Recently, live streaming has stormed the market as an effective money-making channel. And now, streamers can monetize their followings and boost revenue even more with affiliate programs for streamers.
Twitch alone, one of the most reputable streaming platforms, has over 15 million daily active users. Imagine the number of users on other alternatives as well.
But what if your profile is not so big to have paying subscribers and an attractive monthly income? Or maybe you are looking for ways to diversify your revenue stream beyond live streaming.
One way or another, the following affiliate programs can be your solution.
Discover the Top 8 Best Affiliate Programs for Streamers
Note: Each program will be reviewed in terms of its features, commission rates, cookie duration and eligibility requirements.
Twitch Affiliate Program
Twitch is the largest name in the streaming industry, with a dominating 73% market share. Besides video gaming, the platform runs “IRL” streams, music broadcasts, and various other categories.
While most advertisers pay affiliates to drive sales or leads, the Twitch affiliate program does not operate that way. You can only monetize your profile through ads, bits, and subscriptions when you become a Twitch Affiliate (or Partner).
Since this program is invite-only, here are its eligibility criteria. In the last 30 days, you need to have:
- More than 500 total broadcast minutes,
- More than 7 unique broadcasts,
- More than 3 concurrent viewers on average,
Plus over 50 followers to be a part of its affiliate community. You will receive your earnings in the middle of each month, given that you reach its $50 threshold ($100 for wire transfer).
- Commission rate: 50% of the monthly subscription cost
- Products/services: Live streaming platform
- Payment methods: PayPal, check, wire transfer, direct deposit
Razer Affiliate Program
Speaking of high-ticket items in the gaming industry, you cannot miss out on Razer. Its wide range of quality products varies from laptops and keyboards to audio devices to elevate streamers’ experience.
This brand runs an affiliate program for streamers through Impact. The cookie duration is 30 days, with up to 20% commission on all Razer product sales.
What attracts affiliates even more about the program is the $0.83 EPC in 30 days. Not many gaming hardware businesses in the Impact network can offer this rate.
As for the Razer Streamer program, it is not an official sponsorship but a community program to motivate gamers of all levels to stream. Its affiliate tier levels are open for streamers having fewer than 500 subscribers and up to 5,000+ subscribers. The deal comes with exciting perks, such as discount codes, receiving new product launches, and educational content access.
- Commission rate: Up to 3% per sale
- Cookie period: 30 days
- Products/services: Gaming accessories, gaming peripherals
- Payment methods: PayPal, wire/ACH transfer, direct deposit, check
NVIDIA Affiliate Program
The global technology company NVIDIA is well-known for innovative products like self-driving vehicles, robotics, and professional design. But it also has a footprint in the gaming industry by manufacturing graphics cards and graphics processing units (GPUs).
These products have been recognized by reputable tech publications like IGN and T3. So, you might as well join the NVIDIA affiliate program and confidently promote these high-tech goods.
This program is powered by Rakuten, with a flat 2% commission rate on all sales and a 45-day cookie window.
Of course, the NVIDIA affiliate program commission does not seem generous compared to other competitors. The good news is a new graphics card is sold for up to $1,000, so each transaction still brings you a considerable commission.
- Commission rate: 2% per sale
- Cookie period: 45 days
- Products/services: GPUs, graphics cards, laptops
- Payment methods: PayPal, direct deposit, check
Logitech Affiliate Program
In terms of first-rate streaming products, Logitech is another company to consider working with as an affiliate partner. It is truly a pioneer in technology goods, from office devices to specialized streaming and gaming peripherals.
If you ever heard of or participated in the Twitch Rival competitions, Logitech was its official peripheral partner for the Europe tournaments in 2021. Content creators and streamers are crazy about this brand!
The Logitech affiliate program is operated by Impact Radius, setting a default rate of 4% commission and 30 days of cookie duration. However, depending on the product category, you can earn anywhere from 3% to 10% per sale.
Unlike many other affiliate programs, your self-referrals count in this program. This means the company pays for your own purchases via your affiliate link.
Moreover, the program welcomes collaboration with influencers. It would be the perfect choice if you already have an existing following on social media.
- Commission rate: 3-10% per sale
- Cookie period: 30 days
- Products/services: Gaming peripherals, computer software
- Payment methods: PayPal, direct deposit, check, wire/ACH transfer
GameStop Affiliate Program
With over 4,500 shops worldwide, including 3,000+ US stores, GameStop is a prominent name in the consumer electronics and video game industry. That is why affiliate marketers find it quite easy to promote GameStop products.
Consoles, new games, and accessories are its top-selling goods. The brand is also known for a wide variety of refurbished or pre-owned products sold at heavily discounted prices. Video gamers and tech-savvy people on a budget can make use of these devices.
