What is YouTube's Super Chat feature? How to use?

Youtube is the most popular free video sharing website where creators can show the world their unique content. The best part is that the platform continues to grow and add new and exciting features. One such feature is Super Chat, which has created a new way for viewers to show support for their favorite creators.

But before you enable Super Chat as a creator or use Super Chat as a fan, here's everything you need to know about this exciting feature.

What is Super Chat on YouTube?

Simply put, Super Chat aims to connect creators with their audiences. If you're a creator, it's almost like getting digital tips from your viewers. However, this is a feature only available during live streams.

If you're a regular on creator live streams, you might have noticed the chat happening on the side of the screen that accompanies them.

But did you know that you can deposit a specific amount in the chat to have your comment highlighted and pinned for the entire community to see? If not, now you know this feature is called Super Chat. Besides Super Chat, you can also send Super Stickers.

How to use Super Chat on YouTube?

If you're a super fan and want to send some love to creators during your live stream, you need to know how to use Super Chat. It's easy to get started with, but here are the steps to take to use Super Chat as an audience, as well as how to set up Super Chat as a creator.

How to use Super Chat for viewers

1. Launch YouTube and navigate to the creator's livestream or find the stream using youtube.com/live.

2. Look for the dollar bill symbol in the chat window next to the video screen.

3. Click on it to display several options to show your support.

4. Select Super Chat.

5. Now, you can use the slider to decide how much you want to donate.

6. Once you have chosen the amount, you can write your comment.

7. Your comment and donation amount will now be highlighted at the top of the chat window for everyone, including the creator, to see!

8. Remember, the amount of money you spend will determine how long your message will be pinned and highlighted.

How to use Super Chat for Creators

1. First of all, you need to make sure you meet the criteria to use Super Chat: You must be 18 years of age or older, live in an eligible country, and your channel must be monetized.

2. To enable Super Chat for your channel, sign in to YouTube Studio or open the mobile app.

3. Click Earn  on the menu on the left side or on the bottom right if you're using the app.

5. Select the Supers tab and follow the instructions.

6. You can now turn Super Chat and Super Stickers on and off.

What is the purpose of using Super Chat on YouTube?

While it's clear that Super Chat is a great way to stand out from the pack in live chat, there are a number of other reasons why both creators and audiences should use Super Chat.

1. Real-time interaction and increased engagement

You probably know how difficult it is to connect with a creator, especially one with millions of subscribers. Super Chat is key if you want to get attention from creators and be able to interact with them.

If your comment or message is pinned and highlighted at the top of the chat window, you'll have a better chance of getting noticed by your favorite creator - all it takes is a little friendly competition.

2. You can support your favorite YouTubers

Even though many YouTube creators aren't interested in receiving donations from viewers, Super Chat is still a great way for them to make money on YouTube.

In fact, this could be a huge benefit for smaller, lesser-known channels that stream regularly and want to earn a little extra revenue. Remember that as a creator, you will only earn 30% of the amount received from Super Chat.

David Pac

Update 19 October 2023