Credit: Lightstream
Twitch has attracted over 9 million unique viewers in the last two years, featuring a wider range of live entertainment channels ranging from professional e-sports games to informal cookery events and living room DJ performances, as well as some dubious ASMR feeds. The Amazon-owned streaming service has grown in popularity and has evolved into something more than a video gaming stream platform.
To begin streaming on Twitch, all you need is a device and a somewhat solid internet connection. You might start streaming before you finish reading this post since the method is so simple. If you’re looking to put together a more professional setup, you can do it in under an hour, whether you’re using your gaming PC, laptop, console, or even your smartphone.
- The best gaming PCs for streaming
- The best gaming curved monitors for streaming
So, whether you want to try your hand at Twitch or are already certain that the road to Internet celebrity is one you want to take, here’s all you need to know about how to stream on Twitch. Also, you can see the best mac antivirus softwares: Free & Paid
How Do You Get Ready to Stream on Twitch?
One of the most appealing aspects of Twitch is how simple it is to get started streaming. Twitch’s streaming process is basic and uncomplicated. One of their key characteristics is that anyone, regardless of technical experience, can quickly and simply get up and running on their platform. When you combine it with Lightstream, it becomes much easier!
Consider the many streaming genres. Twitch is more than simply a gaming platform. Twitch has a community for everything, from Dungeons and Dragons to food channels. And we all understand the value of belonging to a community.
Look for a few streamers who inspire you and learn from them!
Now we’ll get down to business, but don’t worry, it’s not as terrifying as you would think:
How to Stream on Twitch: Picking your software
Streaming on Twitch isn’t as difficult as it may look, thanks to its flexibility to accept streams from several devices. Gaming PCs and decently capable gaming laptops are, nevertheless, among the most famous places to stream Twitch from. And, to do so, you’ll need the appropriate software to get your stream up and running.
XSplit, a Windows 10-centric tool, and Open Broadcaster Software, which is accessible on Mac, Linux, and Windows, are the two main options. XSplit is the easiest to use, with a straightforward UI, albeit it does demand payment. OBS is a terrific free option and perhaps one of the most popular pieces of streaming software, but you’ll have to roll up your sleeves and do a little more initial setup with it.
Custom versions of OBS, such as Streamlabs OBS and StreamElements OBS. Live, are also available. These tools work along with Streamlabs and StreamElements to make it simple to create unique layouts, alerts, and other features.
Those new to streaming might check out Twitch Studio, Twitch’s streaming application that was created with novices in mind. This app is free and guides you through the configuration of your key streaming devices, such as your camera and game feed. It also includes customizable templates to help you get started with streaming right away.
How to use OBS
Configuring Your Stream
1. Open OBS.
2. Select Settings.
Credit: Twitch
3. Select Stream.
Credit: Twitch
4. For the quickest setup, select Twitch as the service and click Connect Account.
5. Enter your username and password for login to Twitch. You’re ready to go!
Credit: Twitch
6. When you don’t want to login to your account directly, you may use a stream key to connect Twitch to OBS. Return to your Twitch dashboard and click Stream Key to do so. To get your exclusive streaming code, simply follow the directions.
Credit: Twitch
7. Copy and paste the code into the Broadcast Settings menu’s Stream Key field. Select OK.
Credit: Twitch
Setting the scene and going live
1. Right-click the Sources box in the main OBS interface and select Add, then Game Capture.
Credit: Twitch
2. Click OK after selecting your preferred game from the drop-down menu.
Credit: Twitch
3. To add any new feeds, right-click the Sources box again. You may personalize your layout by adding photos and text, using Monitor Capture to show anything on your screen, or selecting Video Capture to utilize your webcam.
Credit: Twitch
4. To fine-tune your broadcast layout, go to Preview Stream and Edit Scene. For instance, you could wish to prominently display your gameplay stream, with a little box in the corner displaying your camera feed.
