The stream deck is a valuable addition to any streamer’s setup. However, I understand that it may not be suitable for everyone. Its larger size, higher price, and limited versatility outside of streaming may lead many streamers to consider other options.
Today, I will discuss some of the best alternatives to the Stream Deck. My personal favorite is the Elgato Stream Deck Mini, as it offers a more affordable option with fewer buttons than the original Stream Deck.
Hopefully, this list will assist you in making the best choice, whether you are a beginner or simply seeking an affordable stream deck alternative.
QUICK OVERVIEW: Best Stream Deck Alternatives
 | Top Choice Elgato Stream Deck Mini
| |
 | Loupedeck Live
| |
 | XK 60
|
Table of Contents
1. Elgato Mini
Best Overall
Stefan’s Take:
What I liked about Elgato Stream Deck Mini is the fact that it’s practically just a smaller version of the original Elgato Stream Deck. It is a cheaper solution, with same features.
Although this is really a nice stream deck to start with, you might find frustrating the fact that there are only six LCD buttons at your disposal. For some, six is just not enough.
| Customization | 9 |
|---|---|
| Number of Buttons | 7 |
| Compatibility | 10 |
| Value | 10 |
Let me clarify that this is the smaller and more budget-friendly version of the Elgato Stream Deck.
Instead of fifteen programmable buttons, there are only six. The six programmable LCD buttons enable you to switch scenes, adjust audio, or simply launch media.
You can initiate multiple actions at once with a single tap. The Elgato Stream Deck Mini is completely customizable, allowing you to use animated GIFs or custom icons to personalize the keys.
While you will receive the stream deck with six keys at a lower price, if you ever choose to pair this stream deck mini with the Elgato Stream Deck, you can combine them to access 21 customizable LCD keys.
2. Loupedeck Live
Ideal for Versatility
Stefan’s Take:
What I liked the most about Loupedeck Live is that it has programmable dials and multiple buttons.
It’s given me quite versatile use, which adds more to its value, along with pretty good compatibility.
However, I do think the price is a bit too high, especially for new streamers. But if you have the buck, you can expect a decent Stream Deck alternative.
| Customization | 8 |
|---|---|
| Number of Buttons | 8 |
| Compatibility | 10 |
| Value | 8 |
You can configure the LCD screen to display the customizations you desire for any software you use. Various programs are available, allowing you to set them up to automatically switch as you navigate from one application to another.
The audio mixer controls are also accessible. This allows you to manage your sound and adjust the volume directly from it.
Now, let’s discuss the drawbacks of this Elgato Stream Deck alternative.
Firstly, I believe that the software is somewhat buggy and does not support the extensive customization options that this deck offers. Using this software makes navigation extremely difficult and frustrating.
Secondly, to access additional software programs, you must pay the company extra to unlock those features.
3. XK 60
Best for the Number of Buttons
Stefan’s Take:
One thing I can say about XK 60 is that if you want to feel like flying a plane while streaming, this is a great product!
Jokes aside, I’ve had much fun using this keyboard. The sheer number of buttons is worth buying this product if you need a lot of shortcuts for streaming.
| Customization | 9 |
|---|---|
| Number of Buttons | 10 |
| Compatibility | 7.5 |
| Value | 8 |
The XK 60 features internal memory and 60 customizable buttons.
The internal memory ensures that you won’t lose your preferred settings when transferring from one PC to another.
The keys will offer you multi-action functionality for your streaming programs. With this, you are sure to enhance your channel.
You can choose between red and blue backlighting, as both options are available.
X-keys offers models with 24, 80, and 128 keys.
4. Contour Design ShuttlePro V.2
Ideal for Unique Design
Stefan’s Take:
This design is just… Wow. The Shuttle Pro comes with 15 buttons. Nine buttons have a removable cover so you can label them easily.
If you are looking for easy and quick control over video or audio editing or even picture editing you will be satisfied with this stream deck.
| Customization | 8 |
|---|---|
| Number of Buttons | 7.5 |
| Compatibility | 8 |
| Value | 8 |
The inner ring of the Shuttle Pro V.2 can rotate 360 degrees, offering frame-by-frame control.
