On top of allowing you to create and post short video clips, TikTok also lets you go live to boost engagement and build your audience. If you’re curious and want to try this, this guide shows how to go live on TikTok.
Good to know: show your appreciation of quality content by reposting to share videos on TikTok.
What Is TikTok LIVE?
TikTok LIVE is a feature that allows creators on TikTok to live-stream videos to their audience. Instead of shooting, editing, and posting a video, TikTok LIVE lets you set up a video stream in real time and interact with your viewers directly. TikTok LIVE is a feature that enables you to create content that showcases your authentic self, which opens doors to building more genuine connections with those who join the livestream.
TikTok LIVE is similar to the options offered on other social apps – including Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube – but has a few particularities. These are listed below.
How Many Followers Do You Need to Go Live on TikTok?
Unlike similar services, such as Instagram, not every creator on TikTok can access the LIVE function. You’ll need to have at least 1,000 followers on TikTok to start a LIVE stream. If you don’t have the followers, the option will not show up for you.
In addition, you need to be at least 16 years old to use this function in your TikTok app. If you’re a creator that’s over 18, you can also earn gift points during lives, something that’s not available for younger creators.
Tip: watch videos together with friends while using these Facebook Watch Party alternatives.
How to Go Live on TikTok
To go live on TikTok for the first time, follow the steps detailed below. If you’re setting it up on your smartphone, make sure you’ve updated the app to ensure the option shows up.
Note: taking a few minutes to check out TikTok’s community guidelines before your first live session can help you create a positive and engaging experience for both you and your viewers.
Mobile
Open the TikTok app, and log in to an account that has at least 1,000 followers.
Tap the + button at the bottom.
Tap on the LIVE button under the record button.
Enter the title of your live stream, pick an image to represent it if you would like, then press Go LIVE to start.
During or before starting the live stream, you can take steps to improve the experience by adding things like effects, stickers, music, and voice effects. You can also flip the camera or start a poll with your audience.
When it’s time to conclude the live session, tap the power button at the bottom of the menu stream to end the stream.
PC
You can also start TikTok LIVE sessions if you’re using TikTok on a Windows PC. However, you won’t be able to do this from your browser. You’ll need to download TikTok LIVE Studio.
Note: this feature may not work if you aren’t a gaming creator with at least 1,000 followers. To be a gaming creator, you need to have previously posted game-related short videos or gone live with game-related content on TikTok. Non-gaming creators have to have at least 10,000 followers to use LIVE Studio.
Open TikTok LIVE Studio on your PC, and log in with a compatible account.
To begin, set up your streaming parameters by pressing the Set up now button.
Check the mic or videocam quality. TikTok will also perform an Internet speed test to ensure your live session will unfold smoothly.
Alternatively, hit Go LIVE now.
You can set several parameters before going LIVE on TikTok, such as selecting a LIVE goal, creating a poll or switching from landscape mode to portrait.
FYI: learn how to view and manage your TikTok watch history.
How to Join Another User’s TikTok Live
Unlike creating your own TikTok LIVE stream, joining another user’s live stream as a viewer is available for all TikTok users. You don’t even need to follow the other account to join their stream.
Mobile
Open the TikTok app on your mobile device, and press the LIVE button in the upper-left corner.
You will be connected to a live feed. If you don’t like it, swipe up to go to the next one. Continue doing so until you find something you like.
Use the comment section at the bottom to chat with the streamer or other participants. If you wish to send a gift to someone, use the appropriate icon on the right.
If you want to join a LIVE as a co-host, it’s the same as hosting your own. You’ll need to have at least 1,000 followers to be eligible to join the LIVE.
Once you’ve identified the LIVE you want to join, tap on the Multi-guest request icon (if available) to join the stream. If the creator accepts, you can go live alongside them.
Tip: Discord stream lagging in Windows? Take these steps to fix it.
PC
On PC, click the LIVE button in the menu on the left.
It’s easier to discover content here that you may be interested in, as LIVES are grouped by categories. Select one at the top of the video feed to start viewing LIVE options.
Knowing how to go live on TikTok is just the beginning. You may want to expand your knowledge on the subject. Learn how to watch and chat on YouTube Live stream. You may also be interested in learning about the best streaming apps for iOS that don’t require a PC.
Image credit: Freepik. All screenshots by Alexandra Arici.
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