Credit: Twitch
Credit: Twitch
5. On the OBS dashboard, click Start Streaming. You are now live!
Credit: Twitch
How to use XSplit
Configuring Your Stream
1. Open XSplit.
2. Select Broadcast, then Add Channel, then Twitch.
Credit: Twitch
3. Click the Authorize button and enter your Twitch login id and password.
Credit: Twitch
4. Click Finish. XSplit will choose the best resolution for you.
Credit: Twitch
5. Make any necessary changes to your stream’s properties and then click OK.
Credit: Twitch
Setting the Scene and Going Live
1. Select Add from the Screen Sources area on the bottom left of the XSplit UI.
Credit: Twitch
2. Hover over Game Capture and choose your favorite game.
Credit: Twitch
3. Add any other sources, such as pictures or your camera stream, by selecting Add again.
4. Each source may be dragged and resized to your preference. For example, you could want to highlight your Game Capture stream while also displaying your camera feed in a little box in the corner.
Credit: Twitch
5. Select Broadcast, followed by Twitch. You are now live!
Credit: Twitch
What Type of Hardware to Use When you are streaming?
How to stream on Twitch is heavily reliant on hardware. Many successful YouTube and Twitch broadcasters utilize the most expensive equipment available, but there are lots of easy, low-cost alternatives.
- Computer or Console: Below, we’ll show you how to stream from both of these alternatives. The processor and graphics card, which both consoles and PCs have, are the most crucial components. Both solutions have advantages, so don’t feel constrained if you can’t afford a gaming PC right now!
- Webcam: Dedicated webcams are another excellent option to give your streams more depth and personality. However, even high-quality cameras are useless if the film isn’t accompanied by adequate lighting, so consider lighting your scene first before upgrading.
You may also want to consider purchasing a green screen, a stream deck, and/or a hardware encoder. These aren’t required for you to stream, but they may surely help you improve your output.
- Microphone: A good microphone may make a huge difference in your Twitch streaming setup. One of the most critical aspects of keeping visitors engaged and interested in your material is having a clear, smooth voice. Although the built-in microphone included in most computers and headphones is technically adequate, we recommend investing in an independent microphone as soon as possible.
How To Stream to Twitch from PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S
Because many popular games are only available on particular platforms, it’s no surprise that cross-platform gaming and broadcasting are popular among Twitch users. Here’s how to use the most popular devices to stream on Twitch:
How to stream to Twitch from an XBOX
1. Install the Twitch App
Credit: TechOwns
Twitch can be downloaded via the Microsoft Store. Simply go to the App Store and search for ‘Twitch’ to get the app.
2. Link your Xbox app to your Twitch Account
You’ll need to link your Xbox account to your Twitch account if you wish to sync your Xbox feeds to your Twitch account. To do so, go to twitch.tv/activate on your phone, tablet, or computer and input the code that appears on your console.
3. Send Xbox Outputs to Lightstream
Getting your console to broadcast from Xbox to Lightstream is straightforward if you’re using Lightstream. Simply sign in with your Twitch account in Lightstream Studio, choose the Gamer plan, and tweak your project parameters as needed. Then:
- On your Xbox, run the Twitch app
- Navigate to the ‘Broadcast’ tab
- Set the destination to ‘Lightstream
4. Connect your camera & microphone
A high-quality stream requires good peripherals such as cameras and microphones. Connect your devices to the rear of your Xbox and make the adjustments shown below. Account > Privacy & Safety > Xbox Live Privacy > Customize: Settings > Account > Privacy & Safety > Xbox Live Privacy > Customize:
- Change the ‘You Can Broadcast Gameplay’ option to allow it
- ‘You may share content created with Kinect or another camera’ should also be permitted
- Select ‘Everybody’ under Online Status & History > Others Can See If You’re Online
5. Title your broadcast & start playing!
Credit: Insider
Start the broadcast by clicking the Start Broadcast button. Twitch is typically able to identify whether you’re playing by itself. You may also manually generate a title, which will begin broadcasting after you’ve done so.
How to stream to Twitch from a PS4
1. Disable HDCP and other settings
Credit: Leawo.org
Because Twitch is pre-installed on the PS4, all you have to do is tweak a few settings to begin streaming. Specifically:
- Disable HDCP by navigating to System > Settings > HDCP
- Adjust audio levels and your PlayStation Camera under Settings > Devices
- Enable audio in-game via Sharing and Broadcast > Broadcast Options > Advanced Options > Audio Sharing Options
- In-game, go to Sharing and Broadcast > Broadcast Settings > Advanced Settings and enable “Display Messages to Spectators and Spectators’ Comments.”
