TikTok Live Streaming: How to Go Live on TikTok in 2025
TikTok Live has quickly grown into more than just a place for casual content. In 2025, it’s a powerful tool for creators, educators, brands, and event organizers to engage audiences in real time, grow their communities, and generate revenue. With nearly 1 billion active users, TikTok is now a major player in the live streaming space, offering professional features once limited to platforms like YouTube or Facebook Live.
This guide will walk you through how to go live on TikTok in 2025, whether you’re streaming from mobile or desktop. We’ll cover TikTok Live Studio, the official desktop app for streaming, and show you how to use TikTok Live Studio with OBS for more advanced control. You’ll also learn about TikTok Live requirements, monetization options, co-hosting features, how to improve TikTok live engagement, and how to simulcast your TikTok stream with platforms like YouTube and Facebook using a professional solution like Dacast.
Whether you’re planning a product launch, hosting a class, running a branded livestream, or growing your creator presence, this updated 2025 TikTok Live guide will help you stream with confidence and impact.
Table of Contents
- What is TikTok Live Studio?
- TikTok Live Streaming: The Basics
- TikTok Live Requirements & Rules (2025 Update)
- Step-by-Step Guides for Going Live and Streaming with TikTok
- TikTok Live for Brands & Businesses
- TikTok Live Monetization in 2025
- TikTok Live Analytics & Optimization
- Is TikTok Streaming Worth It?
- Best Practices for TikTok Live Streaming in 2025
- Tips for Successful TikTok Live Streams
- How to See Who is Live on TikTok
- Advanced Streaming Tools: OBS & Dacast Integration
- FAQs
- Conclusion
What is TikTok Live Studio?
TikTok Live Studio is a streaming tool designed to enhance the live broadcasting experience on TikTok. This software allows users to professionally stream content while engaging with audiences for maximum reach.
Benefits for Broadcasters and Businesses
Broadcasters can benefit from TikTok Live Studio by accessing advanced streaming features. These elevate their content quality. They can easily set up live streams, integrate with OBS, and use stream keys for smooth broadcasting. The tool supports multiple platforms, including TikTok Live Studio for Mac and TikTok Live Studio for Android, broadening accessibility. Businesses can leverage TikTok Live Studio to engage directly with audiences, promote their products, and drive sales through interactive live sessions.
How to Get TikTok Live Studio
You can download TikTok Live Studio for free. For Mac and Android users, specific versions are available. Once installed, you can set up your studio by linking your account. There are TikTok Live Studio requirements, and to get access to TikTok Live Studio, you must meet certain criteria, so it’s worth checking the eligibility through TikTok’s guidelines.
How to Set Up TikTok Live Studio
Setting up TikTok Live involves integrating OBS into TikTok Live Studio, using the TikTok Live Studio stream key provided. You can find detailed guides on how to use TikTok Live Studio and its features to streamline the process, ensuring you’re ready to go live and begin powerfully engaging with your audience.
Key Features and Benefits
TikTok Live Studio is a streaming software from TikTok that lets users broadcast live streams directly from their computers, offering a more professional streaming experience compared to mobile devices. There are many new features in the Live Studio desktop version. Here are our favorite features and benefits:
Key Features:
- Multi-Source Streaming: Allows integration of screen captures, external cameras, and microphones.
- User-Friendly Interface: Easy to set up and manage, even for those not tech-savvy.
- Interaction Tools: Includes live chat, alerts, and overlays to engage with the audience.
- Customizable Layouts: Streamers can add text, images, and media to create unique layouts.
- Stream Analytics: Provides insights to understand and track stream performance.
- TikTok Integration: Seamlessly connects with TikTok for easy streaming and audience interaction.
Benefits for Creators:
- Improved Production Quality: Use of high-quality cameras and microphones enhances stream quality.
- Flexibility: Suitable for various content types like gaming, tutorials, and Q&A sessions.
- Audience Engagement: Tools for better interaction help build a stronger community.
