For anyone looking to stream or record in stunning 4K at 60 frames per second, choosing the right capture card is essential. The Elgato 4K S stands out as the overall best for its reliable performance and broad compatibility. The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S offers impressive features for serious streamers, while the BlueAVS 4K HDMI Capture Card provides excellent value with advanced HDR support. These options highlight the key tradeoffs: higher performance often comes with increased cost, and not all cards support full 4K 60Hz pass-through. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the best capture cards for 4K 60fps in 2026.
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Key Takeaways
- The best overall capture card balances reliability, compatibility, and performance, with the Elgato 4K S leading due to its proven track record.
- Price varies significantly; premium options like the AVerMedia Ultra S offer advanced features, while budget models may lack full 4K 60Hz support.
- Not all capture cards truly support 4K at 60fps for both pass-through and recording—verify specifications carefully.
- Features like HDR support, low latency, and pass-through quality are critical for professional streaming and gaming.
- Compatibility with consoles and PCs varies; ensure the card supports your specific setup, especially for high-end gaming consoles.
| UGREEN 2K@30Hz HDMI to USB 3.0 Video Capture Card with 4K Input and 1080p 60FPS Output |  | Best Budget 4K60 Capture Card for Entry-Level Streaming | Input Resolution: 4K@30Hz | Output Resolution: 2K@30Hz, 1080p@60FPS | USB Interface: USB 3.0, backward compatible with USB 2.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Guermok 4K USB3.0 HDMI Video Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS & 2K 30FPS |  | Best Portable 4K Capture for Versatile Use | Hardware Interface: HDMI, USB 3.0, USB-C | Video Capture Resolution: 1080p, 4K | Operating System: Mac OS, Windows 10/11, Linux, Android | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Elgato 4K S Capture Card for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2 |  | Premium 4K60 Capture with HDR and Low Latency | Hardware Interface: USB 3.0 Type C | Video Capture Resolution: 1080p | Input: HDMI 2.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Acer USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card, 4K HDMI Loop-Out, 1080P 60Hz for Streaming |  | Best All-Rounder for Easy 4K Input and Streaming | Video Input: 4K HDMI | Video Output: 1080P@60Hz | Connectivity: USB 3.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card 4K60FPS with Pass-Through |  | Best for High-Frame-Rate 4K60 Pass-Through | Hardware Interface: USB 3.0 | Video Capture Resolution: 1080p120, 4K60 | Supports: PS4/5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, DSLR, webcams | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Guermok 4K@60FPS Capture Card for Streaming, 2K@120FPS USB3.0 HDMI Capture |  | Best Overall for Versatile High-Resolution Streaming | Hardware Interface: 3.5mm Audio, HDMI, USB 3.0, USB 3.0 Type A, USB 3.0 Type C | Video Capture Resolution: 1080p, 4K | Operating System: MacOS, Windows 10, Windows 11 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 4K HDMI Video Capture Card for Streaming and Gaming |  | Best for High-Resolution, Low-Latency Streaming on a Budget | Video Resolution: 4K up to 60Hz, 1080p at 120/144Hz | Input: HDMI | Output: USB 3.0 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| AVerMedia Capture Card for Streaming, 4K60 HDR Passthrough, 1080p60 Video Recording, Ultra-Low Latency Game Streaming for Switch 2, Xbox, PS5, PC |  | Best for High-Quality HDR Passthrough and Low-Latency Streaming | Video Resolution: 4K60 HDR passthrough, 1080p60 recording | Latency: Ultra-low latency | Compatibility: Switch 2, Xbox, PS5, PC, Mac | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BlueAVS 4K HDMI Video Capture Card for Streaming, 4K 60Hz, 1440P 144Hz, 1080P 240Hz with HDR, VRR, ALLM, USB-C, Compatible with PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch |  | Best for High Refresh Rates and Broad Platform Compatibility | Hardware Interface: USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio | Video Capture Resolution: 4K@60Hz, 1440P@144Hz, 1080P@240Hz | Supported Features: HDR, VRR, ALLM | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS, 4K Pass-Through |  | Best for Versatile Compatibility and Streaming Stability | Hardware Interface: USB 3.0 | Video Capture Resolution: 1080p60, 1440p30 | Operating System: Windows 7/8/8.1/10, MacOS, Linux, Android, iPadOS 17+ | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S 4K60 HDMI Capture Card with RGB24, GC553Pro |  | Best for High-End Gaming and HDR Streaming | Resolution: 4K60 HDR | VRR Support: Yes, up to 1440p60 or 1080p240 | Input Support: 3440×1440, 2560×1080 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| capture card 4k 60 | Hardware Interface | Video Capture Resolution | Operating System |
