Top 6 Best Capture Cards for Live Streaming on Switch, Playstation, Xbox and PC
In today’s fast-growing world of gaming and content creation, having the right tools to showcase your skills and experiences is essential. Whether you’re a Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox, or PC gamer, a high-quality capture card can make all the difference in delivering the best content for your audience. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best capture cards available for various platforms, each offering unique features and capabilities to ensure you can stream and record your gameplay with ease. From 4K resolution recording to ultra-low latency streaming, these capture cards are designed to cater to the needs of both casual gamers and professional content creators alike. So, sit back and discover the perfect capture card for your gaming setup!
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Extreme 3 (GC551 G2) is designed for gamers and content creators seeking 4K30 gameplay recording and a high refresh rate passthrough. With ultra-low latency and plug-and-play technology, it ensures a smooth streaming experience on popular platforms like YouTube and Twitch and is compatible with various game consoles. The included USB Type-C to Type-A cable and HDMI 2.0 cable makes connecting your devices a breeze, and the quick start guide ensures you’re up and running in no time.
Key Features:
- 4K30 gameplay recording with high refresh rate pass-through
- Ultra-low latency for a seamless streaming experience
- Plug-and-play technology with compatibility across game consoles and streaming platforms
Pros:
- Records 4K30 gameplay and supports high refresh rate passthrough
- Ultra-low latency for smooth, uninterrupted streaming
- Plug-and-play technology for easy setup
- Compatible with popular game consoles like PS5, Xbox One X/S, Switch, and Mini NES
- Supports streaming on various platforms, including YouTube and Twitch
- Works with PC and Mac
Cons:
- Limited to 4K30 recording, it may not be suitable for users seeking higher frame rates in 4K
- No built-in audio mixer or advanced features for professional streamers
- Some users may prefer a more compact design
5. EVGA XR1
The EVGA XR1 offers 1080p60 recording while gaming at 4K60 and supports advanced passthrough modes with up to 1440p at a 144Hz refresh rate plus HDR. A built-in audio mixer and USB 3.0 connectivity provide low-latency capturing and streaming for PC/console gameplay or DSLR camera use. As the first device certified for OBS, it’s a solid choice for streamers seeking compatibility and performance.Additionally, the EVGA XR1 can be used to connect high-quality cam options like DSLR Cams as a webcam, making it a versatile addition to any streaming setup.
Key Features:
- 1080p60 recording while gaming at 4K60 and advanced passthrough mode
- Built-in audio mixer and USB 3.0 connectivity for low-latency capturing
- First device certified for OBS, ensuring compatibility and performance
Pros:
- 1080p60 recording while gaming at 4K60
- Advanced passthrough mode with up to 1440p at 144Hz refresh rate plus HDR
- Built-in audio mixer for adjusting mic input and game volume
- USB 3.0 for low-latency capturing and streaming
- First device certified for OBS
Cons:
- No 4K recording support
- Some users may prefer more compact designs
The Razer Ripsaw HD offers 4K60 fps passthrough for uninterrupted gameplay and Full HD 1080p60 streaming performance. HDMI 2.0 and USB 3.0 connectivity provides zero-latency output and maximum detail. Its full audio mixing capabilities and easy software-free setup make it a hassle-free choice for gamers and content creators. The Razer Ripsaw HD is best suited to work with a wide range of devices, including Nintendo Switch, PS4/PS5, Xbox One 360, and Xbox Series X/S, ensuring that no matter your preferred platform, you’ll be able to share your gaming experiences with the world.