How to Download, Setup and Use TikTok Studio Live:
- Download and Install: Get the software from the TikTok website or authorized sources.
- Set Up: Log in with a TikTok account and set up streaming preferences.
- Configure Sources: Add and configure cameras, screen captures, and microphones.
- Customize Layout: Design the stream layout with customizable elements.
- Go Live: Start streaming and interacting with viewers in real time.
TikTok Ban: What You Should Know in 2025
With ongoing legal scrutiny in the U.S. and select EU markets, concerns about a potential TikTok ban in 2025 still exist. While TikTok remains active in the UK and most regions, creators and businesses should have a contingency streaming strategy. A smart approach? Simulcast your TikTok live stream with YouTube, Facebook, or your website using platforms like Dacast, which supports professional TikTok Live Studio system requirements and OBS streaming setups.
This ensures that even if TikTok becomes restricted in certain regions, your audience engagement won’t be interrupted. If you’re worried about how to stream professionally on TikTok and beyond, Dacast offers a future-proof solution to safeguard your content distribution.
TikTok Live Streaming: The Basics
TikTok’s live streaming support allows creators to broadcast videos to their followers in real-time. Live streaming is more engaging than pre-recorded content since it gives viewers a more lifelike interaction with the creator.
Live streaming is not an automatic feature on TikTok, and users must meet specific criteria to access this feature.
TikTok Live Requirements & Rules (2025 Update)
TikTok Live Requirements
To ensure a smooth and successful live stream on TikTok, you must follow the platform’s requirements and guidelines.
First, to meet the TikTok streaming requirements, users must be at least 16 years old. Also, to use TikTok Live Studio and access live streaming features, you need to have at least 1,000 followers on your TikTok account.
Technical Requirements and Guidelines
For best performance, ensure you have a stable internet connection. TikTok Live Studio is compatible with Mac and PC and offers detailed setup instructions. When using TikTok Live Studio, it’s recommended that you have a high-resolution camera and a quality microphone to enhance the viewer experience. Stream keys are also provided within the app for linking with OBS and other streaming software.
Content and Conduct Rules
TikTok rules for live streaming emphasize maintaining a positive and respectful environment. Content should comply with TikTok’s community guidelines and avoid offensive or harmful material. Interactive features such as responding to comments and engaging with viewers are encouraged to foster a more vibrant community.
Understanding how to stream on TikTok and following these TikTok Live guidelines ensures a professional and engaging broadcast that effectively connects with your audience.
Who Can Live Stream on TikTok?
Users must be at least 16 years old and have 1000 followers to access live streaming capabilities on TikTok.
TikTok can revoke users’ live streaming rights (either temporarily or permanently) if they violate community guidelines. We will talk more about abiding by these guidelines later in this post.
It’s pretty straightforward if you meet the criteria for going live on TikTok.Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown of the process:
- Log in to your TikTok app and click the Create button (the small button with a + in a box at the bottom of the screen).
- Scroll to the right of the “Live” option.
- Choose a cover image and a title for your stream.
- Apply any effects or filters you’d like, then click the red “GO LIVE” button.
- That’s it! You are now TikTok live streaming!
You can also add moderators to monitor the chat to avoid inappropriate or obnoxious chatter. If you’re planning a live stream later, you can schedule it by clicking the calendar icon in your TikTok profile. You’ll be prompted to add an event name, set a start time and duration, and write a description. Click “Create” to save the event.
TikTok Rules for Live Streaming
TikTok has clear rules and guidelines to ensure a positive livestreaming environment on its platform. To know how do you go live on TikTok, first, users must meet TikTok streaming requirements for the TikTok Live app. This includes being at least 16 years old and having a minimum of 1,000 followers. The TikTok live streaming app, TikTok Live Studio, facilitates professional live broadcasts, which makes it easy to connect with your audience.
