Capture cards are essential tools for gamers and content creators looking to record or stream their gameplay with high-quality visuals and minimal latency. These devices enable users to capture video from their gaming consoles or PCs, offering superior performance compared to software-based recording solutions. Whether you’re a professional streamer or a casual gamer wanting to share your gameplay moments, investing in a reliable capture card can enhance your content’s quality and ensure a smooth, seamless recording experience. Here, we explore some of the best capture cards available for PC gaming, considering factors like resolution support, ease of use, and compatibility.
| Our Top 5 Picks | BUYING LINK |
|---|---|
| 1. ASUS TUF Capture Card (CU4K30) | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 2. Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2 | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 3. Elgato HD60 X | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 4. EVGA XR1 Capture Card | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
| 5. AVerMedia HDMI Capture Card | Check Today’s Price on Amazon |
1. ASUS TUF Gaming Video Capture Card (CU4K30)
The ASUS TUF Gaming Video Capture Card (CU4K30) is designed for gamers and content creators seeking high-quality streaming and recording solutions. This capture card supports passthrough video in up to 4K HDR at 60 Hz, offering exceptional visuals and seamless performance. With its user-friendly plug-and-play design and robust build, it caters to both novice and professional streamers.
Key Features:
- Passthrough Video: Supports up to 4K HDR at 60 Hz for stunning visuals.
- Capture Quality: Records video in up to 4K at 30 Hz for high-quality livestream visuals.
- Plug & Play UVC: Simple connection via USB 3.2 Type-C, no extra drivers or utilities required.
- OBS Studio Compatibility: Certified for optimal usage on various streaming platforms.
- Durable Design: Features a durable alloy outer shell that maintains a slim footprint.
- Audio Integration: Controller and headset connections enable sharing team comms with the audience.
- Versatile Streaming: Delivers video streaming in 4K up to 30 fps, 2K up to 60 fps, and Full HD up to 120 fps.
Pros:
- High-quality 4K HDR passthrough and capture capabilities.
- Easy plug-and-play setup with USB 3.2 Type-C connectivity.
- Certified compatibility with OBS Studio for a seamless streaming experience.
- Durable and compact design.
- Integrated audio support for team communication.
Cons:
- 4K capture limited to 30 fps, which may be insufficient for high-frame-rate gaming.
- Higher price point compared to basic capture cards.
- Limited advanced configuration options for professional users.
2. Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2, Internal Capture Card
The Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2 is an internal capture card designed to elevate your gaming and streaming experience with its high-quality 4K60 HDR10 capture and passthrough capabilities. Ideal for enthusiasts and professional streamers alike, it offers low-latency technology for seamless gameplay monitoring and supports dual-PC setups with 240 Hz passthrough.
Key Features:
- Ultra Quality Capture: Records in 4K60 HDR10 for crisp and vibrant visuals.
- Instant Gameview: Low latency technology enhances workflow efficiency.
- 240 Hz Passthrough: Supports dual-PC setups without compromising performance.
- Unlimited Capture: Record footage directly to your hard drive without time limits.
- Flashback Recording: Allows retroactive saving of gameplay moments.
Pros:
- High-quality 4K60 HDR10 capture and passthrough.
- Superior low latency technology with Instant Gameview.
- Ideal for dual-PC setups with 240 Hz passthrough.
- Unlimited capture directly to hard drive for continuous recording.
- Flashback Recording feature enables saving epic moments retroactively.
Cons:
- Requires installation into a desktop PC, not suitable for laptops or external use.
- Higher initial cost compared to external capture cards.
- Internal installation may require technical knowledge or assistance.
3. Elgato HD60 X – Stream and record in 1080p60 HDR10
The Elgato HD60 X offers gamers and content creators a powerful solution for streaming and recording in high-definition. With support for 1080p60 HDR10 quality and versatile passthrough options up to 4K30 HDR10, this external capture card ensures premium performance without the need for complex setup.
Key Features:
- Premium Capture Quality: Supports 4K30 HDR10 or 1080p60 HDR10, with passthrough options including 4K60 HDR10, 1440p120, and 1080p120.
- Plug and Play: Driverless setup on both Windows and Mac systems for easy installation.
- Versatile Compatibility: Works seamlessly with OBS, Streamlabs, Vmix, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and streams to platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook Gaming.
- Ultra-low Latency: Sub 100ms latency ensures seamless audio/video syncing during streaming and recording.
- No Limitations: No watermarks, time limits, or subscriptions required for uninterrupted use.
Pros:
- High-definition capture and passthrough capabilities with HDR10 support.
- Easy plug-and-play setup on Windows and Mac platforms.
- Wide compatibility with popular streaming and recording apps.
