Computer peripherals: Corsair iCUE LINK H150i Elite LCD vs. Elgato Stream Deck MK.3
Quick Verdict
The Corsair iCUE LINK H150i Elite LCD is a high-end CPU cooler, while the Elgato Stream Deck MK.3 is a versatile control interface.
- Corsair iCUE LINK H150i Elite LCD focuses on CPU cooling with a customizable LCD screen and RGB lighting.
- Elgato Stream Deck MK.3 is a control interface with 15 customizable LCD keys for streamlining workflows.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | Corsair iCUE LINK H150i Elite LCD | Elgato Stream Deck MK.3 |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Liquid CPU Cooler | Control Interface |
| LCD Screen | 2.1-inch, 480x480, 600cd/m² | 15 Customizable LCD keys |
| Customization Options | Images, GIFs, system stats, RGB lighting via iCUE software | Drag and drop actions, custom icons, profiles via Stream Deck app |
| Ease of Installation | Designed for easy installation with iCUE LINK system | Easy to set up with downloadable software |
| Price | $299.99 | Around $149.99 |
Overall Comparison
Cooling vs Control: Corsair excels at cooling, Elgato at control; LCD: Both customizable; Price: Elgato is significantly cheaper
Pros and Cons
Corsair iCUE LINK H150i Elite LCD
Pros:
- Effective cooling for high-end CPUs
- Customizable LCD screen with image/GIF support and system stats display
- Customizable RGB lighting
- Easy installation with iCUE LINK system for reduced cable clutter
- Quiet operation at low fan speeds
- Includes iCUE COMMANDER CORE controller
- Comes with pre-applied CORSAIR XTM70 Extreme Performance thermal paste
- 6-year warranty
Cons:
- Can become loud at maximum fan speeds
- Heavily reliant on iCUE software
- Some users have reported LCD screen issues
- Compatibility issues may arise; check hardware configuration
Elgato Stream Deck MK.3
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- Keys are fully customizable
- Integrates well with OBS Studio and Twitch with dedicated plugins
- Tactile and responsive buttons
Cons:
- Connecting to a USB hub, especially a passive hub, can cause communication issues
User Experiences and Feedback
Corsair iCUE LINK H150i Elite LCD
What Users Love
- Effective at cooling high-end CPUs, even under heavy loads.
- iCUE software is generally intuitive for customizing the LCD screen and RGB lighting.
- The 'Constructor' option allows you to combine GIFs and system monitoring.
Common Complaints
- Fan noise is low at lower RPMs but can become loud when the fans are running at full speed.
- Some users have reported LCD screen issues, such as the screen not starting or not appearing in iCUE.
- The cooler is heavily reliant on the iCUE software.
- Check compatibility with your specific hardware configuration to ensure the cooler will function correctly.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
Elgato Stream Deck MK.3
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
User Recommendations
- The Elgato Stream Deck MK.3 utilizes membrane switches with classic keycaps, balancing comfort and reliability.
- Setting up the Elgato Stream Deck is generally considered easy. You download the software, connect the device, and then assign functions to the pads using a drag-and-drop interface.