To go live, all you need to do is tap the “+” icon, select “Live”, and follow the prompts. Make sure your content is aligned with TikTok’s community guidelines, which prohibit harmful, offensive, or inappropriate material. Respectful interaction is key, so positive engagement with viewers is encouraged.
As of the recent TikTok Live update 2024, enhanced moderation tools are available. These help to maintain a safe streaming environment. By following these TikTok Live requirements, you can create engaging, respectful, and enjoyable live streams that resonate with your audience. For more detailed instructions on how to go live on TikTok, refer to the app’s support resources.
Follower Minimum to Go Live on TikTok
TikTok Streaming is allowed for users who follow these criteria:
- User must be at least 16 years of age or above
- The user should have a minimum of 1000 followers
- To send and receive gifts, the user must be above 18 years of age.
So what to do if your following is below 1000? Some users report using a “hack” that has worked for them. Although not officially endorsed, users with less than 1000 followers can request access to TikTok live by messaging through the “report a problem” and “send us your feedback tool.”
Step-by-Step Guides for Going Live and Streaming with TikTok
Going Live on TikTok via Mobile (TikTok Live Mobile)
In 2025, going live on TikTok using your phone is quick and effective, especially with updated TikTok Live mobile tools. To get started:
Steps to go live on TikTok mobile:
- Open the TikTok app and tap the “+” (Create) button.
- Swipe to the “LIVE” tab in the bottom menu.
- Add a compelling title and topic to attract viewers.
- (Optional) Tap the calendar icon to schedule a TikTok live stream in advance.
- Apply filters, effects, and enable TikTok co-host live if desired.
- Tap “Go LIVE” to begin your broadcast.
Tips for success:
- You typically need 1,000+ followers to unlock the Live feature, but some users explore how to enable TikTok Live without 1000 followers.
- Stick to TikTok live stream rules for 2025 to avoid a TikTok ban.
- Prioritize real-time audience engagement using Q&A stickers and live chat.
- For higher reach, simulcast with platforms like YouTube or Facebook using Dacast’s multistreaming solution.
Going Live Using TikTok Live Studio (Go Live on TikTok Desktop)
TikTok Live Studio is TikTok’s official desktop app for professional creators and brands. If you’re asking how to go live on TikTok 2025 from a PC, this is the go-to method.
Steps to use TikTok Live Studio:
- Go to TikTok’s official site and download TikTok Live Studio.
- Install the software and log into your TikTok account.
- Ensure your system meets the TikTok Live Studio system requirements (Windows 10 or newer, 8GB+ RAM).
- Add video sources: webcam, screen capture, media files, etc.
- Configure your stream layout with scenes, alerts, and overlays.
- Click “Go Live” to start streaming from your desktop.
Why use TikTok Live Studio in 2025:
- Unlock advanced TikTok creator features like chat overlays and TikTok co-host live.
- Leverage TikTok live monetization tools such as virtual gifts and product links.
- Brands and agencies can use Dacast to embed TikTok streams on websites and simulcast TikTok Live with YouTube and Facebook.
Streaming with OBS to TikTok Live (TikTok OBS Streaming)
For creators seeking full customization and control, TikTok OBS streaming is the most flexible method. It’s ideal for gaming, business webinars, and events requiring top-tier TikTok stream quality.
Steps to stream on TikTok with OBS:
- Obtain a TikTok stream key (available for approved or verified accounts).
- Open OBS Studio and go to Settings > Stream.
- Set stream type to Custom, then paste in the TikTok RTMP URL and your stream key.
- Create your scene using video sources: webcam, screen share, overlays, media files.
- Adjust bitrate, resolution, and encoding for high-quality output.
- Click “Start Streaming” to go live from OBS.
Advantages of OBS for TikTok in 2025:
- Offers greater control for those wanting to stream professionally on TikTok.
- OBS is compatible with TikTok live stream for brands and businesses looking to enhance production value.
- Combine OBS with Dacast’s professional streaming platform to enable secure, scalable, and monetizable livestreams with simulcast capabilities.
