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Title: Elgato's Stream Deck breaks free from the company's hardware

Date: Mon, 19 May 2025 23:00:52 +0000
Link: https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessorie...

The Elgato Stream Deck is expanding into a hardware-agnostic platform. On
Monday, the company unveiled a software version of the programmable shortcut
device. Also on tap are a module for integration in third-party products and
DIY projects, an Ethernet dock and an updated Stream Deck MK.2 with scissor-
switch keys.

Stream Deck MK.2 Scissor Keys

There's a new version of the popular Stream Deck MK.2. The only difference is
that this version ditches membrane keys in favor of scissor-switch ones.
Scissor keys (found on many laptops, like modern MacBooks) have a shorter
travel distance and sharper actuation than the mushy-feeling ones on the
(still available) legacy MK.2.

The Stream Deck MK.2 Scissor Keys costs $150. Shipments begin around the
beginning of June.

Virtual Stream Deck

Virtual Stream Deck (VSD) is a software-only counterpart of the classic
devices. Like the hardware versions, the VSD includes a familiar grid of
programmable shortcut buttons. Anything you'd configure for a device like the
Stream Deck MK.2 or XL, you can also do for the VSD. Place the interface
anywhere on your desktop, pin it for quick access or trigger it with a mouse
click or hotkey.

Elgato

Presumably to avoid cannibalizing its hardware business, Elgato is limiting
the VSD to owners of its devices. Initially, it will only be available to
people who have Stream Deck hardware or select Corsair peripherals (the
Xeneon Edge and Scimitar Elite WE SE Mouse). The company says the VSD will
soon be rolled out to owners of additional devices.

The VSD has one frustrating requirement. It only works when one of those
compatible accessories is connected to your computer. Unfortunately, that
means you canΓÇÖt use it as a virtual Stream Deck replacement, mirroring your
shortcuts while you and your laptop are on the go. That seems like a missed
opportunity.

Instead, itΓÇÖs more like a complement to Stream Deck hardware while itΓÇÖs
connected ΓÇö a way to get more shortcuts than the accessory supports. ItΓÇÖs
also a method for Corsair accessory owners to get Stream Deck functionality
without buying one.

Regardless, Virtual Stream Deck launches with the Stream Deck 7.0 beta
software.

Stream Deck Modules Elgato

Stream Deck Modules can be built into hardware not made by Elgato. So,
hobbyists, startups and manufacturers can incorporate the OLED shortcut
buttons into their DIY projects or products. The only difference is their
more flexible nature. Otherwise, they function the same as legacy Stream Deck
products.

Stream Deck Modules have an aluminum chassis that's "ready to drop straight
into a custom mount, machine or product." They're available in six-, 15- and
32-key variants.

The modules begin shipping today. You'll pay $50 for the six-key version,
$130 for the 15-key one and $200 for the 32-key variant. (If you're providing
them for an organization, Elgato offers volume discounts.)

Elgato Network Dock Elgato

The Elgato Network Dock gives Stream Deck devices their own Ethernet
connections. This untethers the shortcuts from the desktop, allowing for
"custom installations, remote stations and more."

The Network Dock supports both Power over Ethernet (PoE) and non-PoE
networks. You can set up its IP configuration on-device.

The dock costs $80 and ships in August.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at
https://www.engadget.com/computing/accessorie...
free-from-the-companys-hardware-230052921.html?src=rss

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