If you love streaming, then without a doubt, you should learn how to make money on Twitch. Twitch is a global community where users get to watch or create live streams of their gaming, music, or sports content. There are various ways that Twitch streamers can use to make money, including merchandise sales, donations and subscriptions, and more.
Of course, you have to put in some effort and better understand the platform to generate an income. In this article, we will highlight the top 13 ways that you can use to make money on Twitch. Let’s get started, shall we?
13 Ways to Make Money on Twitch
These techniques will make it easy for you to start making money on Twitch, no matter your industry.
1. Donations
When you create your first Twitch account, getting money through subscriptions is harder than most people expect. Thankfully, you can still earn through donations from your viewers by adding a PayPal donation button. Twitch fans love to support their favorite creatives through donations.
It might take a few streams before you can earn money through donations, but viewers on this platform are quite generous. Once they fall in love with your Twitch streams, they will help you by pressing that donation button. Donations have a huge impact on any streamer’s revenue.
2. Patreon Subscriptions
You’ve probably come across Patreon on different platforms. Since most streamers can’t immediately create a subscription on Twitch, Patreon is typically the next best thing. Without a doubt, Patreon is an effective way of making money directly from your viewers. This is especially a great option if you’re not in the Affiliate or Partner program.
Through Patreon, Twitch streamers can set up subscription tiers and list the advantages of each package. Even though setting up a Patreon on Twitch might require a little extra effort, it’s totally worth it.
On Patreon, you can offer exclusive content, give your audience tips and tricks you’ve learned, or access an exclusive discord channel (or connecting Twitch with Discord). Of course, each subscriber must pay a little extra to access your exclusive content. Patreon is an excellent recurring income choice, especially if your audience has dedicated fans.
3. Twitch Affiliate Program
Another effective way to make money on Twitch is through becoming a Twitch affiliate. However, you must meet various metrics to qualify for Twitch’s affiliate program. These include:
- At least seven broadcast days in the last 30 days
- Over 500 broadcast minutes over the previous 30 days
- At least 50 followers
- At least three concurrent viewers in the past 30 days
Once you’ve completed these standards, you will be eligible for Twitch’s Affiliate marketing. The platform will alert you on your dashboard, allowing you to use additional affiliate features to make money.
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4. Twitch Subscribers
You can create Twitch subscription tiers once your channel has been accepted for Affiliate programs. Typically, the subscribe button will appear on the right side corner of your stream. Your loyal followers can click on it to learn more about the perks of subscribing.
Most Twitch channels only get three different subscription levels, including $4.99, $24.99, and $9.99 monthly. Subscribers will enjoy custom emotions, ad-free viewing, a subscriber badge, exclusive streams, and more. They earn 50% per subscription, while Twitch itself keeps the other 50%.
Streamers can offer these perks and add more, creating a loyal community. On top of that, you earn consistent revenue from your loyal followers. Subscribers will enjoy a more personal interaction with their streamers.
5. Twitch Bits
Twitch Bits is a version of a virtual currency that subscribers or just your regular viewers get to send to their streamers as a form of appreciation for their content. Generally, the streamer will receive $0.01 for every Twitch bit you receive.
The worth of Twitch bits might not be enough to earn from a single payment, but streamers are allowed to set a minimum limit. For instance, a streamer can put a 100 Twitch bits limit for anyone who wants to support them. Meaning you will earn a dollar from a single supporter.
Loyal followers are able to purchase the bits in bulk and send them to their favorite gamer. On top of that, bits have different visual representations known as “Cheer.” If you can create worthwhile content, your subscribers will likely support your channel through Twitch Bits, boosting your revenue on this platform.
6. Twitch Partner Program
Generally, the Twitch partner program is an upgrade from Twitch’s affiliate. Even though Twitch’s team will automatically reach out to your account once you are eligible for affiliates, Twitch’s partner program will require you to submit your application manually.
However, before you can be considered, you must meet specific metrics, including at least 25 hours on 12 different days with over 75 viewers, and need to have at least 50 followers. This program allows you to earn a portion of the ad revenue generated from the ads showcased during your streams.
7. Twitch Ads
Streamers on Twitch can earn money through ad revenue by running ads during streams. These ads are usually triggered manually or automatically during breaks between the streams. However, you can only profit from these ads as a Twitch Partner or Affiliate. Factors like viewership and ad availability will determine your ad revenue.
If you have a larger and more engaged audience, you are likely to earn more from the ads. Additionally, ad availability can vary based on the viewer’s location and Twitch’s ad inventory. So, while ad revenue is a reliable income source, it’s always better to supplement it with other methods like donations, subscriptions, and sponsorships to maximize your earnings.
8. Sponsorships
Brands take notice when you start to build your audience. So, if you can showcase your reach and engagement, you will likely attract brand sponsorships. The best part is that you don’t need millions of followers for this. Just establish a strong online presence to build trust with both the audience and potential brand partners.