TikTok Live for Brands & Businesses
In 2025, TikTok Live for brands and businesses has evolved into a powerful real-time engagement tool. Retailers are running live product drops, creators are hosting AMAs and interactive Q&As, and SaaS brands are using TikTok Live for mini-webinars and demos.
Business accounts can grow faster by using formats that encourage participation, like polls, shoutouts, and giveaways. For better audience-building, schedule a TikTok live stream at the best time to go live on TikTok, and promote it across socials. Some brands are even combining TikTok Live Studio with Dacast multistreaming to simulcast to Facebook, YouTube, and beyond. With the right TikTok Live setup and a focus on authenticity, you can boost reach, drive conversions, and build lasting community trust.
TikTok Live Monetization in 2025
Monetizing your livestream on TikTok in 2025 is easier than ever, thanks to expanded creator features. Fans can now send TikTok gifts during your live, which convert into coins and ultimately into real income. You can also enable TikTok Live Subscriptions, where loyal viewers pay monthly for badges, exclusive chats, and perks.
For sellers, TikTok Shop integration lets you tag and sell products directly during streams. Brand collaborations are on the rise too, with many creators landing sponsored TikTok Live sessions. Whether you’re a solo creator or managing a brand, understanding how to make money with TikTok live streams is key. For more advanced monetization, stream professionally with TikTok OBS streaming or TikTok Live Studio download, and simulcast using Dacast to expand your audience across platforms.
TikTok Live Analytics & Optimization
To grow on TikTok Live in 2025, tracking performance data is essential. After each stream, head to your TikTok Creator Center to view metrics like live viewers, peak viewership, average watch time, engagement rate, and gift earnings. These insights help refine your content strategy, letting you know the best time to go live on TikTok, what topics resonate, and when viewers drop off.
Pro tip: test different formats using TikTok Live Studio or OBS, then compare results to find what drives the most engagement. Whether you livestream on TikTok mobile or desktop, optimizing stream titles, thumbnails, and timing based on real data will set you apart. For deeper insights and cross-platform metrics, use Dacast’s analytics dashboard to guide your next live stream strategy.
Is TikTok Streaming Worth It?
With so many social media platforms out there, is it even worth including TikTok streaming on your list? As a business or video broadcaster, you want to maximize your content’s exposure and revenue.
TikTok streaming might not be as old as some other platforms, but it’s got an extensive user base and is gaining daily traction. Here are some statistics that might surprise you:
- According to this report, TikTok has more than 1 billion monthly active users. That’s quite an impressive audience that can make TikTok streaming worth the hassle for any content creator.
- Wondering how many of these users are US-based? According to this Tweet, quite a few numbers are rising, so the time to start TikTok streaming is now.
- The average user opens the app eight times a day and spends an astonishing 95 minutes on the app per day. That adds up to a total of about 26 hours a month! Those numbers are pretty high when compared to other big social media companies.
- TikTok streaming is also a great monetization strategy for your video content. In 2020 alone, the application generated $500 million in revenue.
Best Practices for TikTok Live Streaming in 2025
To stand out in 2025, apply these TikTok live stream tips to boost reach and engagement. First, schedule your TikTok live stream in advance to notify followers and build anticipation—this is essential for creators and brands alike. Use TikTok’s built-in moderation tools or third-party integrations to manage comments, filter spam, and ensure a safe environment.
Co-hosting live streams with influencers or industry peers can double your audience and drive cross-promotion. For ecommerce, overlay product links using TikTok Shop’s real-time features to convert viewers into buyers. If you’re exploring how to stream from desktop to TikTok or how to simulcast TikTok Live with YouTube and Facebook, Dacast offers professional multistreaming tools and OBS support to elevate your broadcasts.
Tips for Successful TikTok Live Streams
As we’ve covered, live streaming on TikTok is very straightforward if your account is eligible for live streaming. However, there are some things that creators can do to enhance their live-streaming experience and find greater success.
