How to Stream on Twitch Using a PC

Twitch is a live-streaming platform where people broadcast games, creative work or simply chat with an audience. To stream from a PC, you create a free Twitch account, install broadcasting software such as OBS, connect your camera and microphone, then click Start Streaming. The whole process is free to begin, though you will need a computer, a webcam and a stable internet connection.

• A computer that can run games and stream at the same time
• A webcam, ideally at least 1080p with auto-focus
• A stable internet connection with at least 5Mbps upload speed
• A dedicated microphone with noise cancellation for clear voice quality
• A free Twitch account
• Broadcasting software such as OBS Studio, XSplit, Streamlabs OBS or Restream Studio

1. Go to Twitch.tv and click Sign Up. Create a free account with your email address.
2. Pick the username you want to use for streaming, add a profile picture and write a short description of yourself and your channel.
3. Download and install your chosen broadcasting software. OBS Studio is open-source, free and works with Linux, Mac and Windows.
4. Open OBS and go to Settings, then Stream.
5. Select Twitch as your service.
6. Copy your Stream Key from your Twitch settings and paste it into OBS.
7. Connect your webcam and microphone to OBS.
8. Check that your game, webcam and microphone are all working before you go live.
9. Click Start Streaming in OBS to go live.
10. Talk to viewers who join your chat, and keep your first stream short to test that everything works properly.

Twitch recommends a bitrate range of 3 to 6 megabits per second for video, with a keyframe interval of 2 seconds and framerates of 25/30 or 50/60 frames per second. For audio, the recommended bitrate for maximum compatibility is 96kbps, with a maximum of 160 kbps (AAC).

The maximum broadcasting length for any Twitch stream is 48 hours. There is no minimum length, but you are unlikely to find success if your videos are shorter than two hours.

If you want to keep your broadcasts, go to your settings and tick the box next to archive broadcasts. Your streams will then be saved for a limited period. If you want to keep them forever, save them in your OBS.

If friends notice significant lag in your first video stream or in chat, check your internet connection. A fast, dependable connection is vital; a poor one could cost you followers and credibility.

Running a game at maximum graphics while streaming can put strain on your computer. A powerful PC matters if you want to run a game and a stream at the same time.

Aim for at least 1080p60fps streaming where possible, with auto-focus to keep your video sharp when you move. Good lighting, such as a ring light or dual-light setup, keeps you visible on camera.

Set up alerts for new followers and subscribers, and consider a stream deck, software or hardware, for quick access to sound effects, scene transitions and overlays. Organise your stream into clear segments such as gameplay, chat interaction and special events, and keep a consistent schedule.

Build your own streaming personality rather than copying anyone else. Custom overlays, transitions and alerts that match your brand help you stand out, and channel panels can display your schedule and rules.

Do I need to pay to stream on Twitch? No. Creating a Twitch account is free, and OBS Studio is a free, open-source option among several broadcasting programs.

What internet speed do I need? You need a stable connection with at least 5Mbps upload speed.

Which software should I use? OBS Studio, XSplit, Streamlabs OBS and Restream Studio are all options. Almost every streaming software will meet Twitch's requirements, so the choice comes down to preference.

How long can I stream for? The maximum broadcasting length for any Twitch stream is 48 hours. There is no minimum, but streams shorter than two hours are unlikely to find success.

Can I save my broadcasts? Yes. Tick the box next to archive broadcasts in your settings, and your streams will be saved for a limited period. To keep them forever, save them in your OBS.