Overlay tools compared
We compared the main tools streamers use to show controller inputs live on Twitch, Kick and TikTok, looking at setup time, customization, transparent background support and price.
This comparison is published by Padcraft, which is one of the tools reviewed. We kept the criteria concrete and noted where other tools do something better. Try more than one and judge for yourself.
The short version
- Padcraft and Gamepad Viewer run from a browser link. Input Overlay is an OBS plugin and Open Joystick Display is a desktop app.
- They differ mostly on setup, compatibility and customization, not only on looks.
- The real trade-off is setup time versus control over the design.
- Want a design that matches your stream? Start with Padcraft. Only need the basics? Gamepad Viewer is enough.
Which tool fits my use case?
- Custom OBS-ready designPadcraft. Edit the design visually, then paste one transparent link into your scene.
- Free viewer, no accountGamepad Viewer. A basic display with very little setup.
- Native OBS sourceInput Overlay. An installed OBS source configured with presets.
- Standalone desktop displayOpen Joystick Display. Works outside OBS, but needs an install and a window capture.
How did we compare them?
- SetupCan you get it running without installing software or editing config files?
- CustomizationCan you change colors and design and see the result live, without code?
- TransparencyDoes it work as a clean Browser Source out of the box?
- CompatibilityDoes it work beyond OBS, and does it need a plugin or a desktop app?
- PriceWhat is free, and what you pay for beyond the basics.
How do they rank?
Padcraft
Our pickA browser-based configurator: plug in your controller, adjust colors and design live, then generate a link with a transparent background. There is nothing to install. It also has a shop of designs made by other creators, which none of the free tools below offer.
Strengths
- Live visual editor, no code
- Transparent background by default
- Community designs in the shop
- Free to design, pay only for the link
Trade-offs
- Newer, with a shorter track record
- The OBS link and premium designs are paid
Gamepad Viewer
Gamepad Viewer is a long-running browser viewer. It works as a Browser Source, needs no account and sets its layout and style through URL options.
Strengths
- Free, no account
- Well known on OBS forums
Trade-offs
- Styling through URL parameters, no live editor
- Less control over the final look
Input Overlay (OBS plugin)
Input Overlay is an OBS Studio plugin by univrsal. It shows keyboard, mouse and gamepad inputs from texture and config files, a solid choice if you want a native OBS source.
Strengths
- Runs natively in OBS
- Open source, with presets
Trade-offs
- Plugin install, OBS only
- Styled through config files
Open Joystick Display
Open Joystick Display is a free, open-source desktop app for gamepad input. It suits streamers who prefer a standalone window to a browser tool or a plugin.
Strengths
- Free and open source
- Also useful outside OBS
Trade-offs
- Separate desktop install
- Needs a window capture in your software
How do they compare side by side?
| Tool | Setup | Visual editor | Works in | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Padcraft | Browser link | Yes | OBS, Streamlabs, web sources | Free to design, links from $1.99 |
| Gamepad Viewer | Browser link | No, URL options | Any Browser Source | Free |
| Input Overlay | OBS plugin | Presets and config | OBS Studio | Free |
| Open Joystick Display | Desktop app | Limited | Captured window | Free |
Which one should I pick?
- A fast setup with a design you can really customize: start with Padcraft.
- The simplest free option, no signup: Gamepad Viewer.
- OBS only, and you prefer a native plugin: Input Overlay.
- A desktop app you can also use to test controllers: Open Joystick Display.
To add any of them to OBS, Streamlabs or TikTok LIVE Studio, follow the step-by-step setup guide.
What should I check before choosing a tool?
- Your software: a Browser Source link works in OBS, Streamlabs and TikTok LIVE Studio; a plugin only works where it is installed.
- Your controller: check that your exact model is drawn, with its real layout, touchpad and stick positions.
- Your brand: can you match your colors and add your logo, or are you stuck with preset skins?
- Transparency: the background should be transparent without a chroma key filter.
- The price model: free, pay per link or subscription, and what you keep if you stop paying.
- Moving PC: what happens when you change computer, reinstall or stream from a second setup.
Design it for free, then generate a transparent link ready for OBS or Streamlabs.
Create my overlay