In the case of broadcasting, streamers can create toggles via the Elgato Stream Deck software to quickly switch between scenes and overlays, or queue sound effects and background music. Similarly, the Stream Deck allows you to alternate between A-Roll and B-Roll cameras with the press of a button. All of this sounds meaningful and handy, but what if you’re not a streamer? That’s a question I asked myself a month ago when a friend gifted me a Stream Deck and pitched the idea of using it for work. After spending the past weeks fidgeting and playing around with it, the Elgato Stream Deck has quickly become the work-from-home accessory that I didn’t know I needed. Here are the top five applications that I use every day and how they can better the workflow and productivity for you as well.
Bottom line
I wouldn’t go as far as to say that the Elgato Stream Deck is a must-buy, especially if you’re not a streamer. But clearly, the gadget has plenty of applications that make it worthwhile if you do decide to pick one up. Elgato offers 6-key, 15-key, and 32-key versions of the Stream Deck so it all boils down to what your needs and use-cases are. They’re not cheap, and you can easily substitute one with a standard macro keypad for less, but for its evergrowing software support and visual appeal, there’s nothing better than the Stream Deck. Let me introduce you to Zoom Plugin by Martijn Smit, one of the most popular third-party plugins in the Elgato Store. When installed, you can assign keys on your Stream Deck to toggle your mic and video on or off, and so much more. On my rig, I have a column dedicated to Zoom controls, including the aforementioned functions, and one for “Leave Meeting”. Instead of fumbling over the Zoom window, I can just press a button and have peace of mind. If this use-case alone is enough to sell you on the Stream Deck, then I’d recommend the smaller six-key version which is an ideal size for video-conferencing controls. More: Best webcams that you can buy right now You can create smart routines via the IFTTT website, or paste the Maker Key of premade ones into the Elgato Stream Deck software. Some of the best premade automations include copying completed Trello tasks onto a Google Drive spreadsheet and adding your latest iPhone screenshots to a Dropbox folder. IFTTT works with major smart home manufacturers like Philips Hue, Nest, Lutron, and more, so the possibilities are endless. Being able to implement folders into the Stream Deck means that you technically have 196 key placements, including the 15 that are on the main screen. Since I do most of my work on an ultra-wide monitor, I routinely snap two browsers to fill up the screen real estate. That’s why I’ve downloaded the Windows Mover and Resizer Plugin by BarRaider to create workspace buttons. The Stream Deck plugin lets me set the position and size of my windows so that when I press, say, ZDNet.com, the website opens up on the right side of my monitor and a blank tab fills the left. Also: How to snap your windows on MacOS and Windows The weather widget is a little more self-explanatory. I mainly use it to know when I can keep my windows open for fresh air and when the weather is good enough for an outdoor walk.
