Best Stream Deck

During live streams, technical problems and delays are unavoidable, and that’s why stream decks are a thing. These consist of go-to buttons which assist content creators in interacting with their audience and provide other instant streaming tools.

You wouldn’t want to struggle with your controls during the stream. Here are some of the stream decks that would come in very handy for content creators.

Best Stream Deck: Elgato Stream Deck Mini

Elgato Stream Deck Mini with its six programmable buttons, is a great way to save some brain space by not memorizing hotkeys. The interface is simple, fuss-free and easy to navigate.

Its portability makes it the best choice for video creators who constantly travel. Being the literal downsized version of the well-known Elgato Stream Deck, this Mini Stream Deck provides content creators with the same ease of control, convenient streaming navigation, and straightforward customization options.

Pros

Easy to use drag and drop software
Budget-friendly
Compatible with Mac and Windows OS

Things to consider

Lightweightness causes it to move when pressing
No detachable cable

Best Gaming Stream Deck: Razer Tartarus Pro

Tartarus Pro’s Analog Optical Switches make this pressure-sensitive keyboard able to measure how far the button is pressed, and then trigger another keybind programmed. Conversely, each key could have two functions and it also has a variable actuation feature that lets the user set the key sensitivity.

However, some keys might be inconvenient to use since they require extra stretching and curling of fingers to access. Despite that, it has an ergonomic padded wrist rest and rigid palm support that is essential for day-long game streams.

Pros

Comfortable handrest
Highly customizable with 32 buttons
Ability to easily switch modes
32 programmable keys, 8-way directional thumbpad

Things to consider

Windows recognizes as controller which confuses game prompts
Requires third party software to perform some functions
Not macOS supported

Best Massive Stream Deck: Elgato Stream Deck XL

Extra size means extra keys for extra options. If the price doesn’t phase you, Elgato Stream Deck XL is the best bud for those who are making it big in content creation and has a very hectic schedule.

You can swiftly transfer from one task to another with its 32 programmable, tactile keys. By assigning unlimited functions to a single key, you can perform them one at a time or simultaneously without pressing multiple keys. Elgato XL also shows visual feedback that lets you know if you successfully executed the command, so you won’t have to wonder if you pressed the right or wrong button.

Pros

Detachable USB 3.0
Highly customizable, and easy to set up
Sturdy and magnetic stand

Things to consider

Uncomfortable wrist position because of its stand angle
Only supported by a PC and MAC; not supported by a console

Best Budget Stream Deck: Max Keyboard Falcon-20 Programmable Macropad

Aside from solely using stream decks in content creation, this Max Keyboard Falcon-20 Programmable Macropad also serves you right if you are into calculations, data entry, and in frequent use of number pads.

It is a simple, 20-key programmable macropad, with a pocket-friendly price. Accentuated with RGB color LED with an 8-level backlight mode, it highlights its minimalist and functional features. It is also exceptionally suited for beginners who are just easing into using streaming decks, because of its easy programming software for customizing key functions.

Pros

Handy
Programmed functions are stored even using in different PC

Things to consider

Changing layers is complicated
No FAQs and manual included

Best Customized Stream Deck: X-keys Programmable Keypads

If customizing decks is your cup of tea, you may want to have the X-Keys Programmable Keypads. The clear white keypads allow you to fully and freely customize them by assigning them labels. Plus, it consists of 24 clear, landscape-oriented, programmable keys perfect for CAD and Photoshop.

It also comes with programming software compatible with Windows, MAC, and Linux. However, it needs to be coded on a Windows device, store the code in MCU, and be brought over a Mac or Linux device. Overall, it is a highly versatile tool and could store approximately 1000 keystrokes, enabling the user to assign different functions and create numerous macros.

Pros