Articles

How To Stream Nintendo Switch On Twitch (Gaming Guide)

by Jake Redman

Twitch is a streaming platform dedicated to giving creators the chance to broadcast almost any activity to a wide audience.  

One of the most popular ways to use Twitch is to stream games with a laptop or from a variety of consoles, including the Nintendo Switch. Looking to learn how to stream Switch on Twitch? We have plenty of tips below. 

What Exactly Is Switch Streaming On Twitch? 

Released in 2017, the Nintendo Switch quickly became one of the most popular consoles in the world. The Switch uses a dock and unique design to allow it to be played on TV and as a handheld device.  

For those not in the know, streaming is a verb for broadcasting an activity live online to an audience; Switch streaming refers to broadcasting Switch gameplay on Twitch. Streamers use these broadcasts to socialize, make new friends, and try out new games or activities. There are typically between one and four streamers involved in a Switch stream.  

nintendo switch controller with a tv in the background

What Do You Need To Stream Switch On Twitch? 

Necessary Items
  • A Decent Internet Connection  
    While it is possible to stream on low-quality internet connections, the overall quality of your stream will be poor for viewers. We would recommend having a minimum upload speed of 3 per second, depending on the game. 
  • Computer Or Laptop  
    Your computer or laptop runs the streaming and capture software while uploading the data to Twitch in real-time. You will need to ensure that your PC or laptop is connected to a power source throughout the broadcast. It's also important that your computer has enough RAM to handle streaming. 
  • Capture Card  
    A capture card is used to capture the gameplay footage and game audio on your Switch while you play. This data is then run through capture software and uploaded to your Twitch channel. 
  • HDMI Cable   
    HDMI cables work to connect your capture card to your console and monitor. You will need at least two cables. Luckily most capture cards and monitors come with an HDMI cable. 
  • Nintendo Switch Dock   
    The Nintendo Switch dock casts your gameplay to your monitor or television. This is vital for streamers as the Nintendo Switch itself does not have an HDMI input or output.  
  • Monitor Or Television  
    Having your Switch set up connected to a laptop or even connected to your monitor is fantastic, as it lets you see your gameplay and makes it easier to see finer details and make comments while streaming from your Switch. 
  • USB Cable   
    A USB cable is used in streaming switch on Twitch that connects the capture card to your PC. This aids in getting your capture footage and audio to Twitch’s platform. 
  • Twitch Account  
    To stream Switch on Twitch, you will need to create a Twitch channel and tailor it to your needs as a creator before going live on the platform. 
  • Controller  
    The Switch has two main controller options – the Joy-Cons and the Pro controller. No matter which you pick, your controller allows you to control gameplay and provide entertainment for yourself and the audience. Make sure your controller is charged or plugged into a power source before going live. 
  • Headphones  
    Plugging in your headphones to your PC ensures that you can hear the game audio without it looping in your microphone; this makes it more pleasant to watch and listen to for viewers. 
Optional Items
  • Microphone 
    Many streamers choose not to use a microphone in their streams. If you do choose to use a microphone, it means that your viewers can listen to your thoughts and hear live reactions to the action. 
  • Webcam 
    Using a webcam allows you to stream your facial expressions and potentially open your channel up to new kinds of content. However, many streamers choose not to use face cam for a variety of reasons. 
  • Lighting   
    Streamers who use webcams will typically put a lot of thought into lighting their space well. This will typically come in the form of ring lights positioned behind your camera or as LED lights in different colors for visual interest and practical lighting. 
nintendo switch game controller

How To Set Up A Nintendo Switch For Twitch

Setting Up The Capture Card 

Setting up your capture card properly is vital to ensure that your stream runs smoothly. Here is exactly how to set up an Elgato HD60 at home: 

