Boost Your Stream with these 5 Stream Deck Alternatives

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is an Elgato Stream Deck?
3. Benefits of Using an Elgato Stream Deck
4. Alternative Options to the Elgato Stream Deck
   • Official Stream Deck Mobile App
   • Stream Labs OBS Remote
   • Deck Board
   • Touch Portal
   • Using a Keyboard or Numpad
5. Comparison of the Alternative Options
6. Conclusion
7. Highlights
8. FAQ

Article

Introduction

In the world of streaming, efficiency and functionality are key. One tool that has become increasingly popular among streamers is the Elgato Stream Deck. This device, essentially a macro keypad with LED screens, allows users to program each button to perform various actions, such as changing scenes, toggling sources, or muting the microphone. However, the high cost of the Stream Deck may deter some streamers from investing in one. In this article, we will explore alternative options to the Elgato Stream Deck, examining their features, benefits, and drawbacks.

What is an Elgato Stream Deck?

The Elgato Stream Deck has gained immense popularity among streamers due to its versatility and ease of use. With LED screens under each button, users can customize the icons to represent different actions. This device acts as a supplementary tool for streamers, simplifying tasks and enhancing the streaming experience. From adjusting scenes to controlling audio, the Stream Deck offers a wide range of functionalities.

Benefits of Using an Elgato Stream Deck

The Elgato Stream Deck offers several advantages that make it a valuable addition to any streamer's setup:

1. Enhanced Efficiency: Programming specific actions to each button allows streamers to execute tasks quickly and seamlessly, saving time and effort during streams.
2. Customization Options: With the ability to change icons and add animated GIFs, streamers can personalize their Stream Deck to Align with their branding and style.
3. Tight Integration: The Stream Deck works seamlessly with popular streaming software, such as OBS and Streamlabs OBS, allowing for full control of scenes, sources, and more.
4. Wireless Convenience: The Stream Deck Mobile App enables users to control their stream remotely, providing freedom of movement and eliminating cable clutter.

Alternative Options to the Elgato Stream Deck

1. Official Stream Deck Mobile App

For iPhone users, the official Stream Deck Mobile App offers a wireless alternative to the physical device. With the same functionality as the Stream Deck, users can program each button to perform various actions, such as toggling sources or changing scenes. While this app provides a cost-effective solution, with a one-time payment or a monthly subscription, it lacks some features, such as deeper integration with other applications or advanced customization options.

2. Stream Labs OBS Remote

Designed specifically for users of Streamlabs OBS, the Stream Labs OBS Remote app provides a simple and free alternative to the Elgato Stream Deck. Users can connect their mobile devices to their stream setup by scanning a QR code. The app offers pre-generated buttons for common actions like recording, streaming, and muting the microphone. While lacking the advanced customization options of the Stream Deck, this app is a convenient solution for basic stream management.

3. Deck Board

Deck Board is an unofficial app that works with OBS Studio and Streamlabs OBS, catering to both Android and iPhone users. With a free version supporting up to 12 buttons and a paid version offering up to 105 buttons per page, Deck Board provides extensive customization options. Users can swipe between pages, creating a seamless experience with numerous assignable buttons. While lacking some features found in the Stream Deck, Deck Board offers Twitch, Twitter, and Spotify integration, making it a versatile choice for streamers.

4. Touch Portal

Touch Portal is another useful app for streamers, supporting OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and even XSplit. Available for both Android and iPhone, Touch Portal offers functionality similar to the Stream Deck. With features like Twitter integration, clip creation, and stream markers, Touch Portal provides a comprehensive solution for stream management. However, the free version only supports two pages with limited buttons, and the interface may lack polish compared to other options.

5. Using a Keyboard or Numpad

For streamers seeking a more permanent solution, using a keyboard or numpad can serve as a viable alternative to the Elgato Stream Deck. By utilizing software like HID Macros, users can program each key to perform different actions in OBS or their preferred streaming software. While lacking the visual appeal and tactile feedback of a physical Stream Deck, using a keyboard or numpad can provide extra functionality at a lower cost.

Comparison of the Alternative Options

Here is a breakdown of the alternative options in terms of key features and compatibility:

Conclusion

While the Elgato Stream Deck remains the gold standard in stream management, there are viable alternatives available for streamers on a budget or those looking for additional functionality. From official mobile apps to third-party applications and even utilizing a keyboard or numpad, streamers have several options to enhance their streaming experience. Each alternative has its own advantages and limitations, so streamers should carefully consider their specific needs before making a decision.

Highlights

• The Elgato Stream Deck offers enhanced efficiency and customization options for streamers.
• Alternative options include the official Stream Deck Mobile App, Stream Labs OBS Remote, Deck Board, Touch Portal, and using a keyboard or numpad.
• The official Stream Deck Mobile App provides wireless control with functionality similar to the physical device.
• Stream Labs OBS Remote offers a simple and free alternative for Streamlabs OBS users.
• Deck Board offers extensive customization options and integration with Twitch, Twitter, and Spotify.
• Touch Portal provides clip creation and stream markers, catering to OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit users.
• Using a keyboard or numpad can serve as a cost-effective alternative with full compatibility.
• Each alternative option has its own set of features and limitations, catering to different streamer needs and budgets.

FAQ

1. Can I use the alternative options alongside the Elgato Stream Deck?

   • Yes, the official Stream Deck Mobile App, Deck Board, and Touch Portal can work in conjunction with the physical Stream Deck, expanding the available buttons for stream management.

2. Are the alternative options suitable for beginner streamers?

   • Yes, the alternative options provide cost-effective solutions for streamers on a budget and offer basic functionality to improve the streaming experience.

3. Can I use the alternative options with other streaming software besides OBS?

   • Some options, like Deck Board and Touch Portal, support OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and even XSplit. However, compatibility may vary, so it is recommended to check the specific requirements of the alternative options.

4. Do the alternative options provide customization options similar to the Elgato Stream Deck?

   • While some options, like Deck Board and Touch Portal, offer extensive customization, others, like the official Stream Deck Mobile App, have limited customization options. It depends on the specific alternative option chosen.

5. Can I use a physical keyboard or numpad as an alternative to the Stream Deck?

   • Yes, using a keyboard or numpad is a viable alternative, especially for streamers seeking a more permanent solution. By utilizing software like HID Macros, users can program each key to perform different actions in OBS or their preferred streaming software.