Capture Card Summary

Elgato Capture Cards

• Elgato 4K X: Supports HDMI 2.1, can capture up to 4K144, requires 10 Gbps USB port.
• Elgato 4K S: Base model, supports 4K at a lower price of $159.
• Elgato HD60 X: Entry-level, good for 1080p60 recording.

Pros

• Elgato has top-tier support on its subreddit.
• Elgato offers quality products with reliable performance.
• Various models available based on budget and requirements.

Cons

• Higher price point compared to some other brands.
• Some older models may have frame dropping or audio issues.

AverMedia Capture Cards

• AverMedia GC575: Supports 4K at a higher price point.
• AverMedia GC553G2: Quality capture card option.

Pros

• Advertised as Switch 2 compatible.
• AverMedia offers good quality-to-price ratio.

Cons

• Some models can be expensive.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Elgato Neo: Budget-friendly option for 4K60 passthrough and 1080p60 capture.
• UGreen HDMI to USB: Affordable option under $50, good for 1080p60 recording.

Pros

• Cost-effective options available.
• Plug and play functionality for easy setup.
• Compatible with OBS, Streamlabs, and other streaming software.

Cons

• Cheaper options may have color issues, audio problems, or screen tearing.
• Gaming off the OBS preview may introduce latency.
• Some lower-priced cards may not offer the same quality or durability as higher-end models.

General Tips

• Avoid cheap clones of brand-name products for better reliability.
• Invest in quality hardware for successful streaming.
• External HDMI splitters can help bypass HDCP for multiple outputs.
• Be cautious of signal quality, latency, and compatibility with different devices.
• Consider using a separate monitor for gaming to avoid input lag from capture cards.

These summaries cover a range of capture card options, providing insights into their features, pros, and cons based on Reddit users' experiences and recommendations.