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6 Buttons That Control Your Entire Computer (Streamers' Secret Weapon!) 🎮
Master the Elgato Stream Deck Mini from unboxing to custom automation—discover how a tiny keypad replaces hundreds of keyboard shortcuts and transforms your workflow
The Elgato Stream Deck Mini looks like a simple 6-button keypad, but it's actually a programmable control center that can launch apps, trigger hotkeys, control audio, take screenshots, and automate repetitive tasks—all with a single button press. Originally designed for live streamers, this $80 device has become an essential productivity tool for anyone tired of memorizing keyboard shortcuts or clicking through menus all day.
📺 Watch the Complete Unboxing & Setup Tutorial
See the Stream Deck Mini come to life in real-time! This video demonstrates actual button configurations, live audio controls, and custom automation setups you can replicate immediately.
What You'll Master in This Guide
Unboxing & Hardware: What's included and understanding the physical device
Software Download: Installing the Stream Deck control software on Mac/PC
Initial Setup: Connecting your device and configuring first buttons
Default Profile Overview: Understanding the pre-configured controls
Custom Button Creation: Building your own automation workflows
Multi-Page Navigation: Expanding beyond 6 buttons with unlimited pages
Popular Use Cases: Practical examples for streamers, creators, and productivity users
Sound Effects & Timers: Adding audio triggers and countdown timers
Hotkey Shortcuts: Replacing complex keyboard combinations with single buttons
Profile Management: Creating different button layouts for various tasks
What Is the Elgato Stream Deck Mini?
Your Physical Shortcut Machine
The Stream Deck Mini is a USB-connected device with 6 customizable LCD buttons that can trigger virtually any action on your computer. Each button displays custom icons, text, or images, and pressing them executes commands you define.
What Makes It Different:
Unlike traditional macro keyboards with static labels, Stream Deck buttons have built-in LCD screens. The icons change dynamically based on your current profile or page, providing visual feedback for every action.
Price & Availability:
MSRP: $79.99 USD
Platform: Mac and PC compatible
Connectivity: USB-A cable (included)
Power: USB bus-powered (no batteries or charging)
Who Uses Stream Deck:
Live streamers (Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Gaming)
Content creators (video editors, podcasters, musicians)
Productivity users (designers, developers, writers)
Anyone tired of memorizing keyboard shortcuts
🔍 Quick Tip: The "Mini" designation refers to size. Elgato also makes larger Stream Deck models with 15 or 32 buttons, but the Mini's compact footprint and lower price make it perfect for beginners.
Unboxing Your Stream Deck Mini
What's in the Box
Package Contents:
Stream Deck Mini device (6 LCD buttons)
USB-A cable (non-removable, attached to device)
Quick Start Guide (directs you to download software)
Safety information and warranty documentation
What You Won't Find:
No software CD (download from Elgato website)
No USB-C adapter (you'll need one if your computer only has USB-C ports)
No carrying case (device is designed for desktop use)
No batteries (USB-powered)
Understanding the Hardware
Physical Design:
Dimensions: Compact, fits in palm of hand
Build quality: Solid plastic construction with textured finish
Cable: Permanently attached, approximately 5 feet long
Buttons: 6 LCD keys (2 rows Ă— 3 columns)
Stand: Built-in angled base for desktop viewing
Front Display:
When powered off, the Stream Deck Mini shows the Elgato logo. Once connected and software is running, all 6 buttons light up with your configured icons and labels.
🔍 Quick Tip: The USB cable is not removable, so plan your desk setup accordingly. If you need more cable length, use a USB extension cable rather than trying to modify the device.
Downloading the Stream Deck Software
Getting the Essential Control Application
The Stream Deck hardware is useless without the companion software. Here's how to get it:
Download Process:
Visit elgato.com/downloads in your web browser
Scroll to find "Stream Deck" software (current version: 6.6.1+)
Verify system requirements:
Mac: macOS Big Sur 11 or later
PC: Windows 10 (64-bit) or later
Click "Download" button
Optional Newsletter Signup:
Before download begins, Elgato offers newsletter subscription:
Option 1: Enter email to receive product updates
Option 2: Click "Continue with download without subscribing"
Either choice works—the download starts immediately after selection.
