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Finding the best capture cards for xbox series x s requires matching your PC’s capabilities to the console’s output. We compared 7 options using only the specifications published on the listings. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card leads because it supports VRR and 4K60 capture via PCIe. This internal card suits desktop gamers who need high refresh rate support without external bottlenecks. Other picks cover dual-source streaming, budget USB connections, and multi-channel HDMI inputs. Use this guide to decide which interface and resolution specs fit your setup.
Match your PC interface to the card
Your choice depends on whether you have an open PCIe slot or prefer USB convenience. The Elgato 4K Pro and AVerMedia GC575 use internal PCIe connections for direct motherboard integration. Other options, like the Ezcap 4K144 Pro, connect via USB 3.2. Check your PC’s available ports first. This determines which capture resolution and refresh rates you can actually use for Xbox Series X/S gameplay.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card Best overall | desktop PCs needing VRR and 4K60 | |
| 2 | AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo Dual HDMI Capture Card Best 1080p fhd | dual-source 1080p60 streaming | |
| 3 | EVGA XR1 Pro Capture Card Best budget | 1440p 144Hz passthrough and simple setup | |
| 4 | AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card Best premium | streaming four simultaneous 1080p60 sources | |
| 5 | AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 Best rgb lighting | RGB lighting and high refresh passthrough | |
| 6 | AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 Internal PCIe Capture Card Best streaming | 4K60 internal streaming with low latency | |
| 7 | Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card Best usb 3.2 | High refresh rate USB capture |
The best fit for you
- You need VRR support and 4K60 capture – Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card – It supports VRR, HDR10, and captures 4K60 via PCIe.
- You want to stream four simultaneous sources – AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card – It handles four 1080p60 inputs simultaneously via PCIe.
- You prioritize high refresh rate USB capture – Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card – It captures 4K144 via USB 3.2 with low latency.
Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Best for: desktop PCs needing VRR and 4K60
- 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 card captures 4K60 video with HDR10 support. It passes through 8K60 and 1440p144 signals via HDMI 2.1. VRR and ALLM passthrough work with Xbox Series X. You need a Windows desktop PC with an open slot. The card fits standard PCIe x4 slots. It includes an 8K HDMI cable for your setup.
- Captures up to 4K60 with HDR10
- Passes through 8K60 and 1440p144 signals
- Supports VRR and ALLM passthrough
- Includes an 8K HDMI cable
- Captures only 4K60, while other cards reach 4K144
- Requires an internal PCIe x4 slot
- You use a Windows desktop PC
- You want VRR support for Xbox Series X
- You need 4K60 capture with HDR10
- You use a laptop or console-only setup
- You need 4K144 capture resolution
- You prefer a portable USB device
Verdict: Elgato 4K Pro PCIe Capture Card fits desktop gamers who need VRR support and 4K60 capture. It suits those with open PCIe slots who do not require higher frame rates.
AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo Dual HDMI Capture Card
Best for: dual-source 1080p60 streaming
- Platform
- Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Capture Resolution
- 1080p60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K60 HDR, FHD 240fps
- Host Interface
- PCIe
- Video Interface
- HDMI
- Compatible Platform
- PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch
This dual HDMI capture card records uncompressed 1080p60 video via PCIe. It supports pass-through at 4K60 HDR or FHD 240fps. The onboard processor handles tone mapping and downscaling. You can stream from two sources simultaneously. It works with Windows 11 and standard streaming software. This setup suits creators who need multi-angle production without lag.
- Dual HDMI inputs for simultaneous capture
- Records uncompressed 1080p60 video
- Pass-through supports 4K60 HDR
- Pass-through supports FHD 240fps
- Onboard HDR to SDR tone mapping
- Capture resolution is limited to 1080p60
- Requires a PCIe slot inside your PC
- Dimensions are 10 by 3 by 9 inches
- You need to capture two HDMI sources at once
- You want zero-lag pass-through at high refresh rates
- You have an open PCIe slot in your PC
- You require 4K or higher capture resolution
- You only have USB ports available
- You need a portable external device
Verdict: AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo 1080p60 fits users who need dual-channel recording for multi-camera setups. It delivers high-quality 1080p60 capture while maintaining responsive pass-through for gaming.
