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Finding the best capture cards with ultra low latency requires checking exact hardware limits. We compared 8 models using only their published specifications. The Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI leads because its FPGA efficiency supports four simultaneous HDMI feeds with minimal delay. Each pick below is ranked by these specs. This guide helps you decide which card fits your studio or streaming rig.
Choose interface based on channel needs
You must match the host interface to your setup. Internal PCIe cards like the Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI support multiple simultaneous HDMI feeds for studio workflows. External USB 3.2 models such as the Ezcap 4K144 Pro offer portable flexibility for single consoles. Select PCIe for multi-source rig integration, or USB for simple plug-and-play streaming without opening your case.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI Best overall | Multi-channel professional production setups | |
| 2 | ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card Best premium | multi-source 1080p60 streaming setups | |
| 3 | AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card Also great | multi-source 1080p60 streaming | |
| 4 | AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 Internal PCIe Capture Card Best budget | Internal 4K60 console streaming | |
| 5 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card Also great | high frame rate recording and 8K passthrough | |
| 6 | Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card Also great | portable 4K144 streaming with audio mixing | |
| 7 | Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card Also great | high-refresh-rate 1080p and 4K144 passthrough streaming | |
| 8 | BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro Also great | PS5 streaming with party chat and VRR |
The best fit for you
- You manage four simultaneous video feeds – Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI – Its quad HDMI interface supports four simultaneous inputs via a PCIe connection.
- You stream multiple sources at 1080p60 – ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card – It captures 1080p60 from four HDMI inputs with active cooling for stability.
- You record internal console games in 4K – AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 Internal PCIe Capture Card – It captures 4K60 via HDMI 2.1 for internal PC installation.
- You need 8K passthrough for gaming – Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card – It supports 8K passthrough while capturing 4K60 with VRR.
- You want portable streaming with audio mixing – Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card – It offers 4K144 passthrough and audio mixing via USB 3.2.
Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI
Best for: Multi-channel professional production setups
- Features
- Ultra-Low Latency
- Capture Resolution
- Up to 2048×2160, 144 fps
- Host Interface
- PCIe Gen2 x4
- Video Interface
- HDMI
- Channel Count
- 4
- Dimensions
- 7.8 × 8.65 × 1.65 inches
The Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI offers four simultaneous inputs for multi-source workflows. It captures up to 2048×2160 at 144 fps with ultra-low latency down to 64 video lines. FPGA processing handles scaling and color conversion to reduce host CPU load. It supports 10-bit color and 8-channel audio per input. This card suits professional studios needing robust, multi-channel capture with broad OS compatibility.
- Four independent HDMI inputs for simultaneous capture
- Supports 144 fps at resolutions up to 2048×2160
- FPGA hardware reduces host CPU load
- Ultra-low latency down to 64 video lines
- Supports 10-bit color and 8-channel audio
- Only supports PCIe Gen2 x4 interface
- Heavier at 10.1 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Larger physical dimensions at 8.65 inches wide
- You need to capture four separate HDMI sources at once
- You require ultra-low latency for live monitoring or production
- You want FPGA processing to minimize host CPU usage
- You only need a single HDMI input channel
- You prefer a smaller form factor for compact builds
- You require the latest PCIe Gen4 interface for maximum bandwidth
Verdict: Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI delivers professional multi-channel capture with low latency and FPGA efficiency. It fits studios managing four simultaneous feeds rather than casual single-stream users.
ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card
Best for: multi-source 1080p60 streaming setups
- Features
- Ultra-Low Latency
- Capture Resolution
- 1080p60
- Host Interface
- PCIe x4
- Video Interface
- HDMI
- Channel Count
- 4
- Platform
- PC
The ACASIS 4HDMI is an internal PCIe capture card designed for multi-source setups. It supports four simultaneous HDMI inputs, allowing you to capture 1080p60 video with ultra-low latency. The unit features a built-in turbo fan for heat dissipation and works with major streaming software on Windows and Linux. It fits PCIe x4, x8, or x16 slots. This card suits users who need to record or stream from four distinct HDMI sources at once.
- Four simultaneous HDMI input channels
- 1080p60 capture resolution with ultra-low latency
- Built-in turbo fan for active cooling
- Compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems
- Maximum capture resolution is limited to 1080p60
- Heavier build at 5.29 ounces
- Larger physical dimensions compared to single-channel cards
- You need to capture video from four HDMI sources simultaneously
- You require ultra-low latency for live gaming streams
- You use a PC with available PCIe x4, x8, or x16 slots
- You need to capture 4K video at 60fps or higher
- You are using a laptop without internal expansion slots
- You prefer a passive cooling design without fans
Verdict: The ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card is ideal for streamers managing multiple inputs like consoles and PCs in one rig. It delivers stable 1080p60 performance with active cooling for long sessions.
AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card
Best for: multi-source 1080p60 streaming
- Features
- Ultra-Low Latency
- Capture Resolution
- 1080p60
- Host Interface
- PCIe Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 1.4
- Channel Count
- 4
- Platform
- Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One
This card handles four HDMI 1.4 inputs simultaneously. It captures 1080p60 video with ultra-low latency via a PCIe Gen 2 interface. You get 200 Mbps bitrates and lossless YUV2 compression. The design supports portrait and landscape modes. It fits well for multi-source streaming setups where 4K capture is not required.
- Four HDMI 1.4 channels for simultaneous input
- 1080p60 capture resolution with 200 Mbps bitrate
- Ultra-low latency via PCIe Gen 2 interface
- Supports portrait and landscape orientation modes
- 1080p60 resolution limits detail compared to 4K competitors
- PCIe Gen 2 interface offers lower bandwidth than newer standards
- HDMI 1.4 video interface restricts high-bandwidth signal transmission
- You need to capture four separate HDMI sources at once
- You prioritize ultra-low latency over 4K resolution
- You require portrait and landscape mode flexibility
- You need 4K or 8K capture resolution
- You require HDMI 2.1 bandwidth for high frame rates
- You only need a single HDMI input channel
Verdict: AVMATRIX VC42 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card fits users who need multi-source 1080p60 streaming with minimal delay. It is a specialized tool for multi-channel setups rather than high-resolution gaming capture.
AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 Internal PCIe Capture Card
Best for: Internal 4K60 console streaming
- Features
- Ultra-Low Latency
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Host Interface
- PCIe
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- Platform
- Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One
- Compatible Platform
- PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4
This internal PCIe capture card supports 4K60 resolution and HDMI 2.1 inputs. It handles refresh rates up to 240Hz, making it suitable for high-speed gaming. The device is designed for streaming and recording on consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X/S. Its compact form factor fits inside standard desktop towers. You get ultra-low latency performance for real-time gameplay capture.
- Supports 4K60 capture resolution
- HDMI 2.1 video interface
- Handles refresh rates up to 240Hz
- Internal PCIe host interface
- Captures at 4K60, while competitors offer 4K144
- Heavier at 5.31 ounces compared to lighter USB options
- You use an internal PCIe slot in your PC
- You play on PS5 or Xbox Series X/S
- You need 4K60 capture with low latency
- You require a USB connection instead of PCIe
- You need 4K144 or higher refresh rate capture
- You prefer an external desktop device
Verdict: AVerMedia GC575 PCIe 4K60 Capture Card fits users who want internal 4K60 capture for console gaming. It is not ideal if you need higher 144Hz refresh rates or external connectivity.
Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Best for: high frame rate recording and 8K passthrough
- Features
- HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 8K60
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
- Platform
- PC
The Elgato 4K Pro is an internal PCIe capture card designed for high-end PC streaming. It supports HDMI 2.1 with 8K60 passthrough and captures video at 4K60 with HDR10. You can record up to 1080p240 for smooth gameplay. The card features VRR passthrough to prevent screen tearing. It offers ultra-low latency for precise synchronization between your broadcast and gameplay.
- HDMI 2.1 interface for high-bandwidth connectivity
- 8K60 passthrough resolution support
- 4K60 capture resolution with HDR10
- Records up to 1080p240 frame rate
- VRR passthrough eliminates screen tearing
- Lower maximum capture resolution of 4K60 compared to 4K144 competitors
- Internal PCIe form factor limits portability
- Heavier build at 3.88 ounces
- You need 8K60 passthrough for future-proofing
- You want to record at 1080p240 for smooth replays
- You prefer internal PCIe cards for stable connections
- You require 4K144 capture resolution
- You need a portable USB capture card
- You want a budget-friendly external solution
Verdict: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card is best for streamers who prioritize high frame rate recording and 8K passthrough over maximum capture resolution.
Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card
Best for: portable 4K144 streaming with audio mixing
- Features
- HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency
- 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 4K144 Pro is a portable USB 3.2 Gen 2 capture card designed for high-speed gaming streams. It supports 4K144 capture and passthrough with HDR10 and VRR. This model offers 1080p240 recording options. It includes dedicated audio ports for party chat. You get a lightweight, plug-and-play solution for Windows and macOS. It suits streamers needing ultra-low latency without internal PCIe slots.
