KeyRoutines vs Stream Deck software as an automation layer
Elgato's Stream Deck software is the free app for Stream Deck hardware: you put actions and multi-actions on keys, and a large plugin marketplace adds integrations. It's at its best when you press the button. KeyRoutines runs routines from a keyboard hotkey or by itself when something happens, with conditions, waits and branches, and its own Stream Deck plugin puts routines on your keys. They're better together than apart.
| Topic | KeyRoutines | Stream Deck software |
|---|---|---|
| Hardware | None needed; a keyboard hotkey or an event starts a routine. | Built for Stream Deck devices. |
| Price | Free; optional one-time Pro upgrade ($29.99, 2 PCs). The Stream Deck plugin is free. | The software is free with the hardware, which you buy. |
| Starting actions | Hotkeys plus 42 triggers: apps and games starting, devices, displays, files, schedules, OBS events (Pro) and more. | Mostly pressing a key or turning a dial, plus what individual plugins add. |
| Logic | If, Switch, Repeat, Wait until, At the same time and Try, with 41 conditions. | Multi-actions run steps in order with delays; conditions depend on plugins. |
| Waiting for apps | Open app and App is ready wait until an app has really loaded. | Usually fixed delays. |
| Visual feedback | Banners and notifications on screen; the plugin shows Running, Done or Failed on the key. | Excellent: live key icons, titles and states you can see at a glance. |
| Integrations | OBS, Discord voice (Pro), Elgato lights (Pro), Wallpaper Engine (Pro), audio, windows, files. | A very large marketplace of plugins for apps and services. |
Choose KeyRoutines if
- You want automation that runs by itself when something happens.
- You need conditions and waiting, such as "only if OBS is streaming".
- You don't own a Stream Deck, or want the same routines on a keyboard too.
Choose Stream Deck software if
- You want physical buttons with live icons on your desk.
- The action you need already exists as a Stream Deck plugin.
- Your setup is mostly one-press actions while streaming.
Questions
- Can I run KeyRoutines routines from my Stream Deck?
- Yes. The KeyRoutines Stream Deck plugin has Run routine, Toggle mode and Running status actions. Turn on the Local API in KeyRoutines and pair the plugin once.
- Do I need Pro for the plugin?
- No. The plugin and the Local API are free; Mode routines need Pro.
Other products' details change; check their own sites for the latest. See all comparisons.
Build this routine in KeyRoutines
Free from the Microsoft Store for Windows 11 and 10. Pro is a one-time upgrade.