Let’s review a few top tips and best practices for live streaming on TikTok.
Follow the Rules
TikTok has strict community guidelines. If you want to maintain good standing on the platform and keep your live-streaming privileges, it’s important to follow all of the rules.
Community guidelines on TikTok prohibit content involving:
- Violence, terrorism, and organized hate
- Adult content (sexual or pornographic)
- Hate speech
- Slurs and derogatory language
- Weapons
- Criminal activity (drugs, fraud, gambling, etc.)
- Violent and graphic content
- Self-harm and suicide
- Grooming and exploitation of minors
- Misinformation, impersonation, and spam
It is important to keep it clean, especially since there are so many young users on the TikTok app.
Interact with Viewers
The informal nature of TikTok live streams often works in favor of creators. When done right, TikTok live streams can make viewers feel like they are on a video call with a friend. That helps make your audience feel more attached to your brand, which is a win-win.
However, to create that effect, you must create more personalized interactions. The chat features on TikTok live streams help you do just that. Encourage participation by asking questions and inviting your viewers to respond in the chat. Read different responses out loud and answer them directly.
Calling your viewers by their usernames and responding to their comments can help them feel seen and heard. That’ll make them feel like they are part of a conversation rather than just a spectator.
Go Live Often
If you are trying to build a loyal audience, it is a good idea to go live often. You can create a schedule, so your supporters and followers know when to tune in. If you want to stick to a more sporadic schedule, give your followers a heads-up, so they have at least some notice.
Invite a Co-Host
One cool feature of TikTok’s live streaming tool is adding a co-host to your live stream. Broadcasters can invite other TikTok users to join the stream as a presenter. Who you invite to co-host your stream with you depends on the nature of your brand.
For example, if you’re a creator in the true-crime space, your audience might enjoy guest appearances from retired law enforcement personnel who can help you analyze current happenings. Other brands benefit from inviting celebrities or influencers onto the stream because that will help to attract new viewers.
Pay Attention to Stream Quality
Maintaining a pleasant user experience is key for a successful live stream, so ensuring that your streaming quality is good is a must. You can do a few things to produce a high-quality live stream.
First and foremost, it is important to stream with a reliable internet connection. A weak internet connection could cause the video to be choppy or to fail midstream.
You also want to make sure that your audio is clear. Eliminate any background noises that are distracting or drown out your voice. Stay close enough to the microphone so your viewers can hear you.
Also, make sure the stream is visually appealing. Stream somewhere with adequate lighting. Use a tripod or prop up your phone in a way that captures you from a flattering angle. Try to get a shot that is straight on rather than tilted up or down.
Remember to Have Fun
TikTok is a social media platform full of fun and lighthearted content. It is a good idea to match that energy to meet the general TikTok audience’s expectations.
Don’t be afraid to have fun and crack some jokes. Your audience will feel it if you’re at ease and having a good time.
If your brand typically takes a more serious approach and requires a more formal digital environment, a TikTok video strategy might not be the best route for you.
How to See Who is Live on TikTok
There are a few things you can do to ensure success in your TikTok live-streaming endeavors.
As a creator, it’s important to keep the user experience in mind. With that, you must let your audience know how they can find your live streams on TikTok, especially if you’re bringing supporters over from other live-streaming platforms.
There are a couple of different ways that viewers can see who is live on TikTok.
The first option is to tap the “LIVE” button in the top left corner of your screen. You can scroll through live streams or click “Explore” on the right side to see some more lives currently running.
Users can also scroll through their “Following” or “For You” pages, and suggested live streams will appear among the other suggested videos. Sometimes, live stream notifications pop up in the users’ inboxes.
Advanced Streaming Tools: OBS & Dacast Integration
Solutions for Advanced Streaming Needs
If your target audience is on TikTok and you’re looking for a more casual way to connect with them, this social media streaming app will come in handy.