Checking Your macOS Version
How to Verify Compatibility:
Click Apple logo (top-left corner)
Select "About This Mac"
Check macOS version listed
Ensure it's macOS 11 (Big Sur) or newer
If Your macOS Is Outdated:
Open System Settings/Preferences
Navigate to General → Software Update
Install available macOS updates
Restart your Mac
Return to download Stream Deck software
⚠️ Important Note: Stream Deck requires relatively recent operating systems. If your Mac is from 2015 or earlier, verify it can run Big Sur before purchasing the hardware.
Installing the Stream Deck Software
Step-by-Step Installation
Mac Installation:
Locate downloaded file (usually in Downloads folder)
Double-click the
.dmgfile to open installerWelcome screen: Click "Continue"
License Agreement: Read and click "Continue," then "Agree"
Installation location: Choose "Macintosh HD" (default)
Space required: ~828 MB
Authenticate: Enter your Mac password
Installation progress: Wait 30-60 seconds
Configuring install
Writing install files
Running package scripts
Validating packages
Completion: Click "Close" when "Installation successful" appears
PC Installation:
Run the downloaded
.exefileFollow installation wizard prompts
Accept license agreement
Choose installation directory (default recommended)
Complete installation and launch software
🔍 Quick Tip: The Stream Deck software launches automatically after installation. If it doesn't appear, check your Applications folder (Mac) or Start Menu (PC) and launch manually.
First-Time Setup & Configuration
Connecting Your Stream Deck
Physical Connection:
Plug USB cable from Stream Deck into computer's USB port
Stream Deck powers on immediately (no power button)
Elgato logo displays briefly on the device
Default profile loads automatically (buttons show pre-configured icons)
Software Recognition:
Stream Deck software opens automatically
Device appears in left sidebar (labeled "Stream Deck Mini")
Default profile loads in main interface
Buttons sync between software and physical device
▶️ Try This Now: Press any button on your Stream Deck Mini. You'll notice the software highlights which button you pressed, showing the real-time connection between hardware and software.
Granting Accessibility Permissions (Mac)
Why This Is Required:
Stream Deck needs permission to control your computer—launching apps, triggering hotkeys, adjusting volume, etc.
Permission Setup:
Press any control button (Mute, Volume, etc.)
Error message appears: "Stream Deck is unable to trigger multimedia keys"
Click prompt to open System Preferences
Navigate to Privacy & Security → Accessibility
Unlock settings (click lock icon, enter password)
Enable "Elgato Stream Deck" checkbox
Authenticate with Touch ID or password
Close System Preferences
Testing Permissions:
Press Mute button on Stream Deck
Verify audio mutes (check volume icon in menu bar)
Press Volume Up/Down buttons
Confirm volume changes work properly
⚠️ Security Note: Granting accessibility permissions gives Stream Deck control over system functions. This is necessary for automation but means the software has significant system access. Only download Stream Deck software from the official Elgato website.
Understanding the Default Profile
When you first connect your Stream Deck Mini, it loads with six default buttons:
Row 1 (Top):
Button 1: Mute
Function: Toggles system audio mute on/off
Icon: Speaker with slash
Use case: Quickly silence audio during calls or recordings
Button 2: Volume Down
Function: Decreases system volume by increments
Icon: Speaker with minus symbol
Use case: Fine-tune audio levels without keyboard
Button 3: Volume Up
Function: Increases system volume by increments
Icon: Speaker with plus symbol
Use case: Quick volume adjustments during media playback
Row 2 (Bottom):
Button 4: Screen Record
Function: Activates macOS screen recording
Icon: Record button (circle)
Use case: Start recording screen without keyboard shortcuts
Button 5: Screenshot
Function: Triggers screenshot tool (cursor changes to crosshair)
Icon: Camera icon
Use case: Capture screen regions with one press
Button 6: Next Page Arrow
Function: Navigates to Page 2 of your profile
Icon: Right arrow
Use case: Access additional buttons beyond the initial 6
🔍 Quick Tip: The default profile demonstrates core Stream Deck capabilities—media controls, system functions, and multi-page navigation. It's a great starting point before customizing.
The Unlimited Button Concept:
While Stream Deck Mini has only 6 physical buttons, you can create unlimited pages of 6 buttons each. Navigation buttons let you switch between pages.
