Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 review: fifteen customizable lcd keys that become the control surface for your whole setup
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Overall score
The Stream Deck is the rare gadget that earns desk space immediately. If you run OBS or juggle apps while streaming, it's the first quality-of-life upgrade to make.
Pros
- Huge plugin ecosystem (OBS, Twitch, audio, smart home)
- Folders and profiles turn 15 keys into hundreds of actions
- Mature, reliable software
- Genuinely useful even on non-stream days
Cons
- Per-key cost adds up vs a macro pad
- Wants a dedicated USB port
Why it sticks
Scene switches, mic mute, clip markers, lighting — after a week it's muscle memory, and the plugin store keeps it useful well beyond streaming.
Final verdict
The Stream Deck is the rare gadget that earns desk space immediately. If you run OBS or juggle apps while streaming, it's the first quality-of-life upgrade to make.
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