What’s the finest stream deck? Whether or not you are stay streaming, creating content material, or working in manufacturing, maintaining a stream deck (or a number of) by your facet can massively enhance your workflow, and supply the means to make memorable moments whereas streaming on websites like Twitch and YouTube. Elgato is a transparent business chief on this enviornment, however rival manufacturers like Razer and Loupedeck additionally now provide improbable choices.
Our high advice proper now could be the Elgato Stream Deck+ because it combines each buttons and programmable dials in a compact bundle, for extremely versatile management over your stream or different software program. In the meantime, the Elgato Stream Deck XL is finest for these with a great deal of capabilities to program, and the Loupedeck Dwell is superb for editors needing a number of capabilities. In the meantime, the Logitech MX Artistic Console is our favourite for normal desktop navigation and modifying. For extra steering on the best way to discover the fitting stream deck for you, examine the how to decide on part of this information. You too can learn the FAQ to seek out solutions to your burning stream deck questions.
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Finest stream decks in 2025:
Elgato Stream Deck +
Finest stream deck for most individuals
Elgato Stream Deck + specs:Connectivity | Wired, USB-A to USB-C |
Buttons | 8 buttons and 4 dials |
Platforms | Twitch, Twitter, XSplit, YouTube, Spotify (and plenty of extra) |
Dimension | 5.4 x 5.5 x 4.3 inches |
Execs- Versatile all-in-one answer
- Sooner response instances than different Elgato Stream Decks
- Finest-in-class software program
- The contact bar is an impressed addition
Cons- Lack of haptics on contact bar
- No adjustable stand
The Stream Deck + is probably the most versatile possibility on our checklist, with nice options at an affordable worth. It combines eight huge sq. buttons – the usual management interface on its different fashions – with an LCD contact panel and 4 rotary dials that may be pushed to cycle between capabilities.
Whether or not you are utilizing the Stream Deck + to manage your Elgato Facecam or Elgato Wave:3, are placing on stay productions, or fine-tuning photographs and video in your modifying software program of selection there are such a lot of prospects. Whereas the Stream Deck + lacks as many devoted macro buttons because the Stream Deck MK.2 and the jumbo-sized Stream Deck XL that is offset by the truth that biking by way of macros is quicker and extra environment friendly than earlier than.
Learn our Elgato Stream Deck + evaluation.
Elgato Stream Deck XL
Finest stream deck for complicated jobs
Elgato Stream Deck XL specs:Connectivity | Wired, USB-A to USB-C |
Buttons | 32 customizable LCD keys |
Platforms | Twiter, Twitter, XSplit, YouTube, Spotify (and plenty of extra) |
Dimension | 7.2 x 4.4 x 1.3 inches |
Execs- Enormous quantity of button actual property
- Good for complicated manufacturing
- Finest-in-class software program
Cons- Overkill for many streamers
- No adjustable stand
When you love having a number of macros in a single place, or you have got an entire host of fancy visible results in your stream, then managing them concurrently utilizing the Stream Deck XL is totally the way in which to go. Whereas it’s a lot pricier than the feature-packed Stream Deck + and the extra modest Stream Deck MK.2, the price-to-key ratio is technically higher right here than on its smaller siblings.
With that mentioned, we would not advocate the Stream Deck XL for those who’re a extra informal streamer, or haven’t got a powerful sufficient use case for having all your macros obtainable directly. Whereas we get pleasure from having the ability to have separate sections on our XL devoted to every part from modifying to Twitch, to peripherals because of the elevated actual property, it is not obligatory for everybody. Saving your self ~$100 by selecting up Elgato’s MK.2 mannequin and dedicating a macro key or two to switching between pages is a significantly better worth proposition.
The Stream Deck XL is ideal for complicated manufacturing, and an important accompaniment to the Stream Deck + for those who actually wish to increase your setup, however as a standalone possibility there are extra smart decisions on the market.
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2
Finest mid-range stream deck
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 specs:Connectivity | Wired, USB-A to USB-C |
Buttons | 15 LCD keys |
Platforms | Twitter, Twitter, XSplit, YouTube, Spotify (and plenty of extra) |
Dimension | 4.6 x 3.3 x 1 inches |
Execs- Finest bang-for-buck Elgato deck
- Customizable face plate
- Finest-in-class software program
When you’re seeking to decide up a stream deck with out breaking the financial institution an excessive amount of, the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 is a superb selection – at the least so far as software program is anxious. Because the follow-up to what’s in all probability the preferred stream deck in the marketplace, the MK.2 is the proper instrument not just for streamers but in addition for these seeking to increase their productiveness.
