How to stream on Twitch: Create an account, best programs & more

You’re ready to start streaming on Twitch but don’t know where to start? In this guide, we’re going to show you how to set up a stream with software options and overlay choices.

When you think of streaming, one of the biggest names that may come to your mind is Twitch. After all, it is one of the platforms that’s been around the longest since its original inception as JustinTV in 2007.

How to stream on twitch

Amazon owns it now, allowing the Seattle-based company to add hundreds of features to help its growth.

It can be complicated setting up a stream on the purple-themed platform, so we’re here to give you a rundown on setting up your stream — whether it’s gaming or another category you may be interested in.

start livestreaming on twitch

Creating a Twitch Account

The first thing you need to do is set up an account on the platform, which will give you your channel name to allow people to find you.

Choose software to live-stream on Twitch

The easiest way to stream on Twitch via PC is to choose an encoding program. These programs allow you to easily apply what you want to stream and it does all the hard work when it comes to displaying the stream onto your channel.

There are a few options to choose from, so we’ve picked the most popular:

A mom embraces her son after he opens his first paycheck.

Twitch also has been building their own proprietary program in-house, it’sstill in beta, but it’s worth the honorary mention.

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Where to find stream overlays for Twitch

When it comes to designing the look of your stream, there are dozens of websites that offer full stream packages as well as bits and pieces like webcam overlays and alerts.Nerd or dieandVisuals by impulseare two that offer full packages, but you may create your own onplace it.

If you opt to use Streamlabs OBS as your encoding software, there are dozens of overlay packages built into the program for you to use.

Set up your live stream software for streaming from PC

One of the aspects of live streaming that has allowed for its boom in popularity is accessibility. All of the software mentioned above provides easy and well-explained setup options for beginners of all kinds.

Live-streaming can be an incredibly fun and rewarding experience, but getting discovered can take some time.

Don’t stress about starting, small but verify to enjoy yourself!