Elgato Stream Deck +, Audio Mixer and Studio Controller with LCD Keys, Dials and Touch Strip Review (2026)

What the Stream Deck Plus does

The Stream Deck Plus is a dedicated hardware controller with 8 customizable LCD keys, 4 dials with a push function, and an LCD touch strip, connected to a computer over USB-C. Each LCD key can show its own icon or label and be assigned to trigger an action, from switching microphone inputs to launching a soundboard clip or changing a scene in streaming software. The dials add rotary control for continuous adjustments like volume or EQ, while the touch strip can host sliders or additional shortcuts. Marketed as an audio mixer and studio controller, it is built specifically to sit next to a keyboard during live recording or streaming, putting the most-used controls for a show within easy reach.

Software and integration

None of the hardware does anything without Elgato's Stream Deck software running on a connected Mac or PC, since every key, dial, and touch strip action is configured and driven through that app. The upside of this dependency is a large plugin ecosystem: the software supports third-party and community-made plugins for streaming tools, audio mixers, video conferencing apps, and more, which is part of why the deck is popular with podcasters and streamers who run several programs at once during a live show. Profiles can be swapped so a different key layout appears depending on which show segment or software is active at that moment.

Build and physical footprint

The unit measures about 140 by 138 by 110 millimeters and weighs around 465 grams, a compact footprint meant to sit flat on a desk near a mic stand or keyboard. It connects with USB 2.0 Type-C, and a USB-C to USB-C cable is included in the box. The touch strip has its own small LCD panel for sliders and icons rather than physical buttons, which keeps the surface low profile. Being a desk unit with no built-in stand adjustment, placement is fixed to wherever it sits, unlike some XL or mini variants aimed at different desk layouts.

How it fits into a podcast setup

Compared with all-in-one podcast consoles like the RODECaster series, the Stream Deck Plus is not itself an audio mixer with XLR inputs; it is a software control surface that can trigger actions inside audio and streaming apps, including Elgato's own Wave Link mixer. That makes it a strong companion to a separate audio interface or mixer rather than a replacement for one. Against other Stream Deck models, the Plus sits above the basic key-only decks because of its dials and touch strip, which are aimed at people who want fine control over levels and settings mid-show, not just one-touch shortcuts, and who are willing to pay more for that extra control.

Who should buy it

This deck suits podcasters, streamers, and video creators who run their show from a computer and want fast, visual access to scene changes, soundboards, and mixer controls without hunting through menus. It is a good match for anyone already using Elgato's Wave Link or similar software mixers, since the dials can control levels directly. Buyers who only need a handful of one-touch shortcuts, without dials or a touch strip, may be better served by a cheaper key-only Stream Deck, since the Plus costs more for features they may not use.

Frequently asked questions