Alexis Kestler
If you‘re a streamer, podcaster, content creator or gamer, having an efficient and customizable hardware control interface can greatly improve your workflow. That‘s where a stream deck comes in handy. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore what exactly a stream deck is, key features to look for, the top devices on the market, plus tips for setup and must-have integrations to create the ultimate command center for your streaming productions.
What is a Stream Deck and How Does it Work?
A stream deck is a hardware controller that consists of a set of programmable LCD keys or buttons that can automate complex tasks and launch media or switch scenes in your streaming software with just one tap. Stream decks connect to your computer via USB and work in conjunction with companion software to customize each key.
Elgato Stream Deck software allows advanced customization and macro creation
You can essentially create shortcuts, triggers and sequences on your stream deck to control other applications and hardware. For example, a single button could start your stream, switch to a new scene, tweet that you‘ve gone live and adjust your smart lights – all at once.
Stream decks are commonly used for:
- Launching videos, audio clips, graphics and transitions during live streams
- Switching streaming software scenes with custom transitions
- Starting/stopping streams and recordings in streaming software
- Operating camera angles and video switchers like the Blackmagic ATEM Mini
- Launching media like intro videos and promotional clips
- Controlling smart home devices like Philips Hue lights
- Posting chat messages and automated tweets mid-stream
- Screensharing apps and windows
- Activating audio effects and MIDI instruments
- Video editing software shortcuts for cutting, copying and pasting clips
And much more. With intricate macros, the possibilities are endless!
Key Benefits of Using a Stream Deck
So why would you want to add a stream deck to your streaming gear? Here are some of the biggest benefits:
Hands-free control: Stream decks allow you to execute complex commands and switch scenes without fiddling with your mouse, keyboard or tablet software interface. Everything is immediately accessible from a customized hardware interface within fingertips reach.
Efficiency: Instead of digging through software menus, stream decks give you quick launch capabilities to rapidly access media, effects and scene transitions that would otherwise require multiple clicks and tabs.
Engagement: Having instant access to clips, chat comments and automated tweets allows you to better interact with your audience in real-time.
Professional quality: Adding a stream deck to your production setup gives off a very professional vibe to viewers. An advanced control interface signals you know what you‘re doing!
Creativity: With the ability to automate multi-step routines, stream decks unleash new creative possibilities for both streamers and video editors.
Flexibility: Nearly every major streaming and video editing software integrates with today‘s leading stream deck hardware. And for those that don‘t, there‘s always the universal web browser integration.
What to Look for in Stream Deck Hardware
If you‘ve decided to add a stream deck to your tech stack, you‘ll next want to explore the hardware options available to find the best fit. Here are the key factors to consider:
Number of buttons/keys: Stream decks come in all shapes and sizes these days ranging from 6 keys up to 32 keys. Consider how many software shortcuts/macros you‘ll realistically need instant access to, also factoring portability if that‘s a concern.
Display & customization: Many stream decks feature tiny customizable LCD displays above each button/key allowing you to upload custom icons and imagery that corresponds to the assigned action. Static printed keys are also an option.
Companion software & integrations: Each hardware device comes with companion software to customize buttons and create macros. Evaluate which softwares seem the most intuitive and offer the deepest integration into your essential platforms like OBS, Twitch and YouTube.
Responsiveness: Pay attention to hardware specs like processor speeds and USB/connectivity specs which greatly affect responsiveness.
Bells & whistles: Higher priced enterprise stream decks offer advanced features like touch screens and scroll wheels to further enhance tactile control. Consider extras like programable foot pedals and stream dial accessories too for specialty use cases.
Budget: Stream deck hardware ranges widely from $50 entry units to $800+ advanced setups. Set realistic budget expectations based on your current and future streaming needs.
Ideally look for a stream deck that seamlessly integrates into the software already in your production workflow. Also ensure your computer meets minimum requirements for connectivity and processing heavier usage.
With the basics covered, let‘s explore some of the top stream deck devices and controllers currently available…
8 Best Stream Decks for Live Production
1. Elgato Stream Deck XL
The Elgato Stream Deck XL is an industry favorite for good reason – it nails high-end hardware controls with advanced software integration into popular platforms.
