As a Twitch streamer, I have learned the hard way that the monetization policies of the platform really shape our journeys. With Twitch’s new pay structure, which rolled into effect in 2025, things are about to change dramatically. So let us break down what is going to change, compare it with the old one and then check what both streamers and viewers have to say about it.
What are the new pay structures for streamers on Twitch?
Twitch’s new payment scheme for streamers will be all about accessibility and inclusivity. Starting in 2025, most streamers-regardless of their status or how long they’ve been on the platform-will have access from day-one to monetization tools like subscriptions, Bits, etc. This was a huge break from the old model, which had only Affiliates and Partner unlocking these after hitting specific milestones. To become an Affiliate, you previously required 50 followers, an average of three viewers per stream, and eight hours of streaming over seven days. Only then could you start earning from subs and Bits. The new system removes these hurdles, allowing almost anyone to monetize their content right away.
How Twitch’s New Pay Structure for Streamers Differs from the Old Model
The old pay structure created a clear hierarchy: only Affiliates and Partners could earn through subscriptions, Bits, and ads. Achieving Affiliate status was a rite of passage, often celebrated as a major milestone in a streamer’s career. The new pay structure for Twitch streamers flattens this hierarchy, making monetization tools available to most streamers immediately. Additionally, Twitch is introducing options for creators to use their earnings on purchases within the platform, further building an internal creator economy. The company is also expanding sponsorship opportunities, improving mobile experiences, and making it easier for streamers to collaborate and promote their channels.
Pros of Twitch’s New Pay Structure for Streamers
Lower Barriers, More Opportunity
With the new pay structure, anyone can start earning from their very first stream. This is huge for new creators who want to test the waters and see if streaming is right for them without grinding for Affiliate status. It democratizes the platform, making it more welcoming and less intimidating for fresh talent.
Faster Community Growth
Having the ability to monetize from day one means creators can immediately reward loyal viewers and build a sense of community around their streams much sooner than before. Early monetization can be a powerful motivator for viewers and streamers. This helps streamers stay consistent, passionate, and motivated to evolve and expand their abilities to diversify their streams.
Expanded Sponsorship and Revenue Options
Twitch is also rolling out new sponsorship tools and making it easier for creators to connect with brands, which could mean more diverse income streams beyond just subs and Bits.
Internal Creator Economy
Allowing streamers to use their earnings for purchases within Twitch (like overlays, emotes, or even promotional tools) could help creators reinvest in their channels without needing to leave the platform.
Cons of Twitch’s New Pay Structure for Streamers
Devaluing Affiliate and Partner Status
Many streamers who worked hard to achieve Affiliate or Partner status feel like their accomplishments have been undercut. The exclusivity and sense of achievement that came with unlocking monetization are now gone, and some creators are questioning what they worked so hard for.
Potential for More Ads
Viewers are concerned that if monetization is open to everyone, ads might become more prevalent across all channels-not just those with Affiliate or Partner status. This could lead to a less enjoyable viewing experience, especially if smaller creators enable ads to try to earn more.
Saturation and Lower Earnings
With so many more streamers able to monetize, the “pie” gets divided among more people. Smaller channels may struggle to make meaningful income, especially in a crowded marketplace. There’s also a risk that Twitch’s move is more about boosting its own profitability than genuinely supporting creators.
Unclear Details and Growing Pains
Some aspects of the new pay structure for Twitch streamers are still vague, especially regarding verification and eligibility. Streamers worry about potential limitations or unforeseen challenges as the system rolls out.
What Streamers Are Saying About Twitch’s New Pay Structure
The reaction among streamers is mixed and passionate. New and smaller streamers are excited-they see this as a chance to grow and monetize without jumping through hoops. For many, it feels like Twitch is finally listening to their requests for more accessible monetization.
On the other hand, veteran streamers and those who recently became Affiliates or Partners feel let down. They invested time and effort to reach those milestones, and now the rewards feel less special. Some are even worried that the Affiliate program might become obsolete altogether.
What Viewers Are Saying About the New Platform Structure
Viewers are also divided. Some are happy for their favorite up-and-coming streamers, excited to support them through subs and Bits right away. However, many are worried about the potential for more ads, fearing that every channel will start running them, which could make browsing Twitch less enjoyable.
There’s also curiosity about how the new internal economy will work-will it make supporting streamers easier, or will it just complicate things? Viewers value ease of use, cost, and the ability to support creators directly, so these changes will be watched closely.
Rising Streaming Platforms in 2025
There is little doubt that Twitch is still the incomparable king for live gaming. But the other emerging platforms are creeping in too. The publicity from YouTube Live is still attempting to hook the big names with its good infrastructure and discoverability offerings. Kick and Facebook Gaming are also offering enticing creator revenue splits and benefits. But what can consumers do when platforms such as Netflix, YouTube TV, and, of course, the clear front-runner, Amazon Prime Video have literally taken hold of the entire state-of-air streaming, to wear out consumers regarding time watched beyond digital media?
Better discoverability and flexible monetization terms, and sometimes better revenue shares for creators, can make a platform more attractive. The above competition has made it very important, for example, for Twitch, to revise the existing streamer pay structure.
In summary:
Twitch’s new pay structure for Twitch streamers is a bold move that lowers the barriers to earning but comes with trade-offs for both creators and viewers. As a streamer, I’m excited for the new opportunities but also cautious about what might be lost in the process. The streaming world is changing fast, and only time will tell if these changes help Twitch remain the king of live streaming-or if new challengers will rise to the top.