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Finding the best capture cards for PC requires matching hardware specs to your setup. We compared 10 options ranked by published specifications. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card leads because it supports 8K passthrough and VRR for desktop builders. Other picks focus on multi-channel inputs or USB convenience. These selections help you decide which interface and resolution fit your streaming needs. Read on to see how each card’s attributes align with your specific requirements.
Match your interface and resolution needs
Choose between internal PCIe cards for desktop builds or external USB devices for portability. Prioritize HDMI 2.1 support if you need 4K144Hz passthrough. Verify your capture resolution limits, as many units record at 4K60 even when passing higher frames. Select the host interface that fits your current PC setup.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card Best overall | desktop PCs needing 8K passthrough and VRR | |
| 2 | ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card Best premium | multi-source 1080p60 desktop streaming | |
| 3 | ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card Best 1080p fhd | 1080p 120 fps streaming and recording | |
| 4 | EVGA XR1 Pro Capture Card Best budget | 1440p gaming with USB simplicity | |
| 5 | AVMATRIX UC2018 SDI&HDMI Capture Card Also great | SDI inputs and uncompressed 1080p60 video | |
| 6 | AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 Best rgb lighting | RGB lighting and high-refresh passthrough | |
| 7 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card Also great | 1080p240 recording and internal setup | |
| 8 | Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card Also great | High refresh rate streaming with direct audio | |
| 9 | Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card Also great | High-refresh-rate Windows streaming with PD charging | |
| 10 | BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro Also great | PS5 gaming with party chat audio capture |
The best fit for you
- You need 8K passthrough and VRR support – Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card – It supports 8K display output and Variable Refresh Rate for desktop PCs.
- You want to stream four sources simultaneously – ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card – It provides four HDMI inputs for simultaneous 1080p60 capture on PCIe.
- You prioritize 1080p 120 fps performance – ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card – It captures 1080p video while passing through 4K HDR signals via USB 3.2.
- You want USB convenience for 1440p gaming – EVGA XR1 Pro Capture Card – It offers 4K capture resolution and HDR passthrough through a simple USB connection.
Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Best for: desktop PCs needing 8K passthrough and VRR
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 8K60
- Host Interface
- PCIe x4
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
This internal PCIe x4 card captures 4K at 60 FPS with HDR10 support. It passes through 8K60 video over HDMI 2.1, including VRR and ALLM for compatible consoles. The unit measures 5 by 2 by 1 inches and weighs 4 ounces. You get an 8K HDMI cable and software compatibility with Elgato Studio, 4K Capture Utility, and OBS. It fits desktop PCs running Windows.
- Captures up to 4K60 with HDR10
- Passes through 8K60 video via HDMI 2.1
- Supports VRR and ALLM passthrough
- Internal PCIe x4 design saves USB ports
- Captures 4K60, lower than the 4K144 or 4K120 options on this list
- Internal PCIe form factor limits use to desktop PCs only
- You need 8K60 passthrough for a high-end monitor
- You want VRR and ALLM support for next-gen consoles
- You use a desktop PC with an open PCIe slot
- You need to capture 4K at 120 FPS or higher
- You use a laptop or lack an available PCIe slot
- You require a portable USB capture solution
Verdict: Elgato 4K Pro PCIe Capture Card delivers high-end passthrough and console features for desktop builders. It suits you if you prioritize 8K display support and VRR over maximum capture frame rates.
ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card
Best for: multi-source 1080p60 desktop streaming
- Platform
- PC
- Capture Resolution
- 1080p60
- Host Interface
- PCIe x4
- Video Interface
- HDMI
- Channel Count
- 4
- Features
- Ultra-Low Latency
The ACASIS 4K HDMI PCIe capture card handles four simultaneous 1080p60 inputs via a PCIe x4 slot. It features an internal turbo fan for heat dissipation and supports ultra-low latency recording. This internal card suits streamers who need multi-source setup on a PC. It works with standard broadcasting software and various input devices like DSLRs.
- Four simultaneous 1080p60 HDMI capture channels
- PCIe x4 internal interface for direct PC connection
- Built-in turbo fan for active heat dissipation
- Ultra-low latency for live streaming
- Maximum capture resolution is 1080p60, lower than the 4K144 capability of other cards on this list
- Internal PCIe form factor requires an open slot inside your PC case
- Heavier at 5.29 ounces compared to typical USB capture devices
- You need to capture video from four separate HDMI sources at once
- You prefer internal PCIe cards over USB dongles for stability
- You want active cooling for long streaming sessions
- You require 4K resolution capture or passthrough
- You only have one HDMI source to capture
- You need a portable USB solution for laptops without open slots
Verdict: ACASIS 4K HDMI PCIe Capture Card is a multi-channel solution for desktop users who need four simultaneous 1080p60 inputs. It fits streamers managing multiple game consoles or PCs in one rig.
ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card
Best for: 1080p 120 fps streaming and recording
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5
- Capture Resolution
- 4K30, 2K60, 1080p120
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K60 HDR
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Type-C
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.0
- HDR Support
- Supported
The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 captures video up to 4K at 30 fps and 1080p at 120 fps. It passes through 4K HDR at 60 Hz. You get a USB 3.2 Type-C connection and certified OBS Studio compatibility. The durable alloy shell keeps the unit slim. This card suits gamers who want high frame rates at 1080p.
- Captures 1080p at 120 fps
- Passes through 4K HDR at 60 Hz
- USB 3.2 Type-C plug and play
- Certified OBS Studio compatibility
- Durable alloy outer shell
- Heavier at 14.9 ounces
- Capture resolution caps at 4K 30 fps
- Larger dimensions than competitors
- You need 1080p 120 fps capture
- You want 4K HDR passthrough
- You prefer a durable alloy build
- You require 4K capture at higher frame rates
- You need HDMI 2.1 support
- You want a lighter portable device
Verdict: ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card fits players prioritizing 1080p 120 fps performance and 4K HDR passthrough over higher capture frame rates.
EVGA XR1 Pro Capture Card
Best for: 1440p gaming with USB simplicity
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One
- Capture Resolution
- 1440p60, 4K30
- Passthrough Resolution
- 1440p144 HDR, 4K60 HDR
- Host Interface
- USB 3.1
- Compatible Platform
- PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4
- Dimensions
- 10 × 8 × 6 inches
The EVGA XR1 Pro connects via USB 3.1 to capture 1440p at 60fps or 4K at 30fps. It supports 1440p144 HDR and 4K60 HDR passthrough. This device is certified for OBS and includes a built-in audio mixer. You get customizable RGB LEDs and a control dial for adjustments. It requires no driver installation for setup.
- Captures 1440p60 or 4K30 video
- Passes through 1440p144 HDR and 4K60 HDR
- Certified for OBS software
- Includes built-in audio mixer controls
- Capture resolution limited to 4K30 compared to 1080p60 or higher options on this list
- Connects via USB 3.1 instead of PCIe or SDI interfaces found in other picks
- Heavier build at 15.8 ounces
- You need a USB connection for simple plug-and-play setup
- You want built-in audio mixing without extra hardware
- You play at 1440p with 144Hz passthrough needs
- You require 4K capture at 60fps or higher
- You prefer internal PCIe cards for lower latency
- You need SDI input connectivity
Verdict: EVGA XR1 Pro USB Capture Card suits users prioritizing USB convenience and audio mixing over maximum capture resolution. It is a solid option for 1440p gaming with HDR passthrough.
AVMATRIX UC2018 SDI&HDMI Capture Card
Best for: SDI inputs and uncompressed 1080p60 video
- Platform
- PC, Mac
- Capture Resolution
- 1080p60
- Host Interface
- USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C
- Video Interface
- SDI, HDMI
- Dimensions
- 3.62 × 2.28 × 0.75 inches
- Weight
- 7.23 ounces
The AVMATRIX UC2018 is a compact capture card supporting SDI and HDMI inputs via USB 3.0. It records uncompressed YUY2 video up to 1080p60. This model suits users needing dual input types on a small form factor. It works with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems using standard UVC/UAC protocols. The device weighs 7.23 ounces and measures 3.62 by 2.28 by 0.75 inches.
- Supports both SDI and HDMI video inputs
- Captures uncompressed YUY2 video at 1080p60
- Uses USB 3.0 Type-C for driver-free operation
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Max capture resolution is 1080p60, lower than the 4K144 specs of other picks
- USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface limits bandwidth compared to USB 3.2 or PCIe options
- Heavier at 7.23 ounces than typical lightweight USB dongles
- You need SDI input for professional camera gear alongside HDMI
- You require uncompressed video for maximum quality in 1080p
- You use Linux or macOS systems needing driver-free UVC support
- You need 4K or 8K resolution capture
- You require HDMI 2.1 bandwidth for high frame rates
- You prefer a PCIe internal card for direct motherboard connection
Verdict: AVMATRIX UC2018 SDI HDMI USB 3.0 Capture Card fits professionals who need SDI inputs and uncompressed 1080p60 quality on a portable USB device. It is not suitable for gamers needing 4K144Hz capture.
AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1
Best for: RGB lighting and high-refresh passthrough
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S
- Capture Resolution
- 4K144
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
This USB capture card handles 4K144 recording on Windows and supports 4K144 passthrough with HDR10 and VRR. It connects via USB-C 10Gbps and includes RGB lighting that syncs with Windows Dynamic Lighting. You get dual 3.5mm ports for headset and gamepad audio, plus 5.1-channel support on Windows. It works with OBS Studio and AVerMedia Streaming Center for PC, Mac, and console capture.
- 4K144 MJPEG capture on Windows
- 4K144 HDR/VRR passthrough
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connection
- RGB lighting with Windows Dynamic Lighting
- Dual 3.5mm audio ports
- 4.06 ounces weight is heavier than some competitors
- 7.3 inches width is bulkier than internal cards
- 1440p240 and 1080p360 passthrough limits are lower than 4K144
- You want 4K144 recording with HDR10 on Windows
- You need VRR passthrough for compatible displays
- You prefer USB-C connectivity for consoles and PC
- You require 8K60 passthrough support
- You need a PCIe internal card for lower latency
- You want 1440p240 or 1080p360 capture resolution
Verdict: AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 RGB offers high-refresh passthrough and RGB lighting for users who prioritize visual sync and 4K144 recording on Windows. It suits those who value USB-C convenience and dual audio inputs over compact internal designs.
Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Best for: 1080p240 recording and internal setup
- Platform
- PC
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 8K60
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
- Features
- HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency
This internal PCIe card captures 4K60 video with HDR10 support. It passes through 8K60 signals via HDMI 2.1. You can record up to 1080p240. VRR passthrough ensures smooth visuals. It fits inside your PC case. This setup suits users who want high frame rates and low latency without external hardware.
- Captures 4K60 video with HDR10
- Passes through 8K60 resolution
- Records up to 1080p240
- Supports VRR passthrough
- Lower capture resolution than competitors offering 4K144
- Internal form factor requires open PCIe slot
- You need 1080p240 recording for high frame rate gameplay
- You prefer internal cards to save desk space
- You want VRR passthrough for smooth visuals
- You require 4K144 capture resolution
- You need a portable USB solution
- You cannot open your PC case for installation
Verdict: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card fits users who prioritize 1080p240 recording and internal installation. It delivers high passthrough rates but limits capture resolution to 4K60.
Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card
Best for: High refresh rate streaming with direct audio
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S
- Capture Resolution
- 4K144
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K144
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
The Ezcap 4K144 Pro capture card connects via USB 3.2 Gen 2 to support 4K144 passthrough and capture. It handles 1080p240 recording and includes HDR10 and VRR for smooth visuals. Dedicated audio ports allow direct headset and line-in connections. This USB device works with Windows and macOS, making it a solid option for streamers who need high refresh rates and low latency.
- Supports 4K144 passthrough and capture resolution
- Records 1080p240 for high-speed detail
- Includes HDR10 and VRR support
- Features dedicated 3.5mm Line In and headset ports
- Uses USB 3.2 Gen 2 for 10Gbps bandwidth
- Weighs 7.69 ounces, which is heavier than some lighter competitors
- Connects via USB rather than PCIe, limiting internal slot options
- You want 4K144 passthrough for your display
- You need 1080p240 capture for high-refresh streaming
- You prefer direct audio connections without extra mixers
- You require an internal PCIe card for your PC
- You need 8K passthrough capabilities
- You are looking for the lightest possible device
Verdict: The Ezcap 4K144 Pro capture card fits streamers who need high refresh rate passthrough and dedicated audio inputs. It is a practical external choice for those prioritizing 1080p240 recording speeds over internal installation.
Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card
Best for: High-refresh-rate Windows streaming with PD charging
- Platform
- PC, PS5, Mac
- Capture Resolution
- 4K144
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K144
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
This Guermok capture card supports 4K144 passthrough and 4K144 MJPEG capture via HDMI 2.1. It connects through USB 3.2 Gen 2 and includes PD 3.0 charging for host devices. The device handles 1080p240 and 1440p240 capture, making it suitable for high-refresh-rate gaming. You get flexible audio inputs and plug-and-play compatibility with OBS Studio on Windows and macOS.
