10 Best Capture Cards 2025 in the United States

The Elgato HD60 S+ is a solid choice for gamers looking to capture and stream their gameplay in high quality. It supports 1080p60 and 4K60 HDR10, delivering excellent resolution for both recording and live streaming. The ultra-low latency feature is a standout, allowing gamers to experience minimal delay while playing, which is crucial for competitive gaming. With its zero-lag passthrough, players can enjoy their games at the highest fidelity without sacrificing performance.

The device is compatible with a wide range of consoles, including the latest PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, making it versatile for various gaming setups. The USB interface ensures easy connectivity with both Windows and macOS, expanding its usability across different systems. Features like Flashback Recording allow users to retroactively capture gameplay, which can be a lifesaver for those unexpected epic moments.

The card excels in quality and features, but it might be more than what casual gamers need. Some users may find the setup process a bit challenging if they're not tech-savvy, and the reliance on software like OBS can be daunting for beginners. Additionally, if you’re primarily interested in capturing gameplay at lower resolutions or without the need for HDR, there may be more affordable options available.

The Elgato 4K X capture card excels in delivering high-quality video recording and streaming capabilities, making it a top choice for gamers and content creators. It supports an impressive 4K resolution at 144 frames per second, ensuring crystal-clear and smooth visuals. Additionally, the HDMI 2.1 input and output ports allow for high frame rates up to 240fps in 1080p, enabling a superior recording experience.

The Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) passthrough is a notable feature, as it eliminates screen tearing and provides a seamless gaming experience. Thanks to ultra-low latency through USB 3.2 Gen 2, the device ensures that your broadcast and gameplay are perfectly synchronized, which is crucial for live streaming and competitive gaming. The capture card is compatible with multiple platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, and iPad, offering great versatility.

It works well with popular streaming applications like OBS, Streamlabs, and Twitch Studio, making it convenient for various users. However, the product's video capture resolution is primarily optimized for 1080p, which might be a limitation for those specifically seeking 4K capture at all times. The compact and lightweight form factor (0.67 x 4.41 x 2.83 inches and 3.2 ounces) ensures portability and ease of setup. With its advanced features and positive ratings, the Elgato 4K X is positioned as a reliable and high-performance capture card for both amateur and professional content creators.

The AVerMedia 4K HDMI Capture Card presents a strong option for gamers and streamers seeking to capture high-quality gameplay from devices like PS5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. One standout feature is its ability to capture and stream in up to 4K resolution, which is perfect for those looking to deliver crisp and detailed visuals to their audience. Additionally, the 4K60 HDR/VRR pass-through ensures smooth gameplay and high-quality streams without compromising on performance. The card also supports ultra-wide screen resolutions, providing true-to-life video quality, which is a plus for gamers playing on widescreen monitors.

Another significant advantage is its low latency, which promises real-time gameplay streaming and recording, crucial for a seamless viewer experience. The plug-and-play setup enhances user convenience, requiring no additional drivers or external power, and it's compatible with popular platforms like OBS and Twitch across various operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and iPadOS. While these features are impressive, it’s worth noting the product is relatively new to the market, having been first available in December 2024, which means long-term reliability and support might still be uncertain.

Moreover, the product’s high resolution and advanced features may come at a higher price point compared to more basic capture cards. At 13.7 ounces, it is slightly heavier, which could be a consideration for portability. This capture card is best suited for dedicated gamers and streamers who prioritize high-quality video and seamless streaming capabilities.