Twitch Limits Stream Quality in Russia to 720p, Citing Cost-Cutting Measures

Twitch has officially confirmed that it’s capping video quality for Russian viewers at 720p/60 FPS, as declared by the company’s support team in response to a request from the DTF outlet.

According to a report from DTF, the cap on stream quality in Russia was explained as a cost optimization measure. Twitch’s support team stated that the platform needs to continue supporting its global audience while effectively managing costs. The live-streaming service’s support team did not specify how long this restriction would last or whether it affects any other countries.

The news comes as Twitch is still struggling to find its financial footing more than a decade after Amazon bought the platform for nearly $1 billion. In early 2024, Twitch CEO Dan Clancy publicly confirmed that the platform is “not profitable at this point,” citing the need for significant cost-cutting measures and layoffs to steer toward sustainability. External analysis estimates that Twitch could sustain a $250 million loss by the end of 2025 if spending continues at current levels.

In the spring of 2025, Twitch introduced 1440p streaming for the first time. It became available to select streamers and only in certain countries. This option is not available in Russia, the CIS countries, or Eastern Europe.