The pros:
- 32 LCD keys for unlimited shortcuts and macros
- Fully customizable dynamic key displays
- Deep integration for streaming software like OBS and Twitch
- Excellent Elgato Stream Deck app to create actions
- Great value at mid-tier pricing
The cons:
- Requires two USB ports for maximum power
- No dial/scroll wheel shortcuts
Best for: Power streamers and content creators wanting expansive control
2. Loupedeck Live
Loupedeck Live is a dynamic stream deck optimized for live production, podcasting and creative workflows.
The pros:
- Features a high resolution 4.3” touch display
- Contextual controls like dials, scroll wheels and sliders
- Extended native integrations for media software like OBS, vMix, Spotify and more
- Advanced customization via drag and drop or custom coding
- Travel-friendly portable design
The cons:
- Higher price point around $500
- Requires customization time investment
Best for: Premium tactile control for streamers and creative pros
3. Stream Deck Pedal by Elgato
If you‘re looking for hands-free hardware control, Elgato‘s Stream Deck Pedal is a novel foot-operated stream deck option.
The pros:
- 3 fully programable foot pedal buttons
- Pedals leave hands free for game controllers, instruments or gear
- Deep integration with Elgato Stream Deck software
- Ultra-portable and travel design
- Cost effective price point under $100
The cons:
- Lacks advanced tactile control like a console
- Requires practice operating by foot
Best for: Streamers needing basic hands-free control
4. Razer Stream Controller
The Razer Stream Controller takes compact stream decks to the next immersive level integrating an interactive touch display.
The pros:
- Features a fully responsive 7” touch screen
- Includes 8 LCD programmable buttons
- Highly portable handheld design
- Syncs settings across multiple devices via cloud
- Leading integrations for Open Broadcaster Software (OBS)
The cons:
- Premium price tag over $400
- Smaller number of tactile buttons
Best for: Streamers wanting premium portability
5. X-Keys Stream Deck
The X-Keys Stream Deck line offers ultra-compact form factors while still packing programable punch powered by Controllermate software.
The pros:
- Super compact design options from 8 to 128 keys
- Keys fully backlit with vibrant RGB colors
- Controllermate enables deep customization
- Affordable entry around $100
The cons:
- Requires third party software like Controllermate
- Lacks LCD displays above keys
Best for: Streamers needing portability on a budget
6. NewTek Stream Deck
Part of NewTek’s live production ecosystem, the NewTek Stream Deck integrates NDI protocol for high performance video routing and controls.
The pros:
- 15 LCD programmable buttons
- Native NDI inputs/outputs to switch video sources
- Pop-out stand for adjustable angles
- Automatically maps scenes from TriCaster and vMC software
- Comparably priced around $200
The cons:
- Mostly designed for NewTek’s ecosystem
- Less software ecosystem integrations
Best for: Streamers fully invested into NewTek gear
7. Bitfocus Companion
For the software savvy, Bitfocus Companion allows you to fully customize a stream deck using tablets and phones by harnessing advanced event-driven automation.
The pros:
- BYOD approach works with iOS and Android devices
- Extremely advanced automation capabilities
- Build unlimited buttons, faders, knobs and keypads
- Affordable licensing model with free trial
The cons:
- Requires comfort with advanced software coding
- No included hardware device
Best for: Tech pros wanting unlimited customization
8. Deckboard Custom Stream Deck
For those with woodworking skills, Deckboard offers DIY stream deck kits starting around $50 to build your own custom hardware controller.
The pros:
- Fully customized construction options
- Integration with Companion software
- Cost effective starting point option
- Excellent project for learning electronics
The cons:
- Requires electronics expertise
- Time investment for physical construction
Best for: Maker community DIY enthusiasts
Tips for Setting Up Your New Stream Deck
Once you‘ve selected the stream deck hardware that best fits your streaming needs, here are some tips for getting set up:
Install software first – Download and install any required software drivers and companion apps before connecting your physical device. Creating profiles and adding integrations is easier from the start versus after the fact.
Map your essential shortcuts – Make a list of your most frequently used streaming software shortcuts, chatbot commands, etc and map these to keys first. Also map any logos or imagery you want displayed on LCD keys.
