Understanding Twitch Subscriptions and How You Get Paid
Subscriptions are the backbone of Twitch monetization for most streamers. Whether you're aiming to become an Affiliate or are already a Partner, understanding exactly how subscription revenue works — and what Twitch actually pays out — is essential for setting realistic expectations and planning your growth.
The Twitch Affiliate vs Partner Difference
Subscriptions are only available to Twitch Affiliates and Partners. Here's a quick comparison of both programs:
| Program | Requirements | Revenue Split |
|---|---|---|
| Affiliate | 50 followers, 500 total minutes broadcast, 7 unique broadcast days, 3 average viewers (over 30 days) | 50/50 split with Twitch |
| Partner | Average 75 concurrent viewers, 25 hours streamed, 12 unique broadcast days (over 30 days) | 50/50 split standard; 70/30 negotiable for top Partners |
The standard revenue split for both Affiliates and most Partners is 50% to the streamer, 50% to Twitch. Top-tier Partners may negotiate a more favorable split, but this is not standard for most creators.
Subscription Tiers and Their Prices
Twitch offers three subscription tiers that viewers can purchase:
- Tier 1 — $4.99/month: The most common subscription. Streamer earns ~$2.50
- Tier 2 — $9.99/month: Double support. Streamer earns ~$5.00
- Tier 3 — $24.99/month: Maximum subscription support. Streamer earns ~$12.50
Note that Twitch Prime (now called Prime Gaming) subs also pay out at the Tier 1 rate to the streamer.
What Are Sub Points?
Twitch introduced Sub Points as a metric tied to the Partner program's monetization milestones. Each subscription counts as a certain number of Sub Points:
- Tier 1 = 1 Sub Point
- Tier 2 = 2 Sub Points
- Tier 3 = 6 Sub Points
Sub Points are used internally by Twitch to track a channel's subscription value and can influence eligibility for certain partnership tiers and agreements.
Other Twitch Revenue Streams
Subscriptions aren't the only way to earn on Twitch. A healthy income strategy typically includes multiple sources:
- Bits: Viewers cheer with Bits (Twitch's virtual currency). You earn $0.01 per Bit after Twitch's cut
- Ads: Mid-roll and pre-roll ads pay out per 1,000 views (CPM), though rates vary significantly
- Donations: Direct tips via platforms like StreamElements or Streamlabs (no Twitch cut, but payment processor fees apply)
- Sponsorships: Brand deals are often the highest-earning revenue source for mid-to-large streamers
- Merchandise: Channel-branded merch through Twitch's Merch shelf or third-party platforms
When Does Twitch Pay You?
Twitch pays out on a net-15 basis — meaning you receive your earnings 15 days after the end of the month in which you earned them. There's a minimum payout threshold of $100 USD (or local equivalent). Earnings below that threshold roll over to the following month.
Key Takeaways
- The standard streamer-to-Twitch revenue split is 50/50 for Affiliates and most Partners
- Diversify your income beyond subscriptions from the start
- Subscriptions are recurring — they're more stable than one-time donations or ad revenue
- Focus on building genuine community, not chasing sub counts — loyal viewers subscribe for the long haul