{"id":179701,"date":"2021-11-12T10:46:03","date_gmt":"2021-11-12T09:46:03","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/sftarticles.wpenginepowered.com\/en\/?p=179701"},"modified":"2025-07-01T21:01:20","modified_gmt":"2025-07-02T04:01:20","slug":"what-is-twitch-how-it-works","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms-articles.softonic.io\/en\/what-is-twitch-how-it-works\/","title":{"rendered":"What is TWITCH and how it works"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Twitch<\/a> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re new to the platform, here\u2019s a quick tour of what Twitch is and how it works<\/strong>. We also have some valuable insight to show you how to make the best of your time on the streaming platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is Twitch?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to platforms that allow you to stream to several devices<\/strong> worldwide, it\u2019s challenging to find an alternative as incredible as Twitch. Whether the audience members use their phones, tablets, or PCs, they\u2019ll have a clear view of what you\u2019re playing, watching, or talking about. Creators can also earn money via subscriptions or reward their viewers with digital prizes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Twitch works<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Besides streaming the content on your screen, Twitch also has various functions that tie in with the platform. Let\u2019s see how you can join and make use of everything that\u2019s available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Accessing Twitch<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re a viewer, you can watch any Twitch broadcast <\/strong>without an account as long as you have the URL link of the stream. However, you won\u2019t be able to comment or join in the conversations. You\u2019ll also need an account if you want to create a channel. You can also download Twitch<\/a> on your mobile device as an app.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is a Twitch account free?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can create a Twitch account free of charge<\/strong>, which will also allow you to stream any content at no cost. It doesn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Does watching Twitch cost money?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You also don\u2019t need to pay<\/strong> if you want to watch a stream. However, the broadcasting channel may have some subs or requirements for payment to see specific content. It\u2019s an enticing marketing method for content creators to make some money for their hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is subscribing on Twitch?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A content creator sets subscriptions <\/strong>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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For instance, you can earn Twitch Runes<\/strong> for League of Legends. There are also various rates for local and international subscriptions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are bits on Twitch?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When the audience loves what you are doing, they can Cheer on your Twitch channel. You\u2019ll see small emotes, called Cheermotes, appear on your stream. These gems are known as Bits that they use to interact with you<\/strong>, and they receive small monetary rewards every time they do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Is Twitch just for gamers?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While the original focus was for gamers, Twitch is now used by a multitude of various content creators<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Can you make money on Twitch?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There\u2019s a Twitch Partnership Program that lets broadcasters receive a cut of advertisements<\/strong> used in their streams. The subscriptions also provide monetization<\/a>, but the revenue is split with the Twitch company. You can also win monetary prizes by taking part in gaming competitions via Twitch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How does Twitch make money?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Twitch uses an advertisement revenue model<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"What<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Twitch tips and tricks<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have a better idea of what Twitch is and how it works, it\u2019s time to show you some tips on how to improve your channel. These tricks should help you increase your followers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What do you need to stream on Twitch?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To be able to broadcast via Twitch, you\u2019ll need a recording device<\/strong> on your PC and a stable internet connection. You\u2019ll also need streaming software, such as OBS Studio<\/a>. Finally, make sure you have decent tech for video and audio recording.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some guides to help you configure Twitch:<\/p>\n\n\n\n