Positioned just out of frame on the desks of popular Twitch and YouTube streamers, the Elgato Stream Deck is an invaluable tool. Its customizable LCD buttons facilitate the seamless launching and management of applications, allowing users to maintain their workflow. This functionality extends beyond live streaming—it’s also a potent resource for enhancing productivity.

For nearly ten years, the merit of utilizing gaming devices for productivity has been championed, and the Stream Deck represents a significant advancement in that philosophy. Unlike standard gaming keyboards, this device offers extensive customization options. You can designate routine tasks, initiate applications, and even automate intricate workflows with just one button press, all while personalizing it with vibrant icons.

All variations of the Stream Deck rely on the same software compatible with both Windows and macOS for personalizing the keys. This application is where the true potential resides, and maximizing its use is essential.

Launch Your Essentials Instantly

Getting started on tasks is often easier when there’s a tactile reminder of what to focus on, and the Stream Deck provides just that. A customized layout featuring shortcuts to frequently used applications and websites streamlines your workflow and enables you to launch each with a mere button press.

The “Open” action in the system menu allows you to access commonly used applications or specific files quickly. Pairing this with the “Website” action makes your online tools available effortlessly. Moreover, the Multi Action feature lets you set up buttons that can trigger multiple actions at once, simplifying your entire operation.

Control Your Meetings with Ease

Mic management can be a source of concern for many; being unsure whether your microphone is muted can lead to awkward situations. The Stream Deck alleviates this anxiety by providing dedicated buttons for popular platforms such as Zoom, Teams, and Discord. These buttons not only enable you to mute/unmute your mic or toggle your camera, but they also visually indicate their status, irrespective of whether the application window is active.

Additionally, functions like screen sharing and instant meeting exits enhance your control over virtual interactions, ensuring you never have to fumble during important discussions.

Automate Text Snippets and Responses

For efficiently inserting frequently used text snippets, the Stream Deck excels. Its “Text” action allows you to create up to 500-character pre-written segments that can quickly be dispatched with a single button press. The functionality includes basic formatting options like font style and alignment.

Advanced users can take advantage of the SuperMacro plugin to develop more complex macros, enabling variable-based text snippets for maximum customization.

Manage Your Smart Home

Smart lighting systems, particularly Philips Hue, have become indispensable. The Philips Hue Stream Deck plugin allows you to manipulate individual bulbs or rooms with ease. Adjust brightness levels, trigger specific lighting scenes, or change color temperature directly from your desk without the need for an app or voice assistant.

Even if Philips Hue isn’t your go-to, the IFTTT plugin enables integration with a wide array of smart home devices, enhancing your control capabilities.

Combine Actions with Multi Action

This feature is where the Stream Deck truly shines. The Multi Action function allows users to link several actions together, creating a sequence of commands triggered by a single button press. For instance, you could configure one button to launch Photoshop, Lightroom, and your email simultaneously.

The Multi Action Switch option takes this further by providing two distinct lists of commands alternating with each press, which is useful for tasks like shutting down work applications at the end of your day.

Choosing the Right Stream Deck Model

Elgato offers several Stream Deck models, each with unique features to consider:

• Stream Deck MK.2 ($150): The quintessential model with a grid of customizable buttons and a removable stand.
• Stream Deck Neo ($100): A more affordable variant that retains key functionality with eight buttons and an info bar.
• Stream Deck + ($200): Features fewer LCD keys but includes customizable dials for fine-tuning parameters vital for media professionals.
• Stream Deck XL ($250): This version boasts a 32-button layout, maximizing accessibility for those needing numerous functions at their fingertips.
• Stream Deck Mobile: Ideal for beginners, this app offers limited functionality with up to six customizable buttons for free.