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Choosing between a 1080p vs 4K60 capture card depends on your setup and budget. Both devices help you stream or record gameplay. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 captures up to 4K30 with 4K60 passthrough. The Elgato 4K Pro captures true 4K60 with 8K60 passthrough. One uses USB, the other uses PCIe. This guide compares their specs to help you decide.
Capture Resolution
4K30, 2K60, 1080p120
4K60, 1440p144, 1080p240
Passthrough Resolution
4K60 HDR
8K60 HDR
Host Interface
USB 3.2 Type-C
PCIe x4
Video Interface
HDMI 2.0
HDMI 2.1
HDR Support
Supported
HDR10
Choose the first if
- You want a plug-and-play USB device that works with laptops.
- You need a durable alloy shell for portability.
- You primarily stream at 1080p120 or 2K60.
Choose the second if
- You require true 4K60 capture for high-fidelity streams.
- You have a desktop PC with an available PCIe slot.
- You want VRR and ALLM passthrough for PS5 or Xbox Series X.
Verdict
The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 suits users who need portable, USB-powered simplicity. The Elgato 4K Pro is better for desktop gamers who demand maximum resolution and refresh rate capture. Your choice depends on your computer type and desired video quality.
1080p vs 4K60 Capture Cards
Capture Resolution
Edge: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
The Elgato 4K Pro captures video at 4K resolution with a 60 Hz refresh rate. This allows for smooth, high-detail recordings. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 captures up to 4K, but only at 30 Hz. For faster motion, the ASUS model supports 2K at 60 Hz and 1080p at 120 Hz. If your priority is true 4K60 capture, the Elgato card meets that need directly. The ASUS card offers higher frame rates at lower resolutions. You must choose between 4K smoothness or higher FPS at lower clarity. The Elgato provides the specific 4K60 specification you are looking for.
Passthrough Resolution
Edge: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Passthrough lets your TV display the game while the card records. The Elgato 4K Pro supports passthrough up to 8K at 60 Hz. It also handles 4K at 144 Hz. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 supports passthrough up to 4K HDR at 60 Hz. The Elgato card offers significantly higher bandwidth for future-proofing. It can handle resolutions beyond standard 4K. The ASUS card is limited to 4K60 for passthrough. If you have a high-end display or plan to upgrade, the Elgato provides more headroom. The ASUS model is sufficient for standard 4K60 displays.
Connection Type
Edge: ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card
Installation method differs significantly between the two devices. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 uses a USB 3.2 Type-C connection. It is a plug-and-play external device. You simply connect it to any PC. The Elgato 4K Pro is an internal PCIe x4 card. It must be installed inside a Windows desktop PC. This requires opening your computer case. The ASUS model offers flexibility for laptops or different machines. The Elgato model offers direct motherboard connectivity for potentially lower latency. You need to decide if you prefer external convenience or internal performance.
HDR Support
Edge: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
High Dynamic Range improves color and contrast in your videos. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 supports HDR passthrough. It also supports HDR in its capture streams. The Elgato 4K Pro supports HDR10 for both capture and passthrough. Both cards handle HDR content effectively. The ASUS card does not specify the HDR standard, while the Elgato explicitly lists HDR10. This ensures compatibility with modern console outputs. Both devices will deliver vibrant colors. The Elgato card provides explicit HDR10 support, which is standard for current gen consoles. The ASUS card includes HDR functionality without specifying the version.
Size and Portability
Edge: ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card
Physical dimensions affect where you can place the device. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 is an external box. It measures 6.4 inches in length, 5.5 inches in width, and 2.5 inches in height. It weighs 14.9 ounces. The Elgato 4K Pro is an internal card. It measures 5 inches in length, 2 inches in width, and 1 inch in height. It weighs only 4 ounces. The ASUS model is larger and sits outside your PC. The Elgato card is compact and hidden inside the case. You should choose based on your case space and preference for external gear.
Which Capture Card Fits Your Setup
Desktop PC users needing max resolution
Our pick: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
This internal PCIe x4 card captures true 4K60 with HDR10 support. It offers 8K60 passthrough and supports VRR for compatible consoles. You get higher frame rates and smoother motion for recording. It connects directly to your motherboard, saving USB ports. This setup is ideal for high-end desktop gaming rigs requiring top-tier video quality.
Console gamers wanting plug-and-play simplicity
Our pick: ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card
The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 uses a USB 3.2 Type-C connection for easy setup. It supports 4K60 passthrough, keeping your display smooth while capturing at 4K30. It also handles 1080p120 capture for fast-paced gameplay. The slim design fits near consoles easily. You get certified OBS compatibility without installing extra drivers.
