When it comes to live streaming, Twitch is one of the first platforms that comes to mind. Originally built for gamers, Twitch has grown to include all types of content creators, from artists and musicians to talk show hosts and fitness trainers.

In 2022, Twitch users watched a staggering 1.35 trillion minutes of content---more than twice the watch time of YouTube Gaming Live and Facebook Gaming combined.

If you're looking to get more views and grow as a live streamer, learning how to stream on Twitch is a great place to start.

Streaming from a computer is the most common way to broadcast on Twitch. If you're new to live streaming, here's a step-by-step guide to help you set up and start streaming.

1. Set Up Your Streaming Equipment

Before installing any software, make sure your hardware is properly connected. This includes:

• Webcam (if you plan to show yourself on stream)
• Microphone (for clear audio)
• Additional monitors (if needed)
• Green screen (optional for custom backgrounds)

Once everything is plugged in, test your setup before going live. Adjust your webcam angle, check audio levels, and make sure your room has good lighting. If possible, soundproof your space to minimize background noise.

2. Connect Your Streaming Software to Twitch

To stream on Twitch, you'll need broadcasting software. Some popular choices are:

• OBS Studio (free and widely used)
• Twitch Studio (Twitch's own software)
• Restream Studio (lets you stream directly from a web browser)

If you're using Restream Studio, here's how to connect it to Twitch:

1. Log in or create a Restream account.
2. On the dashboard Restream, click on Edit Destinations.
3. Select + Add Destination.
4. Choose Twitch and click Connect Twitch.
5. Enter your Twitch username and password, then click Log In.
6. Grant Restream permission to access your Twitch account and click Authorize.

Once done, your Restream account is linked to Twitch, and you're ready to stream!

3. Add Sources to Your Stream

Every element of your stream---such as video, audio, and gameplay---needs to be added as a source in your streaming software. Common sources include:

• Webcam feed (for face cam)
• Microphone audio (your voice)
• Desktop audio (game sounds or music)

If using Restream Studio, follow these steps to add sources:

1. Click Stream with Studio in the Restream dashboard.
2. Grant browser access to your webcam and microphone.
3. Type your display name and click Enter Studio.
4. To add more sources, click the Add Source icon at the bottom of the screen.

You can also include:

• A second camera
• A slideshow or local video
• Background music
• A Zoom stream using RTMP

4. Choose the Best Streaming Settings

To get the best quality, adjust your stream settings. The key settings include:

• Resolution (e.g., 720p or 1080p)
• Frame rate (30 FPS or 60 FPS)
• Bitrate (higher bitrates improve quality)
• Audio bitrate (higher settings improve sound clarity)

Your ideal settings depend on your internet speed, computer power, and content type. If you're unsure, check Twitch's recommended streaming settings and adjust based on your setup.

5. Customize Your Twitch Stream

Make your Twitch stream unique by adding custom elements. Features you can customize include:

• Screen layouts for different scenes
• Chat overlay (show or hide live chat on-screen)
• Captions and scrolling text
• QR codes (for links or promotions)
• Guest invites (bring other streamers or guests into your live stream)
• Background music (use copyright-free tracks)

Adding these features can make your stream more engaging and professional.

6. Stream on Multiple Platforms at Once

If you want to reach a bigger audience, consider streaming on multiple platforms besides Twitch. Restream lets you multistream to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and more at the same time.

Multistreaming helps you:

• Increase your visibility
• Engage with different audiences
• Grow your brand faster

Restream also offers features like:

• Relaying chat messages between platforms
• Streaming pre-recorded content

For more details, check out guides on streaming to Twitch, Facebook, or YouTube at the same time.