The outer ring is made of rubber and is primarily used for familiar functions such as rewinding and fast forwarding.
It arrives in a pre-configured form. It is compatible with many of the most popular audio and video editing programs. Additionally, it works with both Windows and Mac.
Overall, I recommend this option if you are seeking customizable controls for editing audio, video content, or images.
5. Max Keyboard Falcon-20
Best for Simplicity
Stefan’s Take:
What I like the most about Falcon-20 is how simple it is. There are no fancy displays, complicated menus, and such. It’s just a keyboard for you to plug in and use.
Commands are customized via a personalized app, allowing you to switch up the buttons. If you ask me, this is a good choice for beginners in the streaming world.
| Customization | 7 |
|---|---|
| Number of Buttons | 9 |
| Compatibility | 8 |
| Value | 7 |
The Max Falcon is a programmable micro pad featuring 20 keys.
It features a “layer switch,” which is a button that enables you to toggle between sets of programmed commands.
Generally, you can have up to five programming layers, which includes a dual micro USB port and onboard memory.
It enables you to carry it with you wherever you go.
Falcon’s programming app can be used without any prior knowledge of coding.
RGB keys will help you understand the functions of the keys.
6. DIY Formula (KEYPADS)
The vanilla stream deck is essentially just a customizable keypad. If you remove the LED switches, this becomes evident.
To create an affordable stream deck, you only need free key remapping software and a num pad. As a result, you can put it together for under $20.
If you are considering a paid version, I recommend software that offers intuitive navigation. However, if you prefer not to pay, you are welcome to use other free key-remapping software.
To prevent interference with your essential keyboard functions, I recommend assigning “F13“ and “F14“ on the external number pad. For instance, you can assign F13 for sending animations or launching the chat.
To avoid memorizing the keys and their functions, you can substitute the original keys with custom ones.
Keycaps will cost you approximately $7 or $8. Additionally, you can be creative and design your own stickers.
You can easily place them on top of the existing keys. This way, you can save some money.
Generally, this method enables you to create various alternatives to the Elgato stream deck. You can save some money while being imaginative and innovative. However, if you are a beginner, it may take some time to configure and assign the buttons.
Furthermore, if you appreciate the aesthetic appeal of an external num pad, you may find the DIY stream deck disappointing. It simply cannot match the quality of the LCD screens.
7. Mobile App
Top Mobile Alternative
Stefan’s Take:
Here is one of the best Elgato stream deck alternate choices when it comes to mobile apps.
Namely, if you are not willing to invest in hardware you can buy Elgato software. You can turn your mobile into the so-called “stream deck mobile“.
| Customization | 9 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 8 |
| Compatibility | 10 |
| Value | 9 |
You receive a fully customizable fifteen-key setup. Typically, this option offers the highest level of customizability available in the market.
You receive a 30-day free trial, but after that, you will need to pay for its use. Currently, there is no lifetime license available.
The app operates wirelessly, with the phone connected to it through the local network.
In my experience, it works well with both Android and iOS devices. However, a few issues may arise with Android devices, as the connection to the PC can be lost when the phone enters sleep mode.
It is quite frustrating because you will need to reconfigure the entire system later, due to the missing buttons.
8. Streamlabs Deck
Ideal for Streamlabs Users
Stefan’s Take:
Streamlabs control app is a decent choice if you are using Streamlabs OBS as your main streaming software. Other users won’t find much value in it.
It has limited functionality as well. You can simply start or stop streaming, control audio, and quickly change between different scenes, such as BRB or Ending screen.
Apart from that, don’t expect much customization from this app.
| Customization | 5 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 7 |
| Compatibility | 6 |
| Value | 9 |
If you are using the Streamlabs OBS stream deck on a PC, you can utilize the Streamlabs deck app as a remote controller. The app is effective, but it has limited functionality.