Sporting 15 macro keys, unfold throughout three rows of 5, there are greater than sufficient buttons to assign to something you’d want from Elgato’s glorious plugin library. Granted, Elgato’s buttons have by no means felt probably the most premium – there’s this innate mushiness to them that you just will not discover in one thing just like the Razer Stream Controller X – however there’s nonetheless a satisfying sufficient tactility to their bump.
Not a lot has actually modified from the unique Stream Deck MK.1, barring the welcomed shift to USB-C. Nevertheless, as Elgato took a step ahead, it has additionally taken a step backward by taking out the angle-adjustable stand.
Logitech MX Artistic Console
Finest normal work and modifying consol
Logitech MX Artistic Console specs:Connections | |
Buttons | |
Platforms | |
Dimension | |
Execs- Twin dials improbable for modifying
- A great deal of apps supported
- Multi-platform software program help
- Dial is wi-fi
Cons- Costly
- Solely 9 programmable OLED buttons
- Works finest as a part of full Logitech setup
The Logitech MX Artistic Console is our favourite management interface for modifying and normal desktop work. It is also good for streaming, however its modest variety of programmable buttons and give attention to analog management dials is finest fitted to scrubbing by way of video timelines and adjusting analog settings on the fly.
It is available in two components: the button part that is wired and a wi-fi dials part. The latter has a big central dial that defaults to capabilities akin to scrolling in internet browsers and timeline scrubbing in Adobe Premiere however could be programmed to carry out all types of different capabilities. Within the high proper nook there’s then a smaller vertical wheel that once more can carry out all types of tremendous changes, akin to tweaking quantity ranges.
The programmable buttons pad wants a wire to gentle up all its OLED shows, and these operate very similar to different stream decks, with icons and capabilities being fully customizable. Crucially, Logitech has partnered with an enormous variety of software program makers to offer an enormous library of default capabilities for all types of various apps, so you possibly can typically get going immediately, with little or no setup wanted.
At $199.99, it is not an affordable possibility, however in order for you a stream deck that is good for each controlling a couple of stream capabilities in addition to many facets of your each day computing life, it is a worthwhile funding.z
Loupedeck Dwell
Finest stream deck for editors
Loupedeck Dwell specs:Connectivity | Wired, USB-C (USB-A adapter included) |
Buttons | 8 buttons and 4 dials |
Platforms | Twitch, Twitter, XSplit, YouTube, Spotify (and plenty of extra) |
Dimension | 5.9 x 4.3 x 1.18 inches |
Execs- Nice tactility and haptics
- Multi-tasking by way of dials turbocharges modifying workflow
Cons- Software program is not probably the most user-friendly
- Flimsy stand
The Loupedeck Dwell is an absolute dream for editors and solves the largest qualm we’ve got with the Stream Deck + in that its haptics – on each its six dials and capacitative contact display screen – are exemplary.
Whereas the Loupedeck Dwell does not have bodily buttons like the opposite decks on this checklist, its touchscreen is mainly the macro keys and contact bar of the Stream Deck + rolled into one panel. Its native integration with modifying and manufacturing software program is actually its largest promoting level, and the added potential to tweak a number of parameters inside apps like Lightroom at a time with the dials makes modifying a breeze.
The Loupedeck Dwell shouldn’t be excellent, nevertheless. The standard of its plastic stand is questionable, and its app retailer shouldn’t be practically as populated with third-party choices as Elgato’s. Moreover, establishing your Loupedeck generally is a daunting job, as issues like multi-action macros and keyboard shortcuts take some routing round within the deck’s software program to arrange.
As a productiveness instrument, the Loupedeck Dwell is improbable, however for those who’re searching for a deck purely from a gaming perspective, we would advocate going with an Elgato mannequin. As an apart, for those who’re questioning why this appears to be like a lot like Razer’s major Stream Controller, it is as a result of the product’s precisely the identical – the 2 firms partnered up for Razer’s launch. As such, for those who do go for one of many two, go together with whichever hurts your financial institution stability the least.
