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Why the Elgato Stream Deck Lineup Isn’t Just for Streamers
The article explains that Elgato's Stream Deck devices, though best known as tools for livestreamers to switch scenes and manage broadcasts, are equally useful for everyday productivity and home tasks. Writer Lloyd Coombes argues the customisable button panels can streamline workflows for anyone working on PC or Mac, not just content creators, making them a versatile accessory worth considering beyond their streaming reputation.
Coombes describes using two Stream Decks to launch specific applications, open files, and trigger multi-step "work mode" or "gaming mode" macros, as well as controlling smart home devices, muting meetings, and managing Spotify playback. The range includes several sizes (6, 15 and 32 keys), the Stream Deck Plus with dials and a touch strip for editing, and the compact Stream Deck Neo. Some models are currently discounted at Amazon, including the 15-key Stream Deck at £109.99 (down from £139.99) and the Stream Deck XL at £194.99 (down from £229.99).
In short
- Elgato Stream Decks are useful for general productivity, not just streaming
- Buttons can trigger custom app shortcuts, macros and smart home controls
- Several models, including the 15-key and XL versions, are currently discounted
Explained simply
Elgato is a company that makes computer accessories, including the Stream Deck: a panel of buttons that users can customise to perform actions. It became known among livestreamers, who use it to switch scenes and control parts of a broadcast while they are live.
The buttons can also open apps and files, run several computer actions at once, or control music and compatible smart home devices. Stream Deck models come in different sizes, with some adding dials or a touch strip, so the range may suit people with different setups and routines.
The broader appeal is that a single press can replace a series of clicks or menu searches on a PC or Mac. That could make the devices useful for work, gaming or home tasks as well as broadcasting.