The Stream Deck is a popular hardware device that has become the go-to tool for content creators, video editors, and gamers. The Stream Deck provides customizable buttons that can trigger a variety of actions. While the Stream Deck is an excellent device, several alternatives in the market offer similar functionality. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best Stream Deck alternatives including the ones that are free as well as a few paid stream deck alternatives.
Best Stream Deck Alternatives
There are several free stream deck alternatives and paid stream deck alternatives available in the market that offer similar functionality at no or at a more affordable price. Whether you’re a beginner or a power user, there’s an alternative out there that can meet your needs and budget. Here is a list of alternatives to consider.
1. O.B.S. Studio
O.B.S Studio is a popular streaming software that also happens to be one of the free stream deck alternatives. It can be used with both Windows and Mac operating systems.
- It includes a built-in Stream Deck feature.
- The OBS Stream Deck plugin allows users to create custom buttons.
- The plugin can control OBS Studio’s features, such as scene switching and audio mixing.
- The plugin is available for free.
2. Touch Portal
When we’re talking about the best Stream Deck alternatives, Touch Portal had to be a part of the list. It is a software-based Stream Deck alternative that turns your smartphone or tablet into a customizable control surface. The app is available on Android and iOS.
- It can trigger actions in various software, including OBS, Photoshop, and Premiere Pro.
- Touch Portal offers a wide range of customization options, including the ability to create folders and subfolders for your actions and add images and icons to your buttons.
- The software offers both, a free version and a paid option, which unlocks additional features and functionality.
- It is one of the free stream deck alternatives and offers a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy to create and modify your layout.
- It can be used on your smartphone or tablet, making it a convenient and portable option for content creators who stream on the go.
3. Elgato Stream Deck Mobile
Elgato Stream Deck Mobile is a great alternative to the original Stream Deck, especially for those who are looking for a more affordable option. It’s a mobile app that can be downloaded onto your smartphone and used to control various functions on your computer.
- It features 15 customizable buttons that can be programmed to perform various tasks.
- The tasks include launching applications, controlling streaming software, and sending automated messages.
- It’s a convenient and versatile tool that can help streamline your workflow.
- It’s a great option for content creators and gamers who want to improve their productivity and efficiency.
Also Read: Top 20 Best Live Streaming App for iPhone
4. Macro Deck
Macro Deck is a customizable and powerful alternative to the Stream Deck that is available for Windows and Android. It offers customizable buttons, hotkeys, and macros, allowing you to create your own commands and automate tasks.
- Macro Deck supports plugins, which can extend its functionality even further and allow you to integrate with other software and services.
- The software offers a free version with limited features, but some of the more advanced features require a premium subscription.
- It is compatible with a wide range of software, including OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit, making it a versatile tool for content creators.
- It features a user-friendly interface with a drag-and-drop editor, allowing you to create and modify your layout easily.
5. Streamlabs Controller
Streamlabs Controller is one of the free stream deck alternatives that can be used in place of Stream Deck. It’s available for both iOS and Android devices and offers similar customization and control over your streaming software.
- The app is highly customizable.
- Buttons can be programmed to control various functions. Functions include launching applications, changing scenes, and controlling audio levels
- The app does not offer physical keys like the Stream Deck. It is a great option for controlling your stream from your mobile device.
- It is a cost-effective alternative to dedicated hardware devices.
6. Deckboard
Deckboard is one of the best Stream Deck alternatives that allow users to control their computers using their mobile devices. The software is available for Android and iOS devices.
- It allows you to control various functions on your computer, such as launching applications, adjusting audio levels, and switching scenes, using customizable buttons and hotkeys.
- Deckboard supports plugins that can extend its functionality, allowing you to perform more advanced actions and tasks.
- The software is free to use, but some advanced features require a subscription.
7. Up Deck
Up Deck is a free alternative to the Stream Deck. It’s a mobile app that is available for iOS and Android devices and can be used to control various functions on your computer.
- It is compatible with a wide range of software, including OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit.
- It features customizable buttons that can be programmed to perform different tasks.
- It supports multi-page layouts, allowing you to create different button configurations for different tasks or applications.
- It also offers built-in actions for popular software such as Photoshop and Premiere Pro, which can save time and improve your workflow.
Also Read: 19 Best Live Streaming Apps for Android Gaming
8. StreamPuppy
StreamPuppy is a great alternative to the original Stream Deck that is specifically designed for mobile devices. It’s a mobile app that can be downloaded onto your smartphone or tablet and used to control various functions on your computer. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices.
- StreamPuppy features a customizable button layout that allows you to create a grid of buttons that can be programmed to perform different tasks.
- The app supports a range of tasks, including launching applications, adjusting audio levels, switching scenes, and more.
- Each button can be customized by size, color, and icon to make it easier to identify and use.
