Are you new to Twitch and are planning on starting streaming? Then know that before you click on the Broadcast/Stream button, there are some things you need to consider. So we will tell you what do you need to stream on Twitch?

1 What Software Should You Use? 
2 What Hardware Should You Use: CPUs, GPUs, And OS
3 Which Microphone And Webcam Should You Use? 
4 How Can You Earn Money Using Your Channel? 

After all, streaming isn’t just about playing a game. It includes playing the game without any glitches while also ensuring that you look perfect during the streaming sessions.

So if you don’t know how to prepare for the perfect stream, don’t worry. Before we begin, note that everything below has been written with the assumption that you already have a Twitch streaming account ready to use.

What Software Should You Use? 

If you are new to the entire thing, then starting with some software encoders is the best way to begin unless there are hardware encoders. Know that each software encoder has its own unique sets of pros and cons.

Here are some of the best software encoders:

  • Twitch Studio: This is great for anyone who is just trying to judge if streaming is going to be fun and their thing.
  • Streamlabs OBS: It comes with some amazing features that will help you improve and monetize your Twitch channel. However, know that this is just found on Windows.
  • OBS Studio: This is the one many new creators choose because this streaming software is open-source and has cross-platform compatibility. However note that if you are unfamiliar with streaming live using software, then it might take you a little time to learn it.
  • XSplit: The free version isn’t anything to write home about. We would advise you to consider this option only if you are planning on buying the paid XSplit version.
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What Hardware Should You Use: CPUs, GPUs, And OS

Want to know what do you need to stream on Twitch? Then note that good hardware is one of the things.

Many new streamers think that you need to have the best CPUs or webcams/DSLRs to broadcast. But that’s not the case. This is because, for one, Twitch doesn’t support any 4K streaming like YouTube.

So you can use lower-quality stuff. However, do note that one barrier that many Twitch streamers face is that of encoding and broadcasting, as that can be a little too much for the CPU of your computer.

So you will need a CPU that’s capable of handling all this. However, know that you don’t need to use desktop computers for streaming. You can use Xbox One, PlayStation 4, or any other console as well as smartphones too for broadcasting.

But many go with desktops because it comes with other features like using overlays, creating scenes, etc. So if you need a powerful CPU for your desktop, go with AMD Ryzen 7 5800X or Intel Core i5-10600K. Know that these are both good mid-range options.

However, if you have budget limitations, then go with AMD Ryzen 5 3600. Next up is the GPU. Some good options to use are GeForce GTX 1660 Ti and Radeon RX 570. Know that the Nvidia RTX comes with built-in good hardware encoders.

What Do You Need to Stream on Twitch

And you will be able to use it alongside OBS Studio and as such your CPU will get a boost as well. Now let us talk about OS. You can use Mac, PC, or even a laptop. As for RAM, know that 8GB should suffice, and regarding the processor, an i5 will do the job.

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Also, last but not the least; you will need a great internet connection.

Which Microphone And Webcam Should You Use? 

The best gamers on Twitch can hold an audience just based on playing games amazingly well. But that might not the case for you. After all, you might not be a pro at the beginning.

As such, you will have to give your audience something more so that they stay engaged. One of these is video and audio commentary. It will let you show your face as well as your personality, wit, and humor.

So you will have to invest in good webcams and microphones as that will help the video and audio of your gaming stream. After all, you will certainly want people to see you perfectly as well as hear and understand what you say correctly.

Regarding webcam you can go for Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000, Razer Kiyo, Logitech StreamCam, and Logitech BRIO. As for audio, you can use a headset’s mic (built-in), but it will be best if you use a standalone mic.

Some of the microphones to use are Elgato Wave 3, Audio Technica AT2020, HyperX Quadcast S, Blue Yeti X, and Razer Seiren Mini. You will get great sound quality from them all.

How Can You Earn Money Using Your Channel? 

So now you know what do you need to stream on Twitch. As such, the next step is to monetize your channel and we will tell you how you can do it.

If you are new, then know that there are multiple ways you can earn money while streaming games. But all of these options probably won’t be available to you at the beginning.

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The best way to begin is by linking your Patreon or PayPal account to your profile. This will let people donate. Once you gain some recognition and get into the habit of regular posting, you can get into Twitch’s Partners program or Affiliate program.

Both of these programs will let you earn through subscriptions and Bits. Know that if you want to get into the Affiliate program, you need to have broadcasted for a total of 8 hours or more in the past month or 30 days.

Also, you should have streamed for a solid 7 of the past 30 days and have a basic average of at least 3 viewers in each stream. Also, you need to have 50 or more followers. If you qualify, then Twitch will auto-invite you.

Do note that if you don’t continue meeting such metrics, then you will lose the privileges. As for the Partners Program, you will need a broadcast plan of 3 times each week at least and content that follows various legal and community guidelines.

Of course, you will also need a steadily growing and established chat as well as an audience. Also, you will need to create original content and attract huge numbers of viewers.

What Do You Need to Stream on Twitch

But meeting these criteria won’t guarantee a place in that Partners program. However, you can apply multiple times for a spot. Just remember to space out the time between your applications.

So these are the things you need to get started with streaming on Twitch. Do remember that you shouldn’t invest in high-end gear at the very beginning. Try to get a feel of the entire streaming thing at first and then upgrade over time as required. This will work best for you in the long run.