A DIY hardware controller for OBS Studio, built with an Arduino Pro Micro, designed to trigger hotkeys using physical buttons and improve live streaming workflow.
Click to watch the full demo on YouTube
Click to watch the full explanation
This project is a custom hardware stream deck that emulates a USB keyboard (HID), allowing you to control OBS Studio using physical buttons instead of relying on software interfaces.
It is ideal for streamers who want a reliable, tactile, and low-cost alternative to commercial stream decks.
- Uses the Arduino Pro Micro (ATmega32U4)
- Recognized as a native USB keyboard
- Sends complex shortcuts like
Ctrl + Shift + F1directly to OBS
- 8 configurable buttons
- Uses a voltage divider to read multiple buttons from a single analog pin
- Perfect for switching scenes quickly
Separate physical switches for critical live actions:
- Start / Stop Streaming
- Start / Stop Recording
- Mute Microphone
- Mute Desktop Audio
- Powered by a 74HC595 shift register
- Controls 8 LEDs using only 3 Arduino pins
- Provides real-time visual status feedback
- LED animation sequence when the device is connected via USB
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Microcontroller | Arduino Pro Micro (ATmega32U4) |
| IO Expansion | 74HC595 Shift Register |
| Connectivity | Native USB (HID) |
| Enclosure | Designed in Fusion 360 (3D printable) |
- Go to Settings → Hotkeys in OBS Studio
- Assign the same shortcuts that the Arduino will send
- Flash the Arduino with the provided code
- Connect via USB
- The device will be recognized as a keyboard
- The firmware waits for button release before sending commands
- Prevents accidental multiple triggers
-
🧩 Schematic (EasyEDA)
https://easyeda.com/renatobrant/ardui... -
🧪 74HC595 Simulation (Tinkercad)
https://www.tinkercad.com/things/7lKr... -
💻 Arduino Code
https://create.arduino.cc/editor/rena... -
📸 Photos & Videos
https://photos.app.goo.gl/r6Zz4hyw8E6... -
🧱 3D Design (Fusion 360)
https://a360.co/36Lupds
This project is open-source for non-commercial use only.
You are free to:
- Use
- Modify
- Share
But commercial use is not allowed without permission.
👉 Suggested license: Creative Commons BY-NC 4.0
Feel free to:
- Fork the project
- Suggest improvements
- Submit pull requests
This project was created to provide a low-cost, customizable alternative to commercial stream decks, with full control over hardware and firmware.