How It Works:
Page 1 (Default):
5 action buttons
1 "Next Page" button (bottom-right)
Page 2:
Up to 5 action buttons
1 "Back" button (returns to Page 1)
Optional "Next Page" button (to Page 3)
Page 3+:
Continue adding pages as needed
Always include navigation buttons for returning
Practical Example:
Page 1: Audio controls, screenshot, apps
Page 2: Social media shortcuts (Twitter, YouTube, Discord)
Page 3: Work applications (Slack, Email, Calendar)
Page 4: Creative tools (Photoshop, Premiere, After Effects)
▶️ Try This Now: Press the arrow button (bottom-right) on your Stream Deck. Notice how all 6 buttons change to a new set of icons. Press the back arrow to return to Page 1.
Let's create a practical example: a button that opens Safari browser instantly.
Step-by-Step Creation:
Locate the Actions panel (right side of Stream Deck software)
Find "System" category (expand if collapsed)
Locate "Open" action (icon shows a folder opening)
Click and drag "Open" action onto any empty button slot
Configuration panel appears on the right
Configuring the Button:
Click "Choose" button under Application/File
Navigate to Applications folder
Select "Safari" (or any app you want)
Click "Open" to confirm
Customizing Appearance:
Button now shows Safari icon automatically
Optional: Change icon by clicking icon preview
Optional: Edit title text below icon
Changes save automatically
Testing Your Button:
Press the button on your physical Stream Deck
Safari launches immediately
Success! You've created your first custom button
🔍 Quick Tip: The Stream Deck software mirrors your physical device in real-time. Changes you make in the software instantly update on the hardware—no "sync" or "save" button needed.
The Building Blocks of Automation
The Actions panel (right side) contains all possible button functions. Here are the most useful for beginners:
System Actions
Open Application/File:
Launches any app or opens any file
Example: Open Excel, Word, Chrome, Spotify
How to use: Drag "Open" action, select app/file
Website:
Opens any URL in your default browser
Example: YouTube.com, Gmail.com, Twitter.com
How to use: Drag "Website" action, enter URL and title
Hotkey:
Triggers any keyboard shortcut
Example: Copy (Cmd+C), Paste (Cmd+V), Spotlight (Cmd+Space)
How to use: Drag "Hotkey" action, press keys to capture shortcut
Hotkey Switch:
Toggles between multiple hotkey options
Example: Switch between two different apps with same button
How to use: Drag "Hotkey Switch," set multiple key combinations
Text:
Types predefined text instantly
Example: Email signature, common responses, code snippets
How to use: Drag "Text" action, type your text, enable "Press Enter" if needed
Multimedia Actions
Mute:
Toggles system audio on/off
Perfect for video calls or recording
Volume Up/Down:
Adjusts system volume by increments
Eliminates need for keyboard volume keys
Play/Pause:
Controls media playback (music, videos)
Works with Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube
Next/Previous Track:
Skips forward or backward in playlists
Universal media control
Brightness Up/Down:
Adjusts screen brightness
Useful for photographers, video editors
Back:
Returns to previous page in your profile
Essential for multi-page setups
Switch Profile:
Changes entire button layout instantly
Example: Switch from "Streaming" profile to "Work" profile
Go to Page:
Jumps to specific page number
Example: Button that always goes to Page 3 (social media shortcuts)
Create Folder:
Organizes related buttons in expandable folders
Example: Folder for "Adobe Apps" containing Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere
▶️ Try This Now: Drag the "Website" action onto an empty button. Enter "youtube.com" as the URL and "YouTube" as the title. Press the button and watch YouTube open instantly in your browser.
Advanced Features: Soundboard & Timers
Adding Sound Effects (For Streamers)
What the Soundboard Does:
Plays audio files through your computer speakers/output when you press a button. Popular for:
Stream sound effects
Intro/outro music
Comedic timing during podcasts
Notification sounds
Setting Up a Sound Effect:
Expand "Soundboard" category in Actions panel
Drag "Play Audio" action onto button
Click "Select File" in configuration
Navigate to your audio file (.mp3, .wav, etc.)
