Elgato’s Stream Deck expands past the corporate’s {hardware}

The Elgato Stream Deck is increasing right into a hardware-agnostic platform. On Monday, the corporate unveiled a software program model of the programmable shortcut gadget. Additionally on faucet are a module for integration in third-party merchandise and DIY initiatives, an Ethernet dock and an up to date Stream Deck MK.2 with scissor-switch keys.

Stream Deck MK.2 Scissor Keys

There is a new model of the favored Stream Deck MK.2. The one distinction is that this model ditches membrane keys in favor of scissor-switch ones. Scissor keys (discovered on many laptops, like modern MacBooks) have a shorter journey distance and sharper actuation than the mushy-feeling ones on the (nonetheless accessible) legacy MK.2.

The Stream Deck MK.2 Scissor Keys prices $150. Shipments start across the starting of June.

Digital Stream Deck

Digital Stream Deck (VSD) is a software-only counterpart of the basic units. Just like the {hardware} variations, the VSD features a acquainted grid of programmable shortcut buttons. Something you’d configure for a tool just like the Stream Deck MK.2 or XL, you can even do for the VSD. Place the interface anyplace in your desktop, pin it for fast entry or set off it with a mouse click on or hotkey.

Presumably to keep away from cannibalizing its {hardware} enterprise, Elgato is limiting the VSD to house owners of its units. Initially, it can solely be accessible to individuals who have Stream Deck {hardware} or choose Corsair peripherals (the Xeneon Edge and Scimitar Elite WE SE Mouse). The corporate says the VSD will quickly be rolled out to house owners of further units.

The VSD has one irritating requirement. It solely works when a type of suitable equipment is related to your pc. Sadly, meaning you’ll be able to’t use it as a digital Stream Deck alternative, mirroring your shortcuts when you and your laptop computer are on the go. That looks like a missed alternative.

As an alternative, it’s extra like a complement to Stream Deck {hardware} whereas it’s related — a solution to get extra shortcuts than the accent helps. It’s additionally a way for Corsair accent house owners to get Stream Deck performance with out shopping for one.

Regardless, Digital Stream Deck launches with the Stream Deck 7.0 beta software program.

Stream Deck Modules

Stream Deck Modules may be constructed into {hardware} not made by Elgato. So, hobbyists, startups and producers can incorporate the OLED shortcut buttons into their DIY initiatives or merchandise. The one distinction is their extra versatile nature. In any other case, they operate the identical as legacy Stream Deck merchandise.

Stream Deck Modules have an aluminum chassis that is “able to drop straight right into a customized mount, machine or product.” They’re accessible in six-, 15- and 32-key variants.

The modules start delivery at this time. You may pay $50 for the six-key model, $130 for the 15-key one and $200 for the 32-key variant. (When you’re offering them for a company, Elgato presents quantity reductions.)

Elgato Community Dock

The Elgato Community Dock provides Stream Deck units their very own Ethernet connections. This untethers the shortcuts from the desktop, permitting for “customized installations, distant stations and extra.”

The Community Dock helps each Energy over Ethernet (PoE) and non-PoE networks. You possibly can arrange its IP configuration on-device.

The dock prices $80 and ships in August.