If you are building a streaming setup, editing videos, controlling OBS scenes, launching shortcuts, managing audio, or speeding up repetitive work, a programmable controller can become one of the most useful tools on your desk.
Among the products compared here, the Elgato Stream Deck + is the most versatile option because it combines customizable LCD keys with four physical dials and a touch strip. The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 is the simpler choice for users who mainly need programmable shortcut keys, while the 18-key alternatives may appeal to buyers looking for more controls at a potentially lower entry cost. Elgato’s current comparison documentation lists 15 configurable LCD keys for the MK.2 and 8 LCD keys plus 4 dials and a touch strip for the Stream Deck
Elgato Stream Deck + – Best Overall for Content Creators
Key Features
The Elgato Stream Deck + is designed for creators who need more than simple shortcut buttons. It combines 8 customizable LCD keys, 4 multifunction dials and an LCD touch strip, allowing users to trigger actions and make incremental adjustments from one controller. Elgato positions it for audio mixing, production, studio control, streaming and creative workflows.
- 8 customizable LCD keys
- 4 multifunction rotary dials with push function
- LCD touch strip
- USB connectivity
- Windows and macOS compatibility
- Profiles, pages and folders for organizing workflows
- Plugin and shortcut support
- Useful for streaming, editing, audio and productivity workflows
The Stream Deck + is a strong choice for:
- Streamers
- YouTubers
- Podcasters
- Video editors
- Adobe Premiere Pro users
- DaVinci Resolve users
- Photoshop users
- Audio-focused creators
- Professionals who frequently adjust volume or other incremental settings
The dials make this model particularly useful where physical adjustment is more convenient than repeatedly clicking on-screen controls.
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 – Best for Shortcut-Based Workflows
Key Features
- 15 customizable LCD keys
- USB interface
- Detachable USB-C cable
- Detachable stand
- Interchangeable faceplates
- Support for profiles and multi-actions
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
You can organize keys for:
- OBS scene switching
- Microphone mute controls
- Application shortcuts
- Video editing commands
- Photoshop tools
- Music and sound effects
- Multi-step actions
- Folder-based workflow organization
Elgato profiles can contain hotkeys, multi-actions, text actions and plugin actions, and can be organized into pages and folders.
TreasLin VSDinside 18-Key Stream Controller
Key Features
The TreasLin VSDinside controller is positioned as an alternative macro controller with 18 customizable keys for triggering actions in streaming and content creation workflows.
- OBS users
- Twitch streamers
- YouTube creators
- Shortcut-heavy workflows
- Users wanting more physical keys
Before purchasing, verify the latest software compatibility, supported applications and operating system requirements on the current product listing.
18-Key Macro Keypad – Best Alternative for Programmable Shortcuts
Key Features
An 18-key macro keypad can be useful for users who want to assign dedicated controls to frequently repeated actions.
Possible workflow assignments include:
- OBS scene changes
- Recording controls
- Sound effects
- Application launching
- Keyboard shortcuts
- AI workflow commands
- Gaming controls
- Office shortcuts
- Video editing commands
The main consideration is software support. A controller with many keys is only useful if its configuration software works reliably with your preferred applications.
Elgato Stream Deck + White – Best for Creative Desk Setups
Key Features
The white version of the Stream Deck + offers the same general control philosophy: customizable LCD keys, physical dials and a touch strip.
It can be particularly attractive for:
- White desk setups
- Video editors
- Creative professionals
- Users who want hardware controls for multiple applications
The Stream Deck ecosystem supports profiles that can be tailored to specific apps and workflows.
FAQ
H3: What is a Stream Deck used for?
A Stream Deck or programmable controller can trigger shortcuts, actions and software controls. Common uses include streaming, video editing, audio control, gaming and productivity automation.
H3: Is Stream Deck + better than Stream Deck MK.2?
Neither is automatically better for every user. The Stream Deck + adds physical dials and a touch strip, while the MK.2 provides 15 dedicated customizable LCD keys.
H3: Can I use a Stream Deck for video editing?
Yes. Profiles and programmable actions can be configured for creative software and shortcut-based workflows.
H3: Do I need a Stream Deck for OBS?
No. OBS can be operated without one, but a dedicated controller can provide faster access to commonly used actions such as scene changes and recording or streaming controls.
H3: Are cheaper macro keypads worth buying?
They can be useful if they provide reliable software, sufficient compatibility and the controls you need. Always verify current software support before purchasing.
H3: How many keys do I need?
A small setup may work with fewer controls, while complex streaming or editing workflows may benefit from more keys, pages, folders or additional dials.