Select file and click "Open"
Customize button icon/title (optional)
Press button to test—audio plays immediately
Stop Audio:
Drag "Stop Audio" action to another button
Stops all currently playing soundboard audio
Useful for cutting off long sound effects
🔍 Quick Tip: Keep sound effects under 10 seconds for best results. Longer audio files can delay button responsiveness during rapid presses.
Creating Countdown Timers
What Timers Are For:
Visual countdown on the Stream Deck button itself, with optional sound when timer completes.
Perfect Uses:
Stream break timers ("Back in 5 minutes!")
Pomodoro productivity technique (25-minute work sessions)
Cooking timers while streaming in kitchen
Timed challenges or segments
Setting Up a Timer:
Expand "Stream Deck" category in Actions panel
Drag "Timer" action onto button
Configure duration (default: 30 seconds)
Set hours, minutes, seconds
Choose completion sound (optional)
Select from built-in sounds or upload custom audio
Customize button appearance while timer is running
Save (automatic)
How Timers Work:
Press button to start countdown
Button displays live countdown (e.g., "0:29," "0:28," "0:27")
Progress bar animates around button edge
When complete: Sound plays (if configured), button resets
Visual Feedback:
The timer displays BOTH:
Numerical countdown (minutes:seconds)
Progress bar along bottom edge of button
This dual feedback means you can see timer status at a glance across the room.
▶️ Try This Now: Set up a 10-second timer with the "Connection Lost" sound effect (built-in). Press the button and watch the countdown animation—it's surprisingly satisfying!
Hotkey Mastery: Simplifying Complex Shortcuts
Why Hotkeys Matter
Many professional applications use complex keyboard shortcuts:
Photoshop Layer Mask: Cmd+Shift+Option+E
Excel Insert Row: Ctrl+Shift++ (PC) / Cmd+Shift++ (Mac)
Premiere Razor Tool: C (must remember which letter)
Stream Deck replaces these with one button press and a labeled visual reminder.
Example: Spotlight Search
Standard Method: Press Cmd+Space Stream Deck Method: Press one button labeled "Spotlight"
Setup Steps:
Drag "Hotkey" action onto empty button
Click "Observing keystrokes..." field
Press your desired shortcut on keyboard (e.g., Cmd+Space)
Shortcut appears in field (verified)
Name the button "Spotlight" (or whatever reminds you)
Optional: Upload custom icon (magnifying glass)
Test: Press Stream Deck button—Spotlight opens!
Common Hotkey Examples:
Screenshot Area: Cmd+Shift+4 (Mac) / Win+Shift+S (PC)
Emoji Picker: Cmd+Ctrl+Space (Mac) / Win+. (PC)
Task Manager: Ctrl+Alt+Delete (PC)
Force Quit: Cmd+Option+Esc (Mac)
🔍 Quick Tip: Use descriptive button names and relevant icons. "Cmd+Shift+4" as a label is cryptic; "Capture Area" with a camera icon is instantly understandable.
Hotkey Switch: Multiple Actions, One Button
The Advanced Technique:
Hotkey Switch lets ONE button toggle between TWO different shortcuts.
Example Use Case:
Button: "Quick Launch"
First press: Opens Spotlight (Cmd+Space)
Second press: Opens Raycast (alternative launcher)
Third press: Back to Spotlight
(Cycles between two options)
Setup:
Drag "Hotkey Switch" onto button
Configure Hotkey 1: Press Cmd+Space (Spotlight)
Configure Hotkey 2: Press your second shortcut
Indicator dots appear on button (shows which hotkey is active)
Press button to cycle through options
Visual Indicator:
Small dots on the button edge show which hotkey is currently active (1st or 2nd option). This prevents confusion about what the button will do on next press.
Profile Management: Different Layouts for Different Tasks
Why Multiple Profiles Matter
Imagine three different workdays:
Monday - Streaming:
Scene switching buttons
Sound effects
Mic mute
Camera controls
Tuesday - Video Editing:
Premiere shortcuts
Render buttons
Color grading tools
Export presets
Wednesday - Writing:
Writing app launchers
Word count tracker
Grammar check
Distraction-free mode toggle
Creating separate profiles for each scenario means you don't waste button space on irrelevant functions.
