Build Your Own DIY Stream Deck with Raspberry Pi Pico W and CircuitPython

Question

Ever wanted a simple version of the popular Elgato Stream Deck, but without the high cost, just like me? In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to build a minimal 3-button programmable macro pad using the Raspberry Pi Pico W, CircuitPython, and USB HID. This setup sends keyboard shortcuts to your computer with the press of a button—perfect for productivity, streaming, or just automating your workflow.

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What You’ll Need

• ✅ Raspberry Pi Pico W
• ✅ 3x Push buttons (momentary)
• ✅ Breadboard and jumper wires
• ✅ Micro USB cable
• ✅ CircuitPython installed on your Pico W
• ✅ Adafruit HID library

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Wiring Diagram

Connect the buttons to GPIO pins on the Pico W (GP2, GP3, and GP4) like this:

[Raspberry Pi Pico W Pinout]

GP2  ---- Button 1 ---- GND  
GP3  ---- Button 2 ---- GND  
GP4  ---- Button 3 ---- GND  

Each button is connected between a GPIO pin and GND. We use internal pull-down resistors in the code to detect a HIGH signal when the button is pressed.

⚠️ Note: You can use a breadboard or solder your components on a PCB for a compact build.

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How It Works

The buttons are monitored in a loop. When a button press is detected, the Pico W sends a corresponding key combo to your computer over USB using USB HID (Human Interface Device). This acts like a real keyboard.

Here are the assigned functions:

Button	Shortcut	Action
1	Ctrl + Shift + Esc	Open Task Manager
2	Windows + L	Lock Your PC
3	Ctrl + Alt + Delete	Security Options Menu

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Installing CircuitPython & Required Libraries

1. Install CircuitPython on your Pico W:
   Follow the official guide: https://circuitpython.org/board/raspberry_pi_pico_w/

2. Add Required Libraries to your lib folder on the CIRCUITPY drive:

   • adafruit_hid/
     Download from the Adafruit CircuitPython bundle: https://github.com/adafruit/Adafruit_CircuitPython_Bundle

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Full Code: code.py

import time
import board
import digitalio
import usb_hid
from adafruit_hid.keyboard import Keyboard
from adafruit_hid.keycode import Keycode
from adafruit_hid.keyboard_layout_us import KeyboardLayoutUS

kbd = Keyboard(usb_hid.devices)
layout = KeyboardLayoutUS(kbd)

# Define buttons on GP2, GP3, GP4
button_pins = [board.GP2, board.GP3, board.GP4]
buttons = []

for pin in button_pins:
    button = digitalio.DigitalInOut(pin)
    button.direction = digitalio.Direction.INPUT
    button.pull = digitalio.Pull.DOWN
    buttons.append(button)

prev_states = [False] * len(buttons)

while True:
    for i, button in enumerate(buttons):
        current_state = button.value
        if current_state and not prev_states[i]:
            print(f"Button {i+1} pressed")

            if i == 0:
                # Ctrl + Shift + Esc (Task Manager)
                kbd.send(Keycode.CONTROL, Keycode.SHIFT, Keycode.ESCAPE)
            elif i == 1:
                # Windows + L (Lock)
                kbd.press(Keycode.WINDOWS, Keycode.L)
                kbd.release_all()
            elif i == 2:
                # Ctrl + Alt + Delete
                kbd.send(Keycode.CONTROL, Keycode.ALT, Keycode.DELETE)

        prev_states[i] = current_state
    time.sleep(0.05)

Save this as code.py on your Pico W’s CIRCUITPY drive.

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Why Use This?

• Quick PC lock when you leave your desk
• Instant Task Manager access to close frozen apps
• Security shortcuts like Ctrl+Alt+Del
• Can be expanded to more buttons or layered functions
• Customizable: you can swap key combos anytime

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What’s next level for this?

• Add custom backlit keycaps
• Use OLED display for labels
• Add mode switching with layers for different apps (e.g., OBS, Photoshop)
• Integrate Wi-Fi features using Pico W’s wireless support

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Final Thoughts

This DIY stream deck alternative is low-cost, beginner-friendly, and incredibly useful for daily tasks. Whether you're a content creator or just want to speed up your workflow, the Pico W and CircuitPython combo gives you endless possibilities.

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Share Your Build

If you tried this out or made your own variation, tag me on Twitter (@am_de_one) or Instagram with your custom setup!