From high-quality coolers to powerful PSUs and gorgeous cases, Cooler Master is a well-known peripherals manufacturer in the PC space. However, the company’s latest invention is quite different from its previous offerings. Designed for streamers and image/video editors, the MasterHUB is a modular macro pad similar to Elgato’s Stream Deck Neo, though it packs tons of modules and features compared to its rival.

For example, the MasterHUB consists of a magnetic FlexBase where you can attach additional modules like knobs, sliders, and buttons with IPS displays. This lets you swap out the components and mix-match them per your needs. Plus, with a multitude of pogo pin connectors scattered throughout the base, you can fix the modules in different orientations.

Having tested the MasterHUB for well over a week, I can confidently say that it makes for a solid addition to any content creator’s workspace.

About this review: Cooler Master sent me the Pro Kit version of the MasterHUB. However, the company had no input into this review. Nor did it see the contents of the article before publishing.

Pricing, specs, and availability

As of writing, the MasterHUB is only available on Kickstarter, with the company planning to ship the orders by October 2024. For the average buyer, the base model of the MasterHUB is priced at $399, though you can grab it at a discounted price of $299 for a limited time. The Starter Kit includes the FlexBase alongside a 15-button IPS display, a 2-roller module, and a triple-knob add-on. If you want more options, you can upgrade to the Pro Kit, which costs an additional $100 ($150 after the discount period ends) and brings two more components: a 1.3-inch IPS display and a 5-fader module. CoolerMaster also sells other add-ons for the MasterHUB, including a PLUS+ Stand and extra versions of each module.

What I like

A versatile design that lets you switch between different parts

Unlike most macro pads and control panels that let you customize the software aspect of the device, the MasterHUB also lets you modify the hardware modules to your liking. At the core of the device is the FlexBase, which consists of multiple pogo pins that can supply power to any modules you attach to the MasterHUB.

Slotting the components is pretty simple: line the connector on each component with the pins on the FlexBase and let the magnets do the rest of the work.

Slotting the components is pretty simple: line the connector on each component with the pins on the FlexBase and let the magnets do the rest of the work. Of course, you’ll need to be a little strategic in the add-on placement if you want to attach multiple modules, especially the larger ones. Speaking of the components…

A solid array of modules

Since I received the Pro Kit variant, I've been able to test all the add-ons available for the MasterHUB – and let me tell you, each component has its own unique functions, including the rather unassuming 2-roller module. For example, the plate with the triple knobs is fantastic for image and video editing, and you can even map additional actions like tapping the knobs using the official MasterHUB app (which I’ll get to in a bit). Similarly, the 5-fader component is perfect for audio editing professionals, while the 1.3-inch display can be used to monitor your CPU/GPU temps when you're not turning the dial to switch desktops.

All that said, the 15-button display module is the real star of the show. Not only does it possess enough keys for all your content creation needs, but the module in question also features a vibrant IPS display instead of resorting to LCD screens. Functionality-wise, you can map any application, command, hot-key, or even app-specific actions to the 15-buttons. Since it’s a display, you can also set custom icons for each button. The MasterHUB application also lets you create up to five pages for different icons. Even if you were to sacrifice eight keys to cycle between different pages, you can still access a grand total of 67 key configs at once! As if that's not enough, you can even set GIF files as icons for the 15-key display to make your setup even more lively.

The 15-button display module is the real star of the show.

The software support is just as amazing

With a productivity-driven tool like the MasterHUB, the software aspect can make or break the product. And I’m happy to report that the control pad exceeded my expectations. The MasterHUB isn’t compatible with the existing Cooler Master app suite. Instead, the device requires its own dedicated application that, as of writing, isn’t available on Cooler Master’s website.

Nevertheless, the MasterHUB application has a simple UI and doesn't come with any bloatware services or unnecessary additions whatsoever. Inside the app, you’ll find a variety of options, ranging from RGB lighting settings to button mapping provisions. Since all components possess different sets of buttons, the application has a separate set of interactions for each module. Plus, you can create multiple profiles and switch between them at will.

The MasterHUB application has a simple UI and doesn't come with any bloatware services or unnecessary additions whatsoever.

While we’re on the subject of mappable actions, the MasterHUB is compatible with a variety of third-party apps and tools, including OBS Studio, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, Twitch, and Streamlabs Desktop. So, you can link application-specific interactions like changing the brush sizes, opening chat, or starting a stream, directly from the MasterHUB control app.

What I don’t like

You can’t attach all modules on the MasterHUB at the same time

Despite the rich set of components that you can attach to the MasterHUB, the FlexBase just isn’t large enough to equip every module available in the Pro Kit version. Although Cooler Master claims it will release a bigger version of the main board in the future, it’s worth noting that you’ll have to leave at least one component out of the setup. With the MasterHUB allowing you to hot-swap each component, the lack of space isn’t a dealbreaker by any means. But I was disappointed that I couldn’t turn the MasterHUB into a full-on productivity warmachine armed with every module available for the device.

Should you buy the Cooler Master MasterHUB?

You won’t regret buying the MasterHUB if:

• You’re looking for a control panel that contains all the toggles, buttons, and knobs you’ll ever need for your productivity needs.
• You want a feature-laden macro pad that’s highly customizable.

You should stay away from the MasterHUB if:

• You don’t want to spend $250+ on a control pad.
• You need to have every module attached to the board at all times.

The MasterHUB is hands-down the most innovative stream deck alternative out there and has a lot of utility regardless of whether you’re an up-and-coming creator or a hardened creative professional. Heck, with the MasterHUB letting you add custom images to each hotkey, you can even use it in your favorite RPGs as an interactive action board featuring custom mapping and icons for all your spells and actions. Sure, it’s not the most expensive control panel on the market. But if you’re willing to shell out $299 on the MasterHUB, you won’t be disappointed with this feature-packed control panel!