Due to its reputation, this company’s program is one of the most popular affiliate programs for streamers. Rakuten manages the program with a one-day cookie window.
You might find it more appealing than others since the GameStop affiliate program commission follows the tiered commission structure. Specifically, you will receive a 1% commission on digital subscriptions and games, 5% for collectibles, new and used games, and 3% for other products.
- Commission rate: 1-5% per sale
- Cookie period: 1 day
- Products/services: Gaming accessories, PC/Xbox/PlayStation games, consoles and hardware
- Payment methods: PayPal, check, direct deposit
Secretlab US Affiliate Program
Passionate PC gamers will definitely love the high-quality Secretlab gaming chairs. The company is famous for producing first-class chairs with a 5-year warranty that ships to 50 countries. You can trust that many streamers would enjoy these chairs’ quality and longevity.
Thanks to the powerful brand image, Secretlab successfully acquired remarkable conversion rates. It has collaborated with high-profile entertainment and eSports names, including LCK, Team Secret, and Team Liquid. No wonder it converts 5 times higher than other competitors on the market.
The Secretlab affiliate program’s monthly payout is only through PayPal. However, the 7-day cookie window and up to 12% commission a sale is quite the highlight to attract affiliates.
Worrying about referrals not buying right away? This business spends a lot to retarget website visitors. Thus, your potential customers might still click an ad and purchase later.
- Commission rate: Up to 12% per sale
- Cookie period: 7 days
- Products/services: Gaming accessories, chairs, and decks
- Payment methods: PayPal
ExpressVPN Affiliate Program
VPN is another popular product category for streamers. The first one is ExpressVPN, one of the most prominent VPN providers, running in 94 countries with 160 VPN locations.
Regarding reliability when using this product type, ExpressVPN has many trust signals. The 30-day money-back guarantee is a significant factor to help you close the deal easier.
This provider operates programs on multiple networks, and you can find their name in reliable affiliate programs for streamers. Its affiliate commission is paid in cash of up to $74 a sale, depending on your contract length.
An ExpressVPN affiliate can receive much helpful support. The list includes access to customized landing pages and design, content, SEO, and UX guidance. Note that this program requires you to have a live website posting VPN-related content to be eligible.
- URL: ExpressVPN affiliate program
- Commission rate: Up to $74 per sale
- Cookie period: Up to 90 days
- Products/services: VPN services
- Payment methods: Various
NordVPN Affiliate Program
Another top VPN provider is NordVPN, a cybersecurity business trusted by 14 million customers worldwide. The company operates a dedicated sponsorship program, so it is likely that you have already heard about or used its services. Famous YouTubers like PewDiePie and MrBeast have worked with this brand before.
That makes wonderful news for affiliate marketers and publishers. You will get a better chance of converting sales if people know about your affiliate products.
There are 2 available programs you can try, including a NordVPN in-house affiliate program and a partner program via Skimlinks. Both offer cookies in 30 days but vary in the commission rate. The first one pays you 30-100% per sale, while the latter has a 60% commission rate.
What’s more? NordVPN is happy to pay top-performing affiliates at an even higher rate. The program also offers rich marketing resources, including affiliate managers, to help drive more conversions.
- Commission rate: 30-100% (in-house), 60% (Skimlinks)
- Cookie period: 30 days
- Products/services: VPN services
- Payment methods: PayPal and bank account
OneStream.live Affiliate Program
Among many affiliate programs for streamers selling gaming gear and providing streaming platforms, OneStream offers a cloud-based solution for pre-recorded and live streams. It works with multiple channels, including YouTube, Twitch, Facebook Live, and Instagram.
So far, the service has been trusted by more than 200,000 active users and supported millions of streams. Using this tool means there will be well-prepared resources for content creators and streamers for their busy online schedules.
The OneStream affiliate program commission rate is generous, paying a 55% commission on all sales. If you can recruit sub-affiliates, you also get paid 10% on sales they generate.
Do you know the most exciting part of promoting this business? Your new customers will receive up to 25% discounts, only available from OneStream affiliates, which can be your advantage to seal the deal.
- Commission rate: 55% per sale
- Cookie period: Unlisted
- Products/services: Streaming services
- Payment methods: Unlisted
How Can Streamers Use Affiliate Marketing to Make Money?
Hard to believe, but playing video games can now be a stable source of additional income. Here is how streamers can make money from affiliate marketing:
Join suitable affiliate programs
Working with affiliate programs for streamers that resonate with your target audience is crucial. For example, Amazon Associates is a top-notch choice for many affiliate marketers. But does it serve your goal of monetizing game streaming?
Also, you need to promote products that interest your viewers and complement your content. It ensures a higher chance of conversion and customer engagement.
