Elgato Stream Deck MK2 Review
If you’re a streamer or content creator, you know how important it is to have a seamless and efficient workflow. Juggling multiple tasks at once, such as switching between apps, adjusting audio levels, and triggering effects, can be overwhelming. That’s where the Elgato Stream Deck MK2 comes in – a customisable control panel designed to simplify your workflow and enhance your productivity.
The Elgato Stream Deck MK2 is a powerful tool for streamers and content creators, offering a range of customisation options and integrations with popular apps. With its 15 LCD keys and compact design, it’s a great addition to any desk setup. Priced at $249, it’s an investment worth considering for those who want to take their streaming and content creation to the next level. The Stream Deck MK2 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, with a more robust build and improved software.
Introduction to the Stream Deck MK2
The Elgato Stream Deck MK2 is the latest iteration of the company’s popular Stream Deck series. Measuring 12.3cm in width, 4.5cm in height, and 2.2cm in depth, it’s a compact device that won’t take up too much space on your desk. Weighing in at approximately 250g, it’s also lightweight and easy to move around. The device is constructed from a combination of plastic and metal materials, giving it a solid and premium feel. The 15 LCD keys are the main attraction, each measuring 2.5cm in diameter and featuring a resolution of 72×72 pixels. The keys are backlit, making it easy to see them in low-light environments.
In terms of connectivity, the Stream Deck MK2 features a USB-C port, which is used for both power and data transfer. It’s compatible with Windows 10 and macOS 10.13 or later, and requires a minimum of 4GB of RAM and a 2.4GHz dual-core processor. The device also has a built-in USB hub, allowing you to connect other devices such as a mouse or keyboard.
Setting up the Stream Deck MK2
Setting up the Stream Deck MK2 is a straightforward process. Simply plug it into your computer via the USB-C port, download and install the Elgato Stream Deck software, and you’re ready to go. The software is user-friendly and intuitive, allowing you to easily customise the keys to perform a range of actions. You can assign keys to launch apps, switch between scenes, adjust audio levels, and even trigger custom effects.
The software also allows you to create custom profiles, which can be switched between depending on your needs. For example, you could have one profile for streaming and another for video editing. This makes it easy to tailor the Stream Deck MK2 to your specific workflow and needs.
Customisation options
One of the standout features of the Stream Deck MK2 is its customisation options. Each of the 15 LCD keys can be customised to perform a specific action, and you can even create custom icons and images to display on the keys. The software includes a range of pre-built icons and images, but you can also upload your own.
In addition to customising the keys, you can also customise the Stream Deck MK2’s behaviour. For example, you can set up custom folders to organise your keys, and even create custom workflows that involve multiple keys. The possibilities are endless, and the Stream Deck MK2 is limited only by your imagination.
Integrations and compatibility
The Stream Deck MK2 is designed to work seamlessly with a range of popular apps and services, including OBS Studio, XSplit, and Twitch. It’s also compatible with a range of other Elgato products, such as the Elgato HD60 and the Elgato Cam Link 4K.
In addition to its integrations with popular apps and services, the Stream Deck MK2 is also compatible with a range of other devices. For example, you can use it to control your smart home devices, or even to trigger custom effects on your lighting system.
Pros and cons
Here are the pros and cons of the Elgato Stream Deck MK2:
* Pros:
* Highly customisable, with 15 LCD keys that can be programmed to perform a range of actions
* Compact and lightweight design, making it easy to take on the go
* Integrates seamlessly with popular apps and services, including OBS Studio and Twitch
* Compatible with a range of other Elgato products, including the Elgato HD60 and the Elgato Cam Link 4K
* Cons:
* Expensive, with a price tag of $249
* Limited to 15 keys, which may not be enough for some users
* Software can be buggy at times, although Elgato is continually updating and improving it
Who should buy it
The Elgato Stream Deck MK2 is designed specifically for streamers and content creators who want to simplify their workflow and enhance their productivity. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time streaming or creating content, and you’re looking for a way to streamline your workflow, the Stream Deck MK2 is definitely worth considering.
However, if you’re on a tight budget or you’re not sure if you need a customisable control panel, you may want to consider other options. The Stream Deck MK2 is a significant investment, and it’s not something that you should take lightly.
Alternatives
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Elgato Stream Deck MK2, here are a few options to consider:
* The Razer Stream Controller, which offers a similar range of customisation options and integrations with popular apps and services. Priced at $199, it’s a more affordable option, but it lacks the compact design and premium feel of the Stream Deck MK2.
* The Loupedeck Live, which is a customisable control panel designed specifically for live streaming and content creation. Priced at $299, it’s more expensive than the Stream Deck MK2, but it offers a range of advanced features and integrations with popular apps and services.
* The X-Keys XK-24, which is a customisable keypad that can be programmed to perform a range of actions. Priced at $149, it’s a more affordable option, but it lacks the LCD keys and compact design of the Stream Deck MK2.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Elgato Stream Deck MK2 is a powerful tool for streamers and content creators. With its 15 LCD keys, compact design, and range of customisation options, it’s a great addition to any desk setup. While it’s expensive, with a price tag of $249, it’s an investment worth considering for those who want to take their streaming and content creation to the next level. If you’re looking for a way to simplify your workflow and enhance your productivity, the Stream Deck MK2 is definitely worth checking out.
Here’s a summary of the Stream Deck MK2’s specs:
| Feature | Specification |
| — | — |
| Dimensions | 12.3cm x 4.5cm x 2.2cm |
| Weight | 250g |
| Keys | 15 LCD keys, each measuring 2.5cm in diameter |
| Resolution | 72×72 pixels per key |
| Connectivity | USB-C port |
| Compatibility | Windows 10, macOS 10.13 or later |
| Price | $249 |
Disclosure: PixelPerch may earn a small commission from purchases made through links in this article, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we’d genuinely consider using ourselves.
