October DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowOctober DealsAmazon USDeal season is back - check today's better picksAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to content
World desk5 min

How to Find and Customize Streamlabs Overlays and Widget Themes

Browse the Streamlabs library, install an overlay or widget theme, import a .overlay file, or build a scene collection manually. Learn what to check before you customize.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Find designs in the Streamlabs library, check which scenes and widgets each includes, then install the full overlay or only the components you want. For a file you already have, import its .overlay file into Streamlabs Desktop; for widget styling, install a widget theme or edit the active theme in the dashboard.

Choose an overlay or widget theme

An overlay is the visual layout for a scene: it may include screens such as Starting Soon, BRB, and Ending, plus backgrounds, webcam frames, labels, or transitions. A widget theme styles functional elements such as alerts, chat, goals, and event lists. Some library designs bundle both, but contents vary, so inspect a design before installing it.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Find designs in the Streamlabs library

  1. Open the Streamlabs theme library and browse featured designs or use Advanced Search: Streamlabs Library.
  2. Filter by keyword, preferred colors, design type, and matching widget themes. The library also organizes collections around styles, games, and stream categories.
  3. If the results are too narrow, clear or reset filters and search again with fewer constraints.

Compare the details that affect your setup

  • Visual style and colors: look for a design that works with your channel branding and remains legible behind gameplay or video.
  • Included components: check whether you need a live-scene layout, webcam frame, Starting Soon/BRB/Ending screens, alerts, chat, goals, or event list. A bundle need not include every item.
  • Matching widgets: a coordinated alert or chat theme may be available alongside the overlay, but verify what is actually included.
  • Orientation: check whether the layout fits horizontal or vertical output. Streamlabs identifies its Dual Output collection as including both horizontal and vertical layouts.
  • Access: many designs are free; Streamlabs says the full theme library is accessible as part of Ultra. Check the listing and current plan details before choosing a design that requires Ultra.
  • Installation route: choose a library design, a local .overlay file, or a manual scene build according to what you have and how much you want to customize.

Install an overlay from the library

  1. In the library, open the design you want and review its components.
  2. Select Select and Install.
  3. Choose the components to add. You can select only the scenes or elements you plan to use rather than installing the entire bundle.
  4. When prompted, open Streamlabs Desktop and confirm the installation.
  5. Check the installed overlay in your scene collection and adjust the scenes to suit your sources and layout.

Streamlabs’ installation guide also describes library installation in OBS Studio; follow the app-specific prompts shown for your setup. Labels and available designs can change over time. For the current guide, see How to Add an Overlay to Your Stream.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Import a local .overlay file or build a scene manually

Import an existing overlay file

  1. In Streamlabs Desktop, open Settings.
  2. Go to Scene Collections.
  3. Choose Import Overlay File, then select the .overlay file on your computer.
  4. Wait for the import to finish, then review the scenes and adjust them as needed.

Build a scene collection yourself

Create a fresh scene collection, add the elements you need, and arrange them manually. This gives you control over a custom layout, but you will need to assemble the scene and its visual pieces yourself. If you want coordinated widgets included, Streamlabs recommends considering a professionally designed library overlay.

#1 Best Overall
fifine D6 RGB Macro-Keyboard with 15 Programable Buttons for Multi-Tasking
  • [Customizable LCD Macro Keys] Ampligame D6 stream controller features a total of 15 customizable macro keys , allowing you to create and assign different operations according to your live stream needs. Launch the software or application through a simple finger press, and switch your OBS scenes, control your audio levels, which is very easy and convenient to use.
  • [Wide Application Compatibility] This OBS stream controller for PC has a wide range of software, applications and plugins options whether in the store or download from the computer. They work with OBS Studio, Streamlabs, Twitch, YouTube and more in the Fifine D6 stream controller. This contoller for content creators lets you customize your setup effortlessly. You can also drag-and-drop, set up and download from the console's store, with a very large number of plugins and icons to fill your streaming.
  • [Visual Operation Keypad] After setting and customizing your keys, you can see the application on the touchscreen of stream controller and press to control directly. No need to open plenty of windows/app interfaces on the PC screen one by one, the Fifine D6 macro keypad streamlines your workflow and improves the work efficiency. Let you know your demands having been satisfied with a visual feedback. (Tip: Please ensure both firmware and software are updated to the latest versions prior to initial use.)
  • [Vivid RGB Lighting] Brighten your gaming setup with customizable RGB effects on stream controller for gaming. There is a glowing RGB ring around the twitch stream controller, with a total of 9 different controllable and changeable modes. Matching the shortcut button’s look and gaming aura according to your personal preferences, dynamic RGB on video stream controller will give your viewers a more vivid game impression.
  • [Applied in Multi-Tasking Scenes] Whether you intend to use the PC media controller in gaming, live streaming, photography/graphics design, video editing, music creation or office work, this versatile streaming equipmentmakes multi-tasking easier. You can also create folders to generate different programs, and the individual scenes can be processed independently.