Brands mostly look for influencers with a dedicated and more engaged audience to promote their products or services. Such sponsorships can provide a reliable income stream through sponsored content, product placements, and endorsements.
9. Merchandise
On platforms like Twitch, subscribers love to feel involved. That’s why it’s essential to cultivate strong connections with your viewers. And one of the ways you can do that is by creating branded merchandise and involving them in the design process. You can design items like apparel, accessories, or digital products related to your content.
That ensures your merchandise offerings resonate with your viewer’s interests. Solicit their feedback and build anticipation through announcements and exclusive previews. Once the merchandise is ready, promote sales through streams, social media, and targeted email marketing.
10. Affiliate Marketing
Many streamers on Twitch also make money by leveraging affiliate marketing platforms. Essentially, you can promote products or services to your audience, and if someone buys, you get a commission. Incorporate affiliate links in the streams or video descriptions. But to maintain trust with your subscribers, make sure you are transparent and disclose your affiliate relationship.
This tactic has proven to be profitable to most people. You can sign up to affiliate networks like Amazon, which will give you an extensive product range. That allows you to recommend items relevant to your niche and enhance the value proposition for your viewers.
11. YouTube Channel
To increase your Twitch income further, consider creating additional content on other platforms. A YouTube channel will complement your Twitch streaming career by offering additional revenue streams and expanding your audience. Repurpose content from your Twitch streams and upload it as a YouTube video. Also, you can create tutorials for the video games you stream on Twitch.
That will help attract a wider viewership and earn ad revenue on YouTube. Also, you can make extra income through sponsorships, merchandise sales, and affiliate marketing. That will diversify your income sources, allow you to engage with streamers on multiple platforms, and expand your online presence.
12. Coaching
After gaining experience and growing your audience on Twitch, you can even consider offering coaching services. The demand for coaching services is high, especially in competitive titles. Many aspiring E-sport professionals and dedicated gamers often seek insights from experienced players to improve their craft.
The best part is that they are willing to pay top dollar for personalized guidance. And that is what makes coaching such a lucrative source of income on Twitch.
You can monetize your expertise by offering one-on-one or group coaching sessions providing in-depth analysis, pro tips, and strategies. That not only generates income but also strengthens your viewer engagement.
13. Tournament Winnings
Tournaments are a significant source of income for gamers on Twitch. So, if you are a pro in a particular video game, you can consider joining a tournament. These tournaments offer attractive prize pools, including cash prizes and sponsorships.
Also, participating in these tournaments can help showcase your skills to a global audience and attract sponsors. And if you perform very well, you may gain new fans. More people will become interested in subscribing, viewing your content, or offering donations.
A higher viewer count also increases your ad revenue on your Twitch channel. With that in mind, don’t shy away from participating in E-sports events. They could help you turn your passion into the most lucrative career.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we’ll look at some of the commonly asked questions about making money on Twitch:
1. What is the Average Income for Twitch Streamers?
The average income for Twitch streamers varies widely. But the majority fall between the $500-$5000 monthly bracket. On the other hand, top established streamers can make up to $50,000 per month as they rely on a combination of ads, subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships.
2. What is the Viewer Threshold for Twitch Payouts?
You don’t need a specific viewer count on Twitch to make money. Although having a large follower base may increase your income potential, what determines your earning potential is the number of return viewers, subscribers, donations, and sponsorships. Just ensure you have at least 50 followers and three concurrent viewers to qualify for the Twitch affiliate program.
3. How can Newcomers Start Earning on Twitch as Beginners?
Newcomers can earn on Twitch by establishing a consistent streaming schedule to build a dedicated and supportive audience. You should also aim to become a Twitch affiliate to unlock monetization tools. That grants you access to subscriptions, Twitch bits, and ad revenue. Further, diversify your income sources through merchandise.
4. How Does Twitch Pay You?
Twitch pays the streamers through several payment methods, depending on the streamer’s preferences and location. That includes direct deposit, PayPal, Checks, Wire Transfers, and Twitch Bits. But remember that Twitch has payout thresholds, usually around $100. That means you must earn at least that amount before you receive a payout.
5. What Revenue Can You Expect from 1,000 Views on Twitch?
The revenue from 1,000 views on Twitch can vary widely based on factors like ads, subscriptions, and donations. On average, streamers might earn around $1 to $5 for 1,000 views, though this figure can be significantly higher for established and monetized channels. Earnings are not solely dependent on view count but on various monetization methods.
6. What are Some Common Reasons Why Twitch Broadcasters may not See Earnings?
Common reasons why Twitch broadcasters may not see earnings include:
- Low viewership
- Inconsistent streaming schedules
- Low content quality
- Minimal engagement with the audience
- Limited use of monetization options, like ads and subscriptions