|---|---|---|---|
| UGREEN 2K@30Hz HDMI to USB 3.0 | — | — | — |
| Guermok 4K USB3.0 HDMI Video C | HDMI, USB 3.0, USB-C | 1080p, 4K | Mac OS, Windows 10/11, Linux, Android |
| Elgato 4K S Capture Card for P | USB 3.0 Type C | 1080p | Windows 11, macOS 13, iPadOS |
| Acer USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card | — | — | — |
| XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture | USB 3.0 | 1080p120, 4K60 | Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11, MacOS, Linux, Android 5+, iPadOS 17+ |
| Guermok 4K@60FPS Capture Card | 3.5mm Audio, HDMI, USB 3.0, USB 3.0 Type A, USB 3.0 Type C | 1080p, 4K | MacOS, Windows 10, Windows 11 |
| 4K HDMI Video Capture Card for | — | — | Windows, Mac OS |
| AVerMedia Capture Card for Str | — | — | — |
| BlueAVS 4K HDMI Video Capture | USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio | 4K@60Hz, 1440P@144Hz, 1080P@240Hz | — |
| XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture | USB 3.0 | 1080p60, 1440p30 | Windows 7/8/8.1/10, MacOS, Linux, Android, iPadOS 17+ |
| AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S 4 | — | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
UGREEN 2K@30Hz HDMI to USB 3.0 Video Capture Card with 4K Input and 1080p 60FPS Output
This UGREEN model stands out for providing reliable 2K at 30Hz and 1080p at 60FPS, making it a solid choice for streamers who prioritize affordability and broad device support. Compared with the XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card, it offers higher input resolution capabilities, but it doesn’t support 4K pass-through or recording. Its unidirectional HDMI to USB flow limits flexibility, yet its durable aluminum casing and versatile USB-C and USB-A ports ensure dependable performance across platforms. However, it requires disabling HDCP on some consoles like PS4/PS5, which could be inconvenient for some users. Best suited for budget-conscious gamers and streamers needing broad compatibility without advanced 4K recording features.
Pros:- Supports high-quality 2K and 1080p streaming with low latency
- Broad device compatibility across Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android
- Durable aluminum alloy casing for heat dissipation
- Includes both USB-A and USB-C ports for flexibility
Cons:- Only supports HDMI input, not output
- Requires disabling HDCP on some consoles
- Limited to unidirectional signal flow from HDMI to USB
Best for: Beginners and hobbyist streamers who need a reliable, affordable capture solution with decent 1080p60 output.
Not ideal for: Professional content creators or gamers seeking 4K60 recording and pass-through, as this device maxes out at 2K resolution and 30Hz input.
- Input Resolution:4K@30Hz
- Output Resolution:2K@30Hz, 1080p@60FPS
- USB Interface:USB 3.0, backward compatible with USB 2.0
- Compatibility:Windows 11/10/8.1/7, MacOS, Linux, Android
- Supported Devices:Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Meta Quest 3/2
- Material:Aluminum alloy
- Cable Conductors:26AWG (2C) + 30AWG (1P) tinned copper
Our verdict“This pick is ideal for budget-conscious users who need solid 1080p60 streaming but don’t require 4K recording capabilities.”
Guermok 4K USB3.0 HDMI Video Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS & 2K 30FPS
The Guermok 4K USB3.0 HDMI Capture Card makes a compelling case for users who need a portable, plug-and-play device supporting 4K input with decent 1080p60 or 2K30 output. It surpasses the UGREEN in raw resolution support, enabling 4K input, but it doesn’t support 4K recording or pass-through, limiting its use for high-resolution streaming. Its wide compatibility with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and gaming consoles is a major plus, although signal loss can occur with certain cables. Its compact design is perfect for mobile setups, but it relies heavily on external software for streaming and recording, which may add complexity. This option suits gamers and streamers seeking a portable 4K input device with broad OS support, but not for those needing full 4K recording or pass-through.