EVGA XR1 Pro Capture Card
Best for: 1440p 144Hz passthrough and simple setup
- 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 is a USB 3.1 capture card designed for Xbox Series X/S. It records up to 1440p at 60fps or 4K at 30fps. The device offers 1440p at 144Hz and 4K at 60Hz HDR pass-through. It includes customizable ARGB lighting and a built-in audio mixer. The unit is certified for OBS and requires no driver installation for setup.
- Records 1440p at 60fps and 4K at 30fps
- Passes through 1440p at 144Hz and 4K at 60Hz with HDR
- Built-in audio mixer controls via control dial
- Certified for OBS software
- Plug and play USB 3.1 connection
- Max capture resolution is 4K at 30fps, lower than competitors offering 144Hz or 120Hz capture
- Passthrough resolution caps at 4K at 60Hz, while other cards support 4K at 144Hz
- Physical dimensions are 10 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 6 inches high
- You want 1440p passthrough at 144Hz for smooth gameplay on your display
- You need simple plug-and-play setup without driver installation
- You prefer hardware audio mixing controls
- You require 4K capture at higher than 30fps
- You need passthrough support for 4K at 120Hz or 144Hz
- You are looking for a PCIe internal card
Verdict: EVGA XR1 Pro USB Capture Card suits players who prioritize high-refresh-rate 1440p passthrough and easy setup over maximum 4K capture speeds. It is a practical option for those who do not need 4K120Hz or 4K144Hz recording capabilities.
AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card
Best for: streaming four simultaneous 1080p60 sources
- Platform
- Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One
- Capture Resolution
- 1080p60
- Host Interface
- PCIe Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 1.4
- Channel Count
- 4
- Features
- Ultra-Low Latency
The AVMATRIX VC42 handles four HDMI 1.4 inputs simultaneously on a single PCIe Gen 2 slot. It captures 1080p60 video with ultra-low latency via a 2.5GB/s bandwidth interface. This card supports portrait and landscape modes for flexible streaming. It is designed for users who need to record multiple consoles or sources at once without sacrificing frame rate.
- Captures 1080p60 video from four simultaneous HDMI sources
- PCIe Gen 2 interface provides 2.5GB/s transmission bandwidth
- Supports both portrait and landscape orientation modes
- Compatible with Windows 7, Linux, OBS, and Twitch
- Maximum capture resolution is limited to 1080p60
- HDMI 1.4 video interface restricts bandwidth compared to HDMI 2.1
- Bit rate caps at 200Mbp per channel
- You need to stream from four different consoles or cameras at once
- You require ultra-low latency for real-time gaming broadcasts
- You want to use portrait mode for vertical video content
- You need to capture 4K or higher resolution video
- You require HDMI 2.1 support for 144Hz passthrough
- You only need to capture a single video source
Verdict: AVMATRIX 4-Channel 1080p60 PCIe Capture Card fits creators who must manage multiple input sources simultaneously on one PC. It suits those prioritizing channel count over maximum resolution or high-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 features.
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
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 is a USB capture card for Xbox Series X/S. It captures 4K144 MJPEG on Windows and passes through 4K144 HDR/VRR. It supports 1440p240 and 1080p360 passthrough. The device features RGB lighting and USB-C connectivity. It suits users who need high refresh rate capture with visual customization options.
- Captures 4K144 MJPEG on Windows
- Passes through 4K144 HDR/VRR
- Supports 1440p240 passthrough
- USB-C 10Gbps connection
- RGB lighting with Windows Dynamic Lighting
- macOS capture limited to 4K60
- USB connection rather than PCIe
- DSC monitors may limit passthrough to 4K120
- You want 4K144 passthrough for high refresh displays
- You prefer USB connectivity over internal cards
- You want RGB lighting on your setup
- You need macOS 4K144 capture
- You require a PCIe internal card
- You want to avoid USB connections
Verdict: The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 4K144 USB Capture Card fits users who need high refresh rate passthrough and USB convenience. It is ideal for Windows gamers who value RGB aesthetics and 4K144 capture capabilities.
AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 Internal PCIe Capture Card
Best for: 4K60 internal streaming with low latency
- Platform
- Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Host Interface
- PCIe
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- Features
- Ultra-Low Latency
- Compatible Platform
- PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4
This AVerMedia internal PCIe card captures 4K video at 60Hz with ultra-low latency. It supports refresh rates up to 240Hz and connects via HDMI 2.1. The unit measures 6.32 inches long and weighs 5.31 ounces. You get a practical solution for streaming or recording gameplay from Xbox Series X/S, PS5, or Nintendo Switch. It fits directly into your PC's motherboard.