2. Send PS4 Outputs to Lightstream
Setting up console streaming on the PS4 is simple if you’re using Lightstream. Log in with your Twitch account to Lightstream Studio, choose the Gamer plan, then tweak your project parameters. Then:
- Select Custom, Automatic, Do Not Specify, and Manual under Settings > Network > Set Up Internet Connection
- Enter the IP address 13.89.104.171, then select ‘Do Not Use’
3. Hook up your PS4 and Twitch accounts
Credit: Business Insider
Streaming on a PS4 is relatively simple once you’ve modified the following settings. Simply launch your game, press the share button on your controller, and link your account. Simply scan the QR code that appears on the screen to do so. If your smartphone doesn’t support QR codes, go to twitch.tv/activate.
4. Start streaming!
You’re ready to go! Title the broadcast, and you’ll have complete control over the stream. Have a good time!
How to stream to Twitch from a PC or Desktop Computer
Streaming from your desktop is dependent on the software platform you have installed. Regardless of whether you’re using OBS, Lightstream, XSplit, or something else, the processes will be comparable.
1. Install your selected software
Credit: Lightstream
Lightstream is best for console streaming, but it can also be used to stream high-quality footage directly from your computer.
Lightstream, on the other hand, was created particularly to address streaming from consoles. If you’d rather broadcast from your desktop, OBS Studio, StreamLabs Desktop, or XSplit are all excellent choices. Adjust your project settings according to the platform’s instructions, then add your media sources and go to the next stage.
2. Connect your microphone & camera
Make that your computer’s microphone, camera, and any other auxiliary devices are all connected.
3. Start streaming!
You’re all set to go! It’s time to begin your streaming experience.
Tips for Improving Your Twitch Streams
Several factors contribute to your Twitch streaming setup being the best it can be.
- Get Familiar with Your Software: When streaming, the more experienced you are with the software encoders, gaming consoles, and controllers you use, the easier it will be to modify settings on the fly or correct emerging problems.
- Keep Your Hardware Organized: Wires, cables, and cards may easily become tangled. To keep them from becoming twisted or dirty, try bundling them together or taping them down. While streaming, we also recommend having everything customizable within reach of where you’re seated. That way, if you need to tweak the volume or press a button on your stream deck fast, you can do it without leaving the camera frame.
- Double Check Audio & Video Before You Go Live: Many users make the mistake of starting their broadcast without testing to see if their audio or video is working out of a desire to save time. As a result, individuals may play for hours before noticing a blank screen or a malfunctioning microphone. You can prevent such predicament and spare yourself a headache by testing ahead of time.
FAQ
How Can I Improve the Look and Sound of My Stream?
Investing in a quality microphone and camera, as we said previously, will help your broadcast look and sound excellent. The design of your stream has a significant impact on its quality. Use software encoders like Lightstream that allow you to effortlessly change your appearance and feel.
What Kind of Twitch Content Should You Broadcast?
We’ve seen a pattern throughout the years: passion always climbs to the top. People who like their specialty are more likely to stream regularly than those who do not, and this adds up over weeks and months. Would you still conduct this stream if you didn’t make a dollar from it over the next 10 years? If you answered yes, you’ve come to the right spot.
What Are the Twitch Etiquette Guidelines Which Will Help Me Attract the Audience?
First and foremost, take a look at Twitch’s community standards, which provide a lot of helpful hints for keeping viewers involved. If that doesn’t work, try the following:
- Always be nice and friendly to everyone in the chat room so that your viewers know you respect their presence
- Avoid excessive cursing and do not offend other users
- Maintain polite exchanges and block viewers who attempt to attack you or others
Conclusion
Streaming on Twitch is a fantastic method to gain exposure and make friends. Learning how to go live on Twitch may be difficult at first, but after you’ve mastered the basics, it will be a pleasure and a joyful and gratifying activity.
Still not sure where to begin? For creators, Lightstream is an all-in-one cloud streaming platform. It’s easy to use, doesn’t rely on your hardware, and allows you to create visually appealing stream arrangements.