Install or customize widget themes

Install a library theme

  1. Open the widget-theme library and choose a theme.
  2. Select Select and Install.
  3. In the popup, choose which widgets to update.
  4. Install the selection, then check the relevant widget settings to confirm the theme is applied.

Create an alert theme from scratch

  1. Open the Alert Box settings.
  2. Open the theme dropdown and choose Add a Theme.
  3. Name the theme.
  4. Start from your current settings or Streamlabs defaults, then customize the theme.

Streamlabs’ alert-theme instructions are available at How to Use Alert Themes.

Check which theme is active before editing

Widget-style edits apply to the currently active theme. Before changing a widget, verify the active theme on the dashboard’s Widget Themes page or in the theme dropdown on that widget’s settings page. Otherwise, you may edit a different theme from the one you intended to use. See Streamlabs’ widget-theme instructions.

Rank #2
VSD N4 Pro Stream Controller Streaming Deck, Audio and Studio Controller
  • Full Customizable 10 LCD Keys, 4 RGB Knobs & Interactive Touch Bar: Tailored for content creation and gaming, the VSD N4 Pro stream controller supports fully configurable hotkeys and multi-scene modes. You can set single commands or multi-step chained operations, plus custom PNG/JPG/GIF icons for quick identification. It stores unlimited independent scene presets for streaming, editing, gaming and office use to skip repeated setup
  • One-Tap Multi-Step Macro Activation, Zero Coding Needed: Simplify tedious computer workflows with the VSD N4 Pro macro pad. It converts complex repeated operations into one-tap triggers for editing shortcuts, app launches, webpage access and text presets. No coding or technical knowledge required; gamers and creators can set custom macros effortlessly
  • USB Sound Deck & 500+ Expandable Downloadable Plugin Ecosystem: The VSD N4 Pro works as a professional USB soundboard for streamers. Trigger sound effects, switch background audio and adjust audio atmosphere with one tap. Note: It only sends audio control commands to your computer to trigger play, pause and other audio operations, without built-in speakers for sound output. Unlock full features via 500+ official plugins on VSDinside; preloaded widgets improve daily efficiency
  • Dynamic RGB Visuals & Built-In USB Dock: Upgrade your desktop look and device connectivity with VSD N4 Pro. It features fully adjustable audio-synced RGB lighting, compatible with GIF, MP4 and MOV media files. Carbon-fiber panels and switchable haptic keys let you customize typing feedback. The built-in passive USB dock adds extra ports for mice, keyboards and storage drives
  • Adjustable Ergonomic Stand & Cross-Platform System Compatibility: Designed for long streaming, editing and gaming sessions, VSD N4 Pro comes with a foldable 60-degree ergonomic stand for comfortable viewing and easy storage. USB-C plug-and-play design works seamlessly with Windows 10+ and macOS 11.0+. Automate batch tasks for live production, video editing, gaming shortcuts and daily office work

Free designs, Ultra, and platform support

Streamlabs’ library FAQ says, “A large number of overlays and widget themes in the theme library are available for free.” The same FAQ describes Ultra as providing access to the full theme library. Check the current listing and plan information for the design you want; availability and access terms may change. Streamlabs’ library FAQ also lists Alert Box theme support for Twitch, YouTube, Kick, Facebook, Patreon, and Tiltify, as well as Streamlabs Charity, Tipping, Merch, and Cloudbot. Confirm current integration support in the library before building around a particular platform or service.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Troubleshoot common overlay and theme issues

  • The library search shows no useful designs: remove some filters or reset them, then try a broader keyword or category.
  • A bundle is missing a screen or widget you expected: inspect the design’s component list before installation; bundle contents vary. Install the missing component separately if the library offers it, or add it to your scene manually.
  • The installed overlay is not visible where expected: check the scene collection in Streamlabs Desktop and confirm the installation completed. The library guide says an installed overlay appears in the scene collection.
  • Your edits changed the wrong widget theme: check the active theme on the Widget Themes dashboard or in the widget’s theme dropdown, then switch to the intended theme before editing.
  • The imported overlay is not ready to use: wait for import to complete, then review the imported scenes and adjust them; importing does not eliminate the need to check the layout.
  • A design or integration appears unavailable: verify its current library listing and platform support. Library contents, access, and integrations can change.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Or let it run in the cloud

Streamlabs overlays and widget themes help you build the look of a stream; they do not keep a YouTube channel live from prerecorded videos. If that is a separate goal, StreamNeo runs uploaded videos as a 24/7 YouTube stream from the cloud: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key once, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home. Each slot streams your upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one flat price per slot; automatic recovery starts if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card, one free day per account. Monthly billing is $9.99 per month. Learn more at StreamNeo, or start your free day.

