"How do I stream on Twitch?"
We've seen tons of people asking for tips on this, so today I'm happy to announce our first "Streaming 101" guide!
This initial guide will focus on helping you get the technical aspects of your stream up and running. If you'd like more info on advanced topics like console streaming, branding, and building an audience, be sure to let us know in the comments!
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Step 1: Download Your Streaming Software
To stream to Twitch, you'll need the right software. You have two options:
I recommend StreamLabs OBS, since it is extremely beginner-friendly.
Download & install the program, then be sure to run it to get started.
You'll be greeted with this screen:
Now, simply sign in with your Twitch account (or other platform of choice). If you don't have an account yet, don't worry - you can create one right from this prompt.
After signing in or creating an account, authorize StreamLabs to access your account:
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Step 2: Set Up Your Streaming Software
Next, it's time to set up your software.
After signing in for the first time, you'll see this screen. Select "start fresh."
Next, StreamLabs will check for your mic + webcam. It should automatically find them, if you have them. If not, select the right device from the dropdowns.
NOTE - if you don't want to use a webcam or mic, don't worry. We can remove these later. This is just for basic setup.
Next you'll see an option to "add a theme." I recommend skipping this step, but if you want, you can select one of the presets:
Lastly, the most important part! StreamLabs automatically optimizes your stream so it looks good for your viewers.
Click "start" here, and watch the magic happen.
Once the optimization is complete, StreamLabs will ask you about multistreaming - skip this for now.
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Step 3: Add Streaming Layout Elements
Now that your basic streaming configuration is complete, you're ready to set up your stream layout.
Here's what you should see in StreamLabs OBS:
For most people, there are 3 main things you'll need to set up:
1. Your gameplay.
2. Your webcam.
3. Your audio.
Note that all three of these are optional - if you don't want to include one, you don't have to. Many streamers start without a webcam, or never use one at all.
This even goes for gameplay - if you'd rather sit and talk with chat, that's an option!
Part 1 - Gameplay Setup
How to set up your gameplay depends on the game you are playing.
For most PC games, you'll want to choose Add Source > Game Capture
If you play a Fullscreen game application like Apex Legends, League of Legends, Fortnite, Call of Duty, or countless others, this is the correct setup method.
First, make sure to have your game of choice open on your PC, and make sure it is set to "Fullscreen" in the game settings area.
To start, click the "+" icon in "Sources" area:
Next, select "Game Capture" from the popup prompt, then click "add source" in the bottom right:
Next, click the "Mode" dropdown and select "Capture specific window instead of "Auto".
Lastly, click the "Window" option, and select your game:
And presto, your gameplay appears! Click done, and you should see gameplay in the preview window.
NOTE - for some games, you may need to add a window capture instead, or in addition.
For browser-based games, or for game client views (like this picture), you'll need to do this same process, but select "Window Capture" instead of "Game Capture."
If you need help here, leave me a comment and I will help!
Part 2: Webcam Setup
Now, you're ready to add your webcam. This is much easer.
To start, click the "+" icon in the "Sources" area again, then select "Add Source:"
Name the source anything you like.
Next, your webcam should automatically be selected. If not, select the correct device from the "Device" dropdown.
Then, click "Done."
Your webcam should now appear in the preview area!
Use the box frame tools to resize and position the camera to your liking.
This is usually a good spot for most games:
Part 3: Audio Setup
Last step! This is the easiest step.
Make sure that your microphone and desktop audio can be heard on stream.
To check this, simply play some background noise on your PC (Spotify or YouTube videos), and talk into your mic.
Then, take a look at these two bars:
If you see movement for both of these bars (you should), you're good to go. If not, be sure to check the devices selected by clicking the "Gear" icon below each bar.
NOTE - try to tweak the audio levels so that your microphone is louder than your game sound/music. You want your viewers to be able to hear you!
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Step 4: Start Streaming!
You're set up and ready to go!
To start streaming, click on the "Go Live" button in the bottom right:
Then, fill out the fields for "Title," "Game," "Tags," and select the "select optimized encoder settings" option.
NOTE - for "Tags," don't worry too much about finding great tags. For your first stream, just select simple tags like "Multiplayer" or "PvP."
Then, click "Confirm and Go Live" to start your broadcast!
You're Live!
During the broadcast, be sure to pay attention to your Chat Window, and keep an eye on your Viewer Count.
TIP - for your first streams, be sure to ask some friends to check out your channel via social media. Getting new viewers takes a while - start with your existing friends & family.
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Congrats! You can now stream on Twitch!
I hope you found this guide helpful.
If you have any difficulty streaming, please feel free to comment here, and I'll do my best to help.
Also - if you'd like advanced guides on console streaming, stream alerts, and building an audience, let me know in the replies!
If this is received well, I'd love to do more :)
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Be sure to check out some of the talented Legion Community streamers for inspiration on your own content!