Introduction
In recent years, streaming has become an increasingly popular form of entertainment, and as such, there has been a growing need for tools that make the streaming experience more efficient and streamlined. One such tool is the Elgato Stream Deck Classic, a customizable control panel that allows streamers to easily switch between scenes, control audio, and more. In this article, we will be reviewing the Elgato Stream Deck Classic, exploring its features and specifications, analyzing its strengths and weaknesses, and providing recommendations for who should consider purchasing it.
Table of Contents
Features and Specifications
The Elgato Stream Deck Classic is a 15-button LCD display with customizable icons that allows streamers to control various aspects of their stream with ease. Some of its key features include:
- Customizable Icons: The Stream Deck Classic allows users to create custom icons for each button, which can be easily switched out as needed. This allows users to have quick access to their most frequently used actions.
- Macro Functionality: The Stream Deck Classic also allows users to create macros, which are pre-recorded sequences of actions that can be triggered by pressing a single button. This can be especially useful for streamers who have complex scenes or overlays that require multiple actions to be triggered at once.
- Compatibility: The Stream Deck Classic is compatible with a wide range of software, including OBS Studio, Streamlabs, XSplit, and more. It also works with popular streaming platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Mixer.
- Integration with Other Elgato Products: The Stream Deck Classic can be integrated with other Elgato products, such as the Elgato Game Capture software and the Elgato Key Light, to create a complete streaming setup.
Comparison to Other Products on the Market
The Elgato Stream Deck Classic is not the only customizable control panel on the market. Other popular options include the Streamlabs Stream Deck and the Touch Portal. However, the Stream Deck Classic stands out in a few key ways.
First, the Stream Deck Classic has a larger display than the Streamlabs Stream Deck, which only has 6 buttons. This allows for more customization options and easier access to frequently used actions.
Second, the Stream Deck Classic is more affordable than the Touch Portal, which can cost over $100 for the hardware alone. This makes it a more accessible option for streamers on a budget.
where can you get a Elgato Stream Deck Classic online
Elgato Stream Deck XL – Advanced Studio Controller, 32 macro keys, trigger actions in apps and software like OBS, Twitch, YouTube and more, works with Mac and PC: Buy it now
Elgato Stream Deck XL – Advanced Stream Control with 32 Customizable LCD Keys & Chat Link Pro – Audio Adapter, for PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Capture Voice Chat, Gameplay Sound, Extra Long Cable: Buy it now
Real-Life Usage Experience
In terms of real-life usage, the Elgato Stream Deck Classic is a game-changer for streamers. The ability to customize the buttons and create macros makes it easy to switch between scenes, control audio, and more without having to navigate through multiple menus.
Streamers have reported that the Stream Deck Classic has significantly streamlined their workflow and made their streams more professional-looking. The ability to quickly switch between scenes and overlays has allowed for a more seamless viewing experience for viewers.
In-Depth Review of Performance in Various Genres
The Elgato Stream Deck Classic is a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of genres, including gaming, talk shows, and music streams. In gaming, the ability to quickly switch between scenes and control audio levels can be especially useful for games that require frequent scene changes, such as MOBAs or battle royale games.
In talk shows, the Stream Deck Classic can be used to easily switch between camera angles, control audio levels, and display graphics such as lower thirds or sponsor logos. In music streams, the Stream Deck Classic can be used to control audio levels, switch between different camera angles, and display graphics such as song titles or lyrics.
Analysis of the Product’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths in comparison to other products
One of the key strengths of the Elgato Stream Deck Classic is its versatility. It can be used to control almost any aspect of a live stream or video recording, from switching scenes and controlling audio levels to triggering special effects and adding text overlays. Its 15 customizable LCD keys make it easy to access a wide range of functions quickly and easily, and its drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to set up and customize.
Another strength of the Stream Deck Classic is its build quality. The device is well-made and feels solid and durable, with a high-quality finish and a good weight to it. The buttons are responsive and have a good tactile feel to them, and the device itself is easy to set up and use.
The Stream Deck Classic also comes with a wide range of pre-built integrations for popular streaming and video recording software, including OBS, XSplit, Twitch, and YouTube. This makes it easy to get up and running quickly and ensures that the device will work seamlessly with the software that most streamers and video creators use.
Weaknesses and areas for improvement
One of the main weaknesses of the Stream Deck Classic is its price. At around $150, it’s significantly more expensive than many other controllers on the market, and may be out of reach for some streamers and content creators. While the device does offer a lot of functionality, its price point may be a barrier to entry for some users.
Another potential weakness of the Stream Deck Classic is its size. While the 15 customizable LCD keys are great for accessing a wide range of functions, the device itself is fairly large and may take up a lot of desk space. This could be an issue for streamers and content creators who have limited desk space or who prefer to have a minimal setup.
Compatibility and Integration with Other Devices
The Stream Deck Classic is designed to be compatible with a wide range of streaming and video recording software, including OBS, XSplit, Twitch, and YouTube. It can also be used to control other software applications, such as Photoshop or Spotify, making it a versatile tool for content creators of all kinds.
The device is also designed to work seamlessly with other Elgato products, such as the Cam Link or the Key Light. This makes it easy to integrate the Stream Deck Classic into a larger streaming or video recording setup, and ensures that all the devices work well together.
Users have reported some issues with compatibility and integration, particularly with some less common software applications or with older versions of software. However, these issues are relatively rare, and the device generally works well with most software applications.
Conclusion
Overall, the Elgato Stream Deck Classic is a powerful and versatile tool for streamers and content creators of all kinds. Its customizable LCD keys and drag-and-drop interface make it easy to set up and use, and its wide range of integrations with popular software applications ensure that it will work seamlessly with most setups.
While the device is more expensive than some other controllers on the market, its build quality and range of features make it well worth the investment for serious content creators. The Stream Deck Classic is highly recommended for anyone looking to take their live streaming or video recording setup to the next level.