For years, Elgato’s Stream Deck Mk.2 has been the go-to control deck for creators and streamers. But in 2025, the VSDinside Stream Dock M18 emerged as a smarter, more affordable alternative. Both offer 15 customizable LCD keys, but the M18 adds thoughtful upgrades that make it more flexible, more beautiful, and much better value.

In this full comparison, we’ll explore how the Stream Dock M18 compares to the Stream Deck Mk.2 in terms of physical controls, lighting design, comfort, price, and community support — and why so many creators are switching.

1. Stream Dock M18 Physical Control Advantage — “15 + 3” Real Buttons

While the Stream Deck Mk.2 relies entirely on touch-sensitive keys, the Stream Dock M18 introduces three additional physical buttons along the top edge.

These tactile keys can be freely customized — for example, to flip pages, switch scenes, or trigger quick actions in OBS or Premiere Pro. For creators working in fast-paced environments, this means you can change pages or functions without even looking at the screen.

It’s a small change that makes a huge difference: three extra physical buttons give you faster control and fewer misclicks — something the Stream Deck Mk.2 simply doesn’t offer.

2. Stream Dock M18 RGB Lighting — Customizable and Creative

Another clear advantage of the Stream Dock M18 is its surrounding RGB light ring. Unlike the Stream Deck Mk.2, the M18 features a built-in lighting strip that adds personality and depth to your setup.

While it doesn’t yet change automatically with your workflow states, users can freely customize the color and lighting effects — from solid colors to smooth breathing or gradient effects. This makes the Stream Dock M18 not only a powerful tool but also a visually expressive part of your creative workspace.

3. Adjustable Stand — Two Angles for Comfort

The Stream Deck Mk.2 uses a fixed plastic stand, meaning your viewing angle is always the same. The Stream Dock M18, on the other hand, includes an adjustable metal stand that lets you choose between two tilt positions.

Whether you prefer a flat working posture or a higher viewing angle, this flexibility helps reduce wrist strain and improves visibility — especially for long editing or streaming sessions.

4. Price — One-Third the Cost, Full Experience

The Stream Dock M18 delivers nearly all of the Stream Deck Mk.2’s core functionality — and adds more — at roughly one-third the price.

• Elgato Stream Deck Mk.2: around $150–$180 USD
• VSDinside Stream Dock M18: approximately one-third of that

For creators building multi-device setups, this makes a real difference: you can buy two M18s for the cost of one Mk.2. It’s an incredible value for anyone looking to expand their creative workspace.

5. Community-Driven Support — Engineers and Product Managers Respond in Real Time

Support is where VSDinside truly differentiates itself. While many Stream Deck users have complained about slow response times, VSDinside’s engineers and product managers are directly active in the community — answering questions, fixing bugs, and collecting feedback in real time.

This hands-on approach means you’re not talking to a chatbot or waiting for a support ticket. You’re getting help directly from the people who built the hardware and software — something you won’t find in the Elgato ecosystem.

Verdict — A Smarter, More Human Stream Deck Alternative

The Stream Dock M18 redefines what a control deck can be. With tactile buttons, customizable RGB lighting, adjustable angles, one-third the price, and community-level support, it is not just another deck — it’s a complete rethink of the creative experience.

If you’re considering upgrading from the Stream Deck Mk.2 or looking for a new stream deck alternative in 2025, the Stream Dock M18 delivers everything you need — with more color, control, and comfort.

Upgrade Your Creative Setup Today

Experience the next-generation control deck — the VSDinside Stream Dock M18, designed for creators who want more control, customization, and comfort than the traditional Stream Deck Mk.2.

👉  Learn more or get yours Stream Dock M18 today at VSDinside.com

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Discuss your setup or share feedback on our official Reddit community (r/VSD_INSIDE) — where creators exchange ideas, builds, and inspiration.