To set up an Automation in Streamlabs Desktop, open the Automations icon in the Sources panel, choose a game template or select Add Automation > Create custom, configure a supported gameplay trigger and its action or actions, then select Create Automation and enable it before going live. Streamlabs’ official guide, published August 20, 2026, recommends updating Desktop first. Read Streamlabs’ guide.
What Streamlabs Desktop Automations do
Automations let gameplay events trigger actions in Streamlabs Desktop. For example, an Automation can switch scenes after a victory, show or hide a source when player health is low, save a replay after a big moment, or run multiple actions from one gameplay event.
They are different from scheduled chat messages: Automations react to supported gameplay events, while Cloudbot Timers post recurring messages under configured chat conditions.
Set up a gameplay Automation
1. Update Streamlabs Desktop
Install or update to the latest version before configuring Automations, as Streamlabs recommends.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
2. Open the Automations settings
In Streamlabs Desktop, go to the Sources panel and click the Automations icon. This opens the Automations settings window.
3. Choose a template or create a custom Automation
The settings window offers templates for selected games. Choose one that fits your game and intended behavior, or select Add Automation > Create custom to start from scratch.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
4. Name it and configure its trigger and action
Give the Automation a recognizable description so you can find it later; Streamlabs’ example is “Victory Royale reaction.” Add a trigger based on a supported game and condition, then choose the action or actions Streamlabs Desktop should perform when that trigger occurs.
Streamlabs’ guide does not enumerate every supported game, trigger condition, or action. Check the choices available in your current application before planning around a specific game event.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
5. Create, enable, and test it
Select Create Automation, then confirm that the Automation is enabled before you go live. The settings window also provides controls to test, edit, and delete Automations. Test the behavior in your setup before relying on it during a broadcast.
How many Automations can you enable?
Streamlabs’ August 20, 2026 guide states these simultaneous enabled-Automation limits:
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
| Account | Enabled Automations |
|---|---|
| All users | Up to 5 |
| Streamlabs Ultra subscribers | Up to 10 |
These are the limits stated in that guide; check the current application and subscription details if you need to confirm present availability.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Automations, Sidekick, and Cloudbot Timers
Existing Sidekick Automations
Streamlabs says existing Automations migrate into their new home in Streamlabs Desktop without needing to be rebuilt or set up again. Sidekick remains a separate app with its own features; the documented Desktop workflow does not require installing it.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteBest Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Cloudbot Timers are scheduled chat messages
A Cloudbot Timer is not a gameplay Automation. To configure one, enable Cloudbot, add a timer, and set its name, response, interval, and line minimum. The timer runs only when both the interval and line-minimum conditions are met. Cloudbot also includes commands, moderation, loyalty features, and interactive modules, but those are separate tools.
Troubleshooting and testing caveats
- You cannot find a game or trigger: Automations are limited to supported games and conditions. The official guide does not publish a complete list, so use the options shown in your current Desktop version rather than assuming a particular event is supported.
- The Automation does not run: Confirm it was created successfully and is enabled before going live; then check that its trigger and action are configured as intended.
- A test does not play the selected Sidekick voice: Streamlabs notes that the selected Sidekick voice may not play while testing an Automation, although the preferred voice should play on stream. Treat the test voice behavior as a caveat, not proof that every other part of the Automation has been verified.
Or let it run in the cloud
Streamlabs Automations handle gameplay-triggered actions inside Desktop. If your separate goal is to keep uploaded video playing as a 24/7 YouTube live stream, StreamNeo is a different tool: upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it streams uploaded video at its original quality up to 4K 60fps for one flat price per slot, with automatic recovery if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. It streams to YouTube only, not from a camera. Learn about StreamNeo, or start the free first day.
