A pass through debug has been on my wish list for some time (I've commented on this several times e.g: Custom node appearance and event handlers. Proof on concept: Inline Gauge - #12 by Steve-Mcl) but there was push back due to loss of button. Personally I think it's time for a rethink on input or button/output or button exclusivity.
A promising new node log-io had this inline mode ([Announce] node-red-log-io - #21 by Steve-Mcl) but the author removed it as they were unsure of its value. I explained how it is a benefit for larger payloads (to avoid cloning) and the author is considering adding it back in.