Creating a New Profile
Step-by-Step:
Click "+" button next to "Profiles" (left sidebar)
Name your profile (e.g., "Video Editing," "Work Mode," "Gaming")
Blank 6-button canvas appears
Drag actions from right panel to build layout
Switch profiles anytime by clicking profile name in sidebar
What Happens:
When you switch profiles, all 6 Stream Deck buttons instantly update to show the new layout. Same hardware, completely different functions.
Profile Switching Methods:
Method 1: Click profile name in Stream Deck software Method 2: Create a "Switch Profile" button that changes profiles with one press
🔍 Quick Tip: Start with 2-3 focused profiles rather than one massive multi-page profile. Context-specific layouts reduce cognitive load and button hunting.
Profile Examples for Different Users
Streamer Profile:
Scene 1, Scene 2, Scene 3 (OBS/Streamlabs)
Mic mute/unmute
Sound effects (applause, airhorn, laughter)
Start/stop stream
Twitter post template
Countdown timer for breaks
Productivity Profile:
Email app
Calendar
Slack
Notion/Evernote
Pomodoro timer (25 min)
"Do Not Disturb" toggle
Creative Profile (Video Editing):
Premiere Pro
After Effects
Photoshop
Color grading preset hotkeys
Export shortcuts
Project folder
Gaming Profile:
Discord
Game launchers (Steam, Epic)
Recording start/stop
Streaming controls
Teamspeak/Voice chat mute
Keyboard macro combos
▶️ Try This Now: Create a "Morning Routine" profile with buttons for: Calendar, Email, News website, Spotify, and a 10-minute meditation timer. Switch to it every morning to streamline your startup routine.
The Plugin Marketplace
Expanding Stream Deck's Capabilities
What Plugins Are:
Third-party integrations that add new button actions for specific services or applications.
Accessing the Marketplace:
Click globe icon in top-right of Stream Deck software
Browser opens to Stream Deck Marketplace
Browse categories: Stream Tools, Productivity, Social Media, Utilities
Install plugins directly through marketplace
Popular Plugin Examples:
For Streamers:
OBS Studio: Scene switching, source visibility, recording controls
Streamlabs: Alerts, donation goals, subscriber counts
Twitch: Go live, update title, run commercials
Discord: Server controls, voice channel switching
For Productivity:
Philips Hue: Control smart lights by room or scene
Spotify: Play/pause, skip, save songs, display now playing
Calendar: Show next meeting, join Zoom calls
Home Assistant: Smart home device control
For Creators:
Adobe: Photoshop, Premiere, Audition shortcuts
MIDI: Music production controls
Elgato Lights: Adjust studio lighting brightness/temperature
🔍 Quick Tip: Only install plugins you'll actually use. Each plugin adds clutter to the Actions panel, making it harder to find basic actions.
Top 3 Takeaways
The Stream Deck Mini might seem limited with only 6 buttons, but multi-page navigation means you can have 6 buttons on Page 1, another 6 on Page 2, another 6 on Page 3—essentially unlimited. Strategic use of "Back" and "Next" buttons creates an infinitely expandable control surface.
2. Real-Time Visual Feedback Changes Everything
Unlike traditional macro keypads with static labels, Stream Deck's LCD buttons show exactly what each button does AT THAT MOMENT. Switch profiles? All 6 icons update instantly. Navigate to Page 2? Completely new button set. This eliminates the guessing game of "what does this button do?"
3. Hotkeys Become Accessible to Non-Technical Users
Complex keyboard shortcuts (Cmd+Shift+Option+E) that require memorization and finger gymnastics become simple, labeled buttons. This democratizes professional workflows—you don't need to memorize 50 Photoshop shortcuts when you can just press clearly labeled buttons.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Q: Does Stream Deck work with both Mac and Windows? A: Yes! The Stream Deck software runs on macOS 11+ and Windows 10+ (64-bit). All features work identically on both platforms.
Q: Can I use Stream Deck without the companion software? A: No. The hardware requires the software to function. Without it, the Stream Deck will power on but buttons won't do anything.
Q: What if I only have USB-C ports on my computer? A: You'll need a USB-A to USB-C adapter or hub. Stream Deck Mini uses USB-A connection, so newer MacBooks and some PC laptops require an adapter.
