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 obtainable) 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 gadgets. 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, it’s also possible to do for the VSD. Place the interface wherever 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 homeowners of its gadgets. Initially, it is going to solely be obtainable 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 homeowners of extra gadgets.

The VSD has one irritating requirement. It solely works when a type of appropriate equipment is related to your laptop. Sadly, meaning you’ll be able to’t use it as a digital Stream Deck substitute, mirroring your shortcuts whilst 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 strategy to get extra shortcuts than the accent helps. It’s additionally a way for Corsair accent homeowners 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 perform 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 obtainable in six-, 15- and 32-key variants.

The modules start transport in the present day. You will pay $50 for the six-key model, $130 for the 15-key one and $200 for the 32-key variant. (In the event you’re offering them for a corporation, Elgato affords quantity reductions.)

Elgato Community Dock

The Elgato Community Dock offers Stream Deck gadgets 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.