10 Best Buy Capture Card 2021 – Review and Buying Guide

The best buy capture card is capable of maximizing your game experience. Capture cards are peripheral devices that provided added capabilities to your PC or console. Moreover, they are capable of recording the game in real-time without any interruptions or even performance glitches. This allows you to recollect your most memorable moments at given scenes. Most of the capture cards are also equipped with streaming capabilities that will enable you to share real-time footage of the gameplay to a community or even with friends. It is crucial to select the best capture card in the market. Unlike other game accessories, capture cards are made to maximize individual choices.

Therefore, to choose the best buy capture card, you should evaluate the compatibility with the existing game console or PC, the streaming capabilities, and the video quality. Here is a review of the best capture cards to inform your choice.

Table of The 10 Best Capture Card

 

Check out our other expert reviews on the best UPS for Gaming PC & the best HDMI cable for ps4.

Top 10 Best Capture Card PS4

01. Elgato Game Capture HD60 S

 

 

Product Description and Performance

The choice for the best capture card for the switch in the market is bound to end here most of the time. Elgato Game Capture copes with the highest of standards in the market. Besides, it is built to provide a low latency experience when capturing high-quality videos. Its broad compatibility complements this with almost every console in the market. Moreover, it captures the game at 60fps with an HD 1080p quality. Also, this game capture card allows you to live-stream your gaming experience either through YouTube or Twitch with a simple button flick.

Product Features

• Comes with a USB 3.0
• Captures at 1080 HD quality at 60fps
• Compatible with almost all console devices
• An inbuilt Livestream capability

Product Specifications

• Manufacturer: Elgato Direct
• Brand: Elgato
• Dimension: 4.41 x 2.95 x 0.75 inches
• Weight: 3.73 ounces

Pros

• HD video capture with some software supporting up to 4K resolution
• Flashback recording capabilities
• Inbuilt live commentary capabilities
• High transfer speeds with USB 3.0
• Ultra-low latency

Cons

• A bit expensive
• Low versatility
• High switching costs

02. TDisplay Capture Card

 

 

Product Description and Performance

In the spirit of choice, TDisplay is another excellent choice for the best capture card. It comes with high-performance capabilities that enable faster stream speeds as well as multiple connections. In addition, the capture card uses a USB 3.0 port for faster speeds to capture the videos. It also offers live recording, which provides a good chance of engaging with other fans. A vital feature of this capture card is the superior video capture quality of 4K HD. 

Product Features

• One USB 3.0 port
• Two HDMI ports
• 4K video resolution
• Supports live video capture and recording
• Compatible with other streaming software, e.g., OBS Studio

Product Specifications

• Manufacturer: TDisplay
• Brand: TDisplay
• Dimension: 4.1 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches
• Weight: 0.17 ounces

Pros

• Ultra HD Video capture and streaming
• Very low latency during video transfer
• Third-party video streaming compatibility
• Small and portable
• Compatible with multiple game consoles

Cons

• Requires latest computer processors core i5 and above
• Does not support European standard earphones/microphone

03. Magewell XI100DUSB-HDMI USB Capture

 

 

Product Description and Performance

The Magewell capture card is a master of compatibility. It stretches the limit from new devices such as the latest version of Windows, Mac OS, and Linux and other plugins such as Adobe Flash Media Live Encoder. It is also compatible with software such as Microsoft Lync, OBS, QuickTime player, and Xsplit Gamecaster. Significantly, the game capture is designed to provide its benefits to a broad audience. It comes with the latest USB 3.0 but true to its nature. In addition, it is also compatible with USB 2.0. 

Product Features

• USB 3.0 and 2.0 compatibility
• Chrome OS, Windows, Mac OS, and Linux Compatibility
• Two HDMI Ports
• 1080 HD Video Resolution
• Serial Digital Interface (SDI); HD, 3D SD

Product Specifications

• Manufacturer: Magewell
• Brand: Magewell
• Capture Card Dimension: 3.32 x 1.69 x 0.5 inches
• Weight: 3.2 ounces

Pros

• Multiple devices compatibility
• High HD video capture resolution 
• Faster video capture and sharing
• Low latency connections

Cons

• Requires proprietary cables which may limit versatility

04. AverMedia Live Gamer Portable Capture Card

 

 

Product Description and Performance

The Avermedia capture card has carved a niche in the market of the portable best capture card. Moreover, it is compact and easily pocketable, making it a capture card of choice for most applications. It is compatible with popular game consoles such as WiiU console, Xbox, and Playstation. Further, the capture card is also capable of capturing a full 1080 HD video resolution. This is enabled mostly by the H.264 hardware encoder that is part of the Avermedia capture card components.