Loupedeck Dwell S
Finest funds stream deck for editors
Loupedeck Dwell S specs:Connectivity | Wired, USB-C to USB-C with USB-A adapter |
Buttons | 15x contact keys, 4x buttons, 2x dials |
Platforms | Adobe Suite, OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch, Spotify (and plenty of extra) |
| 5.9 x 3.4 x 1.2 inches |
Execs- All-in-one stream deck
- Will be laid flat
- Unimaginable pre-configured macro profiles
Cons- Software program has points
- Opponents provide extra for streamers and creators
For many who discover the usual model a bit too costly, the Loupedeck Dwell S affords a budget-friendlier method, with a small, but nonetheless mighty stream deck. Providing an all-in-one system for creators and streamers, the Dwell S has loads of keys, buttons, and dials – we simply want fewer points with the software program.
This glossy machine delivers something you can ask for a stream deck, and in contrast to the cheaper Elgato merchandise, does not skimp out with the lower cost. For ease of use, the pre-configured macro profiles make it simple to get to work immediately, whether or not you are a rising streamer or a inventive searching for easy accessibility to your favourite applications.
Try our Loupedeck Dwell S evaluation right here.
Razer Stream Controller X
Finest Elgato different
Razer Stream Controller X specs:Connectivity | Wired, USB-C to USB-A (USB |
Buttons | 15 switchable buttons |
Platforms | Twitch, OBS Studio, Spotify, Razer Key Gentle Management (and extra) |
Dimension | 4.37 x 1.02 x 3.19 |
Execs- Higher button tactility than Elgato
- Nice construct high quality
- Customizable face plate
Cons- Software program is not probably the most user-friendly
- No adjustable stand
When you’re after a well-constructed stream deck with buttons which you can’t cease urgent, then Razer’s Stream Controller X is the way in which to go. Because the gaming tech model’s reply to Elgato’s Stream Deck MK.2, we’re huge followers of its premium construct high quality.
Whereas the pair look practically an identical, the Stream Controller X’s keys are significantly much less mushy, with much less journey time and better tactility than Elgato’s providing. Moreover, its customizable faceplate is magnetic, making for a extra seamless transition between kinds than the clip-based system used on the MK.2.
Nevertheless, the Stream Controller X is beholden to the identical software program limitations because the Loupedeck Dwell, because of Razer operating off of Loupedeck’s personal software program. It will at the least imply you needn’t run Razer Synapse, although you will not discover devoted RGB controls to your different Razer gadgets consequently.
In the end, the Stream Controller X does not actually convey something new to the house. It is an Elgato clone that by no means actually makes an attempt to compete in an important house of all – software program. Nevertheless, for those who’re all about construct high quality, then it may be yours for a couple of {dollars} lower than the MK.2.
Elgato Stream Deck Mini
Finest funds stream deck
Elgato Stream Deck Mini specs:Connectivity | Laborious-wired USB-A |
Buttons | 6 LCD keys |
Platforms | Twitch, Twitter, Break up, YouTube, Spotify (and plenty of extra) |
Dimension | 2.4 x 2.3 x 3.3 inches |
Execs- Low-cost
- Good for setups with restricted house
- Finest-in-class software program
Cons- Highest price-per-key out of Elgato’s lineup
- Laborious-wired USB connection
- No adjustable stand
When you’re searching for a productiveness or streaming help for the bottom doable worth, then we advocate the Elgato Stream Deck Mini. Though it solely comes with six buttons, there’s loads of maneuverability as you possibly can stack folders crammed with helpful macros relying on what program you are utilizing.
Whereas this does require an additional key press or two to get to what you want, it is actually price it contemplating the Mini is available in at round half the worth of the usual MK.2. You will not be getting probably the most handy stream deck expertise, however it can nonetheless be infinitely higher than, for instance, having to manually open teams of commonly-used webpages, or tab between applications on single-monitor setups.
Moreover, for those who work on the go, then having a bite-sized companion that may be sat subsequent to your laptop computer is one thing we particularly love in regards to the Mini.
The Mini nonetheless retains the identical flaw because the MK.2 with regard to mushy buttons, and we’re upset to see that it does not include a removable USB cable – a foul hangover from the unique MK.1 Stream Deck that ought to’ve been iterated out by now.
