You're arriving at Twitch and you don't know how it works as a viewer ?
Here are the essentials you need to get started on the platform. Chat, donations, subscriptions, channel points: you'll learn everything you need to know to enjoy your favorite live streams.
Changing the language on Twitch
By default, Twitch displays its interface in the language of your browser. You can change this with just a few clicks in your account settings. This setting also lets you filter recommended channels and prioritize content in the language of your choice.
Changing your Twitch username
The platform lets you Change Your Twitch Username, but also change the color of your username on Twitch. It's a simple way to make your account more personal and stand out from other viewers.
Writing in color in Twitch chat
Do you want your message stand out from the other viewers? Twitch lets you’write in color in the Twitch chat, A simple tip to help you stand out and interact better with the streamer and their community.
Donate on Twitch
Want to support your favorite streamer? As a viewer, you have two simple options. You can send him some Bits, the official virtual currency that can be purchased directly on Twitch. You can also use an external link (PayPal, StreamElements) that most streamers provide in their bio.
For every Bit spent, approximately 1 cent is paid to the streamer. The purchase price for viewers is slightly higher because Twitch takes a cut. It's up to you to choose the amount and service that work best for you.
Earn channel points on Twitch
Channel points are a virtual currency specific to each channel you watch. You earn them simply by watching a live stream—no downloads or payments required. The more hours you spend watching a streamer, the higher your balance gets.
These points give you access to rewards offered by the streamer. For example, you can unlock a featured message, choose a song, or trigger a small on-screen action. Each channel sets its own rewards, so the options vary from one creator to another.
Earn a founder's badge on Twitch
The Founder's Badge recognizes the first viewers who subscribe to a channel. This badge appears next to your username in the chat. It's a great way to show your support when you back a streamer right from the start.
To get it, all you have to do is subscribe early, as soon as the channel opens up subscriptions. Here's how it works in detail:
Subscribe to a Twitch channel with Prime
If you already have a subscription Amazon Prime, you have access to a free subscription every month thanks to Prime Gaming (formerly Twitch Prime). This perk lets you support a creator without spending a single penny more.
Connect your Amazon account to Twitch, then use your free sub on the channel of your choice. You'll then have access to the emotes and badge reserved for subscribers. This option renews once a month, so be sure to use it regularly.
- How do I subscribe to a Twitch channel with Prime?
- How can I get Prime Gaming (formerly Twitch Prime) for free?
Get the Kappa Doré emote on Twitch
the Golden Kappa It remains one of the most sought-after emotes on the platform. Unlike the classic Kappa, you can't just use it whenever you want. Seeing this golden emote in a chat is still a bit of a treat for the community.
Deactivate/delete your Twitch account
Would you like to take a break or leave the platform for good? You have two options. Deactivating your account will account On standby: You can reactivate it later by logging back in. Deleting your account permanently erases all your information, and there is no way to recover it.
Before you get started, be sure to save anything you want to keep (clips, active subscriptions). You can do this in Settings, whether you're using a computer or a mobile device.
Twitch glossary
Here are the basic terms you need to know to get off to a good start.
- Streamer : the person who is streaming live.
- Stream : a live video stream that you can watch remotely from your computer.
- Viewer : the viewer watching a live stream. If you've landed here, you're the viewer.
- Follow : Following a creator by clicking the “Follow” button. You’ll then receive a notification every time they go live.
- Mod: The moderators on hand to oversee a live stream. They can ban or mute a viewer.
- Timeout : For a while, you won't be able to post in the chat. This is often because you didn't follow the rules.
- Ban : You have been removed from the live stream. You no longer have access to the chat and can no longer post.
- Bits : virtual currency to make a donation. The creator receives about 1 centime per Bit, but you pay a little more when you buy it.
- The subs (Subscribers) : those who pay €5 a month to support a channel. You can also do this for free with Amazon Prime for the designer of your choice.
- Sub T2 and T3: Sub T2 = 10 € per month, Sub T3 = 25 € per month.
- Raid : the fact that a creator directs all of their viewers to another live stream at the end of their broadcast.
A brief historical note: the term Host has long referred to the ability to stream another creator’s live broadcast on one’s own channel. This feature no longer exists. It was announced in 2024 and then removed on October 3, 2022.
More questions about using Twitch?
Do you have a question that isn't covered here? Join the community Alucare.fr and ask your question directly. You'll find quick help and people who are ready to answer.
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