Twitch launched as an exciting platform for people to stream from their PCs while talking to their audience. Most of them consist of gamers playing their favorite games, but you do get a few that show movies and other content while revealing their reactions or making comments.
If you’re new to the platform, here’s a quick tour of what Twitch is and how it works. We also have some valuable insight to show you how to make the best of your time on the streaming platform.
What is Twitch?
When it comes to platforms that allow you to stream to several devices worldwide, it’s challenging to find an alternative as incredible as Twitch. Whether the audience members use their phones, tablets, or PCs, they’ll have a clear view of what you’re playing, watching, or talking about. Creators can also earn money via subscriptions or reward their viewers with digital prizes.
How Twitch works
Besides streaming the content on your screen, Twitch also has various functions that tie in with the platform. Let’s see how you can join and make use of everything that’s available.
Accessing Twitch
If you’re a viewer, you can watch any Twitch broadcast without an account as long as you have the URL link of the stream. However, you won’t be able to comment or join in the conversations. You’ll also need an account if you want to create a channel. You can also download Twitch on your mobile device as an app.
Is a Twitch account free?
You can create a Twitch account free of charge, which will also allow you to stream any content at no cost. It doesn’t have to be live, as you can also share any gaming videos you recorded. The only time you have to pay is if you want to take advantage of any premium features.
Does watching Twitch cost money?
You also don’t need to pay if you want to watch a stream. However, the broadcasting channel may have some subs or requirements for payment to see specific content. It’s an enticing marketing method for content creators to make some money for their hard work.
What is subscribing on Twitch?
A content creator sets subscriptions on Twitch so that followers can support their work. You can get once-off or recurring subs, while you can also send gifts and receive sub-only rewards.
For instance, you can earn Twitch Runes for League of Legends. There are also various rates for local and international subscriptions.
What are bits on Twitch?
When the audience loves what you are doing, they can Cheer on your Twitch channel. You’ll see small emotes, called Cheermotes, appear on your stream. These gems are known as Bits that they use to interact with you, and they receive small monetary rewards every time they do so.
Is Twitch just for gamers?
While the original focus was for gamers, Twitch is now used by a multitude of various content creators. Some examples include digital illustrators, authors, painters, singers, and movie broadcasts. Anyone who wants to share an experience with their audience can benefit from it.
Can you make money on Twitch?
There’s a Twitch Partnership Program that lets broadcasters receive a cut of advertisements used in their streams. The subscriptions also provide monetization, but the revenue is split with the Twitch company. You can also win monetary prizes by taking part in gaming competitions via Twitch.
How does Twitch make money?
Twitch uses an advertisement revenue model for the most part, but there are also subscription royalties the company receives. It receives some incentives from top gaming companies and other well-known brands.
Twitch tips and tricks
Now that you have a better idea of what Twitch is and how it works, it’s time to show you some tips on how to improve your channel. These tricks should help you increase your followers.
What do you need to stream on Twitch?
To be able to broadcast via Twitch, you’ll need a recording device on your PC and a stable internet connection. You’ll also need streaming software, such as OBS Studio. Finally, make sure you have decent tech for video and audio recording.
Here are some guides to help you configure Twitch:
- How to Record Twitch Streams on a PC
- Twitch: How to make money as an affiliate
- How to host streams on Twitch and why you should be doing it
- How to set up your Twitch stream on PC
Customizing your page’s channel
When people visit your channel, the content on the page sets the tone for whether or not they’ll return. Spend as much time as possible setting everything up in each of the panels to display as much information as is needed. The top sections to visit are Channel Page, Account Settings, and Moderation Settings.
Make a stream schedule
Do you know that feeling when you’re excited to see the next episode of your favorite show on a specific day and time? Well, Twitch viewers enjoy it too. When you set a schedule of planned streams, make sure you stick to it so you don’t let them down.
Announce your live Twitch stream
People won’t know you’re streaming on Twitch if you don’t let them know. When you go live, your followers will receive notifications. You can also share the news over social media, which might bring more viewers to the screen. The more you engage with your audience, the quicker you’ll see your numbers grow.
Describe your purpose
It helps if you describe what your main objective is with the Twitch channel. It can be for gaming, showing your skills, pure entertainment, casual talks, or just to create a social hub. When you explain your intent, you’ll have a better target audience to engage in conversation.
Enjoy the live streaming experience!
Learning how Twitch works is easy once you get into the groove. Remember to target a specific audience, as gamers might become bored listening to you talk about your knitting skills. We hope you have fine streaming your content and grow your channel quickly!