Whereas the Mini’s worth can fluctuate, it is gone as little as $50 at factors (based on camelcamelcamel) which places its price-per-key on the identical stage because the MK.2’s. We would not advocate spending something over $80 for one, however make sure to store round as there are bargains available.
How one can selected the most effective stream deck for you
As their identify suggests, stream decks are primarily helpful for streamers who wish to convey a load of controls to their fingertips. Whenever you’re attempting to play video games and be entertaining on digital camera, you do not wish to fiddle with macros (combos of software program capabilities triggered by a single occasion) mid-stream. As a substitute, a grid of simple to learn and attain buttons and dials is the perfect technique to easy your workflow.
Nevertheless, there are many different makes use of for stream decks, akin to for enhancing the workflow of audio, picture, and video editors. Loads of normal desktop capabilities could be streamlined with a stream deck too.
For many non-professional streamers, a smaller stream deck just like the Elgato Stream Deck mini or Elgato Stream Deck can be all you want. Elgato’s software program is actually slick and extremely versatile and you’ll simply convey some fast and helpful capabilities to your fingertips.
When you’re an editor, although, the addition of dials to some bigger stream decks such because the Elgato Stream Deck+ and Loupedeck Dwell make it so fast and straightforward to dial in sure settings.
In the meantime, for professional or aspire streamers firing off emojis, dropping in audio samples, bleeping out your swears, and extra, a bigger stream deck with loads of spare buttons will possible be what you want.
Stream deck FAQs
What’s a stream deck?
A stream deck is a desktop machine that gives further controls for interacting together with your PC, so you do not at all times need to depend on mouse clicks and keyboard shortcuts. They usually include a spread of buttons, dials, and shows that may be programmed that will help you carry out complicated capabilities in a single command. Generally known as macros, these capabilities can embody every part from altering the quantity of various audio sources to altering lighting schemes, firing off Photoshop batch instructions, clipping a recreation recording and far, far more.
Utilizing the devoted software program for every deck, you possibly can assign capabilities to every management, streamlining your content material creation workflow to finest fit your wants. Essentially the most primary decks have only a few further buttons – within which is mostly a bit OLED show to indicate the operate it performs – whereas costlier models add touchscreens and dials.
The most effective stream decks will not solely allow you to open up your whole workflow on the contact of a button with a multi-command, however you may also use them to manage exterior peripherals, PC audio, and extra. Even higher, stream decks with premium options like dials can be used when modifying – to clean by way of, chop up, and coloration grade footage, or make stage changes to a picture.
Are stream decks truly helpful?
It will very a lot depend upon what kind of duties you utilize your PC for, what apps you utilize and what {hardware} you have got that is likely to be suitable with a stream deck. As an example, because the identify suggests, stream decks are notably helpful for streamers. You may program all types of stream interactions, play sound samples, alter lighting, change cameras, and far more.
Video, picture and audio editors can also discover them very helpful, as whereas many capabilities for apps akin to Photoshop are tied to keyboard instructions, it may be troublesome to recollect all of them. Plus, stream decks can be utilized to program complicated macros that may work throughout a number of items of software program.
In the meantime, for those who recurrently write emails with a number of several types of customary blocks of textual content, as an example – a piece signature, a private signature, a gross sales template, and so on. You may program these to be inserted on the contact of a button.
Do you want dials on a stream deck?
It relies upon what you may use the stream deck for. Entry stage stream decks solely embody a couple of buttons, with dials being a premium possibility. That is tremendous for single duties however in order for you to have the ability to management quantity ranges mid-stream, rapidly alter coloration settings in Photoshop, or alter the combination in a recording, dials are a fare faster, simpler, and extra correct manner of controlling these capabilities.
What number of buttons do you want on a stream deck?
Stream decks just like the Elgato Stream Deck Mini embody solely a handful of buttons, which could seem to be too few. Nevertheless, for those who solely have a couple of capabilities that you just recurrently do that you just suppose would actually profit from a stream deck button then you definitely’ll in all probability be proud of a small stream deck.
When you’re seeking to construct out your dream streaming setup, take a look at our guides on the most effective streaming software program, and the most effective seize playing cards for those who’re hoping to report or stream your favourite video games.