Elgato Stream Deck MK.2

An update of the popular Elgato Stream Deck, the Stream Deck MK.2 has 15 customizable keys, each of which doubles as a small color LED screen that shows the function. You can configure each key to do just about anything, but some of the built-in functions the software supports include sending automated Twitch chat messages, playing audio, creating clips, voice modification, or posting tweets. . The Stream Deck MK.2 app has native support for OBS, Twitch and Twitter.

The new model brings us an interchangeable faceplate, a USB-C port with detachable cable, and a sturdier stand with a fixed 45-degree angle. Otherwise it is the same device and has the same functionality and software as the Stream Deck Mini with 6 buttons or the Stream Deck XL with 32 buttons.

The Stream Deck has three rows of five buttons. The buttons are raised, can be pressed and are separated by black bars, giving each one an individual feel. The buttons have no haptic feedback when pressed, but they are tactile. It is very useful during PC game streams to have a hotkey to switch between the game and the other apps, such as Opera GX, Chrome and OBS.

The Stream Deck MK.2 has the same 15 keys as the original but looks different from its predecessor. Measuring 4.6 x 3.3 x 10 inches, it's smaller, slimmer, the stand feels more stable and fits discreetly on your desk. The original Deck weighed 6.4 grams, which has now been reduced to 5.1 grams.

The exchangeable front plate simply clicks into place. This feature makes it easier to customize your faceplate. Another option is to put a vinyl sticker on the front of the deck. Seven custom plates, each with a unique design, are available as an option.

The stand on the Stream Deck MK.2 looks completely different. The previous model had an adjustable stand, but this is a weighted stand and is completely removable and has a 45 degree angle. The weight makes the MK.2 feel sturdy, along with the non-slip base.

The detachable USB-C cable is a great convenience. On the previous model, the 23-inch (59 cm) cord was rigidly connected inside the unit, but the MK.2 comes with a 1.5-meter detachable cable.

Connecting the MK.2 is a simple three-step process. The stand is attached to the console in the box. After you remove the stand, you can simply plug in the USB-C cable, which fits through a hole in the stand. After this is done all you need to do is connect the cable to your computer and configure the software.

The Stream Deck app, which is the same for all Stream Deck models, is where you configure all the buttons. Navigating the software is not difficult as there is a list of actions and supported software on the right with a picture of all the keys on Stream Deck on the right. To configure each button, drag the action you want to assign to the appropriate spot on the button map.

The built-in actions are organized by app/feature and include categories for Elgato Game Capture, OBS Studio, Soundboard, Stream Deck functions (create a folder, set brightness, etc), Streamlabs OBS, Twitter, and Twitch. If you want to create more than 15 buttons, you can add folder buttons that will take you down a level where you can add a whole new set of buttons.

You can also create custom actions that mimic a keyboard combination, launch a website, or enter text for you. There is a multi-action button that can also do any combination of these. And you can even create your own custom icons to go on the buttons.

If building actions alone isn't enough, there are many plugins out there, such as one that offers Spotify integration, although using music during your streams is not recommended due to copyright. However, you could use it. You can also find plugins for other non-streaming workloads, such as programming in Visual Studio.

The Stream Deck MK.2 is not only intended to simplify streaming, it also helps with sound, not only monitoring volumes but also adjusting speech. When you hear streamers making their voices echo, or sound like they've just inhaled helium, they're using Voicemod, a plug-in available for the Stream Deck that has limited free functionality.

Creating features like showing ads on Twitch, emote-only chatting, and creating clips are essential for a seamless stream. The Stream Deck MK.2 also has the ability to create multiple profiles for running different Twitch accounts or for different occasions. You can connect to Twitch, YouTube, Streamlabs and Twitter by logging in through the Stream Deck software.

By linking your Twitch account, you can create buttons that integrate with your stream. You can set a button to open OBS for faster access. Within the OBS functions you can switch scenes, start and stop your stream and move sources.

Other Features of Stream Deck MK.2

Let's talk about use cases outside of Twitch. The Stream Deck MK.2 has a Zoom plugin that allows you to turn your camera on/off and mute yourself. There is also a Speed ​​Test plugin, which is helpful in troubleshooting.

Sometimes you need a mental break after staring at your computer all day. You start to get restless and don't feel like doing real work anymore. The Stream Deck MK.2 provides some mental relief with its minigames such as Memory Game, Dice and Reaction Deck. It's really relaxing.

This macro keyboard is extremely versatile. The icons can be personalized with your own photos, your emotes or funny photos to match the sound using the Elgato keymaker page. There are preloaded icon packs inspired by Assassin's Creed Viking lore, Apex Legends and a superhero pack.

If you're into streaming, the Stream Deck MK.2 will make your life easier and allow you to focus on the tasks that matter most: creating content and interacting with your audience. Just being able to press a single button to send something like a Tweet, instead of navigating menus with a mouse and keyboard, is a game-changer.

The software and plug-ins are easy to use and set up. However, if someone is new to streaming, this device might be overkill as you may not need to activate as many features.

The Stream Deck MK.2 is a visual improvement over the original, with the main difference being the adjustable faceplate, USB-C cable and new stand.

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