Pros:- Supports 4K input with 1080p60 and 2K30 output
- Plug-and-play with wide OS and device compatibility
- Compact, portable design for outdoor or mobile use
- Low latency for real-time sharing
Cons:- Requires additional capture software for streaming and recording
- Limited to HDMI to USB-C transmission, not bidirectional
- Possible signal quality issues with certain cables
Best for: Travelers and outdoor streamers who need a versatile, lightweight capture card capable of handling 4K inputs.
Not ideal for: Streamers or content creators who require 4K recording or pass-through, as this device only supports 1080p60 output and lacks native 4K recording capabilities.
- Hardware Interface:HDMI, USB 3.0, USB-C
- Video Capture Resolution:1080p, 4K
- Operating System:Mac OS, Windows 10/11, Linux, Android
- Features:4K30 HDMI Input, 1080p60 Video Capture, Compact Plug-and-Play
- Supported Devices:Gaming console, laptop, Quest 3/3s, Switch 2/1, PS4/5, Steam Deck
- Size:Small and lightweight
Our verdict“Ideal for mobile streamers who need a straightforward, portable device to input 4K video, but not for those prioritizing native 4K recording or pass-through.”
Elgato 4K S Capture Card for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2
The Elgato 4K S Capture Card is tailored for high-end gamers who want to record and stream in 4K60 with minimal latency. It exceeds the other options by supporting HDR10 capture and offering HDR passthrough, but it’s limited to 1080p output for recording on Windows, which could disappoint users expecting native 4K recording. Its compatibility with Windows, Mac, and iPad makes it versatile, yet system requirements are more demanding, and it doesn’t support 4K capture on all platforms. The included cables simplify setup, but HDR capture is Windows-only. This device makes the most sense for streamers and gamers who prioritize high-quality 4K gameplay capture with HDR support, provided they are willing to accept some resolution limitations on Windows.
Pros:- Supports 4K60 and high frame rates for smooth gameplay capture
- HDR10 support with HDR passthrough for enhanced visuals
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and iPad
- Includes necessary cables for easy setup
Cons:- Capture resolution limited to 1080p60 on Windows
- Requires specific system specs for optimal performance
- HDR capture only available on Windows
Best for: High-end gamers and streamers who need 4K60 HDR capture and are willing to work within system constraints.
Not ideal for: Casual streamers or users primarily on Windows who want native 4K recording, as it captures at 1080p60 on Windows and has system-specific requirements.
- Hardware Interface:USB 3.0 Type C
- Video Capture Resolution:1080p
- Input:HDMI 2.0
- Output:HDMI 2.0 passthrough
- Operating System:Windows 11, macOS 13, iPadOS
- Special Features:HDR10 capture, HDR pass-through
Our verdict“Best suited for premium users seeking high-quality 4K60 HDR gameplay capture, especially on macOS and iPad, with some Windows limitations.”
Acer USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card, 4K HDMI Loop-Out, 1080P 60Hz for Streaming
The Acer USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card offers a straightforward, plug-and-play solution for users who need 4K input and reliable 1080P60 output. Its simplicity and included mic-in make it appealing for streamers who want minimal setup fuss. Compared to the XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card, it provides additional features like 4K loop-out, making it more flexible for live monitoring. Its main limitation is that it cannot record or output in 4K, only passing through the higher resolution input, which reduces its utility for high-res recordings. Still, its compatibility with a wide range of devices and platforms makes it a practical choice for many content creators. This device suits streamers who want an easy, reliable HDMI input with 1080p output and simple setup.
Pros:- Supports 4K HDMI input with 1080P@60Hz output
- Plug-and-play, no drivers needed
- Includes mic-in for easy commentary
- Compatible with multiple platforms and streaming tools
Cons:- Limited to 1080p output for recordings
- No native 4K recording or capture at higher resolutions
- Possible software compatibility issues
Best for: Streamers and gamers who need a hassle-free device with 4K pass-through and 1080P recording for live streams.
Not ideal for: Professional videographers or high-end streamers who require native 4K recording or HDR support, as this device only supports 1080p output for recordings.
- Video Input:4K HDMI
- Video Output:1080P@60Hz
- Connectivity:USB 3.0
- Mic Input:Yes
- Compatibility:Windows, macOS, Android, Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox
- Technology:YUY2
Our verdict“A practical choice for streamers seeking a simple device with 4K input and 1080p output for easy live streaming.”
XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card 4K60FPS with Pass-Through
The XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card is designed for users who need 4K60 pass-through with high-frame-rate capture capabilities. It excels at passing 4K video while capturing at 1080p120, making it suitable for gamers wanting smooth recordings alongside live streams. Compared with the Elgato 4K S, it offers higher frame-rate capture options but doesn’t support HDR or HDR passthrough, which limits visual quality enhancement. Its compatibility spans Windows, macOS, Linux, and iPadOS, offering broad versatility. However, the lack of detailed software features and potential compatibility issues with older hardware could be drawbacks. This card is ideal for those prioritizing high-frame-rate 4K pass-through and 1080p120 recording, especially for fast-paced gaming.
Pros:- Supports 4K60 pass-through with 1080p120 recording
- Wide compatibility across OS and devices
- Plug-and-play setup without extra drivers
- Supports high-frame-rate gaming content
Cons:- No HDR support or HDR pass-through
- Limited software feature details
- Potential compatibility issues on older systems
Best for: High-performance gamers and streamers who want 4K pass-through and ultra-smooth 1080p120 recording for fast action games.
Not ideal for: Casual streamers or users seeking HDR support or native 4K recording, as this device focuses on high frame rates and pass-through without HDR features.
- Hardware Interface:USB 3.0
- Video Capture Resolution:1080p120, 4K60
- Supports:PS4/5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, DSLR, webcams
- Audio Input/Output:3.5mm audio in & mic out
- Operating System:Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11, MacOS, Linux, Android 5+, iPadOS 17+
- Size:0.22 kg
Our verdict“Excellent for gamers demanding high-frame-rate 4K pass-through and smooth 1080p120 recordings, but not for HDR enthusiasts.”
Guermok 4K@60FPS Capture Card for Streaming, 2K@120FPS USB3.0 HDMI Capture
This model stands out for supporting both 4K@60FPS capture and passthrough, making it suitable for high-quality live streaming and gameplay. Compared with the AVerMedia Capture Card, it offers broader device compatibility and external audio input, which is a plus for content creators needing commentary. However, it demands a USB 3.0 port for optimal performance and offers limited technical support details, which could challenge users troubleshooting issues. Its support for high refresh rates up to 120FPS enhances smooth gameplay, but some might find the setup process slightly finicky when adjusting audio settings. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for streamers who want a flexible, plug-and-play device with broad device support and high-resolution capabilities.
Pros:- Supports 4K@60FPS capture and passthrough for high-quality streaming
- Broad device compatibility with plug-and-play setup
- Includes external audio input for commentary integration
Cons:- Requires USB 3.0 port for optimal performance
- Some users may need to restart streaming software after audio setup
- Limited detailed technical support information
Best for: Streamers and content creators needing versatile, high-resolution capture with broad device compatibility
Not ideal for: Casual gamers or users with older systems lacking USB 3.0 ports, due to performance and setup limitations
- Hardware Interface:3.5mm Audio, HDMI, USB 3.0, USB 3.0 Type A, USB 3.0 Type C
- Video Capture Resolution:1080p, 4K
- Operating System:MacOS, Windows 10, Windows 11
- Special Features:HDMI Input, Plug And Play, USB 3.0
- Minimum System Requirements:USB 3.0 port, Windows 10; desktop with Intel Core i5-3400 and NVIDIA GT 630, or laptop with Intel Core i7-3537U 2.0 GHz and NVIDIA GT 735M; 4 GB RAM
- Item Weight:1.6 ounces
- Item Dimensions:5.03 x 2.91 x 0.83 inches
Our verdict“A flexible choice for streamers needing broad device support and high-quality 4K capture, provided system requirements are met.”
4K HDMI Video Capture Card for Streaming and Gaming
This capture card excels at delivering 1080p at 60FPS with a simple plug-and-play design, making it ideal for gamers and streamers who prioritize ease of use. Unlike the AVerMedia Capture Card, which offers HDR passthrough, this device is more limited to 1080p recordings, but it compensates with its straightforward compatibility and low latency. It does not support 4K at 120Hz or higher refresh rates, which might be a drawback for users seeking ultra-smooth gameplay. The inclusion of HDMI loop-out allows seamless gameplay streaming, yet its 2K30Hz output cap means it falls short for those needing higher refresh rate captures. This pick is best suited for casual streamers or gamers who want a reliable, no-fuss device at a lower price point.
