The Best PC Gaming Streams: Reviewed!
Gaming has become an intrinsic part of our lives and PC gaming streaming is an integral part of the industry. With the rise of eSports, more and more PC gamers are looking to stream their gameplay live and make a name for themselves in the gaming world. This can be an incredibly daunting prospect, especially when it comes to finding the best streaming platforms. To ensure that your stream is a success, it’s important to know which platforms have the features, performance and reliability that you need.
This comprehensive guide to the top PC gaming streaming platforms will provide you with detailed reviews on the various services available. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which platform is best for you. So let’s dive into the best PC gaming streaming reviews of 2021!
Twitch
Easily the most widely-used video game streaming platform on the internet, Twitch is a premium destination for both viewers and streamers. Launched in 2011, it has quickly become the go-to service for game streaming. The site’s integration with both major game publishers and the open relationship to streamers has resulted in a loyal fan base.
To become a Twitch streamer, you’ll first need to register for an account. This will include following Twitch’s rules and regulations regarding conduct, language, and copyright infringement. Once you’re all set up, you can start broadcasting with just a few clicks. You can also customize your broadcast with overlays, audio clips and several other features.
In terms of performance, Twitch’s streaming tools and features make for a smooth experience. With various options for resolutions and frame rates, you’ll never have to worry about a stream lagging or stuttering. Twitch also has an active and supportive community of streamers who are more than willing to help new streamers get a handle on their setups.
Perhaps the biggest benefit of streaming on Twitch is their monetization options. There are different ways you can make money through the platform, such as paid subscriptions, donations and sponsor deals. With all of these features, it’s no surprise that Twitch is often the go-to streaming service for many PC gamers.
Mixer
Mixer was once one of the web’s biggest competitors to Twitch, and it’s still an attractive option for those looking to stream their gaming sessions. The service offers fast loading times, top-tier support and an impressive suite of tools for streamers.
Getting set up with Mixer is easy, and the service has dedicated streams for Xbox and PlayStation consoles as well. You’ll be able to customize your broadcast with interactive graphics that you can use to give viewers a more immersive experience. There are also options for broadcasting in 4K, depending on the setup of your own PC.
Another advantage of streaming with Mixer is the added layer of protection from trolls and other trolls. With its crowd control feature, streamers can independently monitor and control who’s watching at any given moment. A streamer can also set up moderators to ensure that the chat stays clean and everyone can enjoy the broadcast.
Unfortunately, Mixer doesn’t have the same wide range of monetization options as Twitch. However, it does offer a reasonable fee of 30% that you’ll get for every subscription and donation you receive. Nonetheless, Mixer is an ideal choice for those who want to avoid Twitch’s larger and more competitive user base.
Facebook Live
Facebook Live is a great option for anyone who wants to broadcast their gaming sessions without dealing with all the fuss of a dedicated streaming service. All you need is an active Facebook account, and you’ll be good to go.
Once you’re set up, you can start broadcasting with just a few clicks. You can also link your account to your own website for viewers to follow for more information about your streams. Additionally, you can use Facebook’s own tools to moderate comments and other interactions with your followers.
However, Facebook Live has a few limitations with its streaming quality. The service only offers streams in 720p, whereas other services like Twitch and Mixer can go up to 1080p, or even 4K. There’s also no monetization options, so it’s not the best platform to make money from your streams.
An upside to Facebook Live, however, is its global reach. As one of the web’s biggest platforms, Facebook Live can give you a much wider range of viewers. This could also be helpful if you’re a more niche streamer, as you’ll be able to find an audience specific to your interests.
YouTube Live
YouTube Live is a great alternative for streamers who want to keep their gaming broadcasts within the YouTube environment. Once you’ve created a YouTube Live stream, you’ll be able to customize its look and feel with a range of settings and interactive tools.
Viewers will also be able to follow and comment on your stream directly from the YouTube platform. This makes it easier for them to interact and support your streaming sessions without having to look for an external chat service.
In terms of stream quality, YouTube Live offers 1080p streams for streamers worldwide. This is far superior to Facebook Live’s 720p resolution, which won’t make for the best viewing experience. YouTube Live also has robust security measures to ensure that those watching the stream are free from malicious behavior.
The service also has a built-in monetization model that allows streamers to make money from their streams. The platform takes a hefty 55% of your revenue, but the exposure that your streams get from YouTube could make up for it.
Conclusion
When it comes to streaming your gameplay, the most important thing is to pick a platform that is best for you and your viewers. Luckily, there are a variety of services available, each offering unique features that make them ideal for streaming your gaming sessions.
If you’re looking for the premier platform to visually showcase your gameplay, Twitch is the go-to service. It’s one of the biggest and most popular streaming services on the internet, making it the ideal choice for reaching a wide range of viewers. Other great platforms include Mixer, Facebook Live and YouTube Live, each offering a different approach to streaming that could be just what you need.
Whichever service you choose, we hope this guide has provided you with the insight necessary to make a wise decision. Good luck streaming, and we look forward to seeing you on the leaderboards!
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