Key Features:
- 4K60 fps passthrough for uninterrupted gameplay
- Full HD 1080p60 streaming performance
- Easy software-free setup with full audio mixing capabilities
Pros:
- 4K60 fps passthrough for smooth gameplay
- Full HD 1080p60 streaming performance
- HDMI 2.0 and USB 3.0 connectivity for zero-latency output
- Easy software-free setup with a 3.5mm audio cable
- Full audio mixing capabilities for hassle-free audio management
Cons:
- No 4K recording support
- Lacks advanced features for professional streamers
- Pricier than some competitors with similar features
The NZXT Signal HD60 delivers 4K60 HDR10 or 240Hz Full HD gaming with zero-lag passthrough, ensuring smooth gameplay for PC and console users. Streaming up to 4K30 or 1080p60 provides high-quality video for professional streams. Its compatibility with professional cameras makes it a versatile choice for upgraded PC streams. The NZXT Signal HD60 is designed to work seamlessly with any streaming software, allowing you to create a professional-looking stream without worrying about compatibility issues.
Key Features:
- 4K60 HDR10 or 240Hz Full HD gaming with zero-lag passthrough
- High-quality streaming up to 4K30 or 1080p60
- Compatible with professional cameras for upgraded PC streams
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 HDR10 or 240Hz Full HD gaming with zero-lag passthrough
- Streams up to 4K30 or 1080p60
- Plug-and-play and compatible with any streaming software
- Connects to professional cameras for high-quality video
- Compatible with PCs and all consoles with HDMI
Cons:
- No built-in audio mixer or advanced features for professional streamers
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Mini is a compact capture card that delivers 1080p 60fps recording and zero-lag passthrough video. Its plug-and-play design, and built-in H.264 hardware encoder make it easy to set up and use with various game consoles. Broad compatibility supports live streaming on Twitch and YouTube via popular software like RECentral 4, OBS Studio, and Streamlabs OBS. The small form factor and ease of use make it an excellent choice for beginners or those with limited desk space.
Key Features:
- Compact design with 1080p60 recording and zero-lag pass-through
- Built-in H.264 hardware encoder for efficient performance
- Broad compatibility with popular streaming software and game consoles
Pros:
- Compact size and full HD 1080p 60fps recording
- Zero-lag passthrough video for a smooth gaming experience
- Plug-and-play setup with UVC technology
- Built-in H.264 hardware encoder reduces CPU load
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch, PS4/PS5, Xbox One 360, and Xbox Series X/S
- Supports live streaming on popular platforms and software
Cons:
- No 4K support or high refresh rate passthrough
- Lacks advanced features for professional streamers
- Requires a separate audio cable connection for some setups
The Elgato HD60 X offers excellent capture and powerful passthrough, allowing for stunning 4K30 HDR10 or 1080p60 HDR10 quality. With ultra-low latency, driverless setup, and compatibility with popular streaming software, it’s a top choice for gamers and content creators looking for an easy-to-use capture card without limitations. Whether using OBS, Streamlabs, Vmix, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams, the Elgato HD60 X provides a seamless streaming experience, ensuring your audience enjoys the highest quality visuals and audio.
Key Features:
- Premium capture quality with 4K30 HDR10 or 1080p60 HDR10
- Ultra-low latency and driverless setup for seamless streaming
- Compatible with popular streaming software and platforms
Pros:
- 4K30 HDR10 and 1080p60 HDR10 capture
- 4K60 HDR10, 1440p120, and 1080p120 VRR passthrough
- Ultra-low latency for seamless audio/video syncing
- Plug-and-play, driverless setup on Windows and Mac
- Compatible with popular streaming software and platforms
- No watermarks, time limits, or subscriptions
Cons:
- No built-in audio mixer or advanced features for professional streamers
Our Conclusion
In conclusion, each capture card in our list offers unique features and capabilities tailored to different gaming platforms and streaming needs. For those specifically seeking a capture card with outstanding 4K recording capabilities, the Elgato HD60 X is the top choice with its stunning 4K30 HDR10 quality. If you’re looking for the best overall capture card that combines performance, quality, and ease of use, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Extreme 3 stands out as a versatile and powerful option. For gamers on a budget who still want a reliable and efficient capture card, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Mini offers exceptional value with its compact design and 1080p60 recording capabilities. No matter your needs or budget, there’s a capture card on our list to help you elevate your streaming and recording experience.