Customize stream overlays and panels
Stream overlays and panels help display your affiliate links and banners. This is your chance to build personal branding via unique, eye-catching visuals.
Nerd or Die, Design Hub, and StreamLabs offer diverse overlays and packages with captivating graphics. Their templates are compatible with video game streaming giants like Twitch, Facebook Gaming, and YouTube.
Create sponsored content
Consider partnering with brands to create sponsored content on your stream. It can include product/service reviews, exclusive offers, or unboxing videos.
Not only does it generate revenues, but sponsored content can also enhance your relationships with brands.
Give discount codes
Negotiate with your affiliate partners to get exclusive discounts for your viewers. It becomes an extra incentive for people to buy products through your links, boosting the conversion rate.
To make the discount codes more visible, share them on your stream panels or social media bios.
Analyze and optimize performance
Rewatching your VODs is good for performance analysis. So does reviewing your affiliate campaigns.
Analyzing their performance will help you identify which products and tactics give the best results. Then, you can optimize accordingly to find effective monetization methods for your live streaming channel.
How Can Streamers Make the Most Out of Their Affiliate Program?
Before joining any streamer affiliate programs above, you should understand how these platforms can benefit your streaming career.
Typical rules of affiliate programs:
- Limit PPC ads: Many affiliate programs for streamers prohibit running PPC ads for fear of inaccurate traffic and costs. Check the PPC policies before you begin.
- Require submitting URLs: Your website, YouTube channel, and streaming profile URLs are important to advertisers. They need to know how you will promote their products/services.
- No self-purchase: Normally, you cannot earn a commission with self-purchases via referral links.
- Disclose affiliate relationships: Affiliate disclosures are essential to inform your audience about transparent affiliate marketing practices.
Factors to Consider Before Signing Up for an Affiliate Program
Program legitimacy
Most affiliate programs for streamers are reliable, but scammers are everywhere. Better safe than sorry. Check whether your chosen programs are legit via their social profiles, website, and reviews.
Audience relevance
Streaming audiences vary in different groups. For instance, if most of your viewers are console gamers, they are less likely to care about NVIDIA products.
Make sure what you are promoting align with their interest.
Worthy rewards
After reviewing the program’s terms and conditions, can you earn decent commissions to promote their products? It is more than high commission rates. Focus on their audience relevance and conversion rate to enhance potential earnings.
Fair payment terms
Some advertisers require you to hit a certain payment threshold or wait for XX days after the sale to get paid. While there are weekly-paid affiliate programs and even daily-paid affiliate programs on the market. Determine if the payment terms are good enough for you to sign up.
Available support
Supportive affiliate programs for streamers will provide marketing resources, tools, and dedicated managers. These factors help optimize your marketing campaigns, which are your key to success.
Strategies for Streamers to Promote Affiliate Programs
Here is what you can do to promote the gaming affiliate programs you just joined:
- Include affiliate links in your streaming profile.
- Post an affiliate link list under your YouTube videos.
- Add banners to your streaming profile.
- Attach referral links in chatbot popups during your streams.
- Collect followers’ email addresses and share links in email marketing.
FAQs
Q: How much do affiliate streamers make?
A: On average, professional streamers playing 40 hours a week can make up to $5,000 a month. This figure does not include extra ad revenue, averaging about $250 per 100 subscribers.
High-profile individuals with large audiences can earn more than $100,000 monthly just from subscriptions.
Q: Can small streamers get affiliate sponsorships?
A: A lot of video creators hope to get a sponsorship contract since it is a huge income stream. Although most brands look for big streaming names, many value small partners with an engaged following.
They may even have affiliate programs for streamers, paying commissions on referrals. Note that affiliate programs and stream sponsors are not the same.
Q: Is it worth becoming a Twitch affiliate?
A: The Twitch affiliate program allows individuals to earn revenue while streaming. The platform prioritizes standard video game streaming, but it also covers other aspects of the gaming industry.
Being a Twitch Affiliate means you can make money by streaming frequently and selling games and in-game goods. Viewers can offer ‘Bits’ to streamers, which helps you earn a share of revenue.
However, Twitch does not allow affiliates to stream simultaneously on various platforms. So, think again about this program if you plan to multi-stream.
Conclusion
The streaming industry is a challenging and competitive space. So many newbies in this field might feel intimidated to start earning money on the side.
All the reputable affiliate programs for streamers in this article are meant for you to try a great money-making opportunity. Remember that you do not have to rely on a single platform as your source of income.
That is why you should build your own website to gain traffic from diverse sources. Your personal branding will appear on search engines, social media, and streaming platforms. Then, you will have the confidence for larger brand partnerships.