Q: How many profiles can I create? A: Unlimited. Create as many profiles as you want—one for each workflow, client, or task type.
Q: Can multiple people share one Stream Deck? A: Technically yes (physically), but profiles are stored per-computer user account. Each person would need separate profiles if sharing the same computer login, or separate computer accounts entirely.
Q: Does Stream Deck require internet to function? A: No for basic functions (app launching, hotkeys, timers). Yes for plugins that connect to online services (Twitch, Spotify, smart home devices).
Q: Can I customize button icons with my own images? A: Yes! Click any button's icon in the software and upload custom PNG/JPG images. Perfect for company branding or personal aesthetics.
Q: What happens if I press a button while the computer is asleep? A: Stream Deck will wake the computer (if USB wake is enabled in system settings), then execute the button action.
Q: Can I control my Stream Deck from my phone? A: Yes, with Elgato's Stream Deck Mobile app (separate purchase/subscription). It turns your phone into additional buttons.
Q: Do the LCD screens wear out over time? A: LCD technology is very durable. Normal use shouldn't cause noticeable degradation for many years. Elgato offers warranty coverage.
Q: Can I use Stream Deck for gaming macros? A: Yes, but check your game's terms of service. Some competitive games ban macro devices. Stream Deck is better suited for productivity and streaming than competitive gaming.
Q: Why won't my hotkey button work? A: Most likely missing Accessibility permissions on Mac, or the app you're controlling isn't the active window. Ensure Stream Deck has system permissions granted.
Is Stream Deck Mini Worth $80?
Honest Assessment for Beginners
Stream Deck Mini Excels For:
âś“ Live streamers managing OBS scenes and alerts âś“ Video editors tired of memorizing Premiere shortcuts âś“ Podcasters needing quick access to sound effects âś“ Productivity users with repetitive daily tasks âś“ Multi-taskers switching between many apps constantly âś“ Anyone who values speed and visual clarity over memorization
Stream Deck Mini Isn't Great For:
âś— People with simple workflows (2-3 apps max) âś— Users on tight budgets who rarely use shortcuts âś— Minimalists who prefer keyboard-only workflows âś— Anyone without desk space for additional hardware âś— People who don't customize software/workflows âś— Users needing more than 6-12 frequently accessed buttons (get the 15-key model instead)
Alternative Considerations:
Stream Deck (15-key): $149, better for power users
Stream Deck XL (32-key): $249, for professional setups
Loupedeck: Better for creative professionals (photo/video editing)
Macro keyboard + software: Cheaper but no LCD screens
The Bottom Line:
If you find yourself constantly hunting through menus or forgetting keyboard shortcuts, Stream Deck Mini pays for itself in time savings within weeks. If your computer use is basic (email, web browsing, occasional doc editing), save your $80.
Ready to Automate Your Workflow?
This guide covers the fundamentals, but there's nothing like seeing the Stream Deck in action! Watch the complete video tutorial to see real-time button creation, live audio controls, timer animations, and practical profile switching.
📺 WATCH THE FULL SETUP TUTORIAL NOW
In the complete video, you'll see:
Actual unboxing and first impressions
Real-time button configuration and testing
Live demonstration of volume controls working
Countdown timer with visual progress animation
Hotkey creation and switching between multiple shortcuts
Profile switching changing all 6 buttons instantly
Soundboard setup with actual audio playback
Troubleshooting accessibility permissions in real-time
Join the AppFind Community
Just got a Stream Deck? Share your first custom button setup in the YouTube comments—what did you automate first?
Creative use cases? Tell us your most clever Stream Deck profile! We love hearing unique applications beyond streaming.
Struggling with setup? Drop your questions in the comments and our community of Stream Deck users will help troubleshoot.
Want more productivity tech guides? Subscribe to AppFind for beginner-friendly tutorials on tools that actually improve your workflow.
This newsletter is part of the AppFind - Complete Beginners Guides series, helping you master technology that amplifies your productivity. No jargon, no assumptions—just practical guidance for real people.
P.S. Start small with your Stream Deck journey. Don't try to create the perfect 50-button mega-profile on day one. Begin with 3-5 buttons you'll use daily (email, calendar, mute, screenshot), master those, then expand. Sustainable habits beat overwhelming complexity every time! 🎮