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Finding the best capture cards with VRR requires looking at how each unit handles variable refresh rates and passthrough quality. We compared 7 models using only the specifications published on their listings. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card leads because it supports HDMI 2.1 for desktop PCs needing VRR passthrough. This guide helps you decide which card fits your setup by focusing on capture resolution, host interface, and platform compatibility. You will see how features like HDR10 and ultra-low latency vary across these devices. Read on to find the right tool for your streaming needs.
Match interface to your PC
Choose between PCIe or USB connections based on your setup. The top Elgato model uses an internal PCIe slot for direct motherboard access. Most other options, like the AVerMedia and Ezcap, rely on USB 3.2 ports. Pick the form factor that fits your build. Ensure your computer has the correct available slot or port before buying.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card Best overall | desktop PCs needing VRR passthrough | |
| 2 | AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 Best rgb lighting | Windows gamers needing 4K144 capture and VRR | |
| 3 | Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card Best premium | internal 8K60 passthrough setups | |
| 4 | Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card Best budget | 4K144 VRR streaming with local audio | |
| 5 | Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card Also great | high refresh rate streaming with PD charging | |
| 6 | BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro Also great | VRR passthrough and 4K 144 FPS capture | |
| 7 | ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO Best 1080p fhd | VRR passthrough and 4K144 high refresh rate gaming |
The best fit for you
- You need VRR passthrough for a desktop PC setup – Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card – It uses a PCIe interface for internal installation and supports HDMI 2.1 VRR passthrough.
- You want 4K144 capture with RGB lighting on Windows – AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 – It offers 4K144 capture resolution and includes RGB lighting features for your setup.
- You need internal 8K60 passthrough for high-end builds – Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card – It provides 8K60 passthrough capabilities and supports VRR for smooth visuals.
- You prioritize VRR streaming with local audio mixing – Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card – It supports 4K144 capture and includes local audio mixing features for streaming.
- You need high refresh rate streaming with PD charging – Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card – It supports USB 3.2 connectivity with PD charging and VRR passthrough.
Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Best for: desktop PCs needing VRR passthrough
- Features
- HDR, HDR10, VRR
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 8K60
- Host Interface
- PCIe x4
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
The Elgato 4K Pro is an internal PCIe capture card designed for desktop PCs. It supports 8K60 and 4K144 HDR passthrough via HDMI 2.1. You can capture video at up to 4K60 with HDR10. The card includes VRR and ALLM passthrough for compatible consoles. It works with Elgato Studio, 4K Capture Utility, and OBS. This unit is a renewed product.
- 8K60 and 4K144 HDR passthrough over HDMI 2.1
- Captures up to 4K60 with HDR10
- VRR and ALLM passthrough for PS5 and Xbox Series X
- Internal PCIe x4 connection for desktop PCs
- Capture resolution is limited to 4K60, while competitors offer 4K144 capture
- Requires a desktop PC with an available PCIe slot
- You use a desktop PC with an open PCIe slot
- You need VRR passthrough for PS5 or Xbox Series X
- You want 8K60 passthrough for your display
- You use a laptop or console without PCIe expansion
- You need 4K144 capture resolution
- You prefer a USB external capture device
Verdict: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card fits desktop users who need VRR passthrough and high-resolution output. It is ideal for those prioritizing passthrough quality over maximum capture frame rates.
AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1
Best for: Windows gamers needing 4K144 capture and VRR
- Features
- RGB Lighting, HDR10, VRR
- 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 capture card supports 4K144 recording on Windows and includes VRR for smoother gameplay. It passes through 4K144 HDR, 1440p240, or 1080p360 video. The unit features RGB lighting and connects via USB-C. You get dual audio ports and 5.1 channel support. It suits players who want high refresh rates and visual customization.
- 4K144 capture resolution on Windows
- HDMI 2.1 passthrough up to 4K144
- VRR support for compatible displays
- RGB lighting with Windows Dynamic Lighting
- Dual 3.5mm audio ports for headset and gamepad
- macOS capture limited to 4K60
- DSC monitors may limit passthrough to 4K120
- Heavier build at 4.06 ounces
- You play on Windows and want 4K144 recording
- You need VRR for smoother gameplay
- You want RGB lighting on your gear
- You use macOS as your primary capture device
- You require 4K144 passthrough on DSC monitors
- You prefer lighter hardware under 4 ounces
Verdict: AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 fits Windows gamers seeking 4K144 capture and VRR. It offers robust passthrough and RGB lighting for a complete setup.
Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card
Best for: internal 8K60 passthrough setups
- Features
- HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 8K60
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR10
- Platform
- PC
This internal capture card handles 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 HDR10 recording via HDMI 2.1. It supports Variable Refresh Rate passthrough to reduce screen tearing. You can record up to 1080p240. It connects directly to your PC. This setup suits users who want high-resolution internal capture without external hardware. It fits well in builds where space and direct connectivity matter.
- 8K60 passthrough resolution
- 4K60 HDR10 capture
- HDMI 2.1 interface
- Variable Refresh Rate passthrough
- 1080p240 recording limit is lower than 4K144 options
- Internal form factor restricts placement
- You need internal PCIe connectivity
- You want 8K60 passthrough support
- You prefer HDR10 capture
- You require external USB connectivity
- You need 4K144 recording capability
- You want a portable device
Verdict: Elgato 4K Pro Internal Card delivers high-end passthrough and HDR capture for internal builds. It is ideal for streamers prioritizing 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 recording over portable flexibility.
Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card
Best for: 4K144 VRR streaming with local audio
- 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 capture card uses HDMI 2.1 and USB 3.2 Gen 2 to deliver 4K144 passthrough and capture. It supports VRR and HDR10 for smooth, tear-free visuals. You get dedicated 3.5mm Line In and headset ports for audio mixing. This model weighs 7.69 ounces and fits Windows and macOS systems. It is a practical option for streamers who need high refresh rates and low latency.
- Supports 4K144 capture and passthrough resolution
- Includes VRR and HDR10 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 bulkier than some competitors
- Capture resolution is limited to 4K144, lower than 8K60 options
- You need VRR support for tear-free gaming
- You want to mix console party chat via 3.5mm ports
- You play at 4K144 refresh rates
- You require 8K60 passthrough
- You need 4K144 capture capability
- You prefer a lighter build under 7 ounces
Verdict: Ezcap 4K144 Pro Capture Card suits gamers who prioritize VRR and local audio mixing over maximum resolution. It is a solid choice for 4K144 streaming setups.
Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card
Best for: high refresh rate streaming with PD charging
- 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 supports 4K144 passthrough and capture with VRR and HDR10. It handles 1080p240 and 2K144 capture on Windows, plus 4K60 on macOS. The HDMI 2.1 port includes PD 3.0 charging for host devices. It connects via USB 3.2 Gen2 and works with OBS Studio. This card suits streamers needing high refresh rates and flexible audio inputs for their setup.
- 4K144 passthrough with VRR and HDR10 support
- 1080p240 and 2K144 capture capabilities on Windows
- Built-in PD 3.0 charging for host devices
- Multiple audio inputs including Mic In and Line In
- Lower macOS capture resolution of 4K60 compared to Windows options
- Heavier build at 5.94 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- Requires USB 3.2 Gen2 connection for full bandwidth
- You need VRR passthrough for smoother gameplay
- You stream at 1080p240 or 2K144 on Windows
- You want to charge your host device while capturing
- You require 4K capture on macOS
- You prefer a lighter, more compact form factor
- You need USB 2.0 compatibility for legacy systems
Verdict: Guermok GM-73F 4K144 Capture Card fits streamers who prioritize high refresh rate passthrough and Windows-based capture flexibility. It is ideal for those who need PD charging and multiple audio inputs for their streaming rig.
BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro
Best for: VRR passthrough and 4K 144 FPS capture
- 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 compact USB capture card supporting 4K at 144 FPS for both recording and HDMI pass-through. It features HDMI 2.1 connectivity and VRR passthrough, ensuring smooth gameplay without tearing. The device handles HDR10 and includes ultra-low latency performance. It is designed for users who need flexible streaming options and party chat audio capture on PS5. This small black unit connects via USB 3.2 for straightforward plug-and-play setup.
- Supports 4K 144 FPS capture and passthrough
- Includes VRR passthrough for smooth visuals
- Handles HDR10 content
- Captures PS5 Party Chat audio via 3.5mm cable
- Small form factor measuring 0.91 by 2.95 by 5.12 inches
- Heavier at 1.76 pounds compared to lighter alternatives
- Maximum capture resolution is 4K 144 FPS, lower than 8K options on the list
- Recording resolution caps at 1080p 24 FPS for some modes
- You need VRR passthrough for competitive gaming
- You want to capture PS5 party chat audio directly
- You require 4K 144 FPS recording and pass-through
- You need 8K resolution support
- You prefer a lighter device under 1 pound
- You require internal PCIe installation
Verdict: BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro 4K144 fits players who prioritize VRR passthrough and 4K 144 FPS capture. It suits those who need specific PS5 audio features and do not require 8K resolution.
ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO
Best for: VRR passthrough and 4K144 high refresh rate gaming
- Features
- HDR, VRR
- Capture Resolution
- 4K60
- Passthrough Resolution
- 4K144
- Host Interface
- USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2
- Video Interface
- HDMI 2.1
- HDR Support
- HDR
The ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO handles 4K144 passthrough and 4K60 capture via HDMI 2.1. It supports VRR for tear-free gameplay and includes two 3.5mm jacks for party mode. The aluminum shell aids heat dissipation. You get plug-and-play USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity. This unit suits gamers wanting high refresh rate passthrough with solid capture specs.
- HDMI 2.1 compatibility for 4K144 HDR passthrough
- VRR passthrough eliminates screen tearing
- 4K60 capture resolution via USB 3.2 Gen 2
- Two 3.5mm jacks for console party mode
- Aluminum outer shell for durability and cooling
- Capture resolution caps at 4K60, lower than competitors supporting 4K120 or 4K144 capture
- Passthrough refresh rate is 144Hz, below the 240Hz FHD passthrough of some rivals
- Weight of 15.9 ounces makes it heavier than many USB capture cards
- You want VRR passthrough for smooth next-gen gameplay
- You need 4K144 passthrough with 4K60 capture
- You want to connect a controller and headset simultaneously
- You require 4K120 or higher capture resolution
- You need 240Hz passthrough for Full HD gaming
- You prefer a lightweight, portable capture device
Verdict: ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO delivers reliable 4K144 passthrough and VRR support for gamers prioritizing smooth high-refresh-rate visuals over maximum capture frame rates.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Elgato 4K Pro Internal 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 | ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capture Resolution | 4K60 | 4K144 | 4K60 | 4K144, 1080p240 | 4K144 | 4K 144 FPS | 4K60 |
| Passthrough Resolution | 8K60 | 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360 | 8K60 | 4K144, 1440p240, 1080p360 | 4K144 | 4K 144 FPS | 4K144 |
| Host Interface | PCIe x4 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C | – | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 |
| Video Interface | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 | HDMI 2.1 |
| HDR Support | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR10 | HDR |
| VRR Support | – | Supported | – | – | Supported | VRR passthrough | Supported |
| Features | HDR, HDR10, VRR | RGB Lighting, HDR10, VRR | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR10, VRR, Ultra-Low Latency | HDR, VRR |
| Color | Black | Black | – | 4K144 Pro – 401 | Black | Black | 4KPRO|HDMI 2.1|2160p144 |
| Resolution | – | – | – | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | – | 1080p FHD |
| Platform | PC, Xbox, PS5, Xbox Series X/S | 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 | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch | – |
| Use | – | – | – | – | – | – | Gaming |
| Connectivity | – | USB | – | USB | USB | USB | USB |
| Lighting | – | RGB | – | – | – | – | – |
| Application | – | – | Recording | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 5 × 2 × 1 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 | 4.06 ounces | 3.88 ounces | 7.69 ounces | 5.94 ounces | 1.76 pounds | 15.9 ounces |
| Model | 10GBK9901 | Live Gamer ULTRA 2.1 | 20GBK9901 | ezcap401 | GM-73F | Hunter4K Pro | TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO |
| Size | – | HDMI 2.1 – GC553G2 (Black) | 4K Pro | – | – | Small | – |
How to Choose Your VRR Capture Card
Match Interface to Setup
Decide between internal and external connections first. Internal cards like the Elgato 4K Pro use PCIe slots for direct motherboard access. This offers stable performance for desktop PCs. External models rely on USB 3.2 ports. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 and Ezcap 4K144 Pro both use USB. Choose USB if you need portability or lack an open PCIe slot. Ensure your PC has the correct port type before purchasing.
Check Passthrough Resolution
VRR passthrough quality determines how smooth your gameplay looks on your monitor. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Card supports 8K60 passthrough for high-end displays. Most others, like the ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO, offer 4K144 passthrough. If you use a 4K monitor, ensure the card supports 4K60 or higher passthrough. Lower passthrough resolutions can limit your gaming experience even if capture resolution is high. Verify the video interface supports HDMI 2.1 for best results.
