The Elgato Stream Deck XL – A Gift I Definitely Don’t Regret
- ThegreyLeague
- Nov 27
- 3 min read
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Welcome back to another review.
Today we’re talking about a gadget that’s been sitting proudly on my desk for years — the Elgato Stream Deck XL.
I didn’t buy it because I needed it; I bought it because I wanted it. And honestly? It turned out to be one of the best “treat yourself” purchases I’ve made in a long while.
A Fancy Macro Pad
Let’s be honest — at its core, the Stream Deck is basically a glorified macro pad. It remembers your shortcuts and macros. You could do the same thing with a second keyboard, a DIY setup, or even a free phone app. That would save you some money, sure.
So why did I still end up buying this sleek little gadget?
1. No More Messing Around
I’ve spent enough hours tinkering with “budget solutions.” My desk space and time are worth more than that now. I wanted something that just works — no drivers to fight with, no cables to solder, no random crashes.
That’s the question you should ask yourself too: do you want to keep building your own setup, or just plug something in and get back to creating?
2. Six, Fifteen… Thirty-Two
Elgato offers several versions: the 6-button Mini, the 15-button standard, and the 32-button XL. Once you start using one, you’ll realize 6 buttons vanish instantly. Even 15 fills up before you know it. Sure, you can make folders inside folders, but scrolling through those gets old fast. With 32 buttons, everything you need is right there — neatly organized and always at your fingertips.
Once you try it, you’ll never go back.
3. Solid as a Rock
One of the biggest reasons I went for the XL was its build quality. The stand is miles better than the smaller models — sturdy, heavy, and stable.
It doesn’t wobble, it doesn’t slide, and you can bump it without sending it flying. For me, that stability is worth more than the small bit of flexibility you lose compared to the other versions.
Was it an expensive gift to myself? Yes.Did I really need it? Not really. Do I regret buying it years later? Absolutely not.
4. Not Just for Streamers
Despite the name, I inititially didn’t buy the Stream Deck for streaming. I bought it for my live tabletop games — and it’s been an absolute game-changer.
At the table, I use it to control sound effects, music cues, and ambience. It adds a ton of atmosphere and keeps everything running smoothly.
Outside of gaming, it’s now part of my everyday creative work. I use it with my editting software and my professional use software. Having all my shortcuts ready to go has genuinely improved my workflow.
And yes — you can design your own button icons and even make them animated. That part never gets old.
5. The Cable (Yes, Really)
A small but brilliant detail: the cable is detachable.
It might not sound like much, but when a cable wears out (and they always do), it’s a huge relief to be able to replace it. No more throwing away an entire device because of one bad wire.
Final Thoughts
So, should you get one?
If you’re thinking about it — don’t hesitate. The software is easy to use, highly customizable, and reliable. The Elgato Stream Deck XL is an investment, yes, but one that pays off quickly in convenience and creativity.
Affiliate links don’t affect the price you pay
They do toss a few shiny silver coins my way whatever you buy on amazon
(yes, even when you buy a solar panels)
Great way to sponsor my work without subscriptions
Got questions? Drop them in the comments — I always reply.
See you next time,– The Grey League
Official Feature Highlights
Advanced live production: Instantly control your favorite tools and platforms.
32 customizable keys: Trigger unlimited actions with a tap.
Powerful integrations: Works with OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch, YouTube, Spotify, Photoshop, and more.
One-touch control: Change scenes, launch media, adjust lighting, post tweets, tweak audio — anything.
Visual feedback: Know immediately when a command is executed.
Easy setup: Drag-and-drop actions, custom icons, and folder organization.
Solid build: Non-slip magnetic stand and detachable USB-C cable.
Endless potential: Download new plugins or create your own with the Stream Deck SDK.
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