Elgato Stream Deck XL – Advanced Studio Controller - 32 macro keys

While the name suggests this is for streaming, I bought this specifically for work. I've been watching videos of how people managed to use the Stream Deck for productivity and work and, let me tell you, it's a game changer. Yes, you can do similar stuff with a macro keyboard and macro keys, but having this on your desk along with a visual display changes everything. I've set up various macros and shortcuts to get a bunch of the tedious tasks I need to do daily out of the way and this helps automate it for me. Great stuff!

First, review the YouTube videos to see how this glorious and adventurous computer gadget is used. "Presto, it just works!" I was leery at first, but the instructions and hookups were easy. This reduces the number of tabs at the top of a Chrome browser. On the bookmarks bar, if you have secondary and deeper layers but want to remain organized without moving a daily bookmark or short key out of sequence or order to the top, confusing your structure, this is the solution. If you have an employee on a dedicated (like SMM or CSR) workstation, restrict access using Stream Deck. To summarize, press one button instead of several if you are working hard, need to open several files or websites, and want to avoid fuss around every darn day.

The Elgato Stream Deck XL is a game-changer for content creators, streamers, and anyone looking to streamline their workflow on both Mac and PC platforms. With 32 customizable macro keys and the ability to trigger actions in a wide range of applications, this advanced studio controller has become an integral part of my content creation setup. Here's why I'm so impressed with the Elgato Stream Deck XL: 1. Unparalleled Customization: The 32 macro keys on the Stream Deck XL are fully customizable, allowing me to create and assign a wide range of actions and shortcuts. Whether I'm streaming on Twitch, recording a YouTube video, or working on a creative project, I can tailor the keys to my specific needs. 2. Streamlined Workflow: This controller significantly streamlines my workflow. With a single press of a button, I can launch applications, switch scenes in OBS, control audio levels, trigger transitions, and much more. It's like having a personal production assistant at my fingertips. 3. Wide Application Compatibility: The Stream Deck XL is compatible with a plethora of applications and software, including OBS Studio, Twitch, YouTube, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and many others. It adapts seamlessly to various creative and streaming tasks. 4. Easy-to-Use Software: Elgato's companion software, the Stream Deck app, is user-friendly and intuitive. Creating and organizing macros is a breeze, thanks to the drag-and-drop interface. The software also provides regular updates and improvements. 5. Dynamic and Versatile: In addition to static icons, the Stream Deck XL supports dynamic actions. You can display real-time information, such as current viewer counts, system performance metrics, or chat messages, directly on the keys. It's an invaluable tool for staying connected and informed while streaming. 6. Premium Build Quality: The Stream Deck XL boasts a premium build quality. The keys are responsive and have a satisfying tactile feel, ensuring that every press is precise and reliable. The device feels solid and durable, designed to withstand heavy usage. 7. Comprehensive Integration: I appreciate how well the Stream Deck XL integrates with popular streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube. It simplifies tasks like going live, managing chat, and engaging with viewers, making the streaming experience more enjoyable. 8. Endless Creativity: The only limit to what you can do with the Stream Deck XL is your imagination. Whether you're creating complex macros or simple shortcuts, it's a versatile tool that adapts to your creative needs. 9. Great for Multi-Tasking: If you juggle multiple applications and tasks during your streams or content creation sessions, the Stream Deck XL becomes your command center. It reduces the need to alt-tab or navigate through menus, saving time and effort. 10. Enhances Professionalism: The Stream Deck XL enhances the professionalism of your streams and content. It allows you to execute actions seamlessly, creating a polished and engaging viewer experience. In conclusion, the Elgato Stream Deck XL is a powerhouse for content creators and streamers, delivering an unmatched level of customization and efficiency. Its intuitive interface, wide software compatibility, dynamic capabilities, and premium build quality make it a standout studio controller. Whether you're a seasoned streamer or just starting your content creation journey, the Stream Deck XL is a valuable investment that elevates your productivity and creativity to new heights. It's become an integral part of my setup, and I can't imagine my workflow without it.

I can't even begin to tell you just how much I use this in my day-to-day. Well, actually I can, this is a review, it's kind of the point. But most people see "STREAM" deck and think "oh, this is for streaming". No, my mistaken friend, this is a multitool that is only limited to your imagination. Got a wireless keyboard? That's cool. What happens when it runs out of battery and you need to charge it? Make a folder on the Stream Deck specifically for shortcuts like Ctrl +, Ctrl X, Shift, Alt Tab, and more, and you've got all your non-typing needs met through it. Need some control in your life? This has plugins available through the program's built-in library for things like light control. As an example, I use Govee lights. From my Stream Deck, I can control which lights are on, what their brightness is, what their color is, and more! I also do game development on the side. Having to type out "\n" to insert the name of the third character into text can get a little annoying every time you need to say their name. So I've got a system text button that types out fourteen different character names with a press of a button (the button in question has their face on them, too, did I mention image button customization?), as well as thirteen color codes to change the text's color mid-sentence. Of course, you can also use this to LAUNCH programs as well. If you're like me and you have hundreds of programs and you don't have your desktop icons turned on, going into your folders or scrolling through your program bar can be a hassle. Add buttons for it! You can even set up folders to hold game series (KH or FF anyone?), a folder for emulators, you can even put in Steam games. Forget the games for a bit, literally every single "exe" file can be executed with a single press of a button. And of course, lastly, YES I use mine for streaming too. Switching between scenes, opening up a dynamic text file to change the weekly shout-out, turning on/off my microphone, instant clips, alerts, chat commands...heck, I even have three clocks on here to show me the times of other viewers' time zones so I can stream a game THEY like when they're actually awake. And the multi-action tool allows me to create a button that does five or six different things in a row, which is perfect for if you need to put your streams into a lockdown for something serious. All in all, I haven't found a single thing this Stream deck CAN'T do. And if there IS something, the additional add-on plugins easily fix that. 10/10 would recommend for any streamer, but also any computer user to make life so much simpler and easier.