Imagine being able to turn your hobbies and passions into a thriving online career while connecting with people from all corners of the globe. Sound too good to be true?
Well, not anymore! With Twitch revolutionising the way we consume content, starting your own streaming channel has never been more accessible and rewarding. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming the next gaming sensation or sharing insightful discussions about politics or music, this comprehensive guide will equip you with everything you need to know about breaking into the world of live streaming.
What to Know Before Start Streaming on Twitch
One must get familiar with the different methods and tips for how Twitch streaming works. Whether you intend to start a Twitch channel to broadcast your video gaming sessions or simply wish to watch others, the process remains the same. It is important to know which streaming software is required on a PC or mobile device. And how to set up streaming to watch your favourite channel.
One might be surprised to know that Twitch’s user base has aired more than 24 billion hours of broadcasts in 2021 alone. For some people, Twitch is where they go to watch content. So, there is plenty of opportunity. Nevertheless, despite the rise in viewers, it is still difficult to become a well-known Twitch broadcaster, especially when you consider the time and dedication needed.
Of course, there are those fortunate streamers who seem to become really popular overnight. However, the great majority of the time, getting there requires years of perseverance and hard work.
Let’s talk about the minimum requirement to start your streaming on Twitch.
Pre-requisite for Streaming on Twitch
To start streaming on Twitch, you will need a few prerequisites:
1. Internet Connection: A stable and high-speed internet connection is crucial for smooth streaming. Twitch recommends at least 3-6 Mbps upload speed for a standard stream, but higher speeds are recommended for better quality.
2. Computer or Console: You will need a computer or a gaming console to stream games. Make sure your device meets the minimum requirements for streaming software and desired game quality.
3. Streaming Software: Choose a suitable streaming software like OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) or Streamlabs OBS to broadcast your gameplay to Twitch. These programs allow you to capture your screen, webcam, and audio sources.
4. Twitch Account: Create a Twitch account if you don’t already have one. Visit twitch.tv and sign up with an email address, username, and password.
5. Broadcasting Platform Credentials: In addition to Twitch, you may also want to stream on other platforms simultaneously, like YouTube or Facebook Gaming. If so, ensure you have the necessary credentials (such as API keys) for those platforms.
6. Quality Equipment: While not mandatory, having good equipment can significantly enhance the quality of your streams. Consider investing in a quality microphone for clear voice communication and a webcam if you want to include facecam footage.
7. Branding Assets: Design channel graphics like overlays, panels, banners, logos, and alerts that align with your branding aesthetic before starting your first stream.
8. Chat Monitoring Tools: As a streamer, it’s important to manage chat effectively while maintaining a positive environment. Familiarise yourself with moderation tools on Twitch and consider installing chatbots or third-party chat moderation applications.
9. Knowledge of Twitch Rules & Guidelines: Be sure to review and understand Twitch’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Service before starting any streams to ensure compliance with their rules.
10. Stream Content Plan: Decide on the type of content you want to create and stream. Consider choosing a specific game or niche that you are passionate about, as it can help build a dedicated audience.
How to Start Streaming on Twitch Using a PC or Laptop?
You may download streaming programmes like Twitch Studio (PC/Mac) or Streamlabs OBS (PC/Mac) for the greatest audio quality.
With the help of Twitch Studio, you can rapidly set up your broadcast and go live. You may follow the instructions for setting up your webcam and audio inputs in the Twitch Studio guide.
Another software choice is Streamlabs OBS, where you can set up your stream and link your Twitch account by following a quick instruction.
With Lightstream Studio, you can stream directly from your web browser if you don’t want to install any more software. With only a few clicks, Lightstream enables you to invite visitors to your stream.
On the Lightstream website, click “Start Streaming,” then select Twitch from the list of possibilities. An invitation to sign in and activate your Twitch account will appear.
The tutorial will walk you through adding your camera and audio source; be sure to tick Disable processing for music sources for the clearest audio. To start streaming, click the “GO LIVE” icon in the top right corner.
Are you prepared to go forward? You may advance your broadcast by setting up a PC with the necessary tools (often a camera, microphone, and audio interface).
How to Start Streaming on Twitch using a Smartphone?
Whether it’s Android, iPhone, or iPad, the method remains the same. Twitch allows mobile game broadcasting in two different ways. You have two options for installing software:
- First, you can cast the screen of the device you want to use to stream to your computer’s display.
- Second, you can install an app that is compatible with the operating system on the smartphone or tablet you’re using.
The live streaming app (FREE) must be downloaded to your smartphone in addition to a Twitch account and a mobile game.
You will need a microphone, a webcam, and the software required to link your smartphone or tablet to a computer, as well as live streaming software if you choose to broadcast your mobile streaming video through a computer.
Installing an app is most likely the simplest way to stream mobile games on Twitch. It’s easier to use StreamLabs to stream from your mobile device directly to Twitch, even though there are many choices available for iPhones and Android phones.
You may share your broadcasts on YouTube, Mixer, or Twitch if you decide to download StreamLabs. You must first log in with your Twitch account to use the app. To do so, simply hit the button that reads “Log in with Twitch” when the program is launched.
After downloading the app to your smartphone or tablet, you will be prompted to log in using your Google, or Facebook account.
How to Start Streaming on Twitch using Xbox?
To start streaming on Twitch on Xbox, follow the steps below:
- Sign Up or log in to your Twitch account first.
- Select “Live broadcasting” under the “Capture and Share” option on the Xbox One console.
- Use an iOS or Android mobile device to scan the QR code, or a PC or mobile device to access the URL, you must link your Twitch account.
- Once your accounts are connected, click the “Go live now” option to begin live streaming games that have been downloaded to your console right away.
- Users can watch your streaming with any device they have. You may opt to notify players who follow you on the Xbox console when you go live on Twitch.
- To activate this, go to Preferences > Xbox Notifications and change the live streaming options.
How to Start Streaming on Twitch using Play Station 5?
To start streaming your Twitch session using Play Station, follow the steps below:
- From the Microsoft Store, get the Twitch Xbox app. It should be noted that you may broadcast from your PlayStation without using the PlayStation app.
- To distinguish yourself, add aspects to your channel that represent your own brand. When users find your page, this will help them in understanding who you are!
- On a mobile device, you may edit your profile picture and bio. You can also change a variety of other options using a web browser.
- It is advisable that you connect to your account from a web browser before you start streaming so that you may configure your Moderation and Safety settings and guarantee a great experience for your expanding community.
- Set up your microphone or headset, which is compatible with the PlayStation. For PlayStation, the only option is to use the PS4 or PS5 camera.
- Following the instructions on your screen, first connect your PlayStation account by scanning the QR code or entering the code at twitch.tv/activate.
- Sign Up or log in to your Twitch account. If you have set up two-factor authentication, then complete it.
- Press the Share button on your controller while playing a game, choose “Broadcast Gameplay” from the Share menu, and then choose Twitch.
- If available, you may add your PlayStation Camera and select your video option before inviting your friends to start viewing.