- Supports 4K144 capture and passthrough resolutions
- Features 1080p240 recording capability
- Includes dedicated 3.5mm Line In and headset ports
- Provides HDR10 and VRR support
- Weighs 7.69 ounces, adding bulk to a portable setup
- Limited to USB connectivity rather than internal PCIe slots
- Supports only HDR10, lacking other HDR formats
- You need 4K144 passthrough for high-refresh-rate gaming
- You want to mix party chat audio directly
- You stream from a PC or Mac without PCIe slots
- You require internal PCIe installation for maximum stability
- You need support for multiple simultaneous HDMI inputs
- You prefer a heavier, more robust desktop build
Verdict: Ezcap 4K144 Pro USB Capture Card fits streamers who need high-resolution passthrough and easy audio mixing on portable setups. It delivers the necessary specs for 4K144 gaming without the complexity of internal cards.
Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card
Best for: high-refresh-rate 1080p and 4K144 passthrough streaming
- Features
- HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency
- Capture Resolution
- 4K144
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K144
- Host Interface
- USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
The Guermok GM-73F is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 capture card with HDMI 2.1 support. It handles 4K144 passthrough and captures 4K at 144 FPS using MJPEG. It also supports 1080p at 240 FPS. The device includes HDR10 and VRR for smoother gameplay. It features built-in PD 3.0 charging for connected devices. This card suits streamers who need high frame rates and flexible audio inputs.
- HDMI 2.1 passthrough up to 4K144Hz
- Captures 4K at 144 FPS via MJPEG
- Supports 1080p at 240 FPS for high refresh rates
- Built-in PD 3.0 charging for host devices
- Multiple audio inputs including Mic In and Line In
- 10-bit P010 capture limited to 2K at 120 FPS
- macOS capture resolution capped at 4K60
- Weight of 5.94 ounces is heavier than typical compact cards
- You need 4K144 passthrough with HDR10 and VRR
- You want to capture 1080p at 240 FPS
- You require built-in power delivery for your laptop
- You need 10-bit capture at 4K resolution
- You require 4K capture at 144 FPS on macOS
- You prefer a lighter, more compact form factor
Verdict: The Guermok GM-73F 4K144 USB-C Capture Card delivers high frame rate capture and passthrough for demanding streaming setups. It fits users who prioritize 1080p240 or 4K144 performance and need to power their host device simultaneously.
BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro
Best for: PS5 streaming with party chat and VRR
- Features
- HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency
- 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 Gen 2 capture card built for high-frame-rate gaming. It supports 4K 144 FPS capture and passthrough with HDMI 2.1. You get HDR10 and VRR passthrough for modern consoles. It records up to 1080p 240 FPS for competitive play. The device includes a 3.5mm cable for PS5 party chat audio. It works with OBS and Streamlabs for flexible streaming.
- 4K 144 FPS capture and passthrough support
- HDMI 2.1 interface with VRR passthrough
- Records up to 1080p 240 FPS
- Includes 3.5mm cable for PS5 party chat audio
- Lower maximum recording resolution of 1080p 240 FPS compared to 4K passthrough
- Heavier build at 1.76 pounds
- You need VRR passthrough for smooth competitive gaming
- You stream PS5 party chat audio alongside gameplay
- You want 4K 144 FPS capture with HDR10
- You require an internal PCIe card for your desktop
- You need simultaneous 4K recording and passthrough
- You prefer a lighter, more compact device
Verdict: The BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro USB Capture Card fits players who need VRR passthrough and PS5 party chat integration. It delivers high-frame-rate capture for competitive titles but records at a lower resolution than its passthrough capability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI | ACASIS 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card | AVMATRIX 4-Channel HDMI PCIe Capture Card | AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 Internal PCIe Capture Card | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card | Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card | Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card | BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capture Resolution | Up to 2048×2160, 144 fps | 1080p60 | 1080p60 | 4K60 | 4K60 | 4K144, 1080p240 | 4K144 | 4K 144 FPS |
| Passthrough Resolution | – | – | – | – | 8K60 | 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360 | 4K144 | 4K 144 FPS |
| Host Interface | PCIe Gen2 x4 | PCIe x4 | PCIe Gen 2 | PCIe | – | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Video Interface | HDMI | HDMI | HDMI 1.4 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 |
| Channel Count | 4 | 4 | 4 | – | – | – | – | – |
| HDR Support | – | – | – | – | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 |
| VRR Support | – | – | – | – | – | – | Supported | VRR passthrough |
| Features | Ultra-Low Latency | Ultra-Low Latency | Ultra-Low Latency | Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency |
| Color | – | – | PCIE-4CH HDMI | Multicolor | – | 4K144 Pro – 401 | Black | Black |
| Resolution | – | 4K UHD | – | 4K UHD | – | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | – |
| Platform | – | PC | Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One | Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One | PC | PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac, Xbox Series X/S | PC, PS5, Mac | PC, Xbox, PS5, Mac |
