How to stream to Twitch from a PC

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for streaming to Twitch from a PC.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To stream to Twitch from a PC, you can use software like OBS Studio or Streamlabs OBS, which allow you to capture your screen and broadcast live. Simply set up your streaming software, configure your Twitch account, and start streaming with the click of a button.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start streaming, ensure you have the following:
  • •A PC with at least 8GB of RAM and a multi-core processor (Intel i5 or AMD equivalent recommended).
  • •A stable internet connection with upload speeds of at least 3 Mbps for 720p streaming.
  • •Twitch account with verified email.
  • •Streaming software installed (OBS Studio or Streamlabs OBS).
  • •Optional: A webcam and microphone for enhanced interaction.

Method 1: Streaming with OBS Studio

OBS Studio is a free and powerful tool for streaming to Twitch. Use this method if you want full control over your stream settings.
  • •Step 1: Download and install OBS Studio from the official website (https://obsproject.com/).
  • •Step 2: Open OBS Studio and go to 'Settings' by clicking the button in the lower-right corner.
  • •Step 3: In the 'Settings' window, select 'Stream' from the left menu. Choose 'Twitch' as the service.
  • •Step 4: Click 'Connect Account (recommended)' to link your Twitch account or enter your Stream Key from your Twitch dashboard (found under 'Settings' > 'Stream').
  • •Step 5: Set up your scenes and sources (e.g., display capture, game capture) by clicking the '+' button in the 'Sources' box.
  • •Step 6: Once everything is set up, click 'Start Streaming' in the lower-right corner to go live.
  • •Step 7: Verify your stream is live by checking your Twitch channel.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 users may notice a slightly different interface.
  • •Step 1: Right-click the Start button and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Navigate to 'Gaming' > 'Game Bar' to ensure the Xbox Game Bar is enabled for additional features.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users should follow similar steps but may need to adjust privacy settings.
  • •Step 1: Go to 'Settings' > 'Privacy' and ensure that 'Camera' and 'Microphone' permissions are enabled for OBS.
  • •Step 2: Check for any Windows updates that may improve performance.

Method 2: Streaming with Streamlabs OBS

Streamlabs OBS is user-friendly and ideal for beginners who want a quick setup.
  • •Step 1: Download and install Streamlabs OBS from the official website (https://streamlabs.com/).
  • •Step 2: Open Streamlabs OBS and log in with your Twitch account.
  • •Step 3: Follow the setup wizard to configure your stream settings automatically.
  • •Step 4: Add sources by clicking the '+' button in the 'Sources' box, similar to OBS Studio.
  • •Step 5: Click 'Go Live' in the lower-right corner to start streaming.
  • •Step 6: Confirm your stream is active by checking your Twitch channel.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while streaming, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Stream Key Invalid' - Solution: Ensure you copied the correct Stream Key from your Twitch dashboard.
  • •Issue: 'Lagging or Buffering' - Fix: Check your internet speed and reduce the stream quality in OBS settings.
  • •Problem: 'No Audio' - Workaround: Verify your audio settings in OBS and ensure the correct audio source is selected.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your streaming experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + R - Start/Stop recording in OBS.
  • •Command line: Use 'obs --startstreaming' to start streaming from a command line.
  • •Hidden feature: Use 'Studio Mode' in OBS to preview scenes before going live.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best streaming experience, invest in a good microphone and webcam to enhance viewer interaction and engagement.