Name your scenes and sources – Be sure streaming software scenes, transitions, media files and sources are named in logical ways. Instead of Scene 1, Scene 2 name them "Just Chatting", "Gameplay" etc.
Create sequences – Think through more advanced sequences like scene transitions + chat announcement + light effect you‘ll want automated then build these through the software.
Add instruments – If you utilise MIDI instruments and digital audio workstations (DAWs), enable these integrations next.
Don‘t overbuild initially – It‘s easy to get overwhelmed mapping everything imaginable from the start. Focus on your most vital use cases first. Complex integrations can come later as needed.
Troubleshoot connectivity issues – If running into performance lags or synergy issues, check computer processor and RAM capacity in addition to USB buss speeds.
Set aside adequate time for the initial setup and testing. When done properly, your stream deck will become the command center that massively boosts your live production capabilities!
Must-Have Stream Deck Integrations
While stream decks shine controlling proprietary streaming software, their capabilities grow exponentially when integrated with other live production tools.
Here are some of the top integrations worth considering:
OBS Studio – Open Broadcaster Software remains the most popular for multi-platform streaming. Native OBS Studio integration enables switching scenes, starting streams and screen sharing.
Streamlabs – For monetization and viewer engagement, Streamlabs seamlessly integrates to launch wheel spins, donation alerts and unlock stream rewards.
Twitch – Access Twitch Chat, modulate stream title/game details and automatically trigger ad breaks.
Twitter – Schedule tweets to notify followers when going live while embedding hashtags and video clips.
Philips Hue – For dynamic background lighting, sync customizable hue lighting changes to transition between stream scenes.
Ecamm Live – This production software tailored to Mac users enables direct integration to switch shots and activate effects.
Adobe Creative Cloud – Control critical Adobe apps like Premier Pro and Photoshop for video editing and graphics creation mid-stream.
Spotify – Cue playlist changes, volume and playback without leaving your stream.
VoiceMod – Morph audio voice filters on the fly like pitch adjustments and adding echo/reverb etc.
vMix – For pro live production, launch videos, titles, audio, switch cameras, pan and tilt PTZ cams and more.
…plus many others! Nearly every streaming, content creation and smart home platform offers direct integrations with today‘s stream decks.
The Future of Stream Decks
As stream decks continue proliferating into live producation setups, where is the hardware and software ecosystem headed? Here are some exciting innovations in development:
Advancements in responsiveness – Expect continued improvements in connectivity protocols like USB-C and WiFi enabling snappier response times to eliminate lag.
AI automation – Stream deck software could harness AI to study workflows and suggest helpful custom macros and shortcuts.
Predictive analytics – Insights from production analytics could help stream decks auto-recommend optimal timing on media plays, scene transitions etc.
Unified control surfaces – Software ecosystems will continue consolidating so a single stream deck can control the full production workflow.
Customizable modular hardware – Enterprise controllers combining LCD keys, motorized faders, joysticks and touch screens tailored to specialty workflows.
AR/VR capabilities – Integration with augmented and virtual reality tools for triggering simulated effects and environments.
Wearable devices – Stream decks optimized for wrists and hands providing controls quite literally at your fingertips.
Voice activation – Natural language voice commands to tap buttons, faders and execute macros hands-free.
Subscription models – Pay monthly licensing fees for stream deck hardware/software bundles lowering initial investments for new creators.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully this guide has shown the vast potential a stream deck unlocks for content creators, streamers and producers. With the ability to automate complex routines that blend software and hardware controls, these devices greatly accelerate workflows while reducing reliance on manual inputs.
The key is finding the right balance of programmable keys in a form factor that integrates cleanly into your existing production stack. While entry-level stream decks cost around $100, consider investing in more advanced options featuring LCD displays and premium tactile controls. The productivity gains justify costs that can easily be recouped from enhanced audience engagement.
Just remember there is a learning curve. Be patient customizing your profiles, macros and software integrations. Over time, your stream deck will evolve into the always-on command center fueling dynamic streams, videos and live events far into the future.
Happy streaming and content creating!
