[2][3] The specific epithet was chosen to honour the British colonial governor of New Guinea, William MacGregor.

[5] Two subspecies are recognised:[6] The crested satinbird is around 24 cm (9.4 in) in overall length and weighs 79–125 g (2.8–4.4 oz).

The male of the nominate subspecies has bright yellow upperparts with a small erectile crest of 4 to 6 sickle-shaped dark-buff feathers that are usually concealed.

The adult male of subspecies sanguineus differs from the nominate in having red dorsal plumage.

[5] The crested satinbird eats only fruits which are plucked and eaten whole without any manipulation using the feet.