What Are Subs on Twitch – Important Things to Know (2024)

Twitch subscription is a feature available to Twitch Partners and Twitch Affiliates, allowing them to earn a specific amount of money.

However, this feature is not available to regular viewers. They can still subscribe to channels and receive certain perks set by the streamer in return, such as free emotes, for example.

Subscribing is not the same as following. Following a channel on Twitch is similar to following a page on Instagram. In contrast, subscribing indicates community and financial support for a Twitch channel.

Let’s explore what subscriptions are on Twitch, how to subscribe to a channel, how much money streamers can earn, how the free subscription works, and how to attract more subscribers within the Twitch community.

What Are Subs on Twitch

Twitch subscriptions are monthly payments made to Twitch Partners and Affiliates, serving as donations for your favorite streamer.

Of course, you can subscribe to multiple channels. In this way, Twitch Partners and Affiliates earn revenue that enables them to continue their streaming sessions and support their livelihoods, while subscribers receive various benefits in return.

Before subscribing to someone’s channel, ensure you thoroughly read the streamer’s page to understand what to expect. The benefits of being a subscriber are detailed in the Twitch “About Me” section.

Twitch Subscription Benefits

Below are some of the exclusive perks available. The subscription operates similarly for both Twitch Partners and Affiliates, even though Partners hold a higher rank and have access to more features.

As a subscriber, you can access additional emotes and use them in chat rooms, even outside the channel to which you are subscribed. The number of emotes available from channels typically correlates with the number of subscribers a channel has, so it varies from one channel to another.

Next, you can obtain subscriber badges, which are icons that appear next to your name to signify your loyalty to a specific Twitch channel. The standard badge is a star, but you have the option to customize your own.

Additionally, as a paying subscriber, you can join an exclusive chatroom created by Twitch Partners and Affiliates, allowing you to comment on the most popular Twitch channels. They may also host special contests where you can win various prizes, ranging from a set of cups to video consoles.

Finally, Twitch Affiliates and Partners can offer you an ad-free viewing experience, ensuring you aren’t bothered by unwanted ads. Most viewers appreciate ad-free prime gaming and exclusive competitions.

You must consider the advantages and disadvantages of subscribing to such a channel and paying a monthly fee.

What is the Cost of a Twitch Subscription?

You can choose from three sub-tiers for Twitch subscriptions, with costs determined by your selection.

You can pay for subscriptions either on a monthly basis or through bulk payments for several months. Tier 1 costs $4.99, tier 2 costs $9.99 (which includes an additional emote), and tier 3 costs $24.99 (which includes two additional emotes).

How Much Does a Streamer Earn?

Twitch Partners and Affiliates receive fifty percent of the total subscription revenue, depending on the tier type.

Of course, they can receive more than fifty percent in cases where Twitch aims to encourage them to stay active on the platform. Additionally, always ensure you know exactly what perks you receive.

How Can You Subscribe to a Twitch Channel?

Free Monthly Subscription with Twitch Prime

Twitch Prime is a special feature available to premium members. It allows you to watch streams on your favorite channels without ads across all channels, and you can also receive animated emotes, badges, and more.

Moreover, with Twitch Prime, you are not required to pay a monthly subscription to Twitch Partners and Affiliates, even if it costs $4.99 (tier 1), while still receiving the same benefits. You only need to renew it each month.

The process is identical to that of a paid subscription; simply click the subscribe button, with one exception.

Rather than choosing your preferred payment method, select the option “Start Your Free Trial,” and it will begin on the same day.

Here is a useful tip: If you are already an Amazon subscriber, you can access this premium subscription through Amazon Prime.

Canceling Twitch Subscriptions

You can unsubscribe from a Twitch channel at any time by choosing not to renew your subscription. You will remain subscribed to a channel for the duration of your paid period; however, once that period ends, you will no longer be a subscriber. Unsubscribing can only be done on your PC, not through the Twitch app on your phone.

To do this, sign in to your Twitch account, navigate to the menu, and select Subscriptions – Payment Info – Don’t Renew.

By clicking the final button (Don’t Renew), you agree to cancel your subscription. At this stage, you will be prompted to provide feedback and reasons for your cancellation. This step is optional and not mandatory.

If you change your mind after canceling your subscription, you can re-subscribe within 30 days from the cancellation date.

Finally, you can always change your preferred tier (the price you are currently paying). Open your web browser on your PC and navigate to the channel for which you want to adjust the payment amount.

Click on Subscribed to view the perks available for each rate. Then, click Subscribe Now. Your new subscription will begin immediately.

Gift Subs

Gifted subs (gift subscriptions) are provided to other users by a streamer. Gifted subs enjoy the same subscription benefits as regular subs, including chat emotes. As a gifted sub, you also receive a badge that disappears when you no longer have that status.

Simply locate the user you wish to gift a subscription to, click on their username, and select “Gift a sub.” Avoid gifting to random individuals. A Sub Tier window will then appear. You will also receive the same amount of money as for regular subscriptions.

DID YOU KNOW: Ludwig Ahgren is among the most popular streamers of all time. He has set a new record with over 283,066 subscribers.

How to Gain More Subscribers on Twitch

First, aim to gain at least 50 followers and conduct broadcasts totaling approximately 500 minutes over the past 30 days, with at least 7 of those being unique. This will prompt Twitch to invite you to become their Affiliate.

Create broadcast-quality, fun, and engaging content that allows your personality to shine. You can include channel panels featuring information about yourself, your schedule, and the perks of subscribing.

There are additional methods to attract new viewers and subscribers. For instance, incorporating stream overlays and utilizing Twitch extensions can significantly enhance the overall experience for your viewers.

Promote your channel on Discord, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and other social media platforms. This will expand your audience and enhance your chances of success.

Final Words

As a Partner or Affiliate, you have the opportunity to provide community support and assist your favorite streamer in growing, while earning some cash and enjoying nice perks as you play games or stream.

However, this option is not mandatory, and it is up to you to weigh the pros and cons. You can still watch stream sessions, participate in the chatroom, and be part of the Twitch community. Hopefully, these detailed guides have provided you with valuable insight into Twitch subscriptions.

FAQ