Loupedeck is a photo editing control deck designed specifically for Adobe Lightroom, compatible with version 6 and later.

A control deck essentially emulates a midi controller (similar to a mixing desk), though in Loupedeck’s case it’s built-in hardware serves Lightroom exclusively. A world first we are told.

The dials, buttons and wheels found on the Loupedeck are assigned and labelled specific Lightroom controls, while a few can be customised.

Instead of navigating the screen with a mouse or trackpad to make the edit you want, the edit can be made by using the specific dial/ button/ wheel on the Loupedeck that controls that edit.

The clear selling point of control decks are enhancing the photo editing workflow. I've also reviewed the Palette Expert kit which is the same type of device.

Quicker. Less strain on the hand. For those that spend hours upon hours using Lightroom, the Loupedeck could be a godsend.

So is it?

Well, Loupedeck's exclusivity to Lightroom may prove to serve its success or failure.

This consequent simplicity ensures the hardware works flawlessly, while the focused design makes for a speedy marriage between Loupedeck and user - you'll get to grips with it quickly.

The controls feel good in the hand, though the buttons/ keys feel a tad on the cheap side for a device that costs £330.

I feel a few tweaks to the handling would make a Loupedeck even more helpful. Flexibility over the dial's editing speed would be handy, plus a greater degree of customisation for the controls.

All in all, the Loupedeck is a tough product to really judge. For me it's not a godsend, but does enhance the editing experience.

I'm not convinced and am quite happy to continue using mouse and keyboard for now.

But I am prepared to be proved wrong. Feel free to add your experience in the comments section below.

See my full review here.