However, if you’re hoping to live stream virtual events, such as conferences, sporting events, lectures, fitness classes, or the like, you will need support from a professional streaming solution.
A professional streaming solution allows broadcasters and businesses to create an on-brand experience for their viewers with influential white-label video players that can be customized and embedded anywhere. Many online video platforms also offer video monetization, enhanced security, and more.
For such a professional streaming solution, we recommend Dacast. With Dacast, all your advanced streaming needs will be met. Dacast’s feature-rich and flexible platform will enable you to customize your brand image and stream live videos. Video monetization and 24/7 support come as standard, too.
Moreover, Dacast supports simulcasting. Simulcasting allows you to simultaneously stream your video to multiple destinations directly from the platform. Along with TikTok, you’ll be able to seamlessly broadcast to YouTube, Facebook, Twitch and more.
Streaming with OBS to TikTok Live Studio
Using OBS with TikTok Live Studio allows creators to produce high-quality live streams on TikTok. This integration provides advanced features such as overlays, scene transitions, and professional audio-video controls. Overall, these enhance the streaming experience.
First, ensure you meet the TikTok livestream requirements. This includes being at least 16 years old and having 1,000 followers. Then, download TikTok Live Studio and OBS. In TikTok Live Studio, generate a stream key. You will put it into OBS in the streaming settings.
You’ll need to configure OBS with your preferred scenes and sources. This ensures your content complies with TikTok’s community guidelines. When you’re set up, start your stream in OBS and monitor the broadcast video in TikTok Live Studio. This setup enables an engaging livestream that’s polished, helping you effectively connect with your audience.
By using OBS with TikTok Live Studio software, you combine the best of both platforms and provide a seamless, professional live stream.
FAQs
Who can go live on TikTok in 2025?
To go live in 2025, you must be at least 18 years old and have 1,000+ followers.
What is TikTok Live Studio and how do I use it?
TikTok Live Studio is a desktop tool for streaming via webcam or screen share. Just install it, log in, and start broadcasting from your computer.
Can I go live on TikTok using OBS?
Yes, you can stream to TikTok using OBS by entering custom RTMP settings, typically accessed through TikTok Live Studio.
How do I make money with TikTok Live?
Earn money through virtual gifts, Creator Rewards, and brand partnerships—available to eligible users.
Can businesses use TikTok Live for product launches or webinars?
Yes, brands can host product demos, events, and webinars using TikTok Live, especially when combined with professional tools like Dacast.
What are TikTok’s 2025 live stream rules and age requirements?
Streamers must be 18+ and follow TikTok’s Community Guidelines, which prohibit harmful or inappropriate content.
What’s the best time to go live on TikTok?
Evenings between 6–10 PM (local time) on weekdays usually see the highest engagement.
How do I get more viewers on my TikTok live stream?
Promote your stream, engage viewers actively, and go live when your audience is most active.
Can I simulcast my TikTok live stream to other platforms?
Yes, with platforms like Dacast, you can simulcast to YouTube, Facebook, and more.
Is TikTok banned in the U.S.?
No, TikTok is still available in the U.S. as of 2025, though it remains under regulatory review.
Conclusion
TikTok Live is a powerful way to engage your audience in real time, whether you’re a brand, influencer, educator, or business. With TikTok Live Studio and OBS, you can enhance your stream quality and create a more polished experience. But if you’re serious about scaling your live content—especially across multiple platforms—TikTok alone isn’t enough.
Dacast gives professional creators and broadcasters the tools to elevate their TikTok live streaming strategy. Simulcast your TikTok Live with YouTube, Facebook, and more using Dacast’s multistreaming solution. Schedule TikTok live streams, monetize your content, and stream from desktop with full OBS integration, all within a secure, white-labelplatform.
Whether you’re looking to increase revenue, extend your reach, or build a branded streaming experience, Dacast offers everything you need to stream like a pro.
Start your 14-day free trial today and unlock the full power of professional-grade TikTok live streaming with Dacast.
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