- It supports scripting and macros for more complex actions.
- StreamPuppy offers a free trial so you can try it out before purchasing.
9. MATRIC App
The MATRIC App is a powerful and versatile alternative to the Stream Deck that is available for both Windows and Android.
- It can be used to control various functions on your computer, such as launching applications, switching scenes, and adjusting audio levels.
- Matric app is compatible with a wide range of streaming software, including OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit.
- The Matric app is fully customizable, allowing you to create your own buttons and layouts that suit your needs.
- It is a great option for content creators who use different streaming software and want a versatile tool that can help streamline their workflow.
10. LioranBoard 2 Stream Desk
LioranBoard 2 Stream Desk is a highly customizable and powerful alternative to the Stream Deck that is available for Windows and macOS.
- It can control various functions on your computer, such as launching applications, adjusting audio levels, and switching scenes.
- Compatible with a wide range of streaming software, including OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit.
- Offers a wide range of customization options. It allows you to create your own buttons and layouts that suit your needs.
- Features a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy to create and modify your layout. You can use your own images as button icons.
11. Elgato Stream Deck Mini
Elgato Stream Deck Mini is a smaller version of the original Stream Deck. The features include:
- The device has six customizable LCD keys.
- The keys can be programmed to trigger various actions, such as launching applications, switching scenes in OBS, and muting your microphone.
- The Stream Deck Mini is one of the paid stream deck alternatives but is a more affordable alternative to the original Stream Deck.
- It is a great option for those on a budget.
Also Read: How to Install and Use AceStream
12. X-Keys XK-60
The list of best stream deck alternatives had to include X-Keys XK-60. It is a programmable keyboard that can be used as a Stream Deck alternative.
- It has 60 customizable keys that can be programmed to trigger various actions.
- It is compatible with a wide range of software, including streaming software like OBS Studio and XSplit.
- It is durable and reliable, making it well-suited for use in professional settings.
- It offers tactile feedback, which can be useful for blind and visually impaired users.
- It is a bit more expensive than some other alternatives, but it offers more keys and a higher level of durability and reliability making it one of the paid stream deck alternatives.
13. Loupedeck CT
Loupedeck CT is a powerful and versatile device that can be used for video editing, music production, and gaming.
- It features 12 buttons, 8 dials, and a touch strip that can be customized to control various functions on your computer.
- The Loupedeck CT is one of the paid stream deck alternatives, but it offers more features and functionality, making it one of the best stream deck alternatives and a great option for power users.
14. X-Keys XK-24
The X-Keys XK-24 is another great alternative to the Stream Deck that features 24 programmable keys. Features that it also exhibit are:
- It’s compatible with a wide range of software and can be used to control various functions, including media playback, launching applications, and controlling your streaming software.
- The X-Keys XK-24 is more on the expensive side but it offers more keys and can be used for a wider range of applications.
15. Korg NanoKontrol Studio
The Korg NanoKontrol Studio is a compact and portable device that is designed for music production.
- It features eight sliders, eight knobs, and 32 buttons that can be used to control various aspects of your music software.
- It’s also wireless and can be used with your smartphone or tablet.
- While it’s not specifically designed for streaming or gaming, it can be customized to control different functions on your computer.
Also Read: 15 Top Free Sports Streaming Sites
16. TouchOSC
TouchOSC is a customizable mobile app for iOS and Android devices that can control various functions on your computer. It allows you to create custom layouts with buttons, faders, and other controls that can be mapped to specific functions on your computer.
- TouchOSC can be used to control software and hardware devices, such as MIDI controllers, and lighting systems.
- It supports multiple pages and layouts, allowing you to create different button configurations for different tasks or applications.
- TouchOSC can be used with popular software, such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, and Traktor Pro.
- The app is highly customizable. It allows you to create your own layouts, designs for your specific needs and is one of the paid stream deck alternatives.
- TouchOSC can be used wirelessly, eliminating the need for cables or physical connections to your computer.
17. Palette Gear Expert Kit
Palette Gear Expert Kit is a modular and customizable device. It offers a high level of customization and flexibility that is hard to beat.
- It can be used for video editing, photography, and other creative applications.
- It features various modules that can be arranged in different configurations to control different functions on your computer.
- The Palette Gear Expert Kit is more expensive than the other alternatives mentioned above.
To sum it up, while the Stream Deck is an excellent device, there are several alternatives available that offer similar functionality. Each of the options listed above has its own unique features and capabilities, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a software-based solution or a hardware-based one, there’s sure to be an option that fits your budget and workflow. Hopefully, this article expanded your knowledge about the best stream deck alternatives and how they can provide you with similar functionalities at a lower cost. Consider your specific needs and workflows before making a purchase to ensure you get the most out of your chosen device.
