Elgato is a brand that specializes in products for content creators, particularly those involved in streaming, gaming, and video production. Owned by Corsair, Elgato is well-known for offering a wide range of tools designed to enhance the workflow and output of creators, including streamers on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
Elgato Stream Deck
The Elgato Stream Deck is a customizable control panel that provides an efficient way for streamers, content creators, and professionals to manage and control various functions with the touch of a button. It is one of Elgato’s most popular products due to its versatility and ease of use, especially for those looking to improve their workflow during live streams, video production, or even productivity tasks.
Key Features of the Elgato Stream Deck:
- Customizable LCD Keys: The Stream Deck features 6, 15, or 32 physical keys, depending on the model, each equipped with customizable LCD displays. These keys can be programmed to trigger various actions such as launching apps, switching scenes, playing media, sending messages, or executing macros. Users can customize the icon on each key to visually represent its function.
- Multi-action Commands: Stream Deck allows users to assign multiple actions to a single key. With one press, it can perform several tasks in sequence, such as switching a scene in OBS, starting a timer, sending a message in chat, and playing a sound effect.
- Scene Switching and Streaming Control: Streamers can control popular streaming software such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs, XSplit, and others directly from the Stream Deck. With a single tap, they can change scenes, mute their microphone, control media, or trigger special effects.
- Integration with Popular Platforms and Tools: The Stream Deck integrates with a wide range of platforms and applications:
- Streaming software (OBS, Streamlabs, XSplit)
- Social media (Twitter, YouTube, Twitch)
- Elgato’s other products (Key Light, Wave microphones, etc.)
- Multimedia tools (Spotify, VLC, Adobe Premiere, and Photoshop)
- Profiles and Folders: Users can create multiple profiles on the Stream Deck to suit different workflows. For example, one profile could be set up for streaming, another for video editing, and another for general computer tasks. You can also organize your commands into folders, allowing for even more actions while keeping the interface tidy.
- Drag-and-Drop Setup: The Stream Deck software is user-friendly, with a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy to assign functions to each button. No programming knowledge is required—users simply drag their desired action from a list of available commands onto the button slot in the software.
- Dynamic Feedback and Real-Time Visuals: Each key on the Stream Deck provides real-time feedback. For instance, users can see live visual indicators of which scene they are in, whether their microphone is muted, or the status of a live recording.
- Multi-Application Use: While it’s most popular with streamers and gamers, the Stream Deck can also be used for various professional tasks like video editing, graphic design, or even in corporate settings for managing presentations and other automated workflows.
Models of the Elgato Stream Deck:
- Elgato Stream Deck Mini:
- 6 customizable LCD keys.
- Compact, portable design suitable for creators who want a simpler setup.
- Elgato Stream Deck (Original):
- 15 customizable LCD keys.
- The standard and most popular version, ideal for streamers and content creators looking for a balance between functionality and portability.
- Elgato Stream Deck XL:
- 32 customizable LCD keys.
- Designed for power users who need extensive control for more complex setups.
- Elgato Stream Deck Mobile:
- A mobile app version that turns your smartphone into a Stream Deck with virtual buttons.
- Works on both iOS and Android, providing flexibility without needing a physical device.
Use Cases:
- For Streamers: Seamlessly switch scenes, play sound effects, and control chat interactions during live broadcasts.
- For Video Editors: Quickly access frequently used commands in editing software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro.
- For Office Productivity: Automate repetitive tasks such as sending emails, opening apps, or controlling Zoom meetings.
- For Designers: Use it to control layers, tools, and shortcuts in graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop.
Why It’s Popular:
The Elgato Stream Deck stands out because it simplifies and automates tasks that would normally require multiple clicks or complex software commands. This level of control and ease makes it especially useful for streamers who need to stay focused on their content while managing behind-the-scenes actions effortlessly. Its customizable nature allows users to tailor it to their specific workflow, whether they’re streaming, editing, or working in other professional settings.
Elgato, a prominent player in the content creation market, operates as a subsidiary of Corsair and has carved out a significant share in the streaming and video production equipment sector. Elgato’s product line, including the Stream Deck, capture cards, lighting solutions, and microphones, has gained considerable popularity among streamers, gamers, and professionals.
The company’s estimated annual revenue is between $15 million and $25 million as of 2024, driven primarily by its growing customer base of content creators worldwide. Elgato’s dominance in the market is largely attributed to its Stream Deck, which is a must-have tool for live streamers and professionals needing efficient, customizable workflow control. The Stream Deck series has become an industry standard, accounting for a considerable portion of Elgato’s market penetration in the video capture and streaming device segment.
In the global image and video capture card market, Elgato competes with brands such as AVerMedia, Blackmagic, and Razer, sharing a portion of the rapidly expanding market, which is forecasted to continue growing due to the increasing demand for video content creation and streaming services. Elgato’s product innovation and integration with popular platforms like Twitch and YouTube have helped it secure a strong market position, especially in North America and Europe.