Tutorial: How to Create Multi-Actions in your Elgato Streamdeck
Introduction
Multi Actions in Elgato Stream Deck allow you to assign multiple actions to a single key and execute them with a single tap. This tutorial will guide you through getting started with Multi Actions and how to use them effectively.
Before diving into Multi Actions with your Elgato Stream Deck, make sure you have downloaded and installed the Elgato Stream Deck software on your computer. Having the software ready is a crucial step to get the most out of this feature.
Two Ways to Get Started
There are two simple methods to get started with Multi Actions:
- Right-click a blank key on the canvas and select Multi Action. This is a quick way to create a new Multi Action on an empty key.
- Under the Stream Deck section, drag Multi Action to a key. You can also drag the Multi Action element from the Stream Deck section and drop it onto a key.
Mixing and Matching Actions
Within a Multi Action, you have the flexibility to mix and match as many actions as you like. This opens up a world of possibilities, such as configuring your Elgato Stream Deck to control the Elgato 4K Capture Utility software with a sequence of actions. For example:
- Start Recording
- Start Live Commentary
Activating Multiple Actions
Assign as many actions as you want to a single key, and then activate them all with a single tap. You can choose to execute them one by one, separated by intervals, or together, simultaneously. For instance, you can start your stream, wait a minute, tweet that you are live, welcome your chat, play your intro sequence, and unmute your microphone, all with a single key press.
Please Note: You cannot nest a Multi Action within another Multi Action.
Multi Actions – Delays
Using Delays
Delays play a crucial role when creating Multi Actions. They allow you to control the timing of actions within a sequence. Here’s how to use them:
- Go to the Stream Deck section of the Actions List.
- Choose the “Delay” action.
- Drag the “Delay” action to your open Multi Action window.
You can include as many delays as needed, and they are measured in milliseconds (1/1000 of a second).
Example with Delays
Suppose you want to control OBS Studio with a Multi Action. You can create a sequence like this:
- Start Recording
- Delay for 1 Second (1000 ms)
- Switch to a Scene
- Delay for 1 Second (1000 ms)
- Start Stream
Multi Actions – Customizable Multi Action Delays
Customizing Delays
Elgato Stream Deck 5.3 introduced the ability to customize Multi Action delays. Previously, there was a built-in delay of 200ms between actions, but now you can adjust it as needed, ranging from 2ms to 200ms. This gives you more control over the timing of your Multi Actions.
With these features, you’re ready to create powerful Multi Actions and streamline your workflow on your Elgato Stream Deck. Experiment with different combinations of actions and delays to optimize your setup.