10 Tips for Streaming PC Games Online.
With the rise of Esports and higher internet speeds, streaming PC games online has become a popular pastime for gamers around the world. Whether you are looking to broadcast your gaming skills or just share your gaming experiences with your friends and family, streaming platforms such as Twitch and YouTube are the way to go.
However, streaming isn’t something that comes easy. Here are 10 essential tips to help you become a successful streamer.
1. Get the Right Hardware
If you’re serious about streaming, you will need the right hardware for the job. This includes a powerful gaming PC that can handle the stress of streaming, as well as a good microphone, web camera and streaming software. Make sure to invest in quality products that will ensure the optimal performance of your setup and ensure your viewers have a smooth and pleasant experience.
2. Set Realistic Goals
Like any hobby, streaming takes time to get good at. Before getting started, set realistic goals for yourself and remain patient while learning the basics. Aim to set yourself weekly, monthly and yearly goals as this will help to keep you motivated, as well as track your progress.
3. Join the Streaming Community
Having a strong network of supporters goes along way when it comes to streaming. Joining the streaming community is a great way to get advice, find new followers and even grow your fan base. Be sure to find active streaming communities and collaborate with fellow streamers.
4. Follow Etiquette
When streaming, you are representing not just yourself, but the streaming platform and community you are part of. Speaking respectfully, being kind and avoiding trolling or other negative behaviours will only help to make your stream more welcoming and likeable to your viewers.
5. Make Sure Your Setup is Working
Make sure to double-check your stream setup before going live. Check that the video and audio are working properly, if you are using an overlay, that it is properly laid out, and if you have alerts that they are responding to your viewer’s actions. Testing your setup beforehand will save you from a lot of embarrassment later.
6. Connect With Your Audience
Interacting with your viewers is one of the most important aspects of streaming. Try to build relationships with your viewers by encouraging conversation, answering their questions and returning the favour when they follow, like or subscribe.
7. Connect With Other Streamers
Get to know other streamers in your community and network with them. Invite people to watch your streams, share each other content on social media,and even guest star on each other’s streams. Joining forces with other streamers is a great way to expand your reach and build a bigger audience.
8. Find the Right Stream Platform
When it comes to streaming, there are several platforms to choose from. Different platforms offer different features and advantages, so do your research and pick the right one for you. If you are looking to monetize your streams, platforms like Twitch and Mixer are the way to go.
9. Choose the Right Stream Setup
When it comes to choosing the viewer resolution of your streams, it’s important to find the sweet spot. Setting the stream resolution too high can result in lagging and buffering issues for your viewers, but setting it too low can also take away from the overall quality of the stream. Experiment with different resolutions and codecs to find the right one for your setup.
10. Have Fun
Above all, it’s important to have fun. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, and remember why you started streaming in the first place. Keep your streams positive and entertaining, and shortly enough your hard work will payoff.
Bonus Tip: Promote Yourself
Don’t just rely on the platform to promote your streams. Get creative with how you advertise yourself and use social media to reach potential viewers. Utilize features like hashtags, profile links, and Google/Yahoo alerts to help ensure that people are aware of your streams and when they go live.
If you follow these 10 tips, you should be well on your way to becoming a successful streamer. Just remember to have fun and stay motivated, and soon enough you’ll be well-known in the streaming world. Happy streaming!
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