Getting into streaming is exciting, but managing chat, audio, and scene transitions while you’re in the middle of a game can be a real headache. That’s where a dedicated stream controller comes in. Think of it as a command center for your broadcast, giving you physical buttons and dials to control your software without ever having to alt-tab. For anyone serious about improving their production quality and viewer interaction, investing in one of the best stream controllers for gamers is a game-changer. It’s the difference between a clunky, distracted stream and a smooth, professional-looking show.
I’ve spent a lot of time testing various models, from simple keypads to full-featured consoles, to see what really works. The right choice depends heavily on your setup, budget, and the streaming software you use, like OBS or Streamlabs. Some are plug-and-play, while others offer deep customization for power users. In this guide, I’ll break down my top picks to help you find the perfect controller to streamline your workflow and make your stream look its best. Let’s look at the options that can truly enhance your broadcast.
Our Picks for the Best Stream Controllers for Gamers
- Elgato Stream Deck MK.2
- Elgato Stream Deck XL
- Elgato Stream Deck Pedal
- Elgato Stream Deck Mobile
- Loupedeck Live
- Loupedeck CT
- TourBox Elite
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2
The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 is, in my opinion, the perfect starting point for most streamers. It features 15 customizable LCD keys that show icons for each function, which is incredibly intuitive. I can assign simple actions like scene switching or muting my microphone, but also complex multi-actions that run a sequence of commands with a single press. The integration with popular apps like OBS, Twitch, YouTube, and Philips Hue is seamless. The build quality is solid, with a sturdy stand and a detachable braided USB-C cable, making it feel like a premium product on your desk.
What really sets the MK.2 apart for me is the massive ecosystem of plugins available through Elgato’s store. Whether I need to control my smart lights, check my stream status, or pull up sound effects, there’s almost always a plugin for it. The software is easy to use but powerful, allowing for folder layers to organize countless commands without clutter. While the 15 keys might seem limiting for advanced users, it’s a great balance of functionality and footprint. For someone moving beyond keyboard shortcuts, this device fundamentally changes how you manage a live stream.
Pros
- Intuitive LCD keys with customizable icons
- Extensive plugin library for endless functionality
- Robust and well-built with a premium feel
Cons
- 15 keys can feel limiting for very complex setups
- Higher price point than basic macro keypads
Elgato Stream Deck XL
If you’re a streamer who needs maximum control at your fingertips, the Elgato Stream Deck XL is the powerhouse you’re looking for. It boasts a massive 32 customizable LCD keys, which is more than double the standard model. I found this space invaluable for organizing my entire streaming workflow without needing to navigate through folders during a live broadcast. I could dedicate entire rows to specific functions: one for scene transitions, another for media controls, one for sound effects, and even one for controlling other software like Spotify. It completely eliminates the need to alt-tab, keeping you focused on your game and your audience.
The XL uses the same excellent software as the smaller Stream Decks, so all the plugins and multi-actions work perfectly. The larger size does mean it takes up a significant amount of desk real estate, but for a dedicated streaming station, it’s worth it. The build quality is exceptional, with a non-slip rubber base that keeps it firmly in place. This is definitely an investment for serious content creators, podcasters, or anyone who uses a lot of different applications and commands regularly. It turns complexity into simplicity.
Pros
- Huge 32-key layout minimizes menu diving
- Ideal for complex, multi-application setups
- Same reliable software and plugin ecosystem as smaller models
Cons
- Significantly more expensive
- Requires a lot of desk space
Elgato Stream Deck Pedal
The Elgato Stream Deck Pedal is a unique and brilliant accessory that frees up your hands for gaming or other tasks. It’s a single-foot pedal that you can program with various actions, just like a key on a Stream Deck. I primarily use it as a push-to-talk mute for my microphone, which is incredibly convenient during intense gaming moments when my hands are busy. But its utility goes far beyond that; you can set it to switch scenes, trigger a sound effect, or even act as a modifier key to double the functions of your other Stream Deck buttons.
Setting it up is straightforward within the familiar Stream Deck software. You can assign different actions for a press, a long press, and a release, giving you three functions from one pedal. The build is solid and it has a good weight to it, so it doesn’t slide around on the floor. It’s the kind of tool you don’t know you need until you try it. For streamers who want an extra layer of control without cluttering their desk or interrupting their gameplay, the Stream Deck Pedal is an innovative and highly effective solution.