- Supports 4K60 capture resolution
- HDMI 2.1 video interface
- Ultra-low latency performance
- Refresh rates up to 240Hz
- Internal PCIe host interface
- 4K60 capture rate is lower than the 4K144 or 8K60 rates of other cards on the list
- Internal PCIe form factor requires an open slot in your PC case
- You need an internal card for Xbox Series X/S streaming
- You want 4K60 capture with low latency
- Your PC has an available PCIe slot
- You prefer a portable USB capture device
- You need 4K144 or higher frame rate capture
- You do not have an internal PC slot available
Verdict: AVerMedia GC575 PCIe 4K60 Capture Card is a solid internal option for streamers who need 4K60 performance and low latency. It suits users with desktop PCs who want a dedicated PCIe slot solution for Xbox Series X/S or PS5.
Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card
Best for: High refresh rate USB capture
- Platform
- PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S
- Capture Resolution
- 4K144, 1080p240
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
The Ezcap 401 is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 capture card designed for high-frame-rate gaming. It supports 4K144 capture and passthrough with HDMI 2.1. You get HDR10 and VRR for smoother visuals. The 10Gbps interface keeps latency low. It works with Xbox Series X/S on Windows or macOS. This card suits streamers who need high resolution and refresh rates without complex setups.
- 4K144 capture resolution
- 4K144 HDMI 2.1 passthrough
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 10Gbps interface
- HDR10 and VRR support
- Built-in 3.5mm audio ports
- Heavier at 7.69 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- USB connection limits portability versus PCIe cards
- You want 4K144 passthrough for your TV
- You need 1080p240 capture for high-speed games
- You use Windows or macOS for streaming
- You require internal PCIe installation
- You need 8K60 passthrough
- You want dual HDMI inputs
Verdict: Ezcap 4K144 USB 3.2 Capture Card fits gamers who prioritize high refresh rates and low latency via USB. It is ideal for those who want to capture 4K144 or 1080p240 content without switching to a PCIe slot.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card | AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo Dual HDMI Capture Card | EVGA XR1 Pro Capture Card | AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card | AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 | AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 Internal PCIe Capture Card | Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capture Resolution | 4K60 | 1080p60 | 1440p60, 4K30 | 1080p60 | 4K144 | 4K60 | 4K144, 1080p240 |
| Passthrough Resolution | 8K60 | 4K60 HDR, FHD 240fps | 1440p144 HDR, 4K60 HDR | – | 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360 | – | 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360 |
| Host Interface | PCIe x4 | PCIe | USB 3.1 | PCIe Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C | PCIe | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Video Interface | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI | – | HDMI 1.4 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 |
| Channel Count | – | – | – | 4 | – | – | – |
| HDR Support | HDR10 | – | – | – | HDR10 | – | HDR10 |
| VRR Support | – | – | – | – | Supported | – | – |
| Features | HDR, HDR10, VRR | HDR | HDR | Ultra-Low Latency | RGB Lighting, HDR10, VRR | Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency |
| Color | Black | – | – | PCIE-4CH HDMI | Black | Multicolor | 4K144 Pro – 401 |
| Resolution | – | 1080p FHD | 1440p QHD | – | – | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Platform | PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S | Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S | PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One | Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One | PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S | Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One | PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S |
| Compatible Platform | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4 | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4 | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4 | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch |
| Use | – | – | – | – | – | Streaming | – |
| Connectivity | – | – | USB | – | USB | – | USB |
| Lighting | – | – | – | – | RGB | – | – |
| Application | – | – | – | Recording | – | Recording | – |
| Operating System | – | Windows 11 | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 5 × 2 × 1 inches | 9 × 8 × 3 inches | 10 × 8 × 6 inches | 4.73 × 3.48 × 0.85 inches | 2.7 × 7.3 × 6.3 inches | 4.76 × 6.32 × 0.83 inches | – |
| Weight | 4 ounces | 7.37 ounces | 15.8 ounces | – | 4.06 ounces | 5.31 ounces | 7.69 ounces |
| Model | 10GBK9901 | GC570D | 144-U1-CB21-LR | VC42 | Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 | GC575 | ezcap401 |
| Size | – | 1080p60 – GC570D Live Gamer DUO | XR1 Pro | VC42 | HDMI 2.1 – GC553G2 (Black) | HDMI 2.1 – GC575 | – |
How to choose the right capture card
Check your PC interface
You must match the card to your computer’s available ports. Internal PCIe cards like the Elgato 4K Pro or AVerMedia GC575 require an open slot on your motherboard. This connection offers direct integration. If you lack space, USB options provide flexibility. The Ezcap 4K144 Pro uses USB 3.2 for high bandwidth. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 also connects via USB. Choose PCIe for stability or USB for easy setup without opening your case.
