Live streaming has become more popular than ever.
Streaming platforms are ubiquitous, but as we all know, Twitch remains the leading gaming and streaming platform globally.
However, streamers should always be aware of potential alternatives.
First, it is easier to gain popularity on certain gaming platforms, and second, they can monetize their work more effectively on those platforms.
Therefore, we have decided to explore the best Twitch alternatives.
The Best Alternatives To Twitch
If you think that Twitch competition is too much for you right now, try these gaming platforms:
1. Youtube Gaming
2. Facebook Gaming
3. Steam
4. Mirrativ
5. DLive
6. YouNow
7. Caffeine
Read below to learn more about each of these alternatives!
Table of Contents
1. YouTube Gaming
Currently, this section of YouTube, known as YouTube Gaming, has approximately 90 million users.
This application is distinct from YouTube and is among the most popular alternatives to Twitch.
Considering the reputation of YouTube, it is clear why YouTube Gaming is expanding and becoming increasingly prominent in the global gaming landscape.
At the same time, YouTube Gaming provides similar features to Twitch; however, it also offers additional services that are not available on Twitch.
When you open YouTube Gaming, the first thing you see is the most popular video games at the moment.
Then you see trending videos overall, which is similar to YouTube.
They are once again followed by videos and live streams of games such as Fortnite, PUBG, and other currently popular titles.
Of course, if your preferred video game is not available, it is quite easy to find it. The search bar is located at the top, making it just a few clicks away.
Streamers are categorized based on the games they play and ranked according to their viewer count.
YouTube Gaming is organized into two categories: Worldwide and your region.
The position of your favorite gamer is easily visible.
Becoming a streamer is quite simple.
You should select the go-live option that appears after tapping the recorder option. The recorder option is located on the menu bar.
The user interface of YouTube Gaming is excellent. Live streaming has never been easier for streamers, as they have multiple options at their disposal.
You can choose a webcam, set a time for streaming, or select different software, among many other options.
Making money while streaming is relatively easy if your content is engaging and your community and viewers are open-minded.
YouTube streamers can earn money through super chats sent by viewers and appreciation stickers.
If viewers wish to donate, they simply need to attach a visible dollar amount in the chat.
Overall, we can conclude that YouTube has developed a streaming platform that serves as one of the best alternatives to Twitch.
2. Facebook Gaming
Wherever you look on the internet, the top two spots for the best Twitch alternatives are consistently occupied by YouTube Gaming and Facebook Gaming.
We do not need to describe either of the two companies. However, their gaming platforms require a few paragraphs.
Facebook Gaming has experienced substantial growth in recent years.
Facebook Gaming utilizes Facebook’s services, enabling you to invite all your Facebook friends to like your channel, which is beneficial if you are new to live streaming.
If they enjoy your channel, they will be notified each time you begin streaming.
Elements that link social media and gaming have enabled Facebook Gaming to expand its audience and attract more streamers.
When it comes to money, Facebook Gaming has an advantage over Twitch because it takes a 30% commission from your revenue. In contrast, Twitch deducts 50% from your revenue.
Another excellent aspect of this streaming platform is that it is not restricted to live streaming.
Additionally, you can function as a genuine content creator and share your content on your Facebook account.
Our team generally appreciates the Facebook Gaming interface for its well-designed and mostly straightforward layout.
However, creating a Facebook Gaming account will take some time, as it needs to be a separate page for game streaming.
As an admin of a Facebook game streaming account, you gain access to analytics tools, including ad centers, news feeds, and more.
To begin a live stream, simply click on Create Live.
Therefore, using it is straightforward, allowing you to earn money without needing to pay a significant amount to a platform like Twitch.
From our experience, we can confidently state that this is one of the top alternatives to Twitch.
3. Steam
Steam is one of the most popular platforms for downloading and acquiring games.
We all know that. However, what people who are not familiar with live streams may not realize is that Steam also functions as a live streaming platform.
While it may not be like YouTube or Twitch, where large audiences can join and watch streamers play video games, it remains popular among Steam users.
Specifically, if you have friends on Steam, you can stream your gameplay to them. Furthermore, you can decide whether you want your friends to join with or without your permission.
At the same time, that can be both an advantage and a disadvantage.
You can certainly achieve a more intimate and closer atmosphere, but you will not experience the streaming capabilities offered by larger platforms.
Another potential disadvantage is that monetizing your stream is quite challenging.
Therefore, streamers who wish to monetize their channels and streams should explore other options.
Conversely, those who enjoy having fun with their friends should consider trying this platform.
4. Mirrativ
Mirrativ is primarily recommended for mobile users.
Android and iOS users will find this to be a great alternative to Twitch.
This app integrates screen sharing, mobile broadcasting, and user interaction.
Thanks to Mirrativ’s features, audiences from around the world can share their content and experiences via mobile phones.
An interaction certainly makes this app ideal for streamers and viewers. The community can engage in real-time chat, ask questions, or simply comment on your stream.
Mirrativ does not require any third-party software like Twitch does. Therefore, you only need your smartphone for streaming.