- HDMI 2.1 passthrough up to 4K144Hz with HDR10 and VRR support
- Capture up to 4K144 via MJPEG or 1080p240 via NV12
- Built-in PD 3.0 input to charge compatible laptops during use
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 connection for stable, low-latency video transmission
- Supports 10-bit P010 capture up to 2K120FPS
- macOS capture limited to 4K60, lower than the 4K144 Windows capability
- YUY2 capture capped at 4K50, restricting high-refresh-rate use in this format
- RGB24 capture limited to 4K30, which is slower than the MJPEG maximum
- You need 4K144 passthrough with HDR10 and VRR for high-refresh displays
- You want to capture 1080p240 or 1440p240 for smooth gameplay recording
- You require PD 3.0 charging for your host laptop while streaming
- You need 4K144 capture on macOS, as it is limited to 4K60
- You rely on YUY2 format for high frame rates, which caps at 4K50
- You need RGB24 capture above 4K30, which this device does not support
Verdict: Guermok 4K144 HDMI 2.1 USB Capture Card fits streamers who need high-refresh passthrough and flexible capture formats on Windows. It suits those who value PD charging and low-latency transmission for dual-PC setups.
BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro
Best for: PS5 gaming with party chat audio capture
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac
- Capture Resolution
- 4K 144 FPS
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K 144 FPS
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
The BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro is a USB 3.2 external capture card with HDMI 2.1 input. It records and passes through 4K at 144 FPS with HDR10 and VRR support. It also handles 1080p24 recording. This unit suits PC users who need high frame rates for competitive gaming. The included audio cable allows PS5 party chat capture. It is a compact black device weighing 1.76 pounds.
- Records and passes through 4K at 144 FPS
- Supports HDR10 and VRR passthrough
- Includes 3.5mm audio cable for PS5 party chat
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity
- Heavier at 1.76 pounds than many competitors
- Maximum recording resolution is 1080p24, not 4K
- You need 4K144 passthrough for low-latency gaming
- You play on PS5 and want party chat audio
- You use HDMI 2.1 sources for HDR content
- You require 4K recording resolution
- You prefer a lighter, more portable device
- You need built-in audio mixing without extra cables
Verdict: BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro Capture Card fits users who prioritize high-refresh-rate passthrough and PS5 audio integration over 4K recording capabilities. It is a solid option for competitive gamers using HDMI 2.1 sources.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card | ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card | ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 Capture Card | EVGA XR1 Pro Capture Card | AVMATRIX UC2018 SDI&HDMI Capture Card | AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card | Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card | Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card | BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capture Resolution | 4K60 | 1080p60 | 4K30, 2K60, 1080p120 | 1440p60, 4K30 | 1080p60 | 4K144 | 4K60 | 4K144 | 4K144 | 4K 144 FPS |
| Passthrough Resolution | 8K60 | – | 4K60 HDR | 1440p144 HDR, 4K60 HDR | – | 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360 | 8K60 | 4K144 | 4K144 | 4K 144 FPS |
| Host Interface | PCIe x4 | PCIe x4 | USB 3.2 Type-C | USB 3.1 | USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C | – | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Video Interface | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI | HDMI 2.0 | – | SDI, HDMI | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 |
| Channel Count | – | 4 | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| HDR Support | HDR10 | – | Supported | – | – | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 |
| VRR Support | – | – | – | – | – | Supported | – | – | Supported | VRR passthrough |
| Features | HDR, HDR10, VRR | Ultra-Low Latency | HDR | HDR | – | RGB Lighting, HDR10, VRR | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency |
| Color | Black | – | CU4K30|HDMI 2.0|2160p60 | – | SDI&HDMI input | Black | – | 4K144 Pro – 401 | Black | Black |
| Resolution | – | 4K UHD | 1080p FHD | 1440p QHD | – | – | – | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | – |
| Platform | PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S | PC | PC, Xbox, PS5 | PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One | PC, Mac | PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S | PC | PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S | PC, PS5, Mac | PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac |
| Compatible Platform | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | – | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4 | – | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | – | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch |
| Use | – | Streaming | Gaming | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Connectivity | – | – | USB | USB | USB | USB | – | USB | USB | USB |
| Lighting | – | – | – | – | – | RGB | – | – | – | – |
| Application | – | Recording | Recording | – | – | – | Recording | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 5 × 2 × 1 inches | 3.94 × 3.94 × 1.18 inches | 6.4 × 5.5 × 2.5 inches | 10 × 8 × 6 inches | 3.62 × 2.28 × 0.75 inches | 2.7 × 7.3 × 6.3 inches | 2.2 × 4.76 × 0.75 inches | – | 5.03 × 2.91 × 0.83 inches | 2.95 × 0.91 × 5.12 inches |
| Weight | 4 ounces | 5.29 ounces | 14.9 ounces | 15.8 ounces | 7.23 ounces | 4.06 ounces | 3.88 ounces | 7.69 ounces | 5.94 ounces | 1.76 pounds |
| Model | 10GBK9901 | AC-4HDMI | TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-CU4K30 | 144-U1-CB21-LR | UC2018 | Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 | 20GBK9901 | ezcap401 | GM-73F | Hunter4K Pro |
| Size | – | 4HDMI | – | XR1 Pro | SDI&HDMI | HDMI 2.1 – GC553G2 (Black) | 4K Pro | – | – | Small |
If you need hardware video encoding on your host system, evaluate specifications for the best maxsun graphics cards.