Streamers needing versatile frame rates
Our pick: ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card
This device captures 1080p at 120 fps and 2K at 60 fps. This flexibility suits streamers targeting different platform requirements. It includes passthrough for 4K HDR at 60 Hz. The alloy shell provides durability for frequent moves. You can share audio from team comms via controller connections. It is a practical choice for varied streaming needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card | 1080p120 capture with 4K60 HDR passthrough | |
| 2 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card | 4K60 HDR recording on desktop PCs |
ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card
Best for: 1080p120 capture with 4K60 HDR passthrough
- Capture Resolution
- 1080p
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K60 HDR
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Type-C
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.0
- HDR Support
- Supported
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5
The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 captures video at 1080p120, 2K60, or 4K30 while passing through 4K60 HDR. It uses a USB 3.2 Type-C host interface and HDMI 2.0 video interface. The device features a durable alloy shell and supports plug-and-play UVC connectivity. It is suitable for gamers using PC, Xbox, or PS5 who need certified OBS Studio compatibility for streaming.
- Captures Full HD at 120 fps for smooth gameplay recording
- Passes through 4K60 HDR video for high-quality display output
- Includes controller and headset connections for shared audio
- Certified for optimal usage with OBS Studio software
- Maximum capture resolution is limited to 4K at 30 fps
- Weighs 14.9 ounces with a 6.4-inch length
- You need 1080p capture at 120 fps for fast-paced games
- You want to pass through 4K60 HDR to your TV
- You require plug-and-play setup without extra drivers
- You need to capture video at 4K60 resolution
- You require a lighter or more compact device
- You prefer HDMI 2.1 connectivity for higher bandwidth
Verdict: The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card fits streamers who prioritize high-frame-rate 1080p recording and 4K60 HDR passthrough. It suits users who value durable construction and certified software compatibility over maximum capture resolution.
Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Best for: 4K60 HDR recording on desktop PCs
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 8K60
- Host Interface
- PCIe x4
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
- Features
- HDR, HDR10, VRR
This internal PCIe card captures 4K at 60 FPS with HDR10 support. It passes through 8K60 video and supports VRR for compatible consoles. You get direct PC integration via OBS or Elgato Studio. It suits desktop gamers who need high-resolution recording without external hardware overhead.
- Captures 4K60 with HDR10
- Passes through 8K60 video
- Supports VRR and ALLM
- Internal PCIe x4 design
- Limited to 60 FPS capture while others offer higher frame rates
- Requires a desktop PC with an open PCIe slot
- You play on PS5 or Xbox Series X
- You record at 4K60 resolution
- You use a desktop PC
- You need 144 FPS capture
- You use a laptop without PCIe slots
- You want a plug-and-play USB device
Verdict: Elgato 4K Pro PCIe Capture Card fits desktop users who need reliable 4K60 recording with HDR. It is ideal for console gamers who want VRR passthrough and internal installation.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card |
|---|---|---|
| Capture Resolution | 4K30, 2K60, 1080p120 | 4K60 |
| Passthrough Resolution | 4K60 HDR | 8K60 |
| Host Interface | USB 3.2 Type-C | PCIe x4 |
| Video Interface | HDMI 2.0 | HDMI 2.1 |
| HDR Support | Supported | HDR10 |
| Features | HDR | HDR, HDR10, VRR |
| Color | CU4K30|HDMI 2.0|2160p60 | Black |
| Resolution | 1080p FHD | – |
| Platform | PC, Xbox, PS5 | PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Compatible Platform | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch |
| Use | Gaming | – |
| Connectivity | USB | – |
| Application | Recording | – |
| Dimensions | 6.4 × 5.5 × 2.5 inches | 5 × 2 × 1 inches |
| Weight | 14.9 ounces | 4 ounces |
| Model | TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-CU4K30 | 10GBK9901 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I record 1080p120 with the ASUS TUF CU4K30?
Yes, the ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 supports 1080p120 capture. It is designed for streamers who prioritize high-frame-rate recording. The device also offers 4K60 HDR passthrough. This allows you to connect your console and view high-quality video while capturing gameplay at higher refresh rates.
Does the Elgato 4K Pro support VRR?
Yes, the Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). This feature is ideal for console gamers who want smoother visuals. It works with compatible platforms like PlayStation 5. You get reliable 4K60 recording with HDR10 support for desktop PCs.
Is the Elgato 4K Pro an internal or external card?
The Elgato 4K Pro is an internal PCIe capture card. It installs directly into your desktop PC. This design fits users who need reliable 4K60 recording without external USB connections. It uses a PCIe host interface for stable data transfer.
What resolution does the ASUS TUF CU4K30 capture?
The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 captures video at 1080p FHD resolution. It is best for users who value durable construction and certified software compatibility. While it captures at 1080p, it supports 4K60 HDR passthrough for connected consoles like the PS5 and Nintendo Switch.
Which card is better for Xbox Series X/S?
The Elgato 4K Pro is suitable for Xbox Series X/S. It captures true 4K60 with HDR10 support. The ASUS TUF CU4K30 also works with Xbox platforms. It offers 1080p capture with 4K60 HDR passthrough. Choose based on whether you need internal installation or external USB connectivity.
Does the ASUS TUF CU4K30 have HDR support?
Yes, the ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 includes HDR features. It supports 4K60 HDR passthrough for connected devices. The capture resolution itself is 1080p. This setup suits streamers who want high-quality viewing while recording gameplay in Full HD resolution via USB 3.2.
