The 30 best capture card brands
Elgato, AVerMedia and Hauppauge lead our ranking of 30 capture card brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Capture Card brands, ranked
TSCentral is reader-supported: we may earn a commission when you shop through links on this page. It does not affect the ranking.
-
1
Elgato
Elgato is a company that provides audiovisual technology to the content creators of this world. They use modern technology to make the streaming process easier. The mikes and webcams of the company are of the highest grade and ensure a smooth flow for the content creators. Elgato was founded back in 1999. The company is based in Germany and California. They constantly work on updating their products and making them even better than before. The company enhances the user experience. Ring Lights and Green Screens can also be found on their site.
Website: elgato.com |Brands like Elgato
Popularity 10.0/10
-
2
AVerMedia
AVer Media was founded in the early 1990s by Michael Kuo and a group of individuals who wanted to change the branded video technology industry. The company is a leading manufacturer of digital imaging and video processing products. The company provides innovative and easy solutions for content creation, digital imaging, video processing and making, live streaming, and AI computing. They make sure their digital products are superior, novel, and customer-friendly, keeping in mind an environment-friendly approach.
Website: avermedia.com |Brands like AVerMedia
Popularity 8.9/10
-
3
Hauppauge
Hauppage is one of a kind brand that brings the TV experience to your PCs. They manufacture different products like TV turners and TV applications. Each product is specifically made to deliver a fantastic viewing experience every time. On their website, you can find places from where you can buy their products. Hauppage also offers customer support that helps you set up the devices without any hassle.
Website: hauppauge.com |Brands like Hauppauge
Popularity 6.2/10
-
4
Pinnacle Systems
Pinnacle Systems is a manufacturer and supplier of machine guarding safety products. Its advanced technological fittings keep your machines and employees safe with high sensitivity guarding equipment like safety light curtains, safety mats, ergonomic palm buttons, safety relays and controls, etc. Pinnacle Systems has a myriad of quality certifications like OSHA, ANSI, CE, ISO, etc. which make the products more reliable. Based and manufacturing in the US, Pinnacle Systems supplies for the industrial sector.
Website: pinnaclesystems.com |Brands like Pinnacle Systems
Popularity 5.5/10
-
5
Ezcap
ezcap is a professional producer and distributor of Audio Video record and capture systems founded in 2005. The audio-video capturing solutions products may assist you in capturing HD gaming footage, video sourcing, analog video and audio source to digital files, and then playing back or streaming them. Their production strategies encompass practically all video industry items, from family to specialist. They efficiently serve their customers to preserve their leadership position in video technology.
Website: ezcap.com |Brands like Ezcap
Popularity 4.9/10
-
6
Blackmagic Design
Blackmagic Design overtops the checklist of pre-eminent providers of broadcast and cinema equipment, most exalted is their high-end production and digital cameras, as well as post-production software, with digital cinema companies themselves being one. Broadcasters, routers, streamers, and encoders, as well as network storage, are all on the list. Splice is the most appealing community that sets forth the voices of many cinematographers, colorists, and influencers transcending the field of digital cinema and filmmaking.
Website: blackmagicdesign.com |Brands like Blackmagic Design
Popularity 4.3/10
-
7
Osprey
From huge industrial buildings to small medical clinics, Osprey Corporation provides many solutions. They have the correct answer for you, whether you need specialist filtration or wish to modernize your system to keep up with demand. Osprey Corporation has been a trusted name in the market for its innovative products for over 40 years. The company's experience has enabled it to provide superior filtration systems for various applications and processes.
Website: ospreyfilters.com |Brands like Osprey
Popularity 4.1/10
-
8
Agptek
Agptek, a prominent laptop battery provider in the United States, has a large selection of notebook batteries. They provide more fantastic, brand-new, and reasonably priced replacement laptop batteries for Acer computers. They keep their inventory in both the United States and China, allowing them to provide you with the most affordable pricing with quick shipment. Their items are all brand new and 100% OEM compatible. It is ideal if you want a low-cost, more incredible Acer laptop battery. On all laptop batteries, they offer low rates and quick shipment.
