Twitch is no longer just a platform for gamers—it’s a global hub for creators of all kinds, from musicians and podcasters to fitness coaches and “Just Chatting” streamers. Whether you stream as a hobby or aspire to go full-time, Twitch provides multiple revenue streams to turn your passion into profit.
This 2025 guide breaks down how to make money on Twitch with practical strategies, growth tips, and a comparison table to help you choose the best income paths.
Step 1: Become a Twitch Affiliate or Partner
To monetize on Twitch officially, you must first qualify as an Affiliate. Later, you can level up to Partner for better benefits.
🔹 Twitch Affiliate Requirements:
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50 followers
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Stream for 8+ hours over the past 30 days
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Stream on 7 different days
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Average of 3 viewers per stream
🔸 Twitch Partner Requirements:
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Stream for 25 hours in 30 days
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Stream on 12 different days
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Average of 75 concurrent viewers
Once you’re approved, you unlock the main Twitch monetization features.
Twitch Monetization Methods (with Comparison Table)
Here’s a detailed look at the major ways to make money on Twitch, their requirements, revenue potential, and ideal use:
| Method | Requirements | Revenue Potential | Best For | Platform Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subscriptions | Affiliate or Partner | $2.50–$3.50 per sub | Community-driven streamers | ~50% / up to 70% for top Partners |
| Bits (Cheers) | Affiliate or Partner | $0.01 per Bit | Interactive streams (games, reactions) | Twitch keeps small fee |
| Ad Revenue | Affiliate or Partner | $0.25–$5 CPM | High viewer count streams | Split with Twitch |
| Donations (External) | None (via Streamlabs, PayPal) | 100% direct to streamer | All streamers, especially non-affiliates | 0% (no Twitch cut) |
| Sponsorships | Mid-to-large audience | $50–$10,000+ | Influential or niche streamers | Negotiable |
| Affiliate Marketing | Join affiliate programs | 2–20% per sale | Tech/gadget/review streamers | Varies |
| Merch Sales | Set up merch store (TeeSpring etc) | Profit per item sold | Brand-conscious streamers | Varies |
| YouTube Monetization | Repurpose Twitch clips | YouTube ads + sponsors | Long-form and highlight content creators | YouTube Share |
| Patreon / Ko-fi | Loyal fanbase | $1–$100/month per fan | Offering exclusive perks or BTS content | Platform fee |
🔧 Step 2: Set Up Revenue Tools
1. Enable Subscriptions
Let viewers support you monthly with perks like:
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Custom emotes
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Badge next to name
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Sub-only chat
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Exclusive streams
📝 Tip: Run sub-goal bars or emote-unlock campaigns to encourage subscribers.
2. Accept Bits (Cheers)
Bits are Twitch’s in-app currency. Viewers cheer during streams for:
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Reactions
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Milestones
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Game wins
Add overlays and sounds to celebrate each Bit to boost engagement.
3. Monetize with Ads
Use Twitch’s Ads Manager to run:
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Pre-roll ads
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Mid-roll ads during breaks
Use them sparingly—nobody likes too many ads.
4. Set Up External Donations
Use platforms like:
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Streamlabs
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PayPal
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Ko-fi
💡 100% of this revenue goes to you (no Twitch cut).
5. Get Sponsored by Brands
Collaborate with:
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Gaming gear brands
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Energy drinks
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App companies
Register on platforms like:
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Lurkit
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PowerSpike
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Grapevine
Always disclose sponsorships to stay compliant.
6. Use Affiliate Marketing
Recommend:
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Headphones
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PC gear
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Streaming setups
Use Amazon Associates or gaming gear sites to earn commissions.
7. Sell Merch
Create and sell items like:
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Branded t-shirts
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Emote stickers
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Phone cases
Tools: TeeSpring, Fourth Wall, StreamElements Merch
8. Create a Patreon/Ko-fi Membership
Offer tiers for:
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Behind-the-scenes content
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Name shoutouts
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One-on-one chats
This builds a consistent monthly income from your superfans.
9. Repurpose Twitch Content on YouTube
Turn your stream highlights into:
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YouTube Shorts
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Funny compilations
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Full match replays
This expands your reach and adds another income stream through YouTube monetization.
Bonus Tips to Grow Your Earnings
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🎯 Stick to a Schedule – Consistency builds community.
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📸 Use Social Media – Promote on Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok.
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🛠 Improve Your Overlay & Mic Quality – Professional look = better viewer retention.
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💬 Engage Actively with Chat – Viewers who feel seen are more likely to support.
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🎉 Celebrate Milestones Publicly – Sub counts, cheer goals, follower count.
Final Words: Turning Streaming Into Sustainable Income
Making money on Twitch is possible, but it’s not passive or instant. Focus on content, be consistent, build relationships with your community, and smartly layer monetization strategies.
The best Twitch earners combine authenticity + audience value + diversified income streams.