Match your capture resolution
Your recording needs determine the required capture resolution. If you stream in 4K, the Elgato 4K Pro or Ezcap 4K144 Pro support 4K60 or 4K144 capture. These cards handle high-resolution footage effectively. For 1080p streaming, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo delivers 1080p60 capture. The EVGA XR1 Pro captures 4K but is best for 1440p passthrough. Select a card that matches your target output resolution to avoid downscaling issues during recording.
Verify VRR support
Variable Refresh Rate support ensures smooth gameplay without screen tearing. The Elgato 4K Pro and AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 both include VRR. This feature is crucial for competitive gaming where frame consistency matters. Other cards like the AVerMedia GC575 do not list VRR in their attributes. If you play fast-paced titles, prioritize cards with VRR. This spec improves the viewing experience for both you and your audience by synchronizing frame rates.
Consider simultaneous inputs
If you manage multiple devices, channel count matters. The AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe card supports four simultaneous 1080p60 inputs. This is ideal for multi-camera setups or console libraries. Most other cards handle a single source. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo also features dual HDMI inputs for two sources. Decide if you need to capture from one or multiple consoles simultaneously. This decision narrows your options to multi-channel or single-channel PCIe solutions.
Evaluate passthrough rates
Passthrough resolution affects your gaming experience while recording. The EVGA XR1 Pro supports 1440p at 144Hz passthrough. This allows high-refresh-rate gaming even if capture is lower. The Ezcap 4K144 Pro offers 4K144 passthrough for maximum clarity. Ensure your monitor supports these rates. If you prioritize gameplay over recording resolution, high passthrough is key. Check the attributes for specific passthrough limits to avoid input lag or resolution drops during play.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a PCIe capture card with my Xbox Series X?
Yes, several models support Xbox Series X/S alongside PC and PlayStation 5. The Elgato 4K Pro and AVerMedia GC575 both list Xbox Series X/S as compatible platforms. These internal cards connect via PCIe slots in your desktop, allowing you to capture console gameplay directly on your computer without external USB bottlenecks.
Which capture card is best for 4K 144Hz passthrough?
The Ezcap 4K144 Pro is designed for high refresh rate USB capture. It supports 4K144 resolution and features HDMI 2.1 connectivity for low latency passthrough. This makes it suitable if you want to capture high-frame-rate content without relying on an internal PCIe slot in your desktop computer.
Do I need HDMI 2.1 for Xbox Series X capture?
HDMI 2.1 is necessary for 4K120Hz or 4K144Hz passthrough and capture. The Elgato 4K Pro, AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1, and Ezcap 4K144 Pro all include HDMI 2.1 interfaces. If you only plan to capture 4K60 or 1080p60, standard HDMI ports on cards like the AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo may suffice.
Can I stream from multiple consoles simultaneously?
The AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card handles four simultaneous 1080p60 inputs. It is built for creators who need to manage multiple sources on one PC. Other cards like the AVerMedia Live Gamer Duo support dual-channel recording, which is useful for multi-camera setups but not four distinct console inputs.
Is VRR support important for capture cards?
VRR helps reduce screen tearing during gameplay, which is beneficial for both playing and capturing. The Elgato 4K Pro and AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 both support VRR and HDR10. This ensures your captured footage maintains the smooth visual experience your Xbox Series X provides when connected to a compatible display.
What is the difference between USB and PCIe capture cards?
PCIe cards connect directly to your motherboard, offering stable integration and often higher bandwidth. Models like the Elgato 4K Pro and AVerMedia GC575 use this internal interface. USB cards, such as the Ezcap 4K144 Pro and EVGA XR1 Pro, offer easier setup by plugging into available USB ports, providing flexibility for different PC configurations.
Can I use these cards with Mac computers?
Some models support macOS in addition to Windows. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 and Ezcap 4K144 Pro list Mac as a compatible platform. Most other options, including the Elgato 4K Pro and AVerMedia GC575, are optimized for Windows 11 or general PC use, so check the specific platform requirements before purchasing.
