Stream Deck is a powerful device designed for content creators, gamers, and streamers. This device features a customizable array of buttons that can be programmed to perform various actions such as launching applications, switching scenes, controlling audio, and more. It's essentially a control center for your computer and can significantly enhance your workflow. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the best three Stream Decks currently available in the market.
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Top 3 Elgato Stream Decks 2023
1. Elgato Stream Deck
Elgato Stream Deck is the most
popular and widely used Stream Deck device. It features 15 LCD keys that can be
customized with any icon and action you want. You can create unlimited
profiles, and each profile can have multiple folders, allowing you to easily
switch between different workflows. The Stream Deck integrates with various software
and platforms, including OBS Studio, Streamlabs, Twitch, YouTube, and more. It
can also control Philips Hue lights, and other smart devices.
Pros:
- Customizable: The Elgato Stream Deck allows users to create and customize up to 15 LCD keys with live content, making it an ideal tool for content creators who need quick access to frequently used functions.
- User-friendly: The Stream Deck's intuitive interface and user-friendly software make it easy to set up and use, even for beginners.
- Compatibility: The Stream Deck is compatible with a wide range of software and services, including Streamlabs, TipeeeStream, Twitch, Open Broadcaster Software, and YouTube.
Cons:
- Cost: The Stream Deck is relatively expensive compared to other similar products, making it less accessible to budget-conscious users.
- Limited LCD display: The Stream Deck's LCD keys have a small display area, which can make it difficult to read and access information quickly.
- USB connection: The Stream Deck requires a USB connection to function, which can limit its portability and ease of use.
Specifications:
- Brand: Corsair
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Supported Internet Services: Streamlabs, TipeeeStream, Twitch, Open Broadcaster Software, YouTube
- Color: Black
- Model Name: Stream Deck
- Item Weight: 190 Grams
- Product Dimensions: 4.65"L x 0.83"W x 3.31"H
- Compatible Devices: Laptop, PC
Features:
- Customizable LCD keys with live content
- User-friendly software interface
- 15 programmable keys
- Compatibility with a wide range of software and services
- USB connectivity
- Compact and portable design
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
With the Stream Deck, you can set up macros and hotkeys for your favorite apps, allowing you to quickly access and execute your preferred commands. Additionally, the Stream Deck has a built-in screen saver that displays animations and images, adding a personalized touch to your setup.
See also:
2. Elgato Stream Deck XL
The Stream Deck XL is an upgraded
version of the original Stream Deck. It features 32 LCD keys, allowing you to
have more actions and macros available at your fingertips. The device has an
enhanced build quality with a robust aluminum chassis that can withstand heavy
usage. Like the original Stream Deck, the Stream Deck XL integrates with
various software and platforms and supports unlimited profiles and folders.
Pros:
- Streamline workflows with 32 macro keys
- Compatibility with popular apps and software
- Customizable LCD keys for easy identification
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other stream controllers
- Only useful for streamers or content creators
- Limited functionality for non-streaming tasks
Specifications:
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Supported Internet Services: Spotify, YouTube
- Color: Black
- Model Name: Elgato Stream Deck XL-Advanced Stream Control, 32 customizable LCD keys
- Item Weight: 410 Grams
- Product Dimensions: 7.17"L x 1.34"W x 4.41"H
- Compatible Devices: Windows 10, macOS 10.13
- Memory Storage Capacity: 12 GB
Features:
- Trigger actions in apps and software like OBS, Twitch, and YouTube
- Works with both Mac and PC
- Free returns and financing options available
- Available in different sizes and styles to fit your needs
- Easy setup and customization with Stream Deck software
One of the significant advantages of the Stream Deck XL is its customizable folder icons, allowing you to quickly identify different folders and their contents. The device also has a built-in USB hub, allowing you to connect additional devices to your computer.
3. Elgato Stream Deck Mini
The Stream Deck Mini is a compact
and affordable version of the Stream Deck. It features six LCD keys that can be
programmed with different actions, macros, and hotkeys. The Stream Deck Mini is
an excellent choice for users with limited desk space or those who prefer a
more streamlined workflow.
Pros:
- Easy to control your favorite tools and platforms.
- Customizable LCD keys allow for quick triggering of actions.
- Supports powerful integrations with popular apps and software.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other similar products.
- Limited number of keys on the Stream Deck Mini (6 keys).
- May take some time to set up and configure for individual needs.
Specifications:
- Brand: Elgato
- Supported Internet Services: YouTube, Twitch, Twitter, etc.
- Color: Black
- Item Weight: 0.39 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 2.4"L x 2.3"W x 3.3"H
- Compatible Devices: Personal Computers
- Memory Storage Capacity: 12 GB
Features:
- 6 Customizable LCD keys for instant triggering of actions.