The remote app enables you to start and stop streaming or recording, play or pause audio, and switch between scenes. However, if you are not using Streamlabs, this app will be of no use to you.
A few words about its drawbacks. You cannot use it to launch animations, perform any custom functions, or send alerts. Additionally, the app is not very customizable.
9. Stream Puppy
Ideal for Twitch Streamers
Stefan’s Take:
If you only stream on Twitch, Stream Puppy is a decent choice because it has almost everything you need. From voice and chat commands to Twitch clip button.
The downside is that it requires Windows to run the server app. However, it is still a completely valid option.
| Customization | 8 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 9 |
| Compatibility | 6 |
| Value | 10 |
Stream Puppy is primarily designed for Twitch streamers. The client app is accessible for both Apple and Android users. However, the server app is exclusively available for Windows users.
Why do Twitch streamers love it? Because it offers nearly everything they require: voice-activated triggers, chat-activated button triggers, stream triggers, a stream clip button, and much more.
Furthermore, you do not need to set it up again when changing PCs. Customizing the app is straightforward.
The free version includes nearly all the features you need, but it is restricted to just 6 buttons. However, if you choose to pay, you will receive 45 configurable buttons.
Today, it is common to use your mobile phone as a personal stream deck alternative.
It is your responsibility to find a stream deck app that will transform your mobile device into a kind of “stream deck mobile app” that functions as a control panel.
Here are some mobile alternatives:
10. Deck Board
Top App for Versatility
Stefan’s Take:
Deck Board app is very simple and intuitive to use. The free version with 12 buttons is completely fine to use, but the price is so low that I used the paid version while testing.
Customization is a bit lacking, but compatibility is great. The app is compatible with almost every software, which I liked a lot.
| Customization | 6 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 8 |
| Compatibility | 9 |
| Value | 9 |
The free version of the app provides access to 12 buttons. In contrast, if you pay, you will have access to 30 buttons. Generally, Deck Board can be utilized as a streaming assist tool, a flight simulation controller, or simply to streamline tasks and make them easier.
You can access your PC macros from your phone using USB or WiFi. Simply scan the QR code or enter the IP address.
OBS Studio and Stream Deck Streamlabs OBS integration allow you to control objects and scenes, enhancing your broadcasting experience.
You can also moderate your Twitch chat room. Spotify Premium users will be pleased to know that this app enables you to control and play your favorite playlists and albums.
Deck Board is not available on Apple devices.
11. Touch Portal
App with the Most Buttons
Stefan’s Take:
In my opinion, the greatest advantage of Touch Portal is the sheer number of available buttons. You can get up to 110 with the premium version, and the price is also affordable for what the app offers.
It has almost everything a beginner streamer would need from a stream deck, so I highly recommend it, especially to the newbies in the streaming world.
| Customization | 8 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 10 |
| Compatibility | 8 |
| Value | 9 |
The free version of Touch Portal includes nearly all the features you need. However, if you opt for the paid version, you will receive 110 keys, which may be excessive on an Android device.
This alternative is accessible on Mac, Android, Windows, and iOS devices.
It offers native support for SoundPad and OBS, allowing you to play or record songs and interact with SoundPad seamlessly.
On the other hand, with the support for OBS, you can switch scenes, control audio, hide or unhide scenes, start or stop recordings and streams, or easily change profiles or filters.
You can use the touch portal to control Twitch streams, your Twitter account, and much more…
If you are willing to use plug-ins, you can control Spotify, Windows Essentials, Lifx Lights, and much more.
Overall, I can recommend this as an excellent alternative to the Elgato stream deck. It is ideal for streamers.
12. Macro Deck
Top Open-Source Application
Stefan’s Take:
The main advantage of Macro Deck is that it is an open-source app, meaning that it is completely free. Customization is kind of limited by community-based plugins.
However, if you are looking to save some cash, this app is a decent choice, and it will do the job.
| Customization | 7 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 7 |
| Compatibility | 7 |
| Value | 10 |
Macro Deck can transform the phone into a deck. However, it offers limited customizability. As a result, some may argue that setting up the app is straightforward. I can agree with that.