We understand that Twitch and even the top Twitch alternatives typically require a connection to a computer and other third-party applications. If you prefer to avoid that, Mirrativ is the ideal choice for you.
However, keep in mind that Mirrativ is not as popular, at least not as popular as Facebook Gaming or YouTube Gaming.
If you want to make money, consider choosing other options.
5. DLive
DLive utilizes blockchain technology for its servers to deliver an exceptional streaming experience.
BitTorrent acquired this service in 2019.
DLive is a well-known live streaming platform, celebrated for its commitment to freedom of speech.
Users can express themselves in their own language, regardless of whether it is offensive. As a result, offensive language may be present in the live streams of various channels.
Platforms like this are gaining popularity due to their openness to audiences that do not prioritize political correctness in their comments.
Another great aspect pertains to finances. Specifically, DLive retains only 25% of the revenue, allowing gamers and streamers to keep nearly 75% of the share.
In terms of financial features, it is undoubtedly one of the best Twitch alternatives, if not the best.
As a streamer, you can select a streaming service that is either web-based or smartphone-based.
Conversely, discussions here are more vibrant as gamers and viewers can engage in conversations about a variety of topics.
From the quality of a streaming service to video game preferences, alternatives to Twitch, politics, cryptocurrencies, and Facebook.
As a result, this aspect of broadcasting is becoming increasingly appealing to gamers and subscribers.
Many would argue that Twitch is becoming monotonous due to the stricter rules being implemented, creating an opportunity for broadcasting platforms like this to thrive.
Streamers only need to enter some basic information about their stream, the games they plan to play, and details about themselves if they wish. They can also filter out inappropriate language if they prefer, and then they are ready to go online.
Direct donations can be made using a Tron address and Bit Torrent Token.
If people wish to support their favorite streamers, they can also do so financially.
Great job, DLive! You are a truly excellent live streaming alternative to Twitch. We can confidently say that we love your features.
6. YouNow
YouNow is an alternative to Twitch that is primarily used for dancing, music, and comedy.
Users can stream live videos or chat with one another, just as they would on any other alternative.
YouNow faced significant competition from Periscope, which, as we know, has unfortunately shut down.
Moreover, YouNow is still operational; however, we honestly do not believe it can serve as a serious alternative to Twitch and other popular streaming platforms.
We wish you the best of luck, YouNow; you will need it.
7. Caffeine
Caffeine has long been regarded as the top alternative to Twitch.
It is noteworthy that Caffeine was one of the largest investments by 21st Century Fox, as they invested approximately $100 million.
Caffeine is free, similar to the other platforms we have presented. You can create an account on your Android, iOS, or computer; it is all the same. However, you will need to stream from a computer only.
This platform is one of the few that does not require you to download third-party software to stream, as they provide their own.
Caffeine supports popular video games such as Fortnite, League of Legends, and Apex Legends, as well as indie gems like Gris and West of Loathing. However, the lack of Minecraft is a significant drawback for this platform.
It is interesting that the process of streaming becomes easier when you are not streaming a game. Specifically, you can simply press a button and create a live video about anything you desire.
While you cannot use your phone to live stream, you are welcome to watch and engage with streams on both iOS and Android.
We can say that this is a significant problem with the platform.
While Twitch is accessible on nearly every device, many Twitch alternatives can also be used across various platforms; however, Caffeine cannot.
Therefore, some streamers who are accustomed to and enjoy Twitch will never opt for or subscribe to this platform as an alternative, as some of their Twitch videos are created using a phone.
Gamers are likely to be the most satisfied with Twitch, as video games represent the largest category on the platform.
Unfortunately, the videos are somewhat diminished by the low quality of the game footage. The stylish interface only reinforces the perception of poor graphics.
There are also categories for those who enjoy watching other types of content, such as interactive talk shows hosted by gamers or even celebrities.
For instance, Drake, Erik B., and Rakeem each have their own channels on this platform.
The most intriguing aspect for us is that on this platform, you either watch something live or not at all. Once the stream has ended, you will not find it available anywhere else.
However, this platform excels in providing notifications. It includes a calendar of events to ensure you do not miss anything.
If you want to earn money on this platform, it is possible. Unfortunately, it is not like Twitch; it is more akin to other streaming platforms, but you can still make some money here.
Overall, we believe that the founders and developers are working to make their platform more accessible to a broader audience.
Their future lies at the intersection of popular podcasts featuring celebrities, well-known games, and hidden gaming gems waiting to be discovered.
While this platform may never resemble Twitch, it will certainly serve as a safe alternative for those seeking smaller, alternative sites and platforms.
Conclusion
When considering Twitch alternatives, the list is extensive.
We have selected several alternatives that can offer quality and joy to their users.
However, we know that Twitch remains the leader in the streaming industry, and when it comes to generating revenue, there is no equal to it.
Twitch’s performances lead us to compare it with other streaming sites and platforms.
Our team believes that the first two platforms on our list will be strong competitors to Twitch in the years ahead.
Related: How to Stream on Twitch