Kick Streaming: Is It Worth Your Time as a New Streamer?

Are you a new streamer considering Kick.com as your platform of choice? Launching a career as a streamer is exciting, but choosing the right platform can be a challenge. With platforms like Twitch dominating the scene, many new streamers are looking for alternatives.

Kick.com has emerged as a competitor, offering promising revenue splits and a more creator-friendly environment. However, Kick also carries a lot of controversy and baggage that any aspiring streamer should consider before diving in.

Here’s a breakdown of what you should know about Kick.com and whether it’s the right platform for your streaming journey.

Why Consider Kick.com?

Kick.com offers an enticing deal to streamers, especially when compared to Twitch, which takes a significant cut of a creator’s revenue. Kick’s 95/5 revenue split is one of the best in the industry, making it an attractive option for those looking to monetize their content quickly. For a new streamer, this might seem like a golden opportunity.

Another advantage is the smaller, more niche audience on Kick. While this may limit your reach compared to larger platforms like Twitch or YouTube, it can also mean less competition, giving you a better chance to stand out in a sea of content creators.

The Pros of Kick.com

Better Revenue Splits
One of Kick’s biggest selling points is its favorable revenue model for creators. Unlike Twitch, which takes a significant cut from streamers’ earnings, Kick offers a 95/5 revenue split. For many new streamers, this can be an attractive incentive, especially in the early stages when every penny counts.
Smaller Audience = Less Competition
Kick is not as widely known as Twitch or YouTube, which could make it easier for new streamers to stand out. A smaller audience means less competition, potentially giving you more visibility in niche communities.
More Freedom for Content
Kick has fewer restrictions compared to other platforms, allowing streamers more flexibility in the content they create. If you’re someone who wants fewer limitations on what you can stream, this might appeal to you.

The Cons of Kick.com

Reputation and Controversy
Kick is not without its share of issues. The platform has been criticized for allowing problematic content, including gambling streams and content that violates community standards seen on other platforms like Twitch. Some users have pointed out that Kick has attracted streamers banned from other platforms for violating terms of service.
Audience Demographics
The community on Kick has gained a negative reputation for harboring toxic behavior, including misogyny and bigotry. If you’re a female gamer or someone who values a positive and inclusive community, this may be a significant concern. Kick’s association with Stake, an online gambling company, has also contributed to its controversial image.
Long-Term Stability
There are doubts about Kick’s long-term viability. Some users have compared it to Mixer, a streaming platform that shut down after struggling to compete with Twitch. Kick is also paying high fees to use Amazon’s streaming technology, and some wonder how sustainable its business model is.
Limited Growth Potential
While Kick’s smaller community might offer less competition, it also limits your potential reach. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube have established, large audiences that make it easier to grow and engage a fan base over time. If you’re looking for long-term growth, these platforms may offer better opportunities.

Alternative Options for New Streamers

If you’re on the fence about Kick, there are other options worth considering:

Twitch
While Twitch has its own problems, it remains the most established platform for streamers, with a massive built-in audience. The payout might not be as generous as Kick’s, but Twitch’s size and stability make it a strong contender for long-term growth.
YouTube
YouTube offers both streaming and video uploads, allowing creators to build an audience that sticks around even after streams end. YouTube’s algorithm can help your content get discovered, and its monetization options include ads, memberships, and Super Chats. For new streamers, YouTube’s multi-faceted platform could provide more diverse revenue streams.
Multi-Streaming
Some streamers have found success by multi-streaming on different platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok. This approach allows you to reach various audiences simultaneously and figure out which platform works best for your content.

Twitch vs. Kick: Which to Choose?

While Kick offers great payouts, Twitch still holds the upper hand in terms of community and longevity. Twitch has an established audience and robust tools for streamers to grow and engage with their fanbase. Yes, Twitch’s revenue cuts are steep, but it’s a well-established platform with a massive user base and a more controlled environment.

Many users suggest using YouTube as a companion to your streaming career, or even as your main platform. YouTube videos stick around longer, allowing for a slower-paced content strategy, while Twitch is more fast-paced with live streams that require consistent presence.

Long-Term Viability of Kick

Another concern for potential Kick streamers is the platform’s sustainability. Kick is still relatively new and heavily reliant on its gambling revenue. While the good revenue split is tempting, there’s no guarantee that the platform will last. With high operating costs (including licensing streaming technology from Amazon), some users believe Kick may face the same fate as Mixer—a platform that gained momentum but ultimately shut down.

Final Thoughts

Kick.com might appeal to streamers looking for a quick start and better payouts, but its controversial reputation, questionable audience, and uncertain future make it a risky choice for those hoping to build a long-term streaming career. For new streamers, Twitch and YouTube may still be the best bets, offering a more established user base and more growth potential.

If you’re just starting out, focus on consistency, building an audience, and exploring multiple platforms before committing to any one option. At the end of the day, success in streaming comes down to the community you build, not just the platform you choose.

Good luck on your streaming journey!