13. Matric App
Ideal for OBS
Stefan’s Take:
Since I’m personally using OBS, I enjoyed testing this app, because of its native OBS integration. It also works very well with Discord.
Customization is okay-ish, and one drawback I found was that the app is only compatible with Android OS. So, if you are an iOS user, sorry, but this one is not for you.
| Customization | 7 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 8 |
| Compatibility | 6 |
| Value | 9 |
It is available on Android devices and offers native support for OBS Studio. The Matric App transforms your phone into a media deck.
As I mentioned, it has native support for OBS Studio, allowing you to customize the stream deck to suit your needs.
You can, for instance, switch scenes or create an advanced studio console. The choice is yours.
In general, you can create multiple decks for various situations.
You can use Matric App as a multi-touch touchpad for your PC, a virtual joystick, or to play audio files on your PC. Many more options are available.
Overall, the app is satisfactory. It is appealing due to its native support for OBS Studio. However, if you are considering serious streaming, there are better options available in the market.
14. Up Deck
Top Elgato App Alternatives
Stefan’s Take:
Up Deck is free and I recommend it because it simply has enough features for a stream deck app.
However, you should always bear in mind that Up Deck is only the Elgato stream deck alternative and that products like the stream deck app do not possess all the features that you can find in the original.
| Customization | 8 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 8 |
| Compatibility | 5 |
| Value | 8 |
Up Deck is available on both Android and iOS devices. Additionally, there is no need to install any server app on the PC, as it is compatible with OBS alone.
Of course, OBS is one of the most popular programs for PC users who aspire to become streamers, particularly if they are not willing to spend a fortune on specialized streaming equipment.
Up Deck is free and offers numerous customization options. Specifically, the buttons can be utilized for different actions and combined with various icons.
You can switch scenes, save game replays from your streaming tablet or phone, control the volume, play songs or applications, draw on your screen, queue multiple animations, and more.
15. SAMMI
Ideal for Streaming
Stefan’s Take:
SAMMI is pretty decent if you only need such app for streaming. Customization is ok, but compatibility is a bit lacking.
It is only available on Android OS and has OBS, Twitch, and YouTube Live integrations.
| Customization | 7 |
|---|---|
| Number of Actions | 7 |
| Compatibility | 5 |
| Value | 8 |
SAMMI, formerly known as Lioran Board, is free of charge. It is currently available only for Windows and Android. We hope they will soon expand to Apple devices and other platforms. It is fully customizable.
Generally, the Lioran Board was designed primarily for streaming. However, in the 21st century, people are seeking multifunctional products.
Thus, the community has created numerous extensions (JavaScript extensions) to integrate Lioran Board with various software, hardware, or websites.
This stream deck app can be connected to Discord, Spotify, and LIFX lights.
With an OBS connection, you can start and stop streaming, modify sources, move them, mute or unmute them, or easily switch scenes.
It is excellent for Twitch streamers because you can read, send messages, or receive alerts. Multiple Twitch accounts can be connected to the same board.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I have presented a list of 15 stream deck alternatives. My top three selections are:
We hope this guide was helpful!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use your phone as a stream deck?
Yes. Nowadays, you can turn your phone into a perfect stream deck. However, in most cases, it will not have as many buttons as the “ordinary“ stream deck. In the text above, you can find the best apps, that will help you to turn your phone into a stream deck.
Is stream deck mobile free?
The Stream deck on mobile is free to download, but you will have to pay for its full use. You basically buy software only. As I said, you get 30 days free trial and after that period you need to pay a monthly subscription for it. For now, as I mentioned, there is no lifetime license.
Can I use my iPad as a stream deck?
I will quote Elgato on this “The stream deck mobile works for both iPad and tablet devices“. When it comes to different types of stream deck alternatives, you can check their compatibility with the iPad and tablet system in the text above. Generally, I hope that all these alternatives will soon become available for iPad users if they are not already.