Website: agptek.com |Brands like Agptek
Popularity 3.9/10
-
9
Matrox
Matrox is a firm that makes video, image, and vision imaging hardware and software for a variety of tech devices. They are credited with inventing devices such as vision controllers, frame grabbers, and 3D sensors that were far ahead of...
Website: matrox.com |Brands like Matrox
Popularity 3.7/10
-
10
KWorld
KWorld offers electronic accessories specially made to enhance the gaming experience. The company promises to deliver high-quality products like earphones and chargers that are reliable and durable. The team at KWorld is dedicated to developing and innovating using new technology,...
Website: kworld-global.com |Brands like KWorld
Popularity 3.6/10
-
11
Pinnacle
Pinnacle Cabinets specializes in custom cabinetry and furnishings made by hand. With the best quality, eco-friendly cabinets meant to last, you can create the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams. You can also get a wide range of alternative styles...
Website: pinnaclecabinetcompany.com |Brands like Pinnacle
Popularity 3.5/10
-
12
Magewell
Magewell is one of the leading audio device providers in the world. They believe in a new perspective of good home audio. Their various products, such as their encoders, decoders, and audio converters, are one of the most selling equipments...
Website: magewell.com |Brands like Magewell
Popularity 2.8/10
-
13
VIA
The VIA platform consists of hardware, software, and cloud Building Blocks that can use to create novel embedded systems. VIA's ecosystem allows you to construct smart devices connected to the cloud using an easy-to-use drag-and-drop toolchain. VIA's technology provides the...
Website: viatech.com |Brands like VIA
Popularity 2.6/10
-
14
MyGica
MyGica is an electronics manufacturing company based in China. Its products are created to provide the customer with a convenient and enjoyable experience while watching the television. With TV tuners, TV boxes, Android remote controllers, video capturing equipment, etc. MyGica...
Website: mygica.com |Brands like MyGica
Popularity 2.5/10
-
15
TechniSat
TechniSat offers you first-class electronics and information technology products. The company constantly innovates, and each of its products undergoes strict durability tests to ensure a sustainable and long-lasting item. TechniSat offers high-resolution Digital TVs, Digital Receivers with outstanding receptions, and...
Website: technisat.com |Brands like TechniSat
Popularity 2.5/10
-
16
ATI
ATI Systems is a group that is made up of five divisions. The company helps in manufacturing and supplying essential tools to the market. ATI Systems are the leading supplier of motion and linear displacement sensors. They believe that quality...
Website: atisystems.co.za |Brands like ATI
Popularity 2.3/10
-
17
StarTech
With the development in the field of electronic devices, another area that undergoes positive change is the accessories section. Technology has several problems, and StarTech was established to cure them and find a solution so that they won't happen again....
Website: startech.com |Brands like StarTech
Popularity 2.3/10
-
18
Razer
Gaming is a growing field of expertise in this modern era, and the number of gamers who are determined to have a name for themselves is very high. Every gamer wants one thing, a great system to play without interruptions....
Website: razer.com |Brands like Razer
Popularity 2.3/10
-
19
Datapath
Datapath has spent 40 years as one of the leading multi-screen video technology. The company produces an integrated platform for complex system configuration. They provide design, management, and more. The company's security solution allows many things to be monitored in...
Website: datapath.co.uk |Brands like Datapath
Popularity 2.1/10
-
20
Pengo
Great teams of individuals work at Pengo to develop goods that will improve, simplify, and hasten their daily lives. The main component of modern technology has been the transmission of data, audio, and video between devices. They are committed to...
Website: pengohome.com |Brands like Pengo
Popularity 2.1/10
-
21
Sabrent
Sabrent designs and produces various products that help make life easier. The Sabrent product line includes a full range of add-ons, including cables, chargers, and more. They also offer computer components such as hubs, card readers, and internal hard drives...