Product Features

• USB 2.0 connector
• HDMI Video Input
• Standard Audio Cable (3.5 mm)
• Compatible with Windows and Mac

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: 

• Aver Information Inc
• Brand: AverMedia
• Dimension: 5.8 x 2.2 x 1.8 inches
• Weight: 6.6 ounces

Pros

• Compatible with Mac and Windows
• Standalone capture capabilities
• Fast encoding using H.264 encoder hardware
• High video resolutions
• Hot Button for live streaming

Cons

• Does not support a lot of devices 
• Uses USB 2.0 connector

05. Roxio Game Capture HD PRO

 

 

Product Description and Performance

The Roxio Game capture, the best capture card, offers the most comfortable bragging rights to its owner. In addition to being a compact video capture, Roxio pairs easily with popular gaming consoles. Also, it is compatible with Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, and PS4. Significantly, this provides a variety that appeals to numerous game players. Furthermore, the capture also allows quality HD videos at 1080 resolution.  

Product Features

• Connection via USB 2.0
• HD Resolution of 1080 60i/30p
• Component Video HDMI video input
• Compatible with the latest Windows 10 and 7, even XP

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: 

• Roxio
• Brand: Roxio Game capture
• Dimension: 2 x 7.25 x 8.5 inches
• Weight: 12.8 ounces

Pros

• High video quality at 1080 30p/60i
• Multiples console compatibility
• Low rendering time due to SmartEncode

Cons

• Uses a 2.0 USB connector
• Non-compatibility with most PCs

06. HDML Cloner Box

 

 

Product Description and Performance

The HDML cloner box is the best capture card even outside the gaming setting. Also, it is easily affordable and within the price range of most people. Moreover, the capture card allows you to capture high-quality videos without any lag. Besides, it is easy to set, and the recording is easily done through a button’s push. 

Product Features

• USB 2.0 connector
• High-quality HD video quality
• Low latency HDMI passthrough
• Video Editing Software for post-capture editing

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: 

• CloneAlliance
• Brand: HDML Cloner Box
• Capture Card Dimension: 4.4 x 4.4 x 1.0 inches
• Weight: 2.8 ounces

Pros

• Easy live streaming of gaming videos
• Compact size allows easy portability
• High-quality video capture of 1080p
• Offers low lag video streaming
• No need for a PC to record to external storage

Cons

• Uses USB 2.0 connector
• Editing software compatible only with Windows 7 and above

07. Diamond Game Caster HD GC200

 

 

Product Description and Performance

Although you may be spoiled for choice, this is the best capture card for the live streaming of video at high quality. This product is compatible with consoles such as Xbox and PlayStation, as well as most PCs. Besides, it is set aside by its compact design that allows easy portability. However, this card captures and streams game plays in HD with resolutions of 1080p too. All this work can be easily interfaced with common social media platforms such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. 

Product Features

• USB 2.0 connector
• A built-in ethernet port
• Share view software for streaming
• HDMI Port

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: 

• Diamond
• Brand: Diamond Multimedia
• Dimension: 3.4 x 1.0 x 5.5 inches
• Weight: 0.32 ounces

Pros

• Compact hence easily portable
• Compatible with multiple devices
• Live streaming capability to Twitch or YouTube
• Low latency streaming with minimal lag

Cons

• Utilizes USB 2.0
• Poor quality software interface for PC

08. AGPtek HD Game Capture HD Capture Card

Product Description and Performance

This is one of the best buy capture card that performs to its specifications. Also, the card records video in high quality at 1080p with low latency. It is a standalone device that records the videos without the need for a PC. Furthermore, this product accommodates a TRS standard microphone for commentary, which can be added to the extra effect videos. Moreover, the capture card is also easy to set up and run and does not require any complicated maneuvers. 

