How to Control OBS Studio with a Stream Deck

Yes, you can absolutely use an Elgato Stream Deck to control scenes, sources, and various other functions in OBS Studio. This article provides a straightforward guide on how this integration works, the step-by-step process to set it up, and the specific actions you can assign to your Stream Deck to streamline your live production workflow.

How the Integration Works

The Elgato Stream Deck integrates natively with OBS Studio. When you install the Stream Deck software, it automatically detects OBS Studio and installs a dedicated plugin. This plugin allows the Stream Deck to communicate directly with OBS, letting you control your broadcast without needing to memorize keyboard shortcuts or click around the OBS interface during a live stream.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Setting up your Stream Deck to control OBS Studio is quick and requires no complex configuration:

1. Launch Both Programs: Ensure both OBS Studio and the Elgato Stream Deck software are open on your computer.
2. Locate OBS Actions: In the Stream Deck software, look at the actions list on the right-hand side. Scroll down until you find the category labeled OBS Studio.
3. Assign an Action: Click and drag an action (such as “Scene” or “Source”) from the sidebar and drop it onto any empty key on the virtual Stream Deck canvas.
4. Configure the Key: Click on the newly placed key to open its settings at the bottom of the screen. You will see dropdown menus that automatically populate with your active OBS scenes and sources. Select the specific scene or source you want that button to control.
5. Test the Button: Press the physical button on your Stream Deck. You should see the corresponding change happen instantly in OBS Studio.

Core OBS Functions You Can Control

Once connected, you can assign several essential OBS commands to your Stream Deck keys:

• Scene Selection: Assign specific buttons to jump instantly to your “Just Chatting,” “Gameplay,” or “Be Right Back” scenes.
• Source Visibility Toggle: Turn specific sources on or off with a single press. This is ideal for showing or hiding webcams, overlay graphics, gameplay captures, or alerts.
• Audio Mixer Controls: Mute and unmute specific audio sources, such as your microphone or desktop audio, or adjust volume levels.
• Stream and Record toggles: Start and stop your live stream or local recording without having to bring the OBS window to the foreground.
• Studio Mode Controls: If you use OBS Studio Mode, you can use the Stream Deck to transition your preview screen to the live program screen.

By assigning these functions to physical buttons, you can manage your entire broadcast tactilely, allowing you to focus entirely on your audience and content.