The Ulanzi Stream Deck D200 is the latest streaming peripheral from Ulanzi. Designed as a direct competitor to the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2, the Stream Deck D200 is a 14-button (13 programmable) stream controller built to handle major creative software suites and system controls. With its own configuration software, customizable button interface, and a range of supported plugins, icon packs and profiles, Ulanzi appears ready to make its mark in the stream controller market.
Much like the Ulanzi DD02 HD Live-Stream Switcher, which was the company’s first switcher, the Stream Deck D200 is Ulanzi’s first stream deck controller. Inspired by the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2, the D200 has a similar design and structure, though with a slightly larger footprint. This is partly due to the larger LCD push buttons on the front of the device. As a result, the D200 measures 6.06” L x 3.6” W, making it comparable in size to the Loupedeck Live.
Each LCD key (196×196) is positioned symmetrically in a 3×5 pattern along the faceplate of the D200, except for a double-wide button located in the bottom right corner. Interestingly, while the other 13 buttons are fully programmable, this particular button simply toggles information between time and CPU/RAM usage. It’s an odd choice, as the button’s double-wide length seems ideal for a stream or record function. Aside from this one deviation, the other 13 buttons function as expected on a stream deck controller.
“The Ulanzi Stream Deck D200 offers many of the features found in mainstream stream deck solutions at about half the price.”
The D200 offers two positioning options. When not in its casing, the Stream Deck lies flat and secure on a desk, thanks to rubberized feet on the underside. For those who prefer a more upright stance, the included plastic stand allows the D200 to slide in and sit upright with ease. A small opening in the back of the stand allows the USB Type-C cable to slide through and connect to the deck.
I noted that while the D200 sits securely in the stand, the model I received fit unusually tightly. It was difficult to align perfectly flush, with the back edge of the deck slightly out of alignment, leaving a small gap along the top. This doesn’t impact performance and may be specific to my unit. Despite this, when the D200 is set in the stand, it is well-positioned for upright use, with each button easily accessible.
The aluminum casing gives the D200 some heft and a premium feel in hand. The unit feels sturdy during use, while the stand is made of fairly sturdy plastic, and when assembled, weighs about 670 grams. Being both heavier and larger than the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2, the Ulanzi Stream Deck D200 feels more rugged overall.
Returning to the LCD buttons, there are a couple of interesting things to note. As mentioned, each button is larger than those on the Stream Deck MK.2, a feature I came to appreciate during testing. The buttons are easier to select without accidentally bumping adjacent ones, thanks to both the larger size and the slightly wider spacing compared to the Elgato version.
“Despite requiring more force than expected, the D200’s buttons have a quick actuation point, although they initially felt sticky.”
As for the tactile experience, the Ulanzie D200, while functional, isn’t as smooth of an experience as the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2. This first iteration of the D200 requires more applied force to engage the buttons than I’m accustomed to. In fact, it seems that the actuation point is near the bottom of the travel distance requiring you to firmly press the button to engage the switch. Thankfully the travel distance is short meaning that while it does require more force to engage a switch it still engages quickly when pressing it.
I noted during initial testing that the buttons would occasionally stick. However, after some use, they have loosened up and now engage each time without issue. The first iteration of the Elgato Stream Deck MK.1 had a similar issue, which also resolved itself with use.
Shifting to software testing, Ulanzi has developed software called UlanziDeck to support the D200. Taking a page from the Elgato Stream Deck’s playbook, the layout and functionality of the software are similar. Out of the box, you’ll find support for major creative software suites such as OBS, Streamlabs, Adobe and DaVinci Resolve. While a couple of profiles come pre-loaded on the D200, a marketplace within the software allows you to search for additional software profiles, plugins and icons.
For pre-existing software profiles, loading and configuring the D200 is straightforward. After selecting the desired profile from the marketplace, you’ll have the option to install and activate it. Once active, you can use the preset layout or customize it from scratch. In testing, the D200 communicated effectively with the corresponding software.
OBS performed as expected, with each button shortcut working smoothly and without delay. Similarly, DaVinci’s robust editing toolset can be easily accommodated by the D200, making everyday editing tasks streamlined and customizable to best suit your workflow.
“At $69.95, the Ulanzi Stream Deck D200 presents a cost-effective alternative for streamers seeking a solid entry-level controller.”
For users who want to create custom profiles to manage a wide range of Windows 11 or macOS tasks, the UlanziDeck software includes preset shortcuts and plugins to assist. The process is fairly straightforward. If you’ve used Elgato’s software, you’ll feel at home with UlanziDeck.
Custom icons can also be assigned to individual buttons. While there’s no built-in icon creator like in Elgato’s software, it’s easy to use the Elgato software or any image editor to create square PNG images and load custom icons onto the D200. Assigning buttons follows a process similar to Elgato’s software.
One area that may improve over time is plugin support. While plugins exist for many major creative software suites, as the D200 is still relatively new, it lacks the community support that companies like Elgato and Loupedeck enjoy. While there are options for icon packs, plugins and profiles, they are not yet as extensive as those found in other communities.
Thankfully, Ulanzi had the foresight to include an APIRequest plug-in. While I’m no programmer, it appears this plug-in is designed to submit a request to Ulanzi for additional plug-in support for specific applications. My hope is that, over time, we’ll see more community-created plug-ins to support a wider variety of software.
As a first release, the Ulanzi Stream Deck D200 is a solid piece of hardware. It offers many of the features and options found in mainstream stream deck solutions at about half the price. While this first iteration could use some refinement—namely smoother button operation and slightly better quality control on the stand’s fabrication—the D200 is nonetheless a solid offering from Ulanzi. If you’re looking for a cost-effective stream deck controller, the Ulanzi Stream Deck D200 is a great option. Priced at $69.95, there’s a lot to like about Ulanzi’s first stream deck controller.