Verify Capture Resolution
Capture resolution defines the quality of your recorded video. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 captures up to 4K144. The Ezcap 4K144 Pro also supports 4K144 capture. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Card captures at 4K60. If you prioritize high frame rate recordings, look for 4K144 support. For standard streaming, 4K60 may suffice. Match the capture resolution to your target audience and storage capacity. Higher resolutions require more bandwidth and processing power.
Consider Audio Features
Audio handling varies by model. The Ezcap 4K144 Pro supports local audio mixing for better stream quality. The Guermok GM-73F offers multiple audio inputs for flexible setup. Check if the card supports the audio format you need. Some cards prioritize video passthrough over advanced audio controls. If you need precise audio mixing, verify the features list. Ensure compatibility with your microphone and console audio outputs. Proper audio integration enhances viewer engagement significantly.
Assess Physical Size
Form factor affects placement and cooling. Internal cards are compact and fit inside your PC case. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Card measures 5 inches in length. External boxes vary in size. The BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro is small but weighs 1.76 pounds. The AVerMedia unit is larger at 7.3 inches wide. Ensure you have space for the device. Internal cards save desk space. External cards offer easier access for cable management. Choose based on your build constraints.
Check Platform Compatibility
Ensure the card works with your console and PC. Most listed cards support PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch. The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Card works with PC, Xbox, and PS5. The AVerMedia model supports Mac as well. Verify the compatible platform list before buying. Some cards may have driver limitations on certain operating systems. Ensure your PC meets the host interface requirements. USB cards need USB 3.2 ports. PCIe cards need an open slot on your motherboard.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card support VRR?
Yes, the Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card supports Variable Refresh Rate. It also features HDR and HDR10 capabilities. This card is designed for desktop PCs needing VRR passthrough. It connects via a PCIe interface. The device supports HDMI 2.1 for high-bandwidth video output. It is ideal for users prioritizing passthrough quality over maximum capture frame rates.
Can the AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 capture 4K at 144fps with VRR?
Yes, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 captures video at 4K144 resolution. It includes VRR support for smoother gameplay visuals. The device connects via USB and supports HDMI 2.1. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, Xbox, and PS5 systems. It also features RGB lighting for aesthetic customization. This model fits gamers seeking high refresh rate capture on Windows.
What is the best capture card for internal 8K60 passthrough?
The Elgato 4K Pro Internal Capture Card is best for internal 8K60 passthrough setups. It supports HDMI 2.1 and VRR for high-quality output. The card connects via PCIe for direct motherboard access. It is ideal for streamers prioritizing passthrough over portable flexibility. It also offers 4K60 recording capabilities. The unit is compact, measuring 4.76 inches in width.
Which budget capture card offers 4K144 VRR streaming with local audio?
The Ezcap 4K144 Pro Video Capture Card is the best budget option. It supports 4K144 VRR streaming with local audio mixing. The device connects via USB 3.2 and HDMI 2.1. It is compatible with PC, Xbox, PS5, and Mac platforms. It features HDR10 and ultra-low latency. This card suits gamers who prioritize VRR and audio flexibility over maximum resolution.
Does the Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card support PD charging?
Yes, the Guermok 4K144 HDMI USB Capture Card supports PD charging. It offers high refresh rate passthrough and VRR support. The device connects via USB 3.2 and HDMI 2.1. It is compatible with PC, PS5, and Mac. It features HDR10 and ultra-low latency. This model is ideal for streamers needing PD charging and multiple audio inputs for their setup.
Can the BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro capture 4K at 144fps?
Yes, the BlueAVS Hunter4K Pro captures video at 4K 144 FPS. It supports VRR passthrough for smooth visuals. The device connects via USB 3.2 and HDMI 2.1. It is compatible with PC, Xbox, PS5, and Mac. It features HDR10 and ultra-low latency. This card suits players who need specific PS5 audio features without requiring 8K resolution.
Does the ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO support VRR passthrough?
Yes, the ASUS TUF GAMING CAPTURE BOX-4KPRO supports VRR passthrough. It delivers reliable 4K144 passthrough for high refresh rate gaming. The device connects via USB and supports HDMI 2.1. It features HDR and VRR capabilities. The card captures video at 4K60 resolution. It is ideal for gamers prioritizing smooth visuals over maximum capture frame rates.