Best Value
Stream Controller Deck with 15 Scissor Keys,Streamers Macro Keyboard
  • 【Customizable buttons】The upgraded 3.0 version of the streaming controller features 15 LCD buttons with dynamic button graphics, is 3.2 times faster than the previous version, and reduces latency
  • 【Comprehensive Video Tutorials】 Get started in minutes with our built-in video guides. From basic setup to advanced tips, clear tutorials help you master key configuration and features quickly, unlocking the full potential of your device with zero hassle
  • 【One Click Actions】 The macro keyboard executes tasks effortlessly with one-tap commands—launch macros, control media, or trigger workflows in OBS, Photoshop, or Discord. The "Action Flow" feature lets you run multiple macros in sequence or simultaneously, while "Scene Follow" automatically switches layouts based on active apps
  • 【Multi-Platform Compatibility】 Plug and play on Windows 11 and later, as well as macOS 14.0 and above via USB-C.Seamlessly works with popular streaming software including OBS and Streamlabs, video platforms like YouTube, communication apps such as Discord, and creative tools like Photoshop and Office
  • 【Custom Animated Icons】 GuileKeys stream controller deck supports animated icons and also allows screenshots to be used as icons, such as website logos or game skills. No need to memorize them, each of the 15 buttons has its own individual LCD screen, You don't need to memorize it
Rank #4
Sale
Redragon SS551 Stream Controller - All-in-One Macro Pad, LCD Keys & Dials, Stream Station for Content Creators, Streaming, Gaming - PC & Mac Compatible
  • 9 Programmable Keys for Ultimate Customization - Unlock your potential with the Redragon stream station, featuring 9 programmable keys (6 LCD buttons and 3 knobs). Tailor your setup to perfection by assigning individual commands or complex macro sequences, streamlining your workflow for gaming, streaming, and productivity.
  • Seamless One-Touch Operation - Experience unparalleled efficiency with our one-touch operation feature. Instantly launch macros, switch scenes, or execute multiple commands with a single click. Perfect for gamers, content creators, and professionals, the stream controller ensures that you can perform tasks quickly and accurately, enhancing your overall performance.
  • Customizable LCD Key Designs - Enhance your workflow with the customizable LCD keys on the streaming station. Personalize each of the 6 LCD buttons with unique images and animations (JPG, PNG, GIF), making it easy to identify functions at a glance. This feature not only boosts your productivity but also adds a personal touch to your setup, allowing you to express your style while you work or play.
  • Versatile Compatibility Across Platforms - The Redragon streaming controller is designed for versatility, supporting both Windows and macOS. Simply plug it in via USB-C for instant connectivity. Seamlessly integrate with popular software like OBS, Streamlabs, and more, ensuring that your favorite tools are always at your fingertips.
  • Comprehensive Desktop Companion - More than just a macro pad, the SS551 includes essential plugins like a clock, weather updates, and a calendar. Built with high-quality materials for durability, this productivity tool is the perfect addition to your workspace. Plus, free software updates to keep your device running smoothly.
Rank #3
Sale
Razer Stream Controller: All-In-One Keypad for Streaming - 12 Haptic Switchblade Keys - 6 Tactile Analog Dials - 8 Programmable Buttons - Designed for PC & Mac Compatibility
  • All-in-one Stream Controller: Effortlessly manage your stream with shortcuts for multiple programs—organized through custom layouts and icons for intuitive use
  • 12 Haptic Switchblade Keys: Bind an infinite variety of commands and macros. Customize their icons for easy visual navigation and adjust their haptic feedback for the ideal level of tactile response
  • 6 Tactile Analog Dials: Conveniently tweak the levels of your audio, media, and other channels, as you manage it all at a glance using the controller’s dynamic LCD touchscreen
  • 8 Programmable Buttons: Program them to instantly toggle between up to 8 different haptic key layouts, or simply used as a faster way to perform commonly used actions
  • Designed for Efficient Multi-Tasking: Group commands into dedicated layouts and Dynamic Mode to automatically switch profiles based on the detected app

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More from the Wire

  1. World desk4 min
    How to Spot an AI Voice Scam Before Sending MoneyDon’t rely on how a caller sounds. Pause, call back through a known number, and verify the emergency with another trusted person before sending money.
  2. Mountain View desk4 min
    Google’s SynthID Detector: How to Check AI-Generated Images, Video and AudioGoogle’s SynthID Detector looks for an embedded watermark in supported images, video and audio. Here is what its results do—and do not—show.
  3. Redmond desk20 min
    How to create a link to File or Folder in Windows 11Windows 11 gives you several ways to point to a file or folder without moving or duplicating it. You can create a desktop shortcut,…
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.