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If you’ve been wondering how to go live on TikTok, you’re in the right place.
LIVE streaming is one of the most powerful ways to connect with your audience in real time and turning casual followers into loyal fans.
Many creators have grown their reach, boosted sales, and landed partnerships by showing up live on TikTok, and it’s easier to get started than most people think.
In this guide, we’ll walk through everything from setting up your first mobile stream to broadcasting from your computer with pro tools.
Why You Should Go LIVE on TikTok
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Going LIVE on TikTok creates real-time connections that feel personal and authentic. Viewers can chat with you, ask questions, and react instantly, turning a simple stream into an interactive experience that strengthens your relationship with your audience.
Creators and brands use LIVE to:
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Build trust quickly by showing the real person behind the account.
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Increase visibility through TikTok's LIVE discovery feed.
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Showcase products or services in action.
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Earn revenue through Gifts, subscriptions, and live promotions.
It doesn't matter if you're running a Q&A, hosting a behind-the-scenes look, or streaming an event, TikTok LIVE gives you a direct line to your audience.
What You Need Before Going LIVE
Before you start streaming, it’s important to know TikTok’s basic requirements for using the LIVE feature. Meeting these conditions ensures the option appears on your account and runs smoothly.
Step-by-Step: How to Go Live on TikTok (Mobile & Desktop)
Once you meet the requirements, it's time to start your first stream. TikTok gives you two main ways to go live: directly from your phone or through a desktop setup.
Going LIVE on Your Phone
Most creators start here because it’s fast, simple, and doesn’t require extra software.
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1. Open TikTok and tap the "+" button - This is the same button you use to post videos.
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2. Swipe to the "LIVE" option - You'll find it on the bottom menu.
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3. Add a title and choose your cover image - Keep it clear so viewers know what to expect.
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4. Adjust your settings - Control who can comment, add keyword filters, or assign a moderator.
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5. Tap "Go LIVE." - You're now streaming. When you're ready to wrap up, tap "End" and confirm.
Quick mobile checklist before you start:
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Stable internet connection (preferably Wi-Fi close to your router).
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Good lighting – natural light works great.
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A tripod or phone stand for a steady shot.
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Do Not Disturb mode on to prevent interruptions.
Going LIVE on Desktop
For more control and better production value, you can use TikTok's desktop tools.
Using TikTok LIVE Studio
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Download and install TikTok LIVE Studio from TikTok's official site.
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Log in with your TikTok account.
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Add your sources, webcam, microphone, gameplay, or screen share.
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Set your resolution (720p is a safe starting point) and frame rate (30–60 fps).
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Click "Go LIVE" inside LIVE Studio.
Using OBS or another encoder:
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Open the LIVE Center on TikTok to get your streaming details.
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Here's where you can find TikTok live stream key copy both the Stream Key and server URL into OBS.
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Set your video to vertical format (1080×1920 or 720×1280), bitrate between 2,500 and 6,000 kbps, and frame rate between 30 and 60 fps.
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Add your sources, check your audio levels, and click "Start Streaming."
Boosting Your LIVE Reach on TikTok
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Now that you know how to go live on TikTok, the next step is getting more people to watch and stay engaged. TikTok has built-in tools that can help you attract a bigger audience and keep them interested from start to finish.
Schedule a LIVE Event:
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Planning your stream aheadof time gives followers a chance to register and receive reminders.
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Go to the LIVE setup screen and tap LIVE Center.
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Select LIVE Events, then "Create an event."
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Add a clear title, date, and cover image.
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Promote it in a TikTok post or story so your audience knows exactly when to join.
Promote Beyond TikTok
Share your event link on Instagram, YouTube, or any platform where your audience is active.
The more touchpoints you create, the higher your turnout. You can even tease your upcoming stream with short behind-the-scenes clips, countdown posts, or a quick video inviting people to join.
Use Interactive Features
Engagement keeps viewers watching longer, so make use of TikTok’s built-in tools designed for this purpose.
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Multi-guest: Invite up to a few people into your stream for live conversations or collaborations.
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Pinned comments: Keep important links or instructions visible at the top of the chat.
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Q&A: Turn on the Q&A feature so viewers can send questions you can answer in real time.
Consistency Counts
Going live at the same time each week helps build a habit for your viewers. If they know when to expect you, they’re more likely to make time to join.
Treat it like a weekly show, give it a name, announce it ahead of time, and stick to your schedule. Over time, this consistency not only boosts attendance but also strengthens your community, as people begin to plan their day around catching your stream.
How to Make Money While LIVE on TikTok
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Once you're comfortable streaming, TikTok offers several ways to turn your live sessions into an income stream. The more you engage with your audience, the greater your earning potential.
Gifts and Diamonds
Viewers can send you virtual Gifts during your stream, which convert into Diamonds. If you've ever wondered how much TikTok gifts are worth, the value varies depending on the gift type, and TikTok sets the exchange rate.
TikTok LIVE Fan Club
This feature rewards your most dedicated viewers. Fans who join can unlock badges, special chat privileges, and exclusive content. You can boost sign-ups by offering members-only incentives, such as sneak peeks of upcoming projects or extra time during Q&A sessions.
TikTok LIVE Subscriptions
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For eligible creators, monthly subscriptions create a steady income stream. Subscribers might receive exclusive emotes, sub-only chats, or even private livestreams. Consider creating a simple subscription package with clear perks so viewers know exactly what they get when they join.
Integrating Sales and Promotions
Some creators use LIVE to promote their products, services, or affiliate offers. You could run a limited-time discount during your broadcast, demonstrate how a product works, or pin a purchase link in the comments. Pairing urgency with interactivity often increases conversions.
Mix and Match Revenue Streams
You don’t need to stick to just one method, many successful creators combine Gifts, Fan Club perks, and product promotions in a single session. This keeps your monetization diverse and reduces reliance on any single source.
Conclusion
Going LIVE on TikTok is one of the most effective ways to connect with your audience in real time, share your personality, and even earn money while doing it.
From setting up your first mobile stream to running a full desktop broadcast with professional tools, you now have the steps and strategies to make your livestreams stand out.
The key is to start. The more you go live, the better you’ll get at engaging your viewers and building a loyal community. Consistency, preparation, and a little creativity will help you turn casual watchers into dedicated fans.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions |
Can I go live on TikTok without 1,000 followers?
No. TikTok currently requires at least 1,000 followers to unlock the LIVE feature. You also need to be at least 18 years old.
Where can I find my TikTok LIVE replays?
Go to your profile menu, open TikTok Studio or LIVE Center, and check the “LIVE recordings” section. Replays stay available for 30 days.
Can I use TikTok LIVE from my computer?
Yes. You can use TikTok LIVE Studio (Windows) or stream through OBS with a Stream Key from your LIVE Center.
How long can a TikTok LIVE be?
Most creators stream for 30–60 minutes, but TikTok allows sessions of several hours if your internet connection and audience engagement hold up.