The Elgato Stream Deck is a versatile control panel that has established itself among streamers. You can change scenes, start animations or automate complex sequences at the touch of a button.
In this guide, you'll learn all about the different models, how to set them up, the best plugins and pro tips to help you get the most out of your Stream Deck.
Which Stream Deck models are available?
Elgato has now launched several versions of the Stream Deck on the market. They differ mainly in the number of buttons and additional functions. But which model is right for you?
The following table shows you a clear comparison:
| Model | Number of buttons | Price |
| Stream Deck Mini | 6 | 70-90 € |
| Stream Deck MK.2 | 15 | 130-160 € |
| Stream Deck XL | 32 | 230-260 € |
| Stream Deck + | 8 + 4 rotary controls | 200-230 € |
| Stream Deck Mobile | variable (app) | 3 €/month or 25 €/year |
Elgato Stream Deck setup - step by step
Setting up a Stream Deck is very user-friendly. After you have connected the device via USB, you download and install the official Elgato software. This software is the heart of the Stream Deck, as it manages all commands, icons and profiles.
After starting, you can begin with the configuration straight away. Drag and drop individual commands onto the virtual buttons. As soon as you are satisfied, they will automatically appear on the physical stream deck. The option is particularly practical, Create profileswhich automatically adapt to your programs. For example, if you open OBS, the Stream Deck automatically switches to the corresponding profile.
Tip: If you are just starting out and only need a few scenes or hotkeys, the Stream Deck Mini is perfectly adequate.
The most important functions of the Elgato Stream Deck
The Stream Deck is a Digital control centerwhich allows you to control almost all aspects of your livestream at the touch of a button.
A classic example is the control of OBS Studio or Streamlabs. You can change scenes, switch camera angles or start your recording without ever having to pick up the mouse. You can also play music, fire off sound effects or even control your lighting via plugins.
Many streamers also use the Stream Deck to work with their Chat to interact. One press of a button is all it takes to post a standard message, trigger an alert or record a meme. This not only saves you time, but also increases the entertainment value of your stream.
The best plugins & extensions
The full potential only unfolds through the Pluginswhich you can integrate directly via the Elgato Store or third-party providers. Extensions for are particularly popular:
- Streaming software such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs or Twitch Studio.
- Platforms such as Twitch and YouTube to start clips, post messages or view analytics.
- Music & AudioSpotify, Voicemod and Soundboard functions for more interactivity.
- Smarthome & lightingControl of Elgato Key Lights or Philips Hue lamps.
Professional tips for streamers
Many beginners only use the Stream Deck for the simplest commands - but you are wasting enormous potential. With multi-actions, you can automate entire processes: One press of a button starts the stream, fades in a scene, activates the microphone and posts a message on X at the same time.
It becomes even more effective if you create profiles for different games. For example, you can control your weapon overlays in the FPS game, while you have other functions for Just Chatting. Folders also help to organize your commands and keep an overview.
The Stream Deck + in particular offers new functions with its rotary controls: This allows you to mix audio live or make color corrections in real time.
Elgato Stream Deck alternatives - is it worth it?
Even if the Elgato Stream Deck is the best-known solution, there are alternatives. Loupedeck Live in particular is often mentioned as a competitor. It offers similar functions, but is generally more expensive and is aimed more at content creators in the area of video editing.
If you have a smaller budget, you can fall back on app solutions such as Touch Portal or Deckboard. These offer many features, but are usually less convenient to set up and have a higher latency.
Overall, the Elgato Stream Deck remains the first choice thanks to its combination of simple operation, stable software and huge range of plug-ins.
Common problems & solutions
Despite its reliability, problems can occasionally occur. If the Stream Deck is not recognized, you should first try a different USB port and check whether the software is up to date. If individual buttons do not respond, it is often due to a faulty plugin or because the Stream Deck profile is not active.
A common error with OBS is that the integration does not work. In this case, it often helps to start OBS with administrator rights or to reinstall the OBS plug-in in the Stream Deck software.
Creating multi-actions in the Elgato Stream Deck - step by step
One of the most powerful functions of the Elgato Stream Deck are the so-called Multi-actions. This allows you to execute multiple commands at the touch of a button. This saves time and ensures impressive transitions in your stream.
A typical example: you want to start your stream with just one click, display a "Stream about to start" scene, play music and post a message on Twitter. All of this can be automated with a single button.
How to set up a multi-action:
Step 1: Open Elgato software
Start the Stream Deck software and select the profile in which you want to create the multi-action.
Step 2: Add new multi-action
Drag the command "Multi-Action" from the function bar to a free button. This button is now used as a container for several commands.
Step 3: Add commands
Drag the desired commands into the multi-action window one after the other. Example:
- Activate OBS scene "Stream Start
- Play "Intro music" sound file
- Send the message "The stream is live!" to X
Step 4: Insert delays (optional)
You can use small Delays so that the actions do not overlap. For example, 2 seconds pause between scene change and music start.
Step 5: Test multi-action
Click on the created button and check whether all commands are executed correctly. If not, you can change the order or insert additional commands.
Extra tip: You can also Multi-action changer use. This allows you to toggle back and forth between two or more actions - ideal for switching the microphone on and off or changing scenes, for example.
Conclusion - Is the Elgato Stream Deck worth it for you?
The Elgato Stream Deck is not just a practical gimmick, but a real productivity tool. It makes streaming easier, increases professionalism and saves you a lot of time in everyday life.
- For Beginner the Stream Deck Mini or the MK.2 is suitable.
- Ambitious streamers benefit from the XL with 32 keys.
- If you need even more control, for example over audio and lighting, you can use the Stream Deck +.
Whether you're just starting out with Twitch, have already built up a community on YouTube or simply want to work more efficiently, a stream deck is a worthwhile investment.