To stream your Nintendo Switch on Discord, you’ll need to use a capture card because the Switch doesn’t have a built-in streaming feature. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you set it up:
What You Need:
1. Nintendo Switch: Your console.
2. Capture Card: A device that captures the video and audio from your Switch and sends it to your computer. Popular options include:
– Elgato HD60 S
– AverMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus
– Razer Ripsaw
3. PC or Laptop: For running Discord and streaming.
4. Discord Account: To stream to your server or friends.
5. HDMI Cable: To connect the Switch to the capture card.
6. USB Cable: To connect the capture card to your PC.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Set Up the Capture Card
– Plug the HDMI cable from your Nintendo Switch dock into the input port of your capture card.
– Connect the USB cable from your capture card to your PC.
– Connect the capture card’s output HDMI port to your monitor or TV, so you can still see your Switch screen.
2. Install Capture Card Software
– Download and install any software that came with your capture card (e.g., Elgato Game Capture or OBS if you’re using a different card).
– You may also use OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software), which is free and widely used for streaming.
3. Set Up OBS or Other Streaming Software
– Open OBS or any other streaming software you’re using.
– In OBS, click the “+” button in the “Sources” section.
– Select Video Capture Device and choose your capture card from the list of devices.
– Resize and position the display to fit your stream window.
4. Open Discord
– Launch Discord and go to the server or voice channel where you want to stream.
– At the bottom of the voice channel list, click the “Go Live” button.
5. Select OBS or Capture Card as Your Stream Source
– In Discord, you’ll see options for streaming your screen or specific apps.
– Select OBS or the window showing your capture card output. If you’re using OBS, make sure it’s capturing the Switch feed.
6. Adjust Stream Settings
– You can adjust the stream quality and resolution in Discord. You may need Discord Nitro for higher resolutions (1080p/60fps).
– Once set, click Go Live to start streaming.
Optional: Stream Directly via Screen Share
If you don’t want to use OBS:
1. After setting up your capture card in your computer, you can simply use Discord’s screen share feature.
2. In Discord, click the screen share button and select the window that is displaying your Switch’s output (from the capture card software).
That’s it! You should now be streaming your Nintendo Switch gameplay on Discord. Make sure to check your stream for any audio/video sync issues and adjust your settings accordingly.
