Best Alternatives to Dune in 2025
Dune offers a clever, context-aware hardware keypad that adapts to your active app, but it's not the only way to streamline workflows and meetings. Whether you prefer software-only solutions, more customizable hardware, or a different form factor, these alternatives can match or exceed Dune's capabilities for automating tasks and boosting productivity on macOS.
Elgato Stream Deck
The Stream Deck is the most popular hardware alternative, offering 6 to 32 programmable LCD keys that can be customized per-app. It has deep integrations with Zoom, Teams, VS Code, and GitHub, plus a huge plugin ecosystem. Unlike Dune's three keys, you get far more buttons and visual feedback, making it ideal for complex workflows and live-streaming scenarios.
Loupedeck
Loupedeck devices (like the Loupedeck+ or Loupedeck Live) provide a mix of touchscreen keys, dials, and buttons that adapt to your software. They excel in creative tools like Photoshop and Premiere Pro but also support productivity apps and meetings. The tactile dials give you precise control for scrubbing timelines or adjusting settings, which Dune lacks.
Keyboard Maestro
If you prefer a pure software solution, Keyboard Maestro is the ultimate automation powerhouse for macOS. It lets you create macros, triggers, and contextual menus based on the active application, essentially replicating Dune's context-awareness without any hardware. You can assign shortcuts to any key or mouse gesture, and it supports complex scripting, making it far more flexible than Dune.
BetterTouchTool
BetterTouchTool is a versatile macOS utility that lets you customize trackpad, mouse, and keyboard inputs with app-specific actions. You can set up a 'keyboard' on your Touch Bar or use function keys to trigger workflows, meeting controls, or code snippets. It's cheaper than Dune and offers endless customization, though it requires more setup effort.
Razer Tartarus Pro
For a gaming-grade alternative, the Razer Tartarus Pro offers a one-handed keypad with 32 programmable keys and analog optical switches. It can be configured with per-game or per-app profiles, making it great for developers who want a dedicated macro pad for VS Code or GitHub. It's more bulky than Dune but provides far more keys and rapid trigger actuation.
Stream Deck Mobile
If you want the Stream Deck experience without buying hardware, Stream Deck Mobile turns your iOS device into a customizable control surface. It supports the same plugins and profiles as the physical Stream Deck, including context-aware layouts for meetings and coding. It's a cost-effective way to get Dune-like functionality if you already own an iPad or iPhone.
Dune's unique selling point is its minimal, context-aware three-key design, but it's not the only option. For hardware enthusiasts, the Elgato Stream Deck and Loupedeck offer more keys and visual feedback. For software purists, Keyboard Maestro and BetterTouchTool provide deeper automation without extra gear. If you want a hybrid, the Razer Tartarus Pro or Stream Deck Mobile can adapt to your needs. Choose based on your budget, desired level of customization, and whether you prefer physical buttons or software-driven shortcuts.