Website: sabrent.com |Brands like Sabrent
Popularity 2.0/10
-
22
WIN
WIN is a store that sells a wide range of items, including computers, brand new laptops, mobile phones, and other accessories. Their objective is to supply you with the most advanced technologies and accessories at competitive pricing. They provide branded...
Website: wincomputers.com.pk |Brands like WIN
Popularity 2.0/10
-
23
Pelco
Pelco is an American enterprise involved in producing and supplying video security surveillance products and accessories. Pelco has always prioritized customer satisfaction and safety and strives to provide them with the latest technology, innovation, and easy-to-use products. Pelco offers complete...
Website: pelco.com |Brands like Pelco
Popularity 2.0/10
-
24
Microstar
In an era when expensive computer hardware and parts are in high demand, a company providing low-cost alternatives is a must. Microstar provides a platform that allows you to buy used computers and laptops and specific parts such as RAM,...
Website: microstar.net |Brands like Microstar
Popularity 2.0/10
-
25
Integral
Integral is Japan's largest independent memory solution provider. They specialize in DRAM, Flash Memory, and other information technology goods. Their products are utilized in various applications such as mobile phones, digital cameras, automotive electronics, networking equipment, and industrial machinery. They...
Website: integralmemory.com |Brands like Integral
Popularity 1.7/10
-
26
YUAN
Yuan High-Tech (GTSM: 5474) established in 1990, with headquarter in Taipei, Taiwan, is the leading force in the digital home entertainment, broadcasting, and surveillance market, delivering an extensive range of high-quality video/audio products for system integrators and ODM customers for...
Website: yuan.com.tw |Brands like YUAN
Popularity 1.7/10
-
27
Cognex
Cognex is a commercial company and the world’s leading provider of machine vision systems, sensors, barcode readers, and softwares used in automated manufacturing. These products help in identifying, tracking, sorting, and inspecting parts of a machine, detecting defects, guiding assembly...
Website: cognex.com |Brands like Cognex
Popularity 1.5/10
-
28
SIIG
SIIG is a world leader in reasonable signal solutions for consumers, businesses, and industrial industries. KVM switches, USB-to-VGA/DVI adapter cables, HDMI cables, DVI cables and adapters, VGA cables and adapters, HDBaseT extenders and converters, power strips and surge protectors, PC...
Website: siig.com |Brands like SIIG
Popularity 1.5/10
-
29
Leadtek
Leadtek is a maker of revolutionary graphics cards. The firm has a long history of developing best-in-class graphics solutions, including the first card with an integrated TV tuner and the first graphics solution with 3D capabilities. It is committed to...
Website: leadtek.com |Brands like Leadtek
Popularity 1.5/10
-
30
Dazzle
DazzledByJewels is an online boutique that sells fashionable women's jewelry. Purchase stylish and economical fashion jewelry for yourself or as a present. Free shipping is offered on the current fashion trends in jewelry so that you can shop from the...
Website: dazzledbyjewels.com |Brands like Dazzle
Popularity 1.2/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elgato | elgato.com | /Elgato | elgatogaming | @elgato | NNESAGA |
| AVerMedia | avermedia.com | – | – | – | – |
| Hauppauge | hauppauge.com | /hauppaugecomputerworks | – | @HauppaugeHQ | hauppaugecomputer |
| Pinnacle Systems | pinnaclesystems.com | /Pinnacle-Systems-Inc-606186589555046 | – | @pinnaclesystems | Pinnaclesystems1 |
| Ezcap | ezcap.com | /Forward-Video-ezcap-130857523914145 | – | @_ForwardVideo | ezcap CAPTURE |
| Blackmagic Design | blackmagicdesign.com | /BlackmagicDesignOfficial | blackmagicnewsofficial | @Blackmagic_News | Blackmagic Design |
| Osprey | ospreyfilters.com | – | – | – | – |
| Agptek | agptek.com | /AGPTEK.fans | agptek.fans | @AGPTEK_fans | AGPTEK Fans |
| Matrox | matrox.com | – | – | – | – |
| KWorld | kworld-global.com | – | – | – | – |
Capture Card Buying Guide
If you are someone who likes to stream or record gameplay from your console or PC, a capture card is an essential device. A capture card allows you to capture your video and audio output and record or stream it to platforms like Twitch, YouTube, or Facebook. Here is a guide to help you choose the right capture card for your needs:
Types of Capture Cards
- Internal Capture Cards: These capture cards are installed inside your PC and are connected directly to the motherboard. These cards offer the best performance and can capture high-quality footage.
