How to Use Stream Deck to Control Zoom and Discord Calls

Most people buy Elgato Stream Decks for livestreaming, but they can do so much more. You can turn your device into a control center for Zoom classes, work meetings, and Discord hangouts—streamlining every call.

First you have to download the plugins and profiles

Stream Decks doesn't have native support for controlling video conferencing apps directly without a free plugin from the Elgato Marketplace. Discord's plugin is completely free and available on both macOS and Windows, and offers a variety of features, from muting, tap-to-talk, quick joining of voice channels, and volume control for other speakers on the call.

Unfortunately, the Stream Deck Zoom plugin that interfaced directly with Zoom's API has been removed and replaced with a plugin that requires paid software, MuteDeck, which supports more than just Zoom for $15. Many people don't like removing free tools to replace them with paid ones when they're from the same developer, but luckily there's still a free alternative to Zoom shortcuts.

Developer SideShowFX has created a free icon pack and profile preset for Zoom with buttons and shortcuts for macOS and Windows, supporting both the standard Stream Deck and the XL option.

You can download this profile, add it to your Stream Deck by double-clicking the download and profile in the Elgato software, and then have a full set of Zoom shortcuts.

Profiles include a ton of shortcuts, with specialized features like scheduling meetings. But if you're a Zoom power user, there are plenty of advanced features to try. Beyond setting up, there's one more configuration step you should take: Enable system-wide hotkeys.

In Zoom, open Settings , go to Keyboard shortcuts , then click the checkbox under Enable global shortcuts for the commands you want to use, such as mute toggle. This lets you use those keyboard shortcuts and Stream Deck shortcuts regardless of whether Zoom is the window you select.

Warning : Be careful when enabling system-wide shortcuts, as there may be accidental overlap between Zoom hotkeys and other software, leading to unexpected problems. Test your Zoom shortcuts and compare them to other software shortcuts to avoid problems if system-wide hotkeys are enabled.

This configuration profile, icon, and hotkeys aren't as ideal as talking directly to Zoom's API like with the discontinued Zoom plugin. However, it's still better than creating these shortcuts manually and without icons.

More features are accessible with Stream Deck

The benefit of using Stream Deck to control your video calling apps is reduced friction. For example, you don't have to memorize keyboard shortcuts to quickly access features, nor do you have to spend time fiddling with inputs like mute.

The Stream Deck that's right for you depends on your budget and needs, but even the smallest option offers convenient access to features.

Stream Deck streamlines the calling experience

Additionally, these commands make it easier to access less-used or harder-to-access features, like quickly setting up cloud or local recordings on Zoom or playing soundboard effects on Discord.

Using Stream Deck makes it easier to use every feature on your online meeting app, allowing you to make better use of them all. Even if you don't stream, I highly recommend Stream Deck to anyone who wants to streamline their workflow on online calls and more.

Micah Soto

Update 13 January 2025