Product Features

• USB 3.0 and 2.0 connector
• HDMI input/output port
• 3.5mm TRS microphone headset
• High capture resolution that can be scaled up or down

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: 

• MYPIN
• Brand: MYPIN
• Dimension: 4.33 x 1.06 x 2.95 inches
• Weight: 14.4 ounces

Pros

• Commentary capability during video capture
• High-resolution capture
• Fast speed using USB 3.0 connection
• Standalone capture without a PC

Cons

• Does not support live streaming
• FAT32 storage format only

09. Intensity Pro 4k Playback & Capture Card

 

 

Product Description and Performance

The best buy capture card will give the best video resolution in the market. Also, this card captures video at 4k ultra HD format, providing unrivaled quality at 30fps. It can still capture lower but HD 1080p at 60fps. This performance is extended to multiple devices such as Linux computers, Mac, PC, and NLE.  

Product Features

• HDMI interface
• Ultra HD video capture
• Live stream capabilities

Product Specifications

• Manufacturer: Blackmagic Design
• Brand: Blackmagic Design
• Dimension: 5.6 x 5.4 x 2.2 inches
• Weight: 13.6 ounces

Pros

• Ultra HD video capture
• Live streaming capability
• Multiple device capacity

Cons

• It does not interface well with new kernels

10. AGPtek HDMI/ YPBR Recorder HD Game Capture

Product Description and Performance

This capture card is not shy about peak performance. It is a standalone video capture card that records video with a single click. This card outputs to an external device that allows you to get videos anywhere at any time. The product has high-quality video capture at 1080p and provides live stream commentary capabilities as well. Moreover, the pass-through function provides seamless gameplay without any lag or interruptions.

Product Features

• USB 2.0 connector
• HD HDMI/YPBR Recorder
• High-resolution video capture
• Multiple device compatibility
• USB Flash Disk /HDD external storage

Product Specifications

Manufacturer: 

• AGPtek
• Brand: AGPtek
• Dimension: 6.1 x 4.2 x 3.2 inches
• Weight: 10.4 ounces

Pros

• HD quality video capture
• Standalone capture card
• Live streaming capability

Cons

• Uses USB 2.0

Buying Guide of the best capture card for PC gaming

Transfer Speeds

The best buy capture card comes with a fast connector, which increases the speed of transfer. USB 3.0 offers such technology and is a desirable feature to look into your capture card. It provides high speeds of transfer without any delays. This provides an almost seamless interface between the gameplay and video recording. Faster speeds are also the key to flawless streaming capabilities, which is a significant need for buying a capture card.

Resolution

Capture cards offer peak performance to their broad audience. They mostly come with a high resolution of video capture at 1080 x 720 resolution or 4K quality. In some cards, the video resolution can be scaled up or down to suit different video play instances. You can also enjoy the connection of multiple devices to the card without losing any performance in the gameplay. This connection of multiple devices is easily managed by dedicated image control. The capture cards ensure that they operate at high resolutions without lag or reducing the game or video stream’s performance.

Latency

Ensure that your choice of the best buy capture card offers a low latency during transfers. This is necessary since it creates a seamless experience. This is a crucial highlight of using a capture card. Therefore, capturing and sharing your memorable video game moments should be nearly flawless. You can share easily with a screen capture interface primed for easy use. The experience is also enhanced by its extended performance with third party device compatibility. A sound capture card also comes with multiple third-party compatibilities. This allows for a customized experience as well as extends the range of utility.

Live Streaming

The magic of a good capture card is in its streaming capabilities. You can capture and live stream the game with certain capture cards at the simple flick of a button. 

Some offer the capability of streaming to YouTube, Facebook, and TwichTV at HD quality. Besides, you can easily use the interface to monitor the live stream’s performance through the bandwidth detector. You can further refine your needs by choosing capture cards that also allows video commentary. Some sophisticated cards come with font addition capabilities which lay text similar to those inside the game. In others, you can change the commentary voice to match the gameplay, thus retaining a thematic aspect during the stream.