  1. 1
    Plug the Elgato’s USB-C cable into the USB-C port on the Elgato HD60 S. 
  2. 2
    Plug the USB 3.0 end of the cable into a 3.0 port on your PC or laptop. If you try to use a 2.0 or other alternative USB port, the Elgato will not function. 
  3. 3
    Plug the Elgato’s HDMI cable into the Switch dock.  
  4. 4
    Plug the other end of this HDMI cable into the HDMI IN port on the Elgato. 
  5. 5
    Plug a second HDMI cable into the HDMI OUT port on the Elgato. 
  6. 6
    Plug the other end of this HDMI cable into your monitor or TV.  
  7. 7
    Download Elgato’s streaming software.  
Downloading & Setting Up Streaming Software 

There are a few different platforms that will allow you to stream on Twitch. Here, we will break down some of the best platforms to get started on. 

Both Windows and Mac 
Windows Only 
Preparation

No matter which software or platform you choose, we recommend doing the following before setting up: 

  • Update your drivers and PC software 
  • Whitelist the software or platform on your firewall and antivirus 
  • Install VC++ 64 and 32 bit (Windows only) 

Once these steps have been completed, we recommend following the instructions linked above to get started. 

How To Stream Switch On Twitch (Step By Step Guide)

1. Setting up a Twitch account 

  1. 1
    Go to Twitch’s website and select the Sign-Up button on the top right-hand corner. 
  2. 2
    Fill out the Sign Up form by choosing a username, password, email, and date of birth. 
  3. 3
    Tell Twitch that you aren’t a robot. 
  4. 4
    Check your email and click the link to verify your account. 
  5. 5
    Go to your Security and Privacy settings page. 
  6. 6
    Select Set Up Two-Factor Authentication. 
  7. 7
    Select Enable 2FA. 
  8. 8
    Enter your phone number and select Continue. 
  9. 9
    Enter the seven-digit code you will receive via text message and select Continue. 

2. Going live 

Once you have personalized your streaming software and Twitch profile and set up your Switch, it is time to go live. 

  • Select Go Live in your software. 
  • Select Twitch as the platform. 
  • Write a title for the stream. 
  • Choose a category – we recommend the game you want to play. 
  • Add up to five Twitch tags. 
  • Connect to Twitter and share your stream if you have a Twitter profile. 
  • Click confirm and go live. 

We recommend running an internet speed test and doing a test stream to confirm everything works as it should before going live 'officially.' A mod or friend can be with you in chat, and you can watch your live stream on your mobile or desktop and test everything to see what needs adjusting—lowering or increasing the bitrate when off-stream is one of the most common adjustments.  

phone sitting on table with twitch logo

How To Watch Twitch On Nintendo Switch 

As of the writing of this article, it is not possible to legally watch Twitch streams on your Nintendo Switch. However, Twitch’s app can be found on Xbox and other consoles, so it may come in the future. We recommend sticking to watching Twitch streams on your desktop or phone.  

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can you stream Nintendo Switch on Twitch without a capture card? 

Not currently. This may change in the future, but this feature is not currently available. It is possible to find decent capture cards second-hand or online for more affordable prices.  

Do you need two computers to stream? 

To stream effectively, we recommend having either a PC and two monitors or a laptop and one monitor. This means that you can run the necessary software and see gameplay at the same time. 

What else can a Nintendo Switch do? 

A Nintendo Switch can be used to play games at home or on the go, give you news from Nintendo or on new releases, and play games with your friends.  

Can you add apps to Nintendo Switch? 

The Nintendo Switch has a wide range of games and apps to choose from. Some of our favorites include YouTube, Nintendo Online, Hulu, and InkyPen. Try some out for yourself in the Nintendo eShop today. 

Conclusion

The Nintendo Switch is an excellent console with a wide variety of games to choose from. Streaming your gameplay on Twitch is a brilliant way to socialize and learn new skills but knowing how to stream on Twitch from Switch is the first step. With our tips above, experienced mods, and streaming practice, you are sure to create fun and engaging content on your Twitch channel.