- Ultra-low latency for real-time audio/video synchronization.
- No additional costs or restrictions for continuous usage.
Cons:
- Limited to 1080p60 HDR10 capture, which may not meet the needs of users requiring higher resolutions.
- External setup may introduce slight latency compared to internal capture cards.
- Requires a separate microphone setup for audio input, as it primarily handles video capture.
4. EVGA XR1 Capture Card, Certified for OBS
The EVGA XR1 Capture Card is designed to enhance your gaming and streaming setup with its versatile features and robust capabilities. Certified for OBS, this USB 3.0 capture device supports 4K pass-through and allows recording at 1080p/60FPS while gaming at 4K/60FPS, ensuring high-quality visuals and smooth performance.
Key Features:
- High-Quality Capture: Records gameplay at 1080p/60FPS while supporting 4K pass-through for superior video quality.
- Advanced Pass Through: Enables switching up to 1440p at 144Hz refresh rate with HDR, without capturing, for optimal gaming experience.
- Built-in Audio Mixer: Control dial for adjusting microphone input and game volume, enhancing audio customization.
- Versatile Connectivity: USB 3.0 interface for low-latency capturing/streaming from PC/Console gameplay or connecting to a DSLR camera for webcam use.
- OBS Certification: First device certified for OBS, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance with popular streaming software.
Pros:
- Supports high-resolution 4K pass-through and captures at 1080p/60FPS.
- Advanced pass-through mode allows for high refresh rates and HDR without affecting capture quality.
- Built-in audio mixer simplifies audio management during streaming or recording.
- Versatile connectivity options including USB 3.0 for low-latency performance.
- Certified for OBS, ensuring reliable performance with industry-leading streaming software.
Cons:
- May require additional setup or configuration for optimal performance with certain consoles or streaming setups.
- Higher price point compared to basic capture cards with similar functionalities.
- Users may experience compatibility issues with some older console models or devices.
5. AVerMedia HDMI Capture Card
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Extreme 3 (GC551G2) HDMI Capture Card is a powerful tool designed for gamers and content creators seeking high-quality video capture and streaming capabilities. With support for 4K30 gameplay recording and VRR pass-through, this card ensures a seamless gaming experience while offering ultra-low latency for uninterrupted streaming.
Key Features:
- High-Quality Capture: Records gameplay in 4K30 with support for high refresh rates up to 1080p240.
- VRR Pass-Through: Supports Variable Refresh Rate pass-through at 1440p120 or 1080p120.
- Zero Latency: Ultra-low latency on the pass-through signal minimizes lag during gaming and streaming.
- Easy to Use: Plug and play technology simplifies setup and usage, making streaming straightforward.
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and supports streaming on platforms like YouTube and Twitch.
- Complete Set: Includes necessary cables and a quick start guide for effortless setup.
Pros:
- High-quality 4K30 capture and support for high refresh rates up to 1080p240.
- Ultra-low latency pass-through ensures minimal lag during gameplay and streaming.
- Plug and play setup makes it easy for beginners to start streaming quickly.
- Wide compatibility with major game consoles and streaming platforms.
- Complete set includes all necessary cables for convenient setup.
Cons:
- Limited to 4K30 capture, which may not meet the needs of users requiring higher frame rates or resolutions.
- External setup may introduce slight latency compared to internal capture cards.
- Users may experience compatibility issues with specific devices or configurations.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best capture card for PC gaming depends on your specific needs and budget. Here are some top options to consider:
- Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2 (Internal):
- Pros: High-quality 4K60 HDR10 capture and passthrough, ideal for professional streaming setups. Low latency and unlimited capture.
- Cons: Requires internal installation and higher cost compared to external options.
- Elgato HD60 X (External):
- Pros: Easy plug-and-play setup with 1080p60 HDR10 capture. Ultra-low latency and broad compatibility with streaming software and platforms.
- Cons: Limited to 1080p60 capture, external setup may introduce slight latency.
- EVGA XR1 Capture Card (External):
- Pros: Supports 4K pass-through and 1080p60 capture. Built-in audio mixer and OBS certification for seamless streaming.
- Cons: External setup, may require additional configuration for optimal performance with consoles.
- AVerMedia Live Gamer Extreme 3 (GC551G2) (External):
- Pros: Records in 4K30 with support for high refresh rates up to 1080p240. VRR pass-through and ultra-low latency.
- Cons: Limited to 4K30 capture, external setup with potential compatibility issues.
Each of these capture cards offers unique features tailored to different streaming and recording needs. Consider factors like resolution support, latency, ease of setup, and compatibility with your gaming setup and preferred streaming platforms when making your decision.