- External Capture Cards: These capture cards are connected to your PC or laptop through USB or HDMI. They are convenient and easy to use, but may have lower performance compared to internal capture cards.
Compatibility
Before buying a capture card, make sure it is compatible with your console or PC. Some capture cards work only with specific consoles or require specific hardware to function properly. For example, if you have a PS4 or Xbox One, make sure the capture card supports those consoles.
Video Quality and Resolution
If you are looking to capture high-quality footage, make sure the capture card supports the resolution and frame rate you need. Most capture cards support up to 1080p resolution, but some offer 4K support as well. Keep in mind that higher resolutions require more processing power, so your PC or laptop needs to be powerful enough to handle it.
Ports and Connections
Make sure the capture card has the ports and connections you need. Most capture cards have HDMI, RCA, or component inputs for consoles and HDMI or DisplayPort inputs for PCs. Some capture cards also have passthrough ports, allowing you to connect your console or PC to your TV or monitor while still capturing the video and audio signal.
Software and Features
Most capture cards come with software that allows you to configure settings, record, and stream your footage. Some capture cards also offer additional features like:
- Live commentary: The ability to add live commentary to your stream or recording using a microphone.
- Instant record: The ability to instantly start recording your gameplay with the push of a button.
- Multiple inputs: The ability to switch between multiple sources, like consoles or PCs, without the need for additional hardware.
Price
Capture card prices can vary widely, from less than $50 to over $500. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Cheaper capture cards may have lower quality video and audio or lack important features. On the other hand, the most expensive capture cards may have features and capabilities that you don't need. Set a budget and look for a capture card that meets your requirements and fits within your price range.
Top Capture Card Options
| Brand | Type | Max Resolution | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elgato | External | 4K60 HDR10 | $199.99 |
| Hauppauge | Internal | 1080p60 | $169.99 |
| AVerMedia | External | 1080p60 | $129.99 |
| Blackmagic Design | Internal | 4K60 | $289.00 |
| Razer | External | 1080p60 | $129.99 |
Here are some of the top capture card options available:
- Elgato 4K60S+: This external capture card supports up to 4K60 HDR10 video and offers low latency, making it ideal for streaming. It also has a passthrough port, allowing you to connect it to your monitor or TV. It comes with the Elgato 4K capture utility software and is compatible with Windows and Mac.
- Hauppauge HD PVR Rocket: This internal capture card supports up to 1080p60 video and has H.264 hardware encoding, which reduces CPU usage. It also has a built-in microphone input for live commentary and a USB port for storage. It comes with Hauppauge Capture software and is compatible with Windows and Mac.
- AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus: This external capture card supports up to 1080p60 video and has low latency, making it ideal for streaming. It also has a passthrough port and a built-in microphone input. It comes with AVerMedia's RECentral software and is compatible with Windows and Mac.
- Blackmagic Design DeckLink 4K Extreme: This internal capture card supports up to 4K60 video and has SDI and HDMI inputs and outputs. It also has built-in support for professional video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Avid Media Composer. It comes with Blackmagic Design's DeckLink software and is compatible with Windows and Mac.
- Razer Ripsaw HD: This external capture card supports up to 1080p60 video and has low latency, making it ideal for streaming. It also has a passthrough port and a built-in microphone input. It comes with Razer Synapse software and is compatible with Windows and Mac.
Conclusion
A capture card is a must-have device for anyone who wants to record or stream their gameplay. By considering the factors listed above, you can choose the right capture card for your needs and budget. Whether you go for an internal or external capture card, make sure it is compatible with your console or PC, has the ports and connections you need, and has the video quality and features you require.
