Key Takeaways
- Reruns broadcast pre-recorded content - Play VODs or uploaded videos when you're offline to maintain channel presence.
- Partner feature primarily - Reruns are available to Partners; some Affiliates may have limited access.
- Monetization still works - Ads, Bits, and subscriptions function during Reruns, though engagement may differ.
- Clear "Rerun" labeling - Twitch marks Reruns distinctly so viewers know it's not live content.
- Strategic use cases - Best for off-peak hours, timezone coverage, and content library showcasing.
Twitch Reruns allow streamers to broadcast previously recorded content when they're not streaming live. This feature keeps your channel active, maintains visibility in the browse directory, and provides content for viewers across different time zones—all without requiring you to be present.
According to Twitch's official Rerun documentation, the feature is designed to help creators "keep your channel active and discoverable even when you're offline." This guide covers everything you need to know about setting up, scheduling, and optimizing Reruns for your channel.
What Are Twitch Reruns?
Twitch Reruns are a broadcasting feature that plays pre-recorded videos on your channel when you're not streaming live. Unlike simply uploading a video for on-demand viewing, Reruns create an active broadcast state for your channel, appearing in the browse directory and notifying followers (with their settings permitting).
Reruns vs Other Video Options
Understanding how Reruns differ from other Twitch video features helps you choose the right option for your content strategy:
| Feature | Broadcast Type | Discovery | Chat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Stream | Real-time broadcast | Full browse visibility | Live chat |
| Reruns | Pre-recorded playback | Browse with "Rerun" tag | Live chat (no streamer) |
| Premieres | Scheduled video debut | Browse with "Premiere" tag | Live chat with streamer |
| VODs | On-demand viewing | Channel videos page only | No chat |
For more about VOD management and storage, see our Twitch VODs Complete Guide.
Who Can Use Twitch Reruns?
Reruns are not available to all Twitch broadcasters. Understanding eligibility helps you plan your content strategy appropriately.
Rerun Eligibility
| Account Type | Rerun Access | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Broadcaster | No | Use Premieres or uploads as alternative |
| Twitch Affiliate | Limited | May have access through beta programs |
| Twitch Partner | Yes | Full Rerun feature access |
For information on reaching Partner status, see our Twitch Affiliate vs Partner Complete Guide.
Important: Rerun Availability
Twitch periodically updates which account types have access to Reruns. Check your Creator Dashboard > Content > Video Producer to see if the Rerun option is available. If you don't see it, the feature may not yet be enabled for your account type or region.
How to Set Up Twitch Reruns
Setting up Reruns involves selecting content from your video library and configuring the broadcast settings.
Starting a Rerun
Follow these steps to start a Rerun on your channel:
- Open Creator Dashboard: Go to dashboard.twitch.tv
- Navigate to Video Producer: Content > Video Producer in the left sidebar
- Select your video: Find the VOD, Highlight, or Upload you want to rerun
- Click the three-dot menu: Next to the video title
- Select "Start Rerun": This begins broadcasting the video
- Confirm settings: Set title, category, and tags for the Rerun
- Start the Rerun: Your channel goes live with the pre-recorded content
Rerun Configuration Options
When starting a Rerun, you can customize several settings:
- Stream Title: Set a title that indicates it's a rerun (e.g., "[RERUN] Epic Boss Fight Marathon")
- Category: Match the content being played
- Tags: Add relevant tags for discoverability
- Go Live Notification: Choose whether to notify followers
- Loop: Some setups allow the content to loop automatically
What Content Works Best for Reruns
Not all content performs equally well as Reruns. Strategic selection of what to rebroadcast maximizes viewer engagement and channel value.
Ideal Rerun Content
| Content Type | Why It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Highlight Reels | Best moments curated | New viewer introduction |
| Popular VODs | Proven engagement | Off-peak hours |
| Event Coverage | Timely rewatchability | International time zones |
| Tutorial/Guide Content | Evergreen value | Passive discovery |
| Game Completions | Complete story arcs | New game releases |
Content to Avoid for Reruns
- Heavy chat interaction streams: References to chat feel awkward when viewers can't participate in the same way
- Time-sensitive content: "Today we're playing the new release" ages poorly
- Low-quality audio/video: Technical issues are more noticeable on repeat viewing
- Very recent streams: Regular viewers may have just seen it
- Streams with muted audio: Copyright issues make for poor viewing experience
Monetization During Reruns
One of the key benefits of Reruns is the ability to continue earning revenue even when you're not actively streaming. However, there are important differences in how monetization works.
Revenue Streams During Reruns
| Revenue Type | Available | Performance vs Live |
|---|---|---|
| Ads (Pre-roll/Mid-roll) | Yes | Lower CPM typically |
| Subscriptions | Yes | Lower conversion rate |
| Bits/Cheers | Yes | Significantly reduced |
| Gift Subscriptions | Yes | Lower without streamer interaction |
| Channel Points Redemptions | Limited | Only non-interactive rewards work |
For detailed ad revenue analysis, see our Twitch Ads Explained Guide.
Monetization Reality Check
While Reruns can generate revenue, expectations should be realistic:
- Ad CPMs during Reruns are typically 30-50% lower than live streams
- Viewer counts during Reruns are usually much lower than live broadcasts
- Subscription conversions rely on compelling content rather than real-time interaction
- Bits activity is minimal without streamer acknowledgment
Reruns are best viewed as supplemental income rather than a primary revenue source. Use our Total Income Estimator to understand your overall revenue mix.
Viewer Experience During Reruns
Understanding how viewers experience Reruns helps you optimize the content and set appropriate expectations.
