How to Host Twitch?

20 August 2022

Twitch Hosting Is Gone. Here Is How To Use Raids Instead (Clear, Simple Guide)

Twitch removed the old Host feature in 2022. Today, the correct way to send your viewers to another channel is a Raid. This short guide explains what changed, how to raid step by step, common mistakes, and smart tips for growth. It is written in simple English for all levels.

What changed from Host to Raid?

Host (removed): Your channel showed another channel’s stream on your page. Viewers did not fully move.
Raid (current): You send your live viewers to another live channel at the end of your stream.
Why it matters: Raids help discover new creators, build friendships, and keep your community active.

How to start a Raid (fast)

In your Twitch chat, type the command below.

/raid CHANNEL_NAME

Wait for the 10-second timer in chat to finish, or click “Raid Now”.
Your viewers move to the target channel.

Tip: If you change your mind before the timer ends, cancel with:

/unraid

Rules and good practices

Only raid live channels. If the target goes offline, choose a different channel.
Tell your viewers why you are raiding this channel. One sentence is enough.
Stay for 1–3 minutes after the raid to say hello. Be polite and positive.
Avoid raiding channels with very different content from yours, unless you explain the reason.

Quick answers

How to raid on Twitch? Type /raid CHANNEL_NAME in your chat, then “Raid Now”.
How to cancel a raid? Type /unraid before the timer ends.
Is hosting still on Twitch? No. Host was removed. Raids are the replacement.
Can I raid someone who is not live? No. The target must be live.

Smart growth tips for small and mid-size streamers

Choose targets with similar audience. Language, game, and vibe should match your community.
Rotate partners. Do not raid the same channel every day. Build a small circle of 5–10 creators.
Pre-plan your raid. Before going live, list 2–3 possible targets and check who is live near your end time.
Use a simple raid script. Example: “Hi, we came from . Nice to meet you all.”

Common mistakes to avoid

Forgetting to speak before raiding. Always explain who you are raiding and why.
Raiding silent or AFK streams. Pick active hosts with chat energy.
Ending the stream too fast. Give viewers time to join the raid.

Next step: test a safe raid flow on your next stream

If you want extra visibility while you test your raid strategy, you can try a short boost during your next stream. See our Daily Viewers + Raid options for one-day experiments. For all Twitch growth tools in one place, visit the Twitch services page.

FAQ

What is the difference between Host and Raid on Twitch?

Hosting showed another stream on your channel page. Raiding moves your viewers into the other channel’s chat and view count. Hosting is removed. Raiding is the current method.

How do I raid from the Twitch app?

Open your chat, type /raid CHANNEL_NAME, or use the “Raid Channel” option if available in the mobile UI.

Can I choose who can raid my channel?

Yes. In Creator Dashboard, you can set raid permissions and block or limit incoming raids. This helps reduce spam.

Do raids help with discovery?

Yes. Raids can create two effects: new viewers discover you when partners raid you, and your community discovers creators you recommend. This builds a healthy network over time.

What if my target channel ends the stream?

Pick another live channel and run the raid command again. Always keep a backup list.