Elgato Stream Deck MK.2

Your PC's best pal or annoying neighbor?

- SAM LEWIS

HAVING BEEN AROUND since 2017, Elgato's quirky little macro switches have made a name for themselves in the creative, live streaming, and gaming circles. If you like keeping your desktop setup neat and tidy. the idea of adding another peripheral may not be appealing. However, this one is designed primarily to streamline your work and to make your PC experience as efficient as possible. So, should you add a Stream Deck to your desk or stick to the old school mouse and keyboard method?

There are several variants in Elgato's Stream Deck lineup. There is the original model, the XL version, the Mini, the mobile app, and the pedal accessory. The one we have on test here, the MK.2, is a revamp of the original version. It now features 15 physical LCD macro keys and comes in a white variant. What it gives you over the original model is a nicer 45° detachable kickstand, interchangeable faceplates for more customization, and a removable USB-C cable.

The Stream Deck MK.2 is a fresh-looking peripheral that sits discreetly on your desktop. The detachable kickstand looks much cleaner than the MK.1, although the old one had different levels of adjustment. The clarity of the LCD screens isn't revolutionary, but they clearly display the keys' icons.

The Stream Deck has 15 customizable action buttons that allow you to complete a variety of different tasks. These are all chosen and customized within Elgato's Stream Deck app, which is where all the magic happens. Opening it up reveals a simulated version of your Stream Deck on screen. Although there are only 15 physical keys on the device, here you can create an infinite amount of keys and actions more than you'll ever need.