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To use a Stream Deck for live streaming, install the Stream Deck app and Elgato’s free OBS Studio plugin, then drag OBS actions onto keys. You can use those keys to switch scenes, control sources, manage recording and audio, and preview scenes in OBS Studio Mode. Check compatibility first, then test your controls in your own OBS setup before relying on them during a broadcast.
Check compatibility before setup
Elgato’s current OBS plugin requirements list Windows 11 or newer, macOS 13 or newer, and Stream Deck app version 6.9 or newer. Elgato Marketplace also lists version 6.9 or later for its OBS Studio plugin. Requirements can change, so check Elgato’s current plugin listing if your software is older or an installation fails.
Profiles are specific to both the operating system and Stream Deck device type. If you download a profile made by someone else, confirm that it matches your computer and device rather than assuming it will transfer unchanged.
How to connect a Stream Deck to OBS
- Install the Stream Deck app. Get Elgato’s software from its downloads page, then open the app and connect your device or prepare the mobile app.
- Install the OBS Studio plugin. Find Elgato’s OBS plugin in the Stream Deck app or Elgato Marketplace. Elgato describes the plugin as free.
- Open OBS Studio. Keep OBS available while you configure and test the controls; Stream Deck sends actions to the application rather than replacing it.
- Add actions to keys. In the Stream Deck app, locate the OBS actions and drag the ones you want onto individual keys. Choose controls for the scenes, sources, recording, and audio tasks you actually use.
- Label each key clearly. Use a short name or recognizable icon that tells you what the key will do at a glance. Give special care to actions such as changing scenes or muting audio.
- Rehearse your layout. Test each key in your real OBS setup, including scene changes, audio muting, and any transitions you use. Keep OBS’s own controls accessible as a backup if a key or profile does not behave as expected.
What a Stream Deck can control in OBS
Elgato’s OBS plugin lists actions for scenes, sources, recording, and audio. It also supports previewing a scene in Studio Mode before pushing it live. Keys can provide feedback for states such as mute and recording status, and Elgato says the keys update live.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
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The exact actions available can depend on the plugin, OBS version, and configuration. Treat the plugin’s current action list as the definitive guide for your setup; do not assume every custom profile or third-party integration will behave identically.
Choose a device by the controls you need visible
Elgato’s current profile documentation lists these layouts. The figures are product specifications from Elgato’s pages, which do not state a publication year.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
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| Option | Key layout | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Stream Deck Mini | 6 keys | Useful if you only need a small set of frequent actions visible. |
| Stream Deck Neo | 8 keys | A compact layout with more immediately visible actions than the Mini. |
| Standard Stream Deck | 15 customizable LCD keys | A mid-sized layout; Elgato’s product page specifies a USB-C connection. |
| Stream Deck XL | 32 keys | Consider it if you want many controls visible without switching pages. |
| Stream Deck + and dial-equipped variants | Key count varies by variant; includes dials | Consider whether dials suit the adjustments you want at hand; check the exact model’s layout before buying. |
These are layout differences, not a ranking of which model is best. Choose enough keys for the actions you use regularly, while considering desk space and whether dials would be useful.
Do you need a physical Stream Deck to try it?
No. Elgato says Stream Deck Mobile offers six keys for free, with plugin and hotkey support. It lets you try the control workflow without buying dedicated hardware, though six on-screen keys do not provide the same physical feel or ergonomics as a device on your desk.
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- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Using hotkeys when there is no plugin
For an application without a dedicated plugin, Elgato recommends using hotkeys for basic control and plugins for deeper integration. If the app already has keyboard shortcuts for an action, you can map those shortcuts to Stream Deck keys where appropriate. Check any shared profile’s operating-system and device compatibility before importing it.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Or let it run in the cloud
A Stream Deck controls OBS; it does not keep a stream running after your computer is off. If your goal is instead to keep uploaded video looping as a 24/7 YouTube live stream, StreamNeo is a separate cloud option: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. No computer or home connection has to stay on. It streams the uploaded video as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. This is for uploaded videos on YouTube, not a camera-based live show. Learn about StreamNeo, or start your free day.
Quick Recap
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- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
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Rank #4
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