Elgato Stream Deck is a customizable control device that uses programmable LCD keys, dials, touch controls, or pedals to give you quick access to software, hardware, shortcuts, and automated actions. Stream Deck can be used for live streaming, video production, broadcasting, gaming, content creation, productivity, and many other workflows.

Stream Deck lets you replace complicated keyboard shortcuts, menus, and repetitive tasks with customizable one-touch controls. You can launch applications, control streaming software, trigger graphics, adjust audio, switch cameras, control smart home devices, run multiple actions at once, and much more.

Stream Deck connects to a computer and uses the Elgato Stream Deck software to assign actions to its programmable controls. Each LCD key can display a custom icon and perform an assigned action when pressed. Plugins, profiles, folders, and Multi Actions allow you to create customized controls for different applications and workflows.

The best Stream Deck depends on how many controls you need and what you want to control. Stream Deck Neo is a compact option with 8 keys, Stream Deck MK.2 provides 15 keys, Stream Deck XL provides 32 keys, and Stream Deck + adds 4 dials and a touch strip. Stream Deck + XL combines 36 keys, 6 dials, and a touch strip for complex professional workflows.

The primary differences are the number and type of controls. Stream Deck Mini has 6 keys, Neo has 8 keys, MK.2 has 15 keys, Stream Deck + has 8 keys plus 4 dials and a touch strip, Stream Deck XL has 32 keys, and Stream Deck + XL has 36 keys, 6 dials, and a touch strip. All hardware models use the Stream Deck software and support Stream Deck plugins and profiles.

Stream Deck XL has 32 customizable LCD keys and is designed for workflows where having many dedicated buttons visible at once is important. Stream Deck + XL has 36 customizable LCD keys plus 6 multifunction dials and a touch strip, making it better suited to complex workflows that require both one-touch commands and precise adjustments.

Stream Deck Neo has 8 customizable keys plus two touch points and an Info Bar, making it a compact option for essential controls. Stream Deck MK.2 has 15 customizable keys and interchangeable faceplates, providing more dedicated controls for larger workflows.

The best Stream Deck for live streaming depends on the number of scenes, sources, audio controls, graphics, and other functions you need. Stream Deck MK.2 is a versatile choice for many streamers, while Stream Deck XL provides 32 keys for larger productions. Stream Deck + and Stream Deck + XL add dials and touch controls that are useful for audio and other precise adjustments.

For professional video production, the best Stream Deck depends on the number of controls and applications in your workflow. Stream Deck XL provides 32 dedicated keys, while Stream Deck + XL offers 36 keys, 6 dials, and a touch strip for larger production environments. Stream Deck can also be integrated with professional production software through plugins and third-party integrations.

Yes. Stream Deck can control compatible streaming and production software through built-in actions, plugins, and integrations. It can be used to trigger scenes, sources, transitions, audio controls, recording, streaming, and other functions in supported applications such as OBS Studio and other production software.

Yes. Stream Deck can control compatible cameras, production systems, software, and other hardware through supported plugins, integrations, and control protocols. This allows a Stream Deck to become a centralized interface for functions such as camera control, switching, graphics, audio, and other live production operations.

Stream Deck plugins add functionality and integrations to the Stream Deck platform. Plugins allow Stream Deck to communicate with compatible software, services, and hardware so you can control applications and workflows directly from customizable keys, dials, and other Stream Deck controls.

Multi Actions allow one Stream Deck button to trigger multiple commands in sequence. For example, a single button could launch an application, change an audio setting, switch a scene, and perform other commands at the same time. Multi Actions are useful for automating repetitive workflows and simplifying complex productions.

Smart Profiles automatically change the Stream Deck layout based on the application you are using. For example, Stream Deck can display editing controls when you open a video editing application and switch to streaming controls when you launch your streaming software.

Yes. Stream Deck allows users to customize the appearance of their controls with custom icons, icon packs, and other visual options. Each LCD key can display an icon that helps identify the action assigned to it, making complex workflows easier to navigate.

Yes. Stream Deck can control compatible audio software, applications, and hardware. Depending on the model and available integrations, users can assign keys or dials to functions such as volume adjustment, microphone controls, audio routing, sound effects, and other audio tasks. Stream Deck + and Stream Deck + XL are particularly useful for audio workflows because they include physical dials.

Yes. Elgato Stream Deck hardware is designed to work with compatible Windows and macOS computers using the Stream Deck software. Specific operating system and hardware requirements can vary by Stream Deck model, so users should check the requirements for the specific device they are considering.

Yes. Multiple Stream Deck devices can be used together to create larger or more specialized control systems. This can be useful for professional live production, broadcasting, video editing, streaming, and other workflows where different devices are dedicated to different functions.

Yes. Stream Deck can be used in professional broadcast and live production environments to provide customizable control over software, cameras, graphics, audio, switching, and other production systems. Larger models such as Stream Deck XL and Stream Deck + XL provide more controls for complex production workflows.

Elgato Stream Deck can be valuable for anyone who regularly performs repetitive tasks, uses complex software, or needs quick access to many controls. For streamers and content creators, it can simplify live production. For video editors and creative professionals, it can provide shortcuts and automation. For broadcasters and production teams, Stream Deck can provide centralized control over software and compatible production equipment.