By now, every streamer on Earth knows what the Elgato Stream Deck is. Whether you’re on Twitch or YouTube, this device makes video game streaming easier, allowing you to send out messages, alerts, images, and more while staying focused on your game. You also get to enjoy not just the Elgato Game Capture software but also other programs like XSplit and OBS, giving you a lot of options for how you want your content presented.
But not everyone can own the Elgato Stream Deck. For one, it’s super pricey. Secondly, you can’t really use it outside of gaming, plus, it’s quite bulky. So, while it’s a highly-coveted system, it’s also easy to get turned off with it.
If you can’t or just won’t buy a Stream Deck, what’s the best choice for you as a video game streamer? Here are our top options.
Elgato Stream Deck Mini
The Elgato Stream Deck Mini is the smaller variant of the Elgato Stream Deck. The key functions are limited to just six keys. Not only does it save the extra dollars, but also games love the fact that it’s smaller and takes up very little space on the already cramped desk.
The Mini Stream Deck comes with a tiny triangular shape that can be positioned just above your regular keyboard. It looks cool and takes a lot less room. The micro keypad holds all the features you need within easy reach. It’s compact in shape, but it packs the same punches as the Elgato Stream Deck. You’ll get the same studio-like access to refine your content and connect with your viewers.
The miniature version of the standard stream deck works with any application and comes with pre-configured settings compatible with Twitch, XSplit, YouTube, OS Studio, Streamlabs, to name a few. The keypad also works with Windows OS and Mac.
Max Keyboard Falcon-20
The Falcon-20 does not have LCD buttons like the Elgato Stream Deck, but it comes at a very low price and enables you to completely configure the keyboard as per your preference. It’s convenient, small, and very powerful to clear the excess clutter. You have everything you need in one location, and you can better focus on the game.
The Falcon-20 comes with a basic software package that helps you to program the keys. It just offers 20 keys that keep your keyboard tiny and smart. The software allows you to save configurations for various main functions. You can render your macro or media keys that help you better concentrate on streaming and playing.
Not only is it a completely customizable and lightweight keyboard, but it also comes with beautiful RGB lighting options that improve your gaming experience. It also offers a visual appeal. You can connect the device to your PC using a USB cable.
Overall, it’s a good mechanical keyboard that allows you easier access to your macro keys. It is physically elegant and robust, thus providing great value for money.
ShuttlePro V.2
If you’re looking for fast and simple control for video, audio, or image editing, then ShuttlePro V.2 is what you need. Basically, it’s a modifiable numpad with minimal configuration. It offers helpful tools for shortening the editing time and making quality content with less time.
The goal behind ShuttlePro V.2 is to reduce the clutter surrounding you when editing online content so that you can better concentrate on the work. It simply improves your efficiency and improves your efficiency.
The ShuttlePro comes in a preconfigured shape. It’s compliant with some of the leading video and audio editing systems. The compact footprint would save speed and minimize confusion.
It features a special spring-loaded shuttle wheel jog that makes it easy to go backward and forwards on your timeline software. It can be used to monitor the speed of playback and to handle multiple frame layers at a time. The programmable keys allow you to build shortcuts for the most used macros in your favorite settings. They’re right at your fingertips and easy to use.
The keypad is compatible with both Mac and Windows and is compatible with nearly all editing applications. Overall, it’s a perfect choice if you need custom video, audio, or photo editing tools.
X-Keys Programmable Keypads
Here’s another budget solution to the Elgato Stream Deck. It’s a custom keypad that can be programmed with the appropriate macro or media keys. The keypad is compatible with a number of key sets. This is a 24-keypad that is lightweight and usable.
The best thing about it is that you can mark the keys yourself. It comes with a pre-printed icon sheet. You can pick the main icon to make it look your way. It will also increase the performance of our keyboard. The keypad comes with features that help you to configure the keys easily. You can create shortcuts to make your keypad more efficient.
Razer Tartarus Pro
The Razer accessories are gaining popularity due to their innovative style and affordable price range. This one contains 32 programmable keys. Although the size of the keypad is larger than our last option, it’s still compact relative to standard keyboards. These keys allow you to be more imaginative and effective in the production of content.
The keypad is fitted with analog gaming switches; it tests the precise amount of force with which you click the button and converts it into the analog input of the game. This makes the keys vulnerable to pressure. This analog input is perfectly integrated with games like Fortnite, Rocket League, FFXIV, World of Warcraft, and more.
The keypad has a thumbpad to allow more natural control when playing. The 8-way directional thumbpad gives you more intuitive leverage. It has an ergonomic nature which offers players more control and comfort.
Overall, it’s a custom keypad with an amazing RGB lightening effect. Its ergonomic nature allows gamers to travel seamlessly. The combination of keys and analog feedback makes it one of the best alternatives for Stream Deck.
Which Stream Deck Should You Choose?
The Elgato Stream Deck is a very intuitive keypad. The streamer can conveniently make use of a custom keypad with all the necessary options. However, this is not the only custom keypad. You can buy a cheaper keypad and configure it to suit your needs.
All choices in our list of the best alternatives for Stream Deck are carefully selected for your convenience. We choose Elgato Stream Deck Mini as our best choice because of its great features, lower price, and compact size while still offering almost the same experience as the full-size Elgato Stream Deck.