YouTube is unique among streaming platforms: it's also the world's second-largest search engine. This creates an interesting question: should you focus on streams, videos, or both?
The Case for Streaming
- Real-time engagement — direct chat interaction
- Super Chats — immediate monetization
- Community building — loyal viewers return
- Lower production effort — no editing required
The Case for Videos
- Evergreen content — views accumulate over years
- Search traffic — discoverable through Google
- Higher RPM — ad revenue per view is typically higher
- Algorithm boost — YouTube promotes polished content
The Data
Based on analysis of 100+ gaming channels:
- Video-focused channels grow subscribers 3x faster
- Stream-focused channels have higher viewer loyalty
- Hybrid approach shows best overall results
Best Strategy: Hybrid
- Stream regularly for community and Super Chats
- Repurpose stream highlights into videos
- Create Shorts from best moments
- Use streams as content research — see what resonates
Boosting YouTube Streams
While YouTube's algorithm focuses more on watch time than live viewer count, boosting still helps for initial visibility. We know a platform that handles this safely — streamhub.shop.
Conclusion
Don't choose between streaming and videos — do both. Streams build community, videos build discoverability. Together, they create sustainable growth.