiliates do. The difference is that a partner on Twitch gets more benefits, such as a dedicated administrator, a higher revenue share from both ads and subscriptions, and more perks when it comes to sponsorships and events like TwitchCon.
Either way, we recommend you take it one step at a time. First, become an affiliate before becoming a partner on Twitch, so you can experience both through the Twitch journey!
Source: Streamsentials
Twitch Trends 2022
One social network that has grown substantially in the midst of the pandemic is Twitch. Not surprisingly, brands are increasingly interested in this platform as a source of advertising and revenue. That said, it’s interesting to take a look at some of the Twitch trends to follow in 2022.
1. Enhanced traffic and users
One advantage Twitch has going for it is more traffic and an improved user base. Because many people have been looking for new alternatives to cope with this pandemic, there has been an increase in activity on Twitch and the quest to learn how to stream on Twitch.
Undoubtedly, the growth of this social network will attract the attention of large companies, which are looking to sponsor some of the best and brightest streamers.
2. Professionals and creatives will dominate Twitch
When you think of Twitch, perhaps YouTube content creators come to mind. However, it may also be the case that you start to see the emergence of other types of streamers: world-renowned musicians and creatives are taking over the Twitch world.
Due to the community-led nature of Twitch, strategies such as live performances and concerts are taking place online to ensure that fans are happy and streamers remain relevant.
3. Specific streaming schedules
All successful Twitch streamers follow a set pattern of behavior: they seek to generate interaction with their community. Many Twitch streamers are individuals who have broadcast schedules, plan and make known exactly when they will be online and what this means for their followers.
Creating and implementing streaming schedules will be a popular Twitch trend, especially as many people become more integrated into this platform.
4. Increased advertising and sponsors
As we told you above, there is an increased interest in investing in advertising on Twitch. Undoubtedly, one of the Twitch trends that is going to play an important role in 2022.
Generally, sponsors work with content creators when there is a reasonable chance of return on investment. This is usually done on YouTube or TikTok, but Twitch presents a unique opportunity.
Because Twitch is so community-oriented, streamers establish a more personal relationship with their followers than a YouTube creator: they make recommendations and talk about their lives.
Advertisers love this, as do sponsors. If someone organically mentions and uses your products in a Twitch stream where the relationship between the creator and the audience is close, it’s something that can be put to good use for better brand performance.
Free tools to stream on Twitch
good! Now you know how to stream on Twitch and how to earn money through your charisma and creativity, it’s time to have tools at hand to help you climb up the ranks among so many streamers with more followers on Twitch.
That’s why, below, we will share with you a pack of free resources to give professionalism to your live streams.
1. Twitch content calendar
do you want to better organize your Twitch streams? what you need is a content calendar! With this tool you will be able to organize the ideas you have in mind to stream successfully.
You will also be able to set the objective of each Twitch broadcast and the planned activities you want to carry out in it. This way, you will know how to stream on Twitch and connect with your audience.
2. Banners and backgrounds for Twitch
If you are just starting your way in the gamer world and have mastered how to stream on Twitch, the next step is to customize your channel in the style of the most popular Twitch streamers.
Just like a YouTube cover, the visual aspect of your banner will be your representative image in front of your audience, as it is placed at the top of your profile to determine what type of content you stream in your live streams.
If you don’t know how to design a Twitch cover, don’t worry, with this pack of banners and backgrounds you will be able to give your channel the style you were looking for and make a difference when streaming on Twitch.
3. Facecam Frames for Twitch
are you amazed by the variety of Facecam frames that appear on Twitch livestreams by your favorite streamers? You too can stun your audience with this free pack of Twitch frames every time you stream.
It will undoubtedly turn your viewing space from a flat rectangle to a more eye-catching area and make your Twitch streams unparalleled content for your community.
So, what do you think of Twitch? Although most of its content is focused on video games, keep in mind that it’s not just for gamers. So if your thing is photography, design or crafts, you can also be a streamer on Twitch and let everyone know about your content. why not?
You no longer have excuses, because now you know the essential steps on how to stream on Twitch to share your passion in a creative and effective way.