Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 vs Stream Deck +: Choosing Your Perfect Streaming Companion

At a Glance

The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + are both popular choices for streamers and content creators looking to enhance their workflow automation and control capabilities. Both products are developed by Elgato, a subsidiary of Corsair, and serve as versatile control surfaces. Below is a comparison of their key specifications and features.

The Stream Deck MK.2 offers 15 customizable keys, which are ideal for users who need a compact solution for basic streaming and macro functions. In contrast, the Stream Deck + extends its functionality with 32 keys, a touchscreen, and four rotary dials, providing more control options for advanced users. The addition of the touchscreen and rotary dials allows Stream Deck + to perform more complex adjustments directly from the device, which can be particularly useful for real-time audio mixing or adjusting camera settings.

Both models come with the Stream Deck software, which facilitates seamless integration with various creative applications. They support plugin development through the Stream Deck SDK, allowing for personalized customizations. Developers can create plugins using C++ or JavaScript, enabling interaction with host systems and other applications. For a detailed comparison of the software capabilities, refer to the review on Tom's Hardware.

Overall, the choice between the Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + largely depends on the user's specific needs and budget. While the MK.2 is more budget-friendly and compact, the Stream Deck + offers expanded functionality suitable for more demanding streaming setups.

Pricing Comparison

When considering the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck +, understanding their pricing structures can be crucial for deciding which model offers the best value for your specific needs. Both products are part of Elgato's lineup, owned by Corsair, and are designed to enhance live streaming control and content creation workflows.

The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 is priced at $149.99, making it the more affordable option between the two. For users primarily interested in basic macro key assignments and integration with creative software, this could be a budget-friendly choice. On the other hand, the Stream Deck + is priced at $199.99, reflecting its enhanced features and capabilities, which may include more advanced control options and automation features suitable for professional streamers.

Both devices come with software included in the purchase price, ensuring that you can immediately start using them to streamline your workflows. The software is free with hardware purchase, eliminating any ongoing subscription fees, which is a significant advantage for budget-conscious users. For more details on the software and its features, you can refer to Elgato's documentation.

Ultimately, the choice between the Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + will depend on your specific requirements and budget. If the price difference is a key factor, the MK.2 offers a cost-effective entry into the Elgato ecosystem. However, for those who need more advanced functionality and are willing to pay a premium, the Stream Deck + might offer better value for money in terms of versatility and features.

Further insights into the value and performance of these devices can be found on Tom's Hardware's review of Elgato Stream Deck, which provides a detailed analysis of their capabilities.

Developer Experience

The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 and the Stream Deck + are both popular choices for streamers and content creators, offering a range of features designed to enhance productivity and workflow automation. Key aspects of their developer experience are onboarding, documentation, ergonomics, and tooling.

The onboarding process for both devices is streamlined and user-friendly, facilitated by Elgato's comprehensive online documentation. This resource covers setup instructions, troubleshooting, and frequently asked questions, making it easy for new users to get started. The software installation is straightforward, and the interface is intuitive, allowing users to customize buttons and dial assignments quickly.

In terms of documentation quality, both models benefit from Elgato's detailed guides that cater to a range of user needs, from basic configuration to advanced plugin development. The Stream Deck SDK is available for the MK.2, enabling developers to create custom plugins using C++ or JavaScript, offering flexibility in extending device capabilities. The SDK's documentation is thorough, providing examples and a clear reference for developers.

From an ergonomic perspective, the Stream Deck MK.2 features 15 programmable LCD keys, providing visual feedback and a high degree of customization for different workflows. In contrast, the Stream Deck + adds four analog dials alongside its eight LCD keys, offering a unique tactile interface that can be particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise adjustments, such as audio mixing.

Tooling differs between the two, with the MK.2 offering more extensive customization options through its SDK, appealing to developers interested in creating tailored solutions. On the other hand, the Stream Deck + emphasizes enhanced functionality straight out of the box, with the combination of keys and dials providing a versatile interface without the need for extensive programming.

For those interested in further insights into the device capabilities, Tom's Hardware's review of the Stream Deck MK.2 provides an in-depth look at its features and usability.

Verdict

When choosing between the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 and the Stream Deck +, understanding your specific needs and use cases is paramount. Both devices cater to content creators and streamers, providing excellent control over various software applications, but they have distinct advantages depending on the user's requirements.