How to choose the right one
Check your connection type
You must select between internal PCIe or external USB interfaces. Internal cards like the Elgato 4K Pro slot directly into your desktop motherboard. This saves desk space and uses the system bus for data. External devices connect via USB ports. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 uses USB 3.2 for plug-and-play convenience. Choose PCIe if you build a fixed desktop rig. Pick USB if you need portability or lack available motherboard slots.
Match passthrough resolution
Passthrough resolution determines the maximum quality your monitor displays. The Elgato 4K Pro supports 8K passthrough for future-proofing. The EVGA XR1 Pro handles 1440p gaming signals comfortably. Most cards pass 4K signals even if they capture lower resolutions. Verify this spec if you play at high resolutions. A mismatch limits your visual experience regardless of capture quality. Ensure the card supports your monitor’s native refresh rate for smooth gameplay.
Verify capture frame rates
Capture resolution defines the maximum quality saved to your storage. The ACASIS 4-Channel card records at 1080p60 across four inputs. The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 captures 1080p at 120 fps. High frame rates are crucial for competitive gaming streams. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal records up to 4K60. Check these limits before buying. A card may pass 4K144Hz but only record 4K60. Align this spec with your streaming platform requirements.
Assess multi-source needs
You need multiple inputs if you stream from several consoles. The ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe card offers four simultaneous HDMI inputs. This fits streamers managing multiple game sources in one rig. Most other cards provide a single HDMI input. The AVMATRIX UC2018 adds SDI inputs for professional video signals. Decide if you need one or many sources. Single inputs suit most gamers. Multi-channel cards require more complex setup and monitoring.
Consider audio integration
Audio handling varies significantly between models. The EVGA XR1 Pro includes audio mixing features for clear voice capture. The BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro supports PS5 party chat audio integration. Dedicated audio inputs reduce latency and improve sound quality. Check if the card captures system audio or requires external mixers. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 offers dual audio inputs. Prioritize this spec if clear commentary is essential for your content.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a capture card with a laptop?
Yes, most external USB capture cards work with laptops. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 and Elgato 4K Pro Internal models support Windows PCs. You need a USB 3.2 port or an available PCIe slot. External units offer portability, while internal cards require desktop access.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 for 4K gaming?
You need HDMI 2.1 for high-refresh-rate passthrough like 4K144Hz. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 and Guermok 4K144 include HDMI 2.1 interfaces. This allows your monitor to display the full signal while the card records. Lower versions may limit passthrough speeds.
Which capture card is best for multi-source streaming?
The ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card handles four simultaneous inputs. It supports 1080p60 capture across all channels. This setup suits streamers managing multiple consoles or PCs in one rig. It connects via PCIe for stable desktop performance.
Can I capture audio from PS5 party chat?
Some cards support integrated audio capture for console features. The BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro fits users prioritizing PS5 audio integration. It captures gameplay while maintaining party chat audio. Check the host interface compatibility to ensure your PC processes the audio stream correctly.
Is internal or external better for PC streaming?
Internal PCIe cards save desk space and use the system bus. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal and ACASIS models fit inside desktop towers. External USB cards like the ASUS TUF Gaming offer portability. Choose based on whether you prioritize physical space or device mobility.
What is the highest capture resolution available?
Most listed cards capture at 4K60 or 1080p60. The EVGA XR1 Pro and AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 support 4K capture. Some units like the Ezcap 4K144 Pro prioritize high refresh rates. Verify the specific capture resolution limit before purchasing for high-quality recording.