Stand-Alone Capability

Another feature you should look for in the best buy capture card is the stand-alone capability. This means that you don’t need a PC to capture your gaming moment or a video. The capture card comes with an SD card slot that allows direct recording of the captured video footage. Therefore, the video capture can be done without the need of a PC. The external devices’ support differs, and you should ensure that you have the right card. Some cards support USB flash drives and other external hard disk or both. Some can connect to a smartphone too.

Compatibility

Your experience with the best buy capture card should not be limited by the game console alone. You can enhance it by changing layouts, adding webcams, and even setting overlays alerts without interfering with the game. This is enabled by selecting capture cards with compatibility with multiple devices. 

This capability ensures that the card can share the devices without affecting the performance of streaming or recording.

Portability

If you are always on the move, selecting a compact capture card eases your travels. The best portable cards have a standalone capability too. This means that you can record directly to a peripheral device such as a USB, Hard Drive, or even your smartphone. You do not need to tag a PC along with you to share an experience.

FAQs

What is a capture card?

A capture card is a peripheral device that is used to capture gaming moments from a console or a PC and convert them into shareable videos. It allows you to share your favorite moments with others in real-time through recording or as a video file. 

You can also use the card to create a meeting room where you educate others.

Why do I need a capture card?

You need a capture card to convert a game or video captured by a camera into digital signals. This allows you to share high-quality videos from your screen with others. The quality is enhanced with the use of the capture card in addition to sound, as well as the speed of transfer. It preserves the quality of your work.

Which are the best brands for capture cards?

The best brands include Elgato, Aver Media, as well as Magewell brands. These are the top brands in the market for capture cards. However, you cannot limit yourself to such brands since they all come with different specifications. The best way of selecting a given brand is by evaluating its main features. These features act as the best guide for choosing a brand.

Do capture cards work on laptops?

Capture cards are mostly plugged and play devices for maximum experience for the users. It means that they are easily connected using USB ports and will install immediately. However, some cards require PCI ports, which are inserted inside the desktop PCI slots, although this is rare. Always verify the type of connection that comes with a capture card to avoid disappointment.

What do I need to install a capture card?

Most capture cards are plug and play and do not require any actions from the user. Those that come with USB connectors will install the drivers and run immediately after insertion. It may take up to 10 seconds to start. However, others may have a dedicated software with extra capabilities, and this requires installation. However, they come with an installation wizard that acts as a simple guide.

Who uses capture cards?

Capture cards are used mostly by game players and educators. The need for sharing the gaming experience is as overwhelming as playing. Capture cards enable this while keeping in line with the high-quality standards of the gaming industry. They are also used by educators who need to capture video and share it at high resolutions. These are mainly individuals practicing fines arts or sharing a live skill.

What are the other uses of capture cards?

Capture cards are not only used for recording game experiences. Still, they can also record anything with a camera and share it at high resolutions. Some users extend capture cards to record their favorite shows on TV by interfacing the cards with their set-top boxes. This allows them to capture high-quality videos for posterity. 

How do I know a capture card will work on my device?

Unless you are using an outdated device, most capture cards are designed to work with a contemporary device. However, it is good to check the specifications of most cards since some features are prerequisites, and they may fail if they are no there. These include HDMI connectors as well as USB 3.0 ports. Microphone and earphone standards are also featured that you need to check out beforehand.

Can I live stream with a capture card?

Yes, you can live stream with a capture card. However, it is not all capture cards that come with this capability. Some will only allow you to record the video and share it later. Look for this feature as you evaluate the capabilities of your next capture card.

Conclusion

Finding the best capture card requires you to vet your devices thoroughly and understand their interfaces. You also have to make a trade-off of features that you need most for your capture device and those that are added advantages. It will allow you to make a reasonable choice between the numerous options in the market.

Moreover, you do not require all the features that come in different cards. Although 4k is the best resolution, you can trade this off for a portable capture card or one that supports better live streaming. Further, the best buy capture card maximizes your needs and also gives a good return for your money. Most of the cards are within an affordable range with the most expensive packing extra features. Always remember that the best capture card is one that interfaces well with your gaming environment and thus serves your specific requirements.