The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 is ideal for users who prioritize a straightforward and highly customizable macro key setup. With 15 customizable LCD keys, the MK.2 provides quick access to functions such as live streaming control and workflow automation. This model is particularly beneficial for users who are heavily involved in macro key assignments and require integration with diverse creative software. The MK.2's integration capabilities are extensive, including compatibility with popular platforms like OBS Studio and Twitch, which makes it a versatile choice for streamers who rely on seamless software interaction. According to a detailed review on Tom's Hardware, the MK.2 is praised for its ease of use and practical design, which appeals to both novice and experienced users.

On the other hand, the Stream Deck + offers a more advanced setup with additional features, perfect for those who need more comprehensive control options. Priced at $199.99, the Stream Deck + includes a combination of customizable buttons and rotary dials, which provides enhanced control for audio adjustments and other nuanced settings. This makes it a suitable option for users who manage complex streaming or recording setups, where adjusting multiple variables simultaneously is crucial. The Stream Deck + also includes touchscreen functionality, offering a modern interface that caters to tech-savvy professionals seeking a more interactive experience. RTINGS.com highlights its versatility and the ability to adapt to various user preferences, making it a strong candidate for users who need flexibility in their streaming or content creation processes.

In summary, the choice between the Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + largely depends on your specific needs. If you require a straightforward and customizable macro pad, the MK.2 is a wise choice. However, if you need additional control features, such as dials and touchscreen functionality, the Stream Deck + is the better option. Consider your primary use cases and budget to make the most suitable choice for your setup.

Performance

The Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + both serve as prominent tools for streamers and content creators, offering a range of functionalities that enhance productivity and streamline workflows.

The Stream Deck MK.2 is renowned for its flexibility in live streaming control and workflow automation. It features 15 customizable LCD keys that can be programmed for various functions, such as launching applications, controlling audio, and sending pre-written chat messages. This model remains popular among creators for its straightforward interface and integration capabilities with creative software like OBS Studio and Adobe Premiere Pro.

In contrast, the Stream Deck + introduces additional features aimed at further optimizing stream control. It retains the customizable LCD keys but adds four tactile dials and a touch strip, offering more nuanced control over audio levels and other adjustable settings. These physical controls provide a tactile experience that can be beneficial during live streaming sessions, enabling users to make precise adjustments on the fly.

The Stream Deck MK.2 is ideal for users who prioritize a straightforward interface with essential macro capabilities. Its integration with multiple programs allows for seamless transitions between tasks and straightforward assignment of functions to its keys. For those interested in customizing their streaming setup, the availability of the Stream Deck SDK provides options for developing custom plugins.

Meanwhile, the Stream Deck + is suited for creators who require more dynamic control over their streams. Its additional dials and touch strip are particularly advantageous for adjusting audio levels and other live settings without switching away from the primary task at hand. This model also caters to users who benefit from tactile feedback during broadcasts, enhancing the overall control experience.

Ultimately, both devices offer significant enhancements to streaming and creative workflows. The Stream Deck MK.2 serves as an accessible entry point with a focus on essential control, whereas the Stream Deck + offers advanced features that might appeal to more intensive users. For further insights into their performance, users can explore reviews and tests like those available on Tom's Hardware's detailed review pages.

Ecosystem

Both the Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + are integral tools for streamers and content creators looking to optimize their workflow. Integration within creative ecosystems is a key feature, and each device offers compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware.

• Software Integration: The Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + both support Elgato's free Stream Deck software, which is essential for customizing the devices' buttons and functions. Stream Deck software allows for seamless integration with popular platforms such as OBS Studio, YouTube, Twitch, and other streaming services. This integration enables users to execute complex sequences of actions with a single button press, enhancing productivity and streamlining operations.
• Plugin Support: These devices boast extensive plugin support, facilitated by the Stream Deck SDK. The SDK allows developers to create custom plugins for both devices. The SDK is compatible with C++ for native plugin creation and JavaScript for web-based interfaces. This flexibility allows developers and users to tailor the devices to their specific needs, integrating them deeply into their creative workflows.
• Hardware Compatibility: Both devices are owned by Corsair, ensuring compatibility with other products in Corsair's ecosystem. However, the Stream Deck + offers additional hardware integration capabilities, such as control over Corsair iCUE-enabled hardware, providing a more expansive ecosystem experience.

For more detailed analysis of how Stream Deck products fit into various creative workflows, including plugin development specifics, readers might explore Tom's Hardware's insights on Stream Deck usage.

Ultimately, both the Stream Deck MK.2 and Stream Deck + provide versatile tools that integrate effectively within creative ecosystems. While the MK.2 offers substantial compatibility, the Stream Deck + enhances this with additional hardware integration capabilities, making it a compelling choice for users seeking expansive system control.