Short answer: TikTok LIVE Studio is TikTok's program for going LIVE from your computer. You download it from the TikTok website and log in with your TikTok account. Whether you can use it is up to TikTok: at the very least, you must be allowed to go LIVE.

What is TikTok LIVE Studio?

LIVE Studio is a desktop program from TikTok. It lets you stream from your computer instead of your phone. That's handy if you:

  • want to stream games from your PC or console;
  • want to work with multiple sources, such as a camera, your screen, an image or text;
  • want to use a better camera and microphone than the ones on your phone;
  • want to lay out your LIVE in portrait and landscape with scenes you can switch between.

Your viewers simply see your LIVE in the TikTok app, just like a LIVE from a phone.

Who can use LIVE Studio?

At the very least, the usual LIVE requirements apply to LIVE Studio: 18 or over and usually 1,000 followers (this can vary by region). See when you can go LIVE on TikTok. TikTok can also set its own conditions. If you can't go LIVE after logging in, your account doesn't have access (yet). Nobody but TikTok can sort that out for you.

What do you need?

  • A computer. Check TikTok's download page to see which systems are supported. A recent processor and graphics card help, especially for games.
  • A stable internet connection, ideally wired. Wi-Fi can stutter, and then your stream drops.
  • A webcam or camera and a microphone. A simple USB microphone is already a big step up.
  • Light from the front, just like for a LIVE on your phone.

Only download LIVE Studio from TikTok's official website (tiktok.com/studio/download), never from other sites.

Your first LIVE in five steps

  1. Install LIVE Studio and log in with your TikTok account.
  2. Choose your format: portrait suits the way most people watch TikTok best.
  3. Add sources to your scene: your camera, your game or screen, and an image or text if you like.
  4. Check sound and picture. Make sure your microphone isn't too loud or too quiet, and that the game sound doesn't drown out your voice.
  5. Give your LIVE a title and click Go LIVE. Keep an eye on the chat in the chat window, or on your phone next to you.

Tips for a good stream from your PC

  • Be in the picture yourself. Just game footage without you or without your voice can be seen as low quality.
  • Talk to your chat. Read out comments and answer questions. That's why people watch a LIVE.
  • Test first with a short stream, so you know everything works.
  • Don't play other people's music or videos that you don't have the rights to.

LIVE Studio or OBS?

Some accounts get a stream key from TikTok that also lets you use programs such as OBS. Whether you get one is up to TikTok. For most creators, LIVE Studio is the easiest way to start, because it works directly with your account.

Help with your setup

At Grow Connect, your manager helps you with your stream settings, your setup and your planning. Also read how to go LIVE on TikTok and the rules of TikTok LIVE. Want support? Sign up for free.