Pros:- Supports high-resolution 1080p at 60FPS for smooth video
- Plug-and-play operation with no driver installation
- Includes HDMI loop-out for real-time gameplay
Cons:- Limited to 2K30Hz output resolution, not suitable for high refresh rate gaming
- Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz output
- Microphone input only accepts 3.5mm TRS standard headsets
Best for: Casual gamers and streamers looking for reliable 1080p/60FPS capture without complex setup
Not ideal for: Pro gamers or professional streamers needing 4K HDR support or higher refresh rates
- Video Resolution:4K up to 60Hz, 1080p at 120/144Hz
- Input:HDMI
- Output:USB 3.0
- Supported Devices:Xbox One, PS4, PS5, PC, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera
- Operating System:Windows, Mac OS
- Item Weight:0.18 kg
- Item Dimensions:3 x 2 x 1 inches
Our verdict“A solid, budget-friendly option for casual streamers who need dependable 1080p60 recording and simple setup.”
AVerMedia Capture Card for Streaming, 4K60 HDR Passthrough, 1080p60 Video Recording, Ultra-Low Latency Game Streaming for Switch 2, Xbox, PS5, PC
This capture card is designed for users who want seamless 4K60 HDR passthrough combined with 1080p60 recording, making it ideal for professional-quality streams. It offers ultra-low latency and plug-and-play setup, which is comparable to the BlueAVS device but with additional focus on HDR support. Compared with the Guermok 4K@60FPS Capture Card, its HDR capabilities help deliver more vibrant and realistic visuals during gameplay. A downside is that it requires compatible streaming software for full functionality, and it provides limited detailed specifications, which might concern advanced users. This makes it most suitable for streamers who prioritize HDR quality and low latency over detailed technical customizations.
Pros:- Supports 4K60 HDR passthrough for vibrant visuals
- Ultra-low latency for real-time streaming
- Easy plug-and-play setup with no drivers needed
Cons:- Requires compatible streaming software for full use
- Limited detailed specs in description
- Not suitable for users needing higher refresh rates
Best for: Streamers and content creators prioritizing HDR passthrough with minimal latency
Not ideal for: Users who need detailed technical specifications or higher refresh rate outputs beyond 60Hz
- Video Resolution:4K60 HDR passthrough, 1080p60 recording
- Latency:Ultra-low latency
- Compatibility:Switch 2, Xbox, PS5, PC, Mac
- Supported Formats:NV12, YUY2, MJPEG
Our verdict“Ideal for streamers who want high-quality HDR visuals with ultra-low latency, assuming software compatibility is met.”
BlueAVS 4K HDMI Video Capture Card for Streaming, 4K 60Hz, 1440P 144Hz, 1080P 240Hz with HDR, VRR, ALLM, USB-C, Compatible with PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch
The BlueAVS capture card makes a compelling case for gamers who demand high refresh rates and broad platform support. Its support for 4K@60Hz, 1440P@144Hz, and 1080P@240Hz with HDR and VRR ensures it can handle fast-paced gameplay smoothly. Compared to the Guermok 4K@60FPS Capture Card, it offers higher refresh rate support at lower resolutions, which benefits competitive gamers. Its compatibility extends across Windows, macOS, Linux, and consoles, making it highly versatile. On the downside, the system might experience latency issues depending on setup, and there’s limited information about bundled accessories or warranty coverage. Still, it’s best suited for gamers who need high refresh rates and excellent cross-platform compatibility.
Pros:- Supports 4K@60Hz with high refresh rates up to 240Hz at lower resolutions
- Compatible with multiple platforms including consoles and PCs
- Features HDR, VRR, and ALLM for enhanced gaming experience
Cons:- Potential latency issues depending on system setup
- Limited info on bundled accessories or warranty
- May be overkill for users only streaming at standard resolutions
Best for: Competitive gamers and streamers who need high refresh rates and broad device compatibility
Not ideal for: Casual users or those primarily streaming at 4K@60Hz without high refresh rate requirements
- Hardware Interface:USB-C, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio
- Video Capture Resolution:4K@60Hz, 1440P@144Hz, 1080P@240Hz
- Supported Features:HDR, VRR, ALLM
- Compatibility:Windows, MacOS, Linux, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch
- Item Dimensions:4.33 x 2.36 x 0.9 inches
- Item Weight:126 g
Our verdict“A strong choice for gamers demanding high refresh rates and extensive device support for competitive gameplay.”
XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card, 1080P 60FPS, 4K Pass-Through
This capture card excels in offering broad device compatibility and reliable 1080p60 recording, making it ideal for streamers who need flexibility across operating systems. Compared with the AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S, it provides easier setup and lower latency for casual streaming, but it falls short of 4K recording, limiting it for users who want full 4K capture. Its 4K pass-through ensures high-quality display without sacrificing performance, yet it cannot record in 4K itself, which could be a drawback for content creators aiming for higher resolution archives. The microphone input adds value for streamers wanting commentary without additional gear. Overall, this model makes the most sense for streamers and gamers prioritizing stability, multi-platform support, and straightforward use over raw 4K recording capability.
Pros:- Supports 4K pass-through and 1080p 60FPS recording, ensuring high-quality streaming visuals
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iPadOS, offering flexibility across devices
- Low latency and stable connection ideal for live streaming and gaming
Cons:- Requires software restart after audio setup in OBS, which can disrupt workflow
- Limited to 4K pass-through, not capable of recording in 4K resolution
Best for: Content creators and streamers needing stable, cross-platform compatibility with 1080p60 recording and pass-through.
Not ideal for: Professional videographers or gamers seeking full 4K recording, as this device cannot record at 4K resolution.
- Hardware Interface:USB 3.0
- Video Capture Resolution:1080p60, 1440p30
- Operating System:Windows 7/8/8.1/10, MacOS, Linux, Android, iPadOS 17+
- Antenna Location:Video Capture
- Special Features:Mic-in for Commentary
- Item Weight:0.15 kg
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for streamers and casual gamers seeking broad device support and reliable 1080p60 capture, but not for those needing full 4K recording.”
AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S 4K60 HDMI Capture Card with RGB24, GC553Pro
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S stands out for its ability to capture and stream in 4K60 HDR, supporting high-end gaming setups like PS5, Xbox Series X, and Switch. Unlike the XIIXMASK card, which focuses on stability and compatibility but limits recording resolution, this device offers true 4K60 HDR recording with support for VRR passthrough, ensuring smooth gameplay even during demanding scenes. Its 5.1-channel audio support appeals to serious streamers who need immersive sound. The setup can be more complex, especially for newcomers, and requires a compatible system to unlock full features. This model makes sense for gamers and streamers prioritizing top-tier image quality and HDR support, willing to handle a steeper learning curve for premium performance.
Pros:- Supports 4K60 HDR capture for stunning, high-fidelity streaming
- Supports VRR passthrough, reducing screen tearing and stuttering during gameplay
- Captures 5.1-channel audio for immersive sound quality
Cons:- Requires compatible hardware and system configurations for full feature access
- Setup can be complex, especially for those new to advanced capture devices
Best for: High-end gamers and streamers seeking 4K HDR capture with VRR support and multi-channel audio for professional-quality streams.
Not ideal for: Beginners or casual streamers who prefer simple plug-and-play devices, as setup complexity may be overwhelming.
- Resolution:4K60 HDR
- VRR Support:Yes, up to 1440p60 or 1080p240
- Input Support:3440×1440, 2560×1080
- Audio:5.1-channel
- Connectivity:USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C
- Compatibility:Windows 10/11, macOS 13/14+, iPadOS 17+
Our verdict“This device is best suited for advanced gamers and streamers demanding high-quality, HDR 4K60 capture with VRR support, despite its more complex setup.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on their ability to reliably capture 4K video at 60 frames per second, a key performance metric for serious streamers and gamers. We considered build quality, usability, and compatibility with popular devices like PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PCs. Value played a role, but higher-priced models were prioritized if they offered notable performance or features. Additionally, we looked at features like HDR support, pass-through latency, and whether the device supported pass-through at full 4K 60Hz, which is essential for smooth gameplay during streaming. The ranking reflects a balance between performance, features, and overall value for different user needs.| capture card 4k 60 | Operating System |
|---|---|
| UGREEN 2K@30Hz HDMI to USB 3.0 | — |
| Guermok 4K USB3.0 HDMI Video C | Mac OS, Windows 10/11, Linux, Android |
| Elgato 4K S Capture Card for P | Windows 11, macOS 13, iPadOS |
| Acer USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card | — |
| XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture | Windows 7/8/8.1/10/11, MacOS, Linux, Android 5+, iPadOS 17+ |
| Guermok 4K@60FPS Capture Card | MacOS, Windows 10, Windows 11 |
| 4K HDMI Video Capture Card for | Windows, Mac OS |
| AVerMedia Capture Card for Str | — |
| BlueAVS 4K HDMI Video Capture | — |
| XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture | Windows 7/8/8.1/10, MacOS, Linux, Android, iPadOS 17+ |
| AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S 4 | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Capture Card 4k 60
Selecting a 4K 60 capture card involves more than just checking for 4K support. Buyers should consider several factors to ensure the device meets their specific needs, whether for casual streaming or professional production. Understanding these key considerations helps avoid common pitfalls, such as purchasing a card with limited pass-through capabilities or one incompatible with your hardware setup.Performance and Compatibility
Ensure the capture card explicitly supports 4K at 60Hz for both recording and pass-through if you want smooth gameplay without lag. Compatibility with your devices—PC, consoles, or streaming hardware—is vital. Some cards work better with certain systems, so verify device support before purchasing. Also, consider the connection type; USB 3.0 or higher is usually necessary for stable 4K 60Hz data transfer.
