Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 Review
A compact 15-button controller that gives streamers reliable, one‑tap control for OBS, audio and smart‑home tasks—worth it if you stream live.
Shortlistd Editorial
Editor
Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 Review
The Stream Deck MK.2 is the 15-button deck to buy if you stream or run live shows and need fast, reliable one‑tap control for OBS, audio and smart‑home actions; skip it if you want wireless freedom, physical dials, or the cheapest macro pad.
The quick answer
This is a wired, 15‑key macro pad that turns complex streaming workflows into visible, one‑tap commands. Price: £118.49 — a sensible mid‑range buy for active streamers who value stability and a huge plugin library. Score: 8.3/10.
What we tested
We evaluated the 15‑button Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 on both Windows and macOS over several weeks of live streams, recorded YouTube sessions and routine podcast edits, using its default Stream Deck app, OBS and Philips Hue integration.
What it does well
Reliable app and plugin support Elgato’s Stream Deck app has official plugins for OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch, YouTube, Spotify, Philips Hue and Microsoft Teams, so you spend minutes integrating apps instead of hours scripting.
Clear, per‑key feedback Each key has an LCD icon or animation so you always see the active scene, mute status or macro state — that visual confirmation stops accidental commands during live shows.
Practical key count for most setups Fifteen keys hit a sweet spot: enough slots for scene switches, audio toggles and a few macros without dominating your desk like a 32‑key XL model.
Solid build and small custom touches The chassis feels desktop‑grade and the interchangeable faceplate is a small but welcome way to match your setup without buying an accessory.
Plug‑and‑play compatibility Native Stream Deck apps for macOS and Windows plus a wired USB‑C connection mean setup is fast and stable across platforms.
Where it falls short
No physical dials or sliders — not for tactile fans If you rely on tactile control (volume knobs, jog wheels, fine adjustments) the MK.2’s button‑only layout will frustrate you; consider a dial‑equipped controller instead.
Wired only — not ideal for tidy, wireless desks A reliable wired USB‑C connection is perfect for live streams, but if you want a wireless pad or cleaner cable management this model isn't for you.
Mid‑three‑figure price vs budget macro pads At £118.49 it’s not the cheapest option; people who only need simple media keys or one macro page should look at lower‑cost macro pads instead.
How it compares
Loupedeck Live is the closest competitor at a similar price and offers a slightly different workflow aimed at creators who want a more flexible UI and alternative integrations. Choose the Stream Deck MK.2 if you want the broadest, most battle‑tested plugin ecosystem and the clearest visual feedback for live streaming; choose the Loupedeck Live if you prefer a different layout and creative app integration over the strict streaming focus.
Verdict: Buy this if you stream or produce frequent live shows and need fast, reliable one‑tap control for OBS, audio and smart‑home actions without scripting. Skip it if you want wireless freedom, lots of physical dials, or the cheapest budget macro pad.
Buy: £118.49 — available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Elgato-Controller-15-macro-keys-trigger-software-like-OBS/dp/B09738CV2G?tag=tomisindev-20
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