What Viewers See
- "Rerun" badge: Prominently displayed on the video player and browse page
- Chat is active: Viewers can chat with each other, but the streamer isn't present
- No real-time interaction: The streamer can't respond to questions or events
- Full video controls: Some viewers may not realize it's not live initially
- Follows/subs still work: All channel features remain functional
Managing Chat During Reruns
Since you won't be present during Reruns, chat management requires planning:
- Trusted moderators: Have mods available during Rerun hours if possible
- AutoMod settings: Ensure strong automated moderation is enabled
- Chat bots: Set up commands that explain it's a Rerun and when you'll be live
- Pinned message: Use a pinned message explaining the Rerun status
- Slow mode: Consider enabling slow mode to reduce spam potential
For comprehensive moderation setup, see our Twitch Moderation Complete Guide.
Strategic Uses for Reruns
Successful streamers use Reruns strategically rather than randomly. Here are the most effective use cases.
Time Zone Coverage
If you have international viewers, Reruns help you reach audiences in different time zones:
- Example: US streamer runs Reruns during European prime time
- Best practice: Choose content that performed well with that audience segment
- Analytics insight: Use Twitch Analytics to identify when international viewers watch
Use our Stream Schedule Analyzer to identify optimal times for Reruns based on your audience.
Channel Presence During Breaks
Reruns keep your channel active during necessary breaks:
- Vacation: Maintain visibility while you're away
- Illness: Keep the channel active when you can't stream
- Events: Run Reruns during conventions or personal events
- Burnout prevention: Take breaks without completely disappearing
Content Library Showcase
Reruns can introduce viewers to your best archived content:
- Best-of marathons: Run highlight compilations during off-hours
- Series replays: Rerun completed game series for new viewers
- Event highlights: Replay charity streams or special events
- Tutorial content: Evergreen educational content for passive discovery
Reruns and Twitch Algorithm
Understanding how Reruns interact with Twitch's discovery algorithm helps set realistic expectations.
Algorithm Considerations
| Factor | Impact on Reruns |
|---|---|
| Browse Page Placement | Reruns appear but typically ranked lower than live streams |
| Recommendations | Less likely to be recommended compared to live content |
| Follower Notifications | Can notify followers (depending on their settings) |
| Partner Metrics | Does not count toward Partner requirements |
| Average Viewers | Rerun viewers don't affect your live stream average |
Rerun Limitation
Reruns do not count toward Twitch's Path to Partner metrics. The unique broadcast days, stream hours, and average viewers requirements only count live broadcasts. Similarly, Reruns won't help you maintain Affiliate status if you're at risk of losing it due to inactivity.
Alternatives to Official Reruns
For streamers without Rerun access, several alternatives can achieve similar results.
Premieres
Premieres allow you to schedule a video debut and watch with your audience in real-time:
- Advantage: You're present to interact with chat during playback
- Use case: Edited videos, special content, or event recaps
- Availability: Available to Affiliates and Partners
Video Uploads
Simply uploading videos to your channel provides on-demand content:
- Advantage: Permanent, always available
- Limitation: No browse directory visibility, no live chat
- Best for: Building a video library for channel visitors
Third-Party Restream Services
Some streamers use third-party tools to create automated broadcast schedules:
- Caution: Review Twitch's Terms of Service regarding automated broadcasts
- Consideration: These may not have the official "Rerun" designation
- Transparency: Always be clear with viewers that content is pre-recorded
Best Practices for Twitch Reruns
Maximize the value of Reruns by following these proven strategies.
Rerun Best Practices
- Clear labeling: Always indicate it's a Rerun in the title (e.g., "[RERUN]")
- Quality content: Only rerun your best-performing, high-quality VODs
- Timing: Run during off-peak hours when you wouldn't normally stream
- Variety: Rotate different content to keep Reruns fresh
- Moderation: Ensure chat is moderated even during your absence
- Communication: Tell your community when and why you run Reruns
- Balance: Don't let Reruns replace your live streaming schedule
What to Avoid
- Excessive Reruns: Too many Reruns can diminish your live stream value
- Deceptive practices: Never try to make Reruns appear as live streams
- Poor content selection: Low-quality VODs reflect poorly on your channel
- Ignoring chat: Unmoderated Rerun chats can become problematic
- Prime time Reruns: Don't run Reruns when you could be live streaming
Measuring Rerun Performance
Track how your Reruns perform to optimize your strategy over time.
Key Metrics to Monitor
- Viewer count: How many people watch Reruns vs live streams
- Watch time: How long viewers stay during Reruns
- New followers: Do Reruns bring in new followers?
- Subscription activity: Any subs during Rerun periods
- Chat activity: Engagement level during Reruns
- Ad revenue: Compare Rerun ad performance to live
For comprehensive analytics tracking, see our Twitch Analytics Complete Guide.
Conclusion
Twitch Reruns offer Partners (and some Affiliates) a valuable tool for maintaining channel presence, reaching international audiences, and generating additional revenue when not streaming live. While Reruns shouldn't replace your live content, they serve as an effective supplement to your overall streaming strategy.
The key to successful Reruns is strategic implementation. Choose your best content, run during appropriate times, maintain clear communication with your audience, and always ensure proper moderation. When used thoughtfully, Reruns can help you build a more robust channel presence without burning out from constant live streaming.
For streamers working toward Partner status, remember that Reruns won't count toward your metrics—focus on live streaming for growth while planning to use Reruns as a benefit once you've achieved Partner. The feature represents one of many advantages that come with reaching Twitch's top creator tier.
Related Resources
- Twitch VODs Complete Guide - Manage your video library for Reruns
- Affiliate vs Partner Guide - Understand Rerun eligibility
- Twitch Analytics Guide - Track Rerun performance
- Twitch Ads Guide - Monetization during Reruns
- Stream Schedule Analyzer - Find optimal Rerun times