- Multi Actions allows for simultaneous or sequential triggering of actions.
- Smart Profiles allow for unique key configurations for different apps.
- Powerful integrations with popular apps and software such as OBS, Twitch, and Discord.
- Tactile Live Production for easy control of favorite tools and platforms.
The device has a small form factor
that makes it easy to carry around and can be used with laptops or desktop
computers. Like the other Stream Deck devices, the Stream Deck Mini integrates
with various software and platforms, allowing you to customize your workflow
and streamline your tasks.
Comparison
Elgato Stream Deck, Stream Deck XL,
and Stream Deck Mini are three different versions of the same product line,
each with its own set of features and specifications. The Stream Deck is the
most popular and widely used device, featuring 15 customizable LCD keys, USB
connectivity, and compatibility with various software and platforms.
The Stream Deck XL is an
upgraded version, with 32 LCD keys, a built-in USB hub, and customizable folder
icons. The Stream Deck Mini is a compact and affordable option, with six LCD
keys, customizable profiles, and powerful integrations with popular apps and
software.
All three devices are designed to
streamline workflows and make it easier for content creators to control their
favorite tools and platforms. However, each device is designed for a specific
audience with different needs, and users should choose the one that best suits
their requirements.
Conclusion
The Elgato Stream Deck, Stream Deck
XL, and Stream Deck Mini are all powerful devices that can significantly
enhance your workflow as a content creator, gamer, or streamer. The Elgato
Stream Deck is the most popular and widely used device with 15 customizable
keys, while the Stream Deck XL has 32 keys and a robust aluminum chassis.
The Stream Deck Mini is a compact and affordable version with six keys, making it an excellent choice for users with limited desk space. Regardless of which Stream Deck you choose, you can be sure that it will provide a more streamlined and efficient workflow.
FAQs
Q: What is an Elgato Stream Deck?
The Elgato Stream Deck is a programmable control deck that is designed to
help streamers and content creators manage and enhance their streaming and
content creation experience. It features customizable LCD keys that can be
assigned with a variety of actions, such as launching programs, executing
macros, controlling multimedia, adjusting settings, and more.
Q: What is the difference between Elgato Stream Deck, Stream Deck XL, and Stream Deck Mini?
The main
differences between the Elgato Stream Deck, Stream Deck XL, and Stream Deck
Mini are the number of keys, the size of the deck, and the price. The Elgato
Stream Deck has 15 keys, the Stream Deck XL has 32 keys, and the Stream Deck
Mini has 6 keys. The Elgato Stream Deck measures 3.3 x 4.6 inches, the Stream
Deck XL measures 6.77 x 4.61 inches, and the Stream Deck Mini measures 2.6 x
2.6 inches. The Elgato Stream Deck is priced at around $150, the Stream Deck XL
is priced at around $250, and the Stream Deck Mini is priced at around $100.
Q: How does the Elgato Stream Deck work?
The Elgato Stream Deck works by connecting to a computer via USB and
running the Stream Deck software, which allows you to customize the actions
assigned to each key. You can create and save multiple profiles for different
applications or tasks, and switch between them with ease. Once you have
configured your Stream Deck, you can use it to streamline your workflow and
perform complex actions with a single press of a button.
Q: What can you do with the Elgato Stream Deck?
With the Elgato Stream Deck, you can customize the keys with a
wide range of actions to enhance your streaming and content creation
experience. Some examples of actions you can assign to keys include launching
programs, executing macros, controlling multimedia, adjusting settings,
toggling scenes, muting audio, starting and stopping recordings, and more. You
can also create and save multiple profiles for different applications or tasks.
Q: Is the Elgato Stream Deck easy to use?
The Elgato Stream Deck is designed to be easy to use, even for those
who are not technically inclined. The Stream Deck software is intuitive and
user-friendly, allowing you to create and customize your key assignments with
ease. Once you have configured your Stream Deck, using it is as simple as
pressing a button. Additionally, the Stream Deck comes with a quick start guide
to help you get up and running quickly.
Q: What software is required to use the Elgato Stream Deck?
To use the Elgato Stream Deck, you will need to
download and install the Stream Deck software, which is available for both
Windows and macOS. The software allows you to customize the actions assigned to
each key, create and save profiles, and update the firmware of the Stream Deck.
The software is available for free on the Elgato website.
Q: Is the Elgato Stream Deck compatible with all streaming software?
The Elgato Stream Deck is compatible
with a wide range of streaming software, including OBS, Streamlabs, XSplit,
Twitch Studio, and more. However, not all streaming software may be supported,
and some features may be limited. It is recommended to check the Elgato website
or the software documentation to confirm compatibility before purchasing.
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