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2, a studio controller designed to streamline your computer workflow.
As someone who works in video editing, I was excited to try out the Elgato Stream Deck. The 15 customizable LCD keys and one-touch operation made it a breeze to trigger actions in my video editing software. The visual feedback also assured me that my commands had been executed, which saved me a lot of time and frustration. Additionally, the hotkey actions helped streamline my workflow and made editing much more efficient.
However, I did run into some issues with the product. For one, the device doesn’t work well with a USB hub – it doesn’t properly “wake up” when connected through a hub. Additionally, I was disappointed to find out that the device has to be connected directly to a port on the computer and doesn’t have a wireless option. This made it difficult to hold the device in my hand during meetings.
Stream Deck – A Command Center for Your Computer
Transform your desk setup into a command center for your computer with the powerful Elgato Stream Deck. It features 15 customizable LCD keys that allow you to instantly control your apps, tools, and platforms. With one-touch operation, you can trigger single or multiple actions, launch social posts, adjust audio, mute your mic, turn on lights, and much more. The Stream Deck gives you visual feedback, so you know that your command has been executed. It works with powerful plugins such as Elgato 4KCU, OBS, Twitch, YouTube, Twitter, Discord, Spotify, Philips Hue, and many more. Plus, it’s easy to use and provides hotkey actions that streamline your film editing, music production, photography workflow, and more.
The Benefits of Using the Stream Deck
Take your productivity to the next level with the game-changing Stream Deck. It eliminates the need to memorize key combinations, coordinate two fingers on different hands, or watch your hand or fingers. The buttons are easy to push, and you can program them to suit your task at hand. You can use it for text editing, photo editing, or even as a total command center for your computer. It allows you to change how you work on a computer and get power and control you did not have before. It’s intended for online streamers, but it’s a hit tool that’s good for everybody who uses a computer.
Elgato Stream Deck: The Design of the Stream Deck
With a sleek white finish, the Stream Deck has an interesting design that’s perfect for any desk setup. The kickstand is fully integrated and not removable, and the angle is not adjustable. It features a USB Type C connection and comes with a detachable USB C cable that also has a white finish. The cable is routed through an opening that adds to the design. The keys are very satisfying to press on, and the device feels great when it goes into the computer.
Elgato Stream Deck: Populating and Debugging the Stream Deck
It’s worth the effort to populate the Stream Deck, even though it may take some time. You can set up folders and labels to add more buttons at the same level, or for nested or deeper actions in a folder. Each SD screen will have control buttons that you need from 1 to 3 keys for nearly every screen. You can use profiles as sub-program units, each with a set of buttons. However, you should not invoke a profile with a computer app in a comprehensive structure. Debugging is also essential, and you should work with your stuff to get the best out of the device.
Stream Deck – A Disappointment for Some Users
While the Stream Deck is a powerful tool, it may not suit everyone’s needs. For instance, some users who are not gamers or streamers may find the device less useful. The Elgato plugin for MS Teams may not work as promised, and the device is wired, with no wireless option. If you stand for your meetings, you may have to worry about the cord knocking things over when you move the device around. Additionally, the Stream Deck may not work well with a USB hub, and you may need to plug it directly into your computer’s USB port.
Elgato Stream Deck: Verdict
To sum up, the Elgato Stream Deck is an incredible tool that can transform your desk setup into a command center for your computer. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to take their productivity to the next level, and it’s easy to use. However, it may not fit everyone’s needs, and some users may find it less useful. If you’re a gamer or streamer, or if you’re looking for a powerful tool to streamline your workflow, the Stream Deck is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- The Elgato Stream Deck has 15 customizable LCD keys that can instantly control your apps, tools, and platforms.
- The one-touch operation of the Stream Deck allows you to trigger single or multiple actions, launch social posts, adjust audio, mute mic, turn on lights, and much more.
- The Stream Deck has powerful plugins including Elgato 4KCU, OBS, Twitch, YouTube, Twitter, Discord, Spotify, Philips Hue, and many more.
Cons:
- The kickstand of the Stream Deck is not removable, fully integrated, and the angle is not adjustable.
- The Stream Deck has a USB Type-C connection, but its cable is not detachable.
- The Stream Deck doesn’t work properly with a USB hub and needs to be connected directly to a port on the computer.
Conclusion
Overall, I think the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 is a great product for video editors, gamers, and streamers who want to streamline their workflow. It has some issues, such as the USB hub problem and lack of wireless connectivity, but these can be worked around. If you’re looking for a powerful tool to help you control your computer, the Stream Deck is definitely worth considering.
Questions & Answers:
Question: Is the Elgato Stream Deck only for gamers and streamers?
Answer: No, the Stream Deck is useful for anyone who wants to streamline their workflow, whether it’s for text editing, music production, photography, or even participating in online meetings.
Question: Can you program the Stream Deck to suit your task at hand?
Answer: Yes, programming the Stream Deck is easy, and you can customize the buttons to your liking. You can also set up profiles for different applications that will switch automatically.
Question: Does the Stream Deck have any visual feedback to know that your command has been executed?
Answer: Yes, the Stream Deck has a customizable LCD display under each button that shows the icon and text of the assigned action. This way, you can easily know that your command has been executed.
