10 Best Video Capture Devices 2024 in the United States

Many of us want to preserve family memories to be able to treasure them for years to come. Videos and home movies of our parents and grandparents are irreplaceable. A video capture device can help convert videos and make them easily viewed and shared. Another use for a video capture device is for live streaming, which we’ll cover in this review as well.

Read on to learn more about video capture devices and their uses. What features should you look for when purchasing a video capture device? Learn which device is right for you by checking out our roundup of the top ten best video capture devices.

What should I look for in a video capture device?

Compatibility

When choosing the best video capture device for you, the first thing you need to consider is compatibility with your computer and other devices.

Will you be switching between a desktop or laptop computer? Do you want to connect with an older device, such as a VCR or a Hi8 player? Older video files need an RCA A/V connection. Check to make sure that the video capture device you choose allows you to connect with the equipment you have.

ION Audio Video Archiver and Portable Video Capture Device

The ION Audio Video Archiver - Portable Video Capture Device lets you take old tapes of all kinds and convert them into a digital format so you can preserve, share, and enjoy them. It works with VHS, VHS-C, Beta, DVD, DVR, and Hi8. You’ll get to watch your video on the display as it’s being recorded, and the built-in speaker lets you hear audio as well. Got old vinyl records or cassettes that seemed like they’d be lost in the archives for good? This unit lets you record those as well.

Functionality

Do you prefer a device that is internal or external? An internal device gets connected inside the computer itself, so there are no cords, lines, and cables to deal with, and there are also fewer connection issues. You’ll need to be a little handier to go this route, so be sure you’re comfortable opening up your computer to install it.

An external device connects to your computer through a port, such as Thunderbolt or a USB port. If you’re not comfortable opening up your laptop, go with this option. While some users say the connection can be choppy at times, an external plug and play device should work well and be simple to use.

Software features

Not every bit of old footage is precious. Old movies often require some editing. If you want to edit your captured video, you could make this task easier by choosing a video capture device with software features that let you do your own editing. This way, you’ll be able to trim away unwanted footage, splice together clips from different pieces of footage, create montages, and more.

Elgato Video Capture Device

The Elgato Video Capture lets you digitize video for Mac, PC, or iPad using USB 2.0. The software is easy to use even for beginners, with a step-by-step approach that will allow you to perform most of the essential editing functions you’ll need. Use this capture device to connect an analog video device, capture video, and choose how to watch and share it. You can even set the software to stop recording automatically after a preselected amount of time, so you can walk away as it’s recording.

Live Streaming and Gaming

Suppose you want the best video capture card that will let you live stream for gaming broadcasting, video recording, conferencing, or security cameras. A video capture card is the type of capture device that will best suit your needs.

Online gaming can take a toll on your WiFi connection and other essential parts of your computer. A video capture card will enhance your image clarity and take the strain off your computer’s hard drive because it will do the streaming for you rather than having you download it onto the computer.

DigitNow HDMI Video Converter and Capture Device

The DigitNow HDMI Video Converter Game Capture/HD Video Capture Device/Recorder lets you capture video and games to 1080P from a slew of gaming devices like PS3, PS4, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii, Nintendo Switch, as well as DVD and camera. You won’t experience any time lags when live streaming a gaming session, and you’ll be able to record your voice along with gameplay. This device lets you easily share your gameplay on YouTube. The best part? You can capture HDMI video signals directly. No driver, external power supply, or HDMI splitter is needed.

Gamers aren’t the only ones who need live streaming. Security camera systems stream footage from your home system so you can check in on your home while you’re out of the house. A video capture card relieves the strain of streaming from your computer while maintaining picture quality.

In today’s digital world, devices that facilitate remote sharing are more important than ever.

A video capture device is also a great way to optimize video conferencing, Zoom meetings and lessons, or other live-streamed broadcasts.

Wrap up

Whether you’re looking to preserve old family movies or share your gameplay with your loyal online followers, a video capture device can be useful. Use our MSN Top Ten guide to find the best video capture device for you, and you’ll wonder how you ever did without one.

Want to learn how to take great home movies to use with your capture device? Here are some easy, practical tips on shooting great home movies so you’ll get great material to work with and preserve for future generations.

Want to learn more about the top items to buy? Check out our best buying guides where we’ve done the research for you so you know the best goods to get for just about anything!