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10 Best Capture Cards 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Elgato HD60 S+, External Capture Card, Stream and Record in 1080p60 HDR10 or 4K60 HDR10 with ultra-low latency on PS5, PS4/Pro, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S, in OBS and more, works with PC and Mac

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,357
Resolution and Frame Rate
Compatibility
Latency

Most important from
11468 reviews

Resolution and Frame Rate
The Elgato HD60 S+ delivers stunning visuals with its ability to handle resolutions up to 4K60 or 1080p60 HDR10, ensuring incredibly crisp, vibrant, and true-to-life footage.
Compatibility
The HD60 S+ offers unmatched versatility, supporting a wide range of resolutions, frame rates, and compatibility with multiple platforms like PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.
Latency
Low latency is a standout feature, with the USB 3.0 connection ensuring minimal delay between gameplay and the footage displayed on your streaming platform or recording software.
Software Features
While the hardware is incredible, the Elgato software can be lacking, with some users experiencing crashes or glitches, but these issues are easily fixed with third-party programs like OBS.

The Elgato HD60 S+ is a solid choice for gamers looking to capture and stream their gameplay in high quality. It supports 1080p60 and 4K60 HDR10, delivering excellent resolution for both recording and live streaming. The ultra-low latency feature is a standout, allowing gamers to experience minimal delay while playing, which is crucial for competitive gaming. With its zero-lag passthrough, players can enjoy their games at the highest fidelity without sacrificing performance.

The device is compatible with a wide range of consoles, including the latest PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, making it versatile for various gaming setups. The USB interface ensures easy connectivity with both Windows and macOS, expanding its usability across different systems. Features like Flashback Recording allow users to retroactively capture gameplay, which can be a lifesaver for those unexpected epic moments.

The card excels in quality and features, but it might be more than what casual gamers need. Some users may find the setup process a bit challenging if they're not tech-savvy, and the reliance on software like OBS can be daunting for beginners. Additionally, if you’re primarily interested in capturing gameplay at lower resolutions or without the need for HDR, there may be more affordable options available.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,357
Resolution and Frame Rate
Compatibility
Latency

Most important from
11468 reviews

Resolution and Frame Rate
The Elgato HD60 S+ delivers stunning visuals with its ability to handle resolutions up to 4K60 or 1080p60 HDR10, ensuring incredibly crisp, vibrant, and true-to-life footage.
Compatibility
The HD60 S+ offers unmatched versatility, supporting a wide range of resolutions, frame rates, and compatibility with multiple platforms like PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch.
Latency
Low latency is a standout feature, with the USB 3.0 connection ensuring minimal delay between gameplay and the footage displayed on your streaming platform or recording software.
Software Features
While the hardware is incredible, the Elgato software can be lacking, with some users experiencing crashes or glitches, but these issues are easily fixed with third-party programs like OBS.
#2

Capture Card Nintendo Switch, Video Capture Card, Game Capture Cards 4K 1080P 60FPS, HDMI to USB 3.0 Capture Cards for Streaming Work with PS4/PC/OBS/Camera

Rating
9.6
Resolution and Frame Rate
Input and Output Ports
Compatibility

Most important from
956 reviews

Resolution and Frame Rate
The capture card delivers smooth, high-quality 1080p video that transfers to streaming software without any noticeable degradation.
Input and Output Ports
It connects seamlessly through USB 3.0 and works well with popular streaming platforms like OBS and Streamlabs, though some initial configuration may be required.
Compatibility
It connects seamlessly through USB 3.0 and works well with popular streaming platforms like OBS and Streamlabs, though some initial configuration may be required.
Encoding
While it supports 4K input, the output remains capped at 1080p, so it’s not suited for users seeking native 4K recording or advanced hardware encoding.

This Naivaunsin capture card is a solid choice for gamers and streamers looking to record or broadcast gameplay from consoles like the Nintendo Switch, PS4, or PCs. It supports up to 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second, delivering smooth and clear video quality for most streaming needs, though it does accept 4K input but only outputs at 1080p. The card connects through USB 3.0, ensuring fast data transfer and low latency, which means minimal delay between your gameplay and what your viewers see. It also features HDMI loop-out, letting you play on your TV without interruption while recording.

The device is compatible with common operating systems like Windows and Linux and works with popular streaming software such as OBS. Its compact metal design helps with heat dissipation and portability, making it easy to carry around or fit on a crowded desk. Additionally, plug-and-play functionality means no extra power supply or complicated setup is required, which is great for beginners.

The capture card doesn't support native 4K recording or advanced hardware encoding, so if you want ultra-high resolution or the most efficient video compression, you might need a higher-end device. This capture card offers a user-friendly, reliable way to capture and stream good-quality gameplay video, especially suitable for casual to intermediate users who want straightforward performance without breaking the bank.