Pass-Through Quality
High-quality pass-through means you can play games in 4K at 60Hz while streaming or recording in the background. Not all cards support this at full resolution and frame rate, which can lead to lag or lower visual fidelity during gameplay. Cards with HDR support and low latency pass-through are ideal for high-end streaming, especially for competitive gaming or professional content creation.
Build Quality and Ease of Use
Choose a device with a durable build and straightforward setup. User-friendly software interfaces simplify streaming configurations, especially for beginners. Also, check for driver stability and regular updates, as these impact long-term reliability. Avoid overly complex devices if you prefer a simple plug-and-play experience.
Price and Value
While premium models offer advanced features like HDR and ultra-low latency, they come at a higher cost. Budget options might suffice for casual streaming but often lack full 4K 60Hz support. Balance your needs with your budget, and consider whether spending more provides tangible benefits for your use case.
Additional Features
Features like built-in audio mixing, multiple input support, and compatibility with streaming software (OBS, XSplit) can enhance your experience. Some cards include pass-through HDMI ports for direct monitor connection, reducing latency. Prioritize features that align with your streaming or gaming setup to maximize value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a 4K 60 capture card with my gaming console?
Yes, most modern 4K 60 capture cards support consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S, but it’s essential to check the specifications. Ensure the device explicitly states compatibility with your console and supports full 4K 60Hz pass-through. This allows you to enjoy smooth gameplay while streaming or recording in high quality without lag or reduced resolution.
Do I need special cables or hardware to support 4K 60 recording?
Yes, using the right cables and hardware is critical. Typically, you’ll need HDMI cables rated for 4K 60Hz, HDR, and possibly high-speed HDMI 2.0 or higher. Your PC or streaming device should also have a USB 3.0 or higher port to handle the data transfer. Investing in quality cables and ensuring your hardware supports these standards prevents bottlenecks that could degrade video quality.
Is HDR support important in a 4K 60 capture card?
HDR support allows for richer colors and better contrast, which is especially noticeable in high-quality streams and recordings. If you plan to showcase visually vibrant content or want to future-proof your setup, choosing a capture card with HDR support makes sense. However, HDR can add complexity and cost, so assess whether your streaming content benefits significantly from it.
How do I choose between a PCIe and USB capture card for 4K 60?
PCIe capture cards generally offer lower latency and higher stability, making them suitable for professional setups. USB cards tend to be more flexible and easier to install, ideal for most casual users or those with limited space inside their PC. Your choice should depend on your performance needs, upgrade plans, and available hardware slots.
Will my current streaming software work with these 4K 60 capture cards?
Most modern capture cards are compatible with popular streaming software like OBS, Streamlabs, or XSplit. However, it’s wise to verify compatibility before purchase, especially if you use specialized or less common software. Also, ensure your computer’s hardware is capable of handling 4K streams at 60fps to avoid performance issues.
Conclusion
The best overall pick, the Elgato 4K S, is perfect for serious streamers and gamers who prioritize reliability and compatibility. For those seeking a high-end experience with advanced features, the AVerMedia Ultra S offers excellent value but at a premium price. Budget-conscious users or newcomers will find the Guermok 4K USB3.0 or XIIXMASK models sufficient for casual 4K 60 recording. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your specific setup, budget, and streaming goals—whether professional, casual, or somewhere in between.
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