While I’m not a streamer myself, I was intrigued by the Cooler Master MasterHub, a modular desktop control panel designed to challenge the wildly popular Elgato Stream Deck. The MasterHub’s unique selling point lies in its modularity, allowing users to create a command center perfectly tailored to their needs.
Instead of a fixed layout like the Stream Deck, the MasterHub is a base unit with gold-plated pins, onto which magnetically secured modules can be attached. This means you have complete freedom to choose which modules you want, and how they’re arranged. For example, I found the large dial module with an IPS display most useful, placing it in the bottom-left corner for easy access. But a streamer might prefer the 15-key IPS display closer to hand, while a Photoshop user could benefit from the precision fader module.
This adaptability is a significant advantage over the Stream Deck. While Elgato’s device makes it easy to adjust layouts, you’re still working within a predefined framework. The MasterHub, on the other hand, adapts to your workflow, allowing you to customize the arrangement and even double-up on modules for more control.
The MasterHub software further enhances its flexibility. You can store multiple profiles for different purposes, allowing you to switch between layouts seamlessly. The software also makes it incredibly easy to assign actions to the modules, whether it’s launching applications, controlling volume, triggering hotkeys, or even executing complex multi-step tasks.
Cooler Master has initially launched five modules: the large dial with IPS display, the 15-key IPS display, a module with dual scroller wheels, one with three knobs, and another with five mini faders. The company has hinted at future expansion, with a dedicated display module already in the works.
The MasterHub’s tactile knobs and buttons provide a satisfying physical experience, allowing for precise control over digital functions. I found myself enjoying the tactile feedback of adjusting volume with a large knob, scrolling webpages with a roller, and launching frequently used apps with a button.
While the MasterHub software is easy to use, it feels a bit barebones compared to the extensive plugin library available for the Stream Deck. While Cooler Master promises a marketplace for plugins in the future, it remains to be seen how successful it will be in attracting developers and users.
The biggest hurdle for the MasterHub, however, is its price. The basic streaming kit, including faders, rollers, and the 15-key display, currently costs $299 on Kickstarter, but will jump to $399 at official launch. Acquiring all modules will set you back $399 on Kickstarter or $549 at retail. This is significantly higher than the Stream Deck+, which retails for $200, and even the basic Stream Deck can be purchased for less than $150.
The MasterHub appeals to users who need a high level of control, not just a few shortcuts. It offers advantages over the Stream Deck in terms of customization, but it comes at a considerable premium. While Cooler Master has built a solid foundation, it’s recommended to hold off on investing until we see what the marketplace offers and what future plans are in store for this modular system.