Rating
9.6
Resolution and Frame Rate
Input and Output Ports
Compatibility

Most important from
956 reviews

Resolution and Frame Rate
The capture card delivers smooth, high-quality 1080p video that transfers to streaming software without any noticeable degradation.
Input and Output Ports
It connects seamlessly through USB 3.0 and works well with popular streaming platforms like OBS and Streamlabs, though some initial configuration may be required.
Compatibility
It connects seamlessly through USB 3.0 and works well with popular streaming platforms like OBS and Streamlabs, though some initial configuration may be required.
Encoding
While it supports 4K input, the output remains capped at 1080p, so it’s not suited for users seeking native 4K recording or advanced hardware encoding.
#3

Elgato HD60 S, usb3.0 External Capture Card, Stream and Record in 1080p60 with ultra-low latency on PS5, PS4/Pro, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S, in OBS, Twitch, YouTube, works with PC/Mac

Rating
9.3
Resolution and Frame Rate
Compatibility
Latency

Most important from
25242 reviews

Resolution and Frame Rate
Setup is a breeze; download the software, connect the device, and you're ready to record in full 1080p at 60fps.
Compatibility
The design is compact and excellent in build quality, immediately picking up video signals from consoles like Nintendo Switch.
Latency
The recording quality is clear with no frame drops, and the ultra-low latency means you can almost play through the preview window.

The Elgato HD60 S is an external capture card designed for users who want to stream and record their gameplay in 1080p at 60 frames per second. The device supports ultra-low latency, making it ideal for real-time streaming on platforms like OBS, Twitch, and YouTube. Its true passthrough feature ensures zero lag while playing console games, which is a significant benefit for gamers using PS5, PS4/Pro, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One X/S.

This capture card connects via USB 3.0, ensuring fast data transfer rates and compatibility with both PC and Mac operating systems. The form factor is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up. Flashback Recording allows users to retroactively save moments they didn’t initially capture, providing flexibility and convenience. However, it only supports 1080p resolution, which might not meet the needs of users looking for 4K recording capabilities.

The unlimited capture feature is impressive, enabling hours of continuous recording directly to a hard drive without interruptions. The Elgato HD60 S ranks well in customer reviews, with a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 25,000 reviews. It also features straightforward setup and strong support from Elgato, making it a reliable choice for gamers and streamers wanting to share their gameplay with high quality and minimal fuss.

Rating
9.3
Resolution and Frame Rate
Compatibility
Latency

Most important from
25242 reviews

Resolution and Frame Rate
Setup is a breeze; download the software, connect the device, and you're ready to record in full 1080p at 60fps.
Compatibility
The design is compact and excellent in build quality, immediately picking up video signals from consoles like Nintendo Switch.
Latency
The recording quality is clear with no frame drops, and the ultra-low latency means you can almost play through the preview window.

Buying Guide for the Best Capture Cards

When choosing a capture card, it's important to consider your specific needs and the type of content you plan to create. Capture cards are used to record and stream video from various sources, such as gaming consoles, cameras, or other devices, to your computer. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best capture card for your requirements, ensuring high-quality recordings and smooth streaming experiences.
Resolution and Frame RateResolution refers to the clarity of the video, measured in pixels, while frame rate indicates how many frames per second (fps) the capture card can record or stream. Higher resolutions like 1080p or 4K provide sharper images, and higher frame rates like 60fps offer smoother motion. If you are a gamer or content creator who prioritizes high-quality visuals, opt for a capture card that supports at least 1080p at 60fps. For professional use or future-proofing, consider 4K resolution support.
Input and Output PortsCapture cards come with various input and output ports, such as HDMI, SDI, or USB. These ports determine the types of devices you can connect to the capture card. HDMI is the most common and supports most gaming consoles and cameras. SDI is typically used in professional settings. Ensure the capture card has the necessary ports to connect your devices. If you plan to use multiple devices, look for a capture card with multiple input options.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to how well the capture card works with your computer's operating system and software. Some capture cards are designed specifically for Windows or macOS, while others are compatible with both. Additionally, check if the capture card supports popular streaming software like OBS or XSplit. Ensure the capture card you choose is compatible with your setup to avoid any technical issues.
LatencyLatency is the delay between the input signal and the output display. Lower latency is crucial for live streaming and gaming, as it ensures real-time feedback and interaction. Capture cards with low latency provide a smoother and more responsive experience. If you are a live streamer or gamer, prioritize capture cards with minimal latency to enhance your performance and viewer experience.
EncodingEncoding refers to the process of compressing video data for storage or streaming. Some capture cards come with built-in hardware encoding, which offloads the processing from your computer, resulting in better performance and higher quality streams. If you have a powerful computer, software encoding might be sufficient. However, for less powerful systems or to reduce the load on your computer, a capture card with hardware encoding is a better choice.
Form FactorForm factor refers to the physical size and design of the capture card. There are internal capture cards that fit into your computer's PCIe slot and external capture cards that connect via USB or Thunderbolt. Internal capture cards generally offer better performance but require installation inside your computer. External capture cards are more portable and easier to set up. Choose the form factor that best suits your needs and setup.

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