The Ultimate Tool for Gaming, Streaming, and Productivity
As content creation and live streaming continue to grow, tools that improve productivity, workflow, and creativity are becoming increasingly important. One such tool is Elgato’s Stream Deck. Whether you’re a streamer, YouTuber, or even someone looking to automate daily tasks, the Stream Deck will change your life.
The Elgato Stream Deck is essentially a small control panel with customisable LCD buttons that allows users to assign a wide range of commands with just a single press. Originally designed for streamers, its appeal now stretches across a variety of professions— from video editors and musicians to office workers looking to assign some sweet Excel formulas to a single button press.
The Stream Deck provides an almost limitless number of possibilities. You can customise the device to manage your live streams, launch applications, control lighting, send messages, and much more.
Breakdown
Design
10/10
In terms of design, the Stream Deck is simple yet functional. It features an array of beautiful little backlit buttons, each with a small screen that can be customised with icons or images. The sleek, matte finish on the MK.2 model adds a premium feel, while the Stream Deck XL includes a detachable stand for those who want to angle the device for easier access.
The MK.2 model even allows for interchangeable faceplates, giving you the chance to add an extra personal touch to the device. Despite the different sizes across models, all Stream Decks maintain a compact, desk-friendly design that won’t take up too much space. The buttons are also very responsive, making it satisfying to switch between commands.
Specs
10/10
The Stream Deck comes in three different models: Stream Deck Mini, Stream Deck MK.2, and Stream Deck XL. Here's a breakdown of the main technical specs for each model:
- Stream Deck Mini: 6 LCD buttons, compact and portable.
- Stream Deck MK.2: 15 LCD buttons, moderate size with USB-C connectivity.
- Stream Deck XL: 32 LCD buttons, best for power users with demanding workflows.
Each button on all models is an LCD screen that can display custom icons or images, which makes it easy to label your shortcuts. The device connects via USB, is compatible with Windows and macOS, and doesn’t require external power.
Features
10/10
Customisable Buttons
The hallmark of the Stream Deck is its customisation potential. With up to 32 LCD keys (depending on the model), each button can be programmed to perform single or multiple actions. You can create different profiles for different tasks and switch between them seamlessly. For example, one button press can open a program, mute your microphone, and start a recording, all at once. The possibilities are truly endless.Multi-Action Sequences
One of the standout features of the Stream Deck is its ability to perform multi-action sequences. With one press, you can launch a series of actions—great for streamers needing to start multiple programs and tasks when they go live. You can also set delays between actions to ensure everything flows smoothly.Plugin Integration
Elgato has provided extensive support for third-party plugins, allowing integration with OBS Studio, YouTube, Twitch, Twitter, Philips Hue, and many more applications. These plugins expand the functionality of the Stream Deck and give you more control over your favourite software.Smart Profiles
With smart profiles, you can create custom layouts for different apps or games, and the Stream Deck will automatically switch to the correct profile when a specific app is running. This makes it super convenient for multitaskers who work with various programs throughout the day.
Price
8/10
Here’s where things get a little tricky. While the Stream Deck is an excellent tool for productivity and creativity, its price tag may be off-putting for some. At the time of writing, prices for the various models are roughly:
- Stream Deck Mini: £79.99
- Stream Deck MK.2: £139.99
- Stream Deck XL: £219.99
For what it offers, the price may feel a little steep, particularly for the XL model. That being said, the level of customisation and efficiency it brings to your workflow may justify the investment, especially if you spend a significant amount of time using shortcuts and multi-action commands.
Pros
Customisation
Cons
Price
Verdict
Essential for Gaming & Working
Final Thoughts
The Elgato Stream Deck is without a doubt one of the most customisable and important tools available for streamers, content creators, and even professionals looking to streamline their work. It offers a simple interface, robust functionality, and seamless integration with countless apps.
Personally, the customisation options are my favourite part of the Stream Deck. The ability to create multiple profiles, and assign multi-action commands, saves me so much time. HOWEVER, the price can be a drawback, especially if you’re just starting out or not sure if you’ll use all the features to their full potential.
If you’re someone who’s deeply involved in content creation or looking to optimise your workflow, the Stream Deck is well worth the investment. For casual users or those on a budget, the Mini version is a more affordable option, offering the same core functionality in a smaller package.
Ultimately, if you’re looking to take your setup to the next level, the Elgato Stream Deck is a tool that can help you do just that. While the cost may seem high at first, its potential to boost productivity and enhance creativity is hard to overlook.