| Compatible Platform | – | – | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4 | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PS4 | – | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch |
| Use | – | Streaming | – | Streaming | – | – | – | – |
| Connectivity | – | – | – | – | – | USB | USB | USB |
| Application | – | Recording | Recording | Recording | Recording | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 7.8 × 8.65 × 1.65 inches | 3.94 × 3.94 × 1.18 inches | 4.73 × 3.48 × 0.85 inches | 4.76 × 6.32 × 0.83 inches | 2.2 × 4.76 × 0.75 inches | – | 5.03 × 2.91 × 0.83 inches | 2.95 × 0.91 × 5.12 inches |
| Weight | 10.1 ounces | 5.29 ounces | – | 5.31 ounces | 3.88 ounces | 7.69 ounces | 5.94 ounces | 1.76 pounds |
| Size | Quad HDMI | 4HDMI | VC42 | HDMI 2.1 – GC575 | 4K Pro | – | – | Small |
| Model | 11100 | AC-4HDMI | VC42 | GC575 | 20GBK9901 | ezcap401 | GM-73F | Hunter4K Pro |
How to choose the right one
Match your channel needs
You must decide how many video sources you need to capture simultaneously. If you manage four inputs, the Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI is designed for this specific multi-channel workflow. It uses a PCIe interface to handle four HDMI feeds at once. For single-source setups, you do not need this complexity. Most other cards in this guide focus on one or two streams. Choose the model that matches your exact input count to avoid paying for unused ports.
Check capture resolution
You need to verify the maximum resolution the card can record, not just what it passes through. The AVerMedia GC575 captures 4K60, which suits high-quality console recording. Other models like the ACASIS 4-Channel limit recording to 1080p60, even if they support higher passthrough. If you stream in 1080p, the lower capture resolution is sufficient. If you need 4K recordings, select a card with a 4K capture rating. Do not assume passthrough capability equals recording capability.
Select the correct interface
You must choose between internal PCIe and external USB connections. Internal cards like the Elgato 4K Pro install directly into your PC. They offer stable bandwidth for high frame rates. External USB 3.2 cards like the Ezcap 4K144 Pro are portable and plug into any USB port. They are easier to set up but may have different thermal limits. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize internal stability or external flexibility for your streaming rig.
Verify passthrough refresh rates
You should check if the card supports high refresh rate passthrough for your monitor. The Ezcap 4K144 Pro and Guermok GM-73F support 4K144 passthrough. This allows you to play on a high-refresh monitor while capturing. The BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro also supports VRR for smoother gaming. If you play competitive titles at high frame rates, ensure the passthrough matches your monitor. Low passthrough rates can cause input lag during gameplay.
Consider audio mixing needs
You may need built-in audio mixing for your streams. The Ezcap 4K144 Pro includes audio mixing features for portable setups. This allows you to blend game audio and microphone input without extra software. Other cards may require external mixers or software solutions. If you want a simple hardware solution for audio, prioritize cards with explicit audio mixing specs. This reduces the need for additional hardware in your streaming chain.
Frequently asked questions
Which capture card supports the highest passthrough resolution?
The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card supports 8K passthrough. This allows you to connect high-resolution displays while capturing at 4K60. It is ideal if you prioritize high frame rate recording and future-proof display compatibility over maximum capture resolution.
Can I use these cards with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X?
Yes, most models on this list support both consoles. The AVerMedia GC575 and Ezcap 4K144 Pro explicitly list compatibility with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. They also support Nintendo Switch and Xbox One for versatile multi-platform streaming setups.
What is the difference between PCIe and USB host interfaces?
PCIe cards like the Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI install internally and support multiple simultaneous HDMI feeds. USB 3.2 models such as the Ezcap 4K144 Pro are external and portable. Choose PCIe for studio workflows and USB for flexible, portable streaming.
Do these cards support Variable Refresh Rate passthrough?
Yes, several models support VRR passthrough. The Elgato 4K Pro, Ezcap 4K144 Pro, Guermok GM-73F, and BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro all include VRR. This feature ensures smooth display output without screen tearing when connected to compatible monitors and consoles.
Which card is best for capturing four sources at once?
The Magewell Pro Capture Quad HDMI is designed for four simultaneous inputs. It features a quad HDMI interface and FPGA efficiency for professional multi-channel workflows. The ACASIS and AVMATRIX models also offer four-channel HDMI capture for multi-source 1080p60 streaming.
Can I record audio while capturing video on these devices?
The Ezcap 4K144 Pro includes audio mixing capabilities for portable setups. Other models focus primarily on video capture and passthrough. You should check specific attribute lists for audio features if sound integration is a critical requirement for your streaming workflow.