Pros
- Hands-free control for crucial commands
- Multiple actions from press, long press, and release
- Sturdy build with a non-slip base
Cons
- Only one pedal, so it’s for a specific key function
- Requires a Stream Deck or the software to be running
Elgato Stream Deck Mobile
If you’re on a tight budget or just want to try out the Stream Deck concept before committing to hardware, the Elgato Stream Deck Mobile app is a fantastic option. It turns your smartphone into a functional Stream Deck, offering either 6 or 15 keys depending on the screen size. I used this for a while before buying a physical deck, and it works surprisingly well. The core functionality is there: you can create folders, use plugins, and set up multi-actions, all controlled from your phone screen.
The main catch is that it requires a subscription (monthly or yearly) to use after a free trial, which can add up over time compared to a one-time hardware purchase. You also need to have the app open on your phone and connected to the same network as your computer. It’s not quite as seamless as a dedicated device sitting on your desk, but for its price and portability, it’s an excellent entry point. It’s perfect for casual streamers or as a supplemental controller for less frequently used commands.
Pros
- Very low cost of entry to test the Stream Deck system
- Utilizes a device you already own
- Fully functional with most Stream Deck features
Cons
- Requires a ongoing subscription fee
- Less convenient than a dedicated hardware unit
Loupedeck Live
The Loupedeck Live is a strong competitor to the Stream Deck, offering a different approach to controller layout. Instead of just buttons, it mixes 6 customizable LCD touchscreens, 12 tactile keys, and 4 dials. I really appreciate the tactile feedback of the dials, which are perfect for adjusting audio levels, changing brush sizes in editing software, or scrolling through documents. The touchscreens are context-sensitive and change based on the selected profile, which helps keep the interface clean and focused on the task at hand.
The Loupedeck software supports a wide range of applications beyond streaming, including Adobe Creative Suite, DaVinci Resolve, and more, making it a versatile tool for content creators who also edit videos or photos. The learning curve is a bit steeper than the Stream Deck’s straightforward button-grid approach, but the added control from the dials can be a huge productivity boost. If you want more than just buttons and need precise analog control for audio or other parameters, the Loupedeck Live is a compelling choice.
Pros
- Versatile mix of touchscreens, keys, and dials
- Excellent for audio mixing and creative software control
- High-quality, durable construction
Cons
- Software can have a steeper learning curve
- Fewer dedicated streaming-focused plugins than Stream Deck
Loupedeck CT
The Loupedeck CT is the bigger brother to the Live, designed for professionals who need extensive control over their creative workflows. It features a large array of 12 touchscreens, 24 tactile keys, and 8 dials. This thing is a beast on your desk. I found it incredibly powerful for video editing in Premiere Pro or photo editing in Lightroom, where having immediate access to countless tools and adjustments speeds up work significantly. For streaming, it can handle all the usual commands with room to spare.
The sheer number of controls means you can create very detailed profiles for different applications. The dials are smooth and satisfying to use, each with a button press function as well. The main consideration is the size and price; the CT is a major investment and occupies a large footprint. It’s overkill for a streamer who only needs basic scene switching, but for a multi-disciplinary creator who streams, edits video, and works with graphics, the Loupedeck CT is an all-in-one command center that is hard to beat.
Pros
- Massive number of controls for complex profiles
- Ideal for professional video/photo editing alongside streaming
- Premium build quality with responsive dials and buttons
Cons
- Very high price tag
- Extremely large and requires significant desk space
TourBox Elite
The TourBox Elite takes a different approach entirely, focusing on ergonomic, one-handed control that feels more like a game controller than a button grid. It features a combination of dials, scroll wheels, and buttons that are designed to be used intuitively without looking. I was skeptical at first, but after a short adjustment period, I found it incredibly efficient for tasks like video editing and digital painting. The idea is to keep your focus on the screen while your hand learns the muscle memory for the controls.
For streaming, it’s less of a direct scene switcher and more of a powerful macro controller. You can program complex sequences for editing clips, controlling music, or managing OBS. The software is highly customizable, allowing you to map different functions based on the application you’re using. It’s a niche product that won’t replace a Stream Deck for everyone, but for creators who value workflow speed and ergonomics, especially in post-production, the TourBox Elite offers a unique and potentially faster way to work.
Pros
- Unique, ergonomic design for one-handed use
- Promotes faster workflow through muscle memory
- Excellent for video editing and digital art applications
Cons
- Steep learning curve to master the layout
- Not as straightforward for basic stream deck functions