In today’s world of gaming and streaming, capturing and sharing high-quality gameplay is a must. If you’re a PlayStation 5 owner looking to stream or record your gameplay, choosing the right capture card is critical to delivering smooth, high-resolution footage to your audience. This guide explores the best capture cards for PS5 in 2024, giving you top recommendations for beginners and professionals alike.
Why Do You Need a Capture Card for PS5?
The PS5 already offers built-in recording and streaming features, which can sometimes be limiting. Capture cards unlock advanced features, including higher-quality recording, more customization options, and the ability to use external software like OBS Studio or Streamlabs. A capture card is essential for streamers aiming to elevate their content with overlays, personalized alerts, and multi-platform streaming.
Key Features to Look for in a Capture Card
Before diving into the top choices, knowing what makes a capture card great is essential. Here are some must-have features for any PS5 capture card:
1. Elgato HD60 X – Best Overall Capture Card for PS5
Elgato HD60 X
- Premium Capture, Powerful Passthrough: Stunning 4K30 HDR10 or 1080p60 HDR10 quality, 4K60 HDR10, 1440p120, 1080p120, VRR passthrough.
- Plug and Play: Driverless setup on Windows and Mac.
- You can use any app and stream to any platform, such as OBS, Streamlabs, Vmix, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams, and stream to YouTube, Twitch, Facebook Gaming, and more.
- Ultra-low Latency: Sub 100ms for seamless audio/video syncing.
- No Limitations: Zero watermarks, time limits or subscriptions
The Elgato HD60 X is one of the most popular capture cards for gamers worldwide, and for good reason. It supports 1080p capture at 60 FPS, 4K HDR pass-through, and low-latency streaming, making it ideal for streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube. The card is compatible with various software, including OBS Studio and Elgato’s software, Stream Deck.
Pros
- Supports HDR10
- USB 3.0 for faster data transfer
- Easy setup and use
Cons
- No 4K recording support (only pass-through)
The HD60 X is a perfect balance of price and features for gamers who want high-quality performance without spending a lot.
2. AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K – Best for 4K Recording
AVerMedia GC573 Live Gamer
- Stream and record 4K60 HDR10 content with ultra-low latency, thanks to the AVerMedia GC573 Live Gamer 4K internal capture card
- Enjoy clean, crisp video formats with zero-lag pass-through for game capture and live streaming.
- The LG4K features three preset modes of RGB lighting, bringing more than just excellent performance to your PC setup.
- Customize which resolutions and corresponding frame rates you can preview and record with the AVerMedia Gaming Utility.
For those who need 4K recording, the AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K offers superb performance. It supports 4K60 HDR recording and 240Hz Full HD pass-through, making it a top choice for PS5 streamers who want to maintain ultra-high quality. Its PCIe interface ensures the highest performance possible while keeping latency minimal.
Pros
- Accurate 4K recording with HDR
- 240Hz pass-through for high refresh rate gaming
- Excellent for professional streamers
Cons
- Requires a PCIe slot, so it’s not portable
- More expensive than USB options
The AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K is a top-tier option for anyone serious about delivering the best possible video quality, but it does come at a premium price.
3. Razer Ripsaw HD – Best for Budget Gamers
Razer Ripsaw HD
- 4K 60 fps pass-through for uninterrupted, smooth gameplay for uninterrupted, smooth gameplay
- Full HD 1080P at 60 FPS for powerful streaming performance for powerful streaming performance
- Hemi 2. 0 & USB 3. 0 Connectivity for zero latency output and maximum details
- 3. 5 mm audio cable for easy, software-free setup for easy, software-free setup
- Full audio MIXING capabilities for hassle-free Audio management for hassle-free Audio management
The Razer Ripsaw HD is an affordable yet powerful capture card for budget-conscious gamers. It supports 1080p capture at 60 FPS and 4K pass-through, and like the Elgato HD60 X, it works with most popular streaming software. While it doesn’t record in 4K, it delivers excellent performance for its price, making it a great option for entry-level streamers.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Compact and portable
- USB 3.0 for fast data transfer
Cons
- No 4K recording
- Lacks advanced features compared to higher-end models.
4. Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2 – Best for Professional Streamers
Elgato 4K Pro
- Seamless Broadcasting and Versatile Streaming: Connect effortlessly to any app such as OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Restream, Zoom, and Teams and stream flawlessly on various platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Discord, Facebook Gaming, etc., providing unparalleled flexibility and reach.
- Unrivaled Gaming Experience: Immerse yourself in pure gameplay at an astounding 8K60 resolution, all while effortlessly capturing the action in stunning 4K60 quality.
- Cutting-Edge Connectivity: Harness the power of HDMI 2.1 in/out to effortlessly record high frame rates, reaching up to an incredible 240fps in pristine 1080p resolution.
- Seamless Visuals: Say goodbye to screen tearing and relish in a flawlessly smooth gaming experience with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) through technology.
- Perfectly Synced Entertainment: Achieve unparalleled synchronization between your broadcast and gameplay thanks to ultra-low latency that captures every moment precisely.
If you’re looking for the highest-end capture card, the Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2 is the ultimate choice for professionals. With 4K60 HDR capture, ultra-low latency, and support for capturing up to 240 FPS in 1080p, it’s designed for top-tier content creators who want no compromises on quality. It’s a PCIe card requiring installation into a desktop PC, but the performance benefits are unmatched.
Pros
- Unrivaled 4K60 HDR capture
- Supports ultra-high frame rates
- Best-in-class performance
Cons
- Requires a PCIe slot
- Higher cost compared to other options
5. AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus – Best Portable Option
AVerMedia GC513 Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus Capture Card
- AVerMedia GC513 Live Gamer (LGP2): Suitable for any streamers, content creators, or hobbyists, new or experienced, this portable capture card allows you to enjoy 4K gameplay and easily edit in 1080p60
- Pass-through technology: The LGP2 will enable you to record fantastic gameplay at Full HD 60 fps without experiencing annoying lag and in 4Kp60 thanks to the lag-less integrated pass-through feature
- Plug and play technology: Ready for use at any time, the LGP2 uses the latest UVC technology, making the process easy – plug the LGP2 into your Mac or computer, and you are ready to stream
- PC-Free Mode: A unique feature of the LGP2 is its portability and can therefore be easily set to record gameplay wherever you go – whether on an iPhone or a PC tournament, your options are endless
- Items delivered: 1 x Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus Game Streaming Capture Card; 1 x HDMI cable; 1 x USB Micro to Type-A cable; 1 x 4-Pole 3.5mm audio cable and quick guide
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus is perfect for streamers on the go. It supports 1080p recording and 4K pass-through and is small enough to fit in your pocket. What sets this card apart is its ability to record directly onto an SD card without needing a PC, making it a highly versatile option for those who want to record gameplay at events or while traveling.
Pros
- Portable and easy to use
- Supports PC-free recording to an SD card
- Affordable price
Cons
- 1080p capture only, no 4K recording
- Limited to 60 FPS
Conclusion
Choosing the best capture card for your PS5 ultimately comes down to your needs as a gamer or content creator. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option like the Razer Ripsaw HD or need professional-level 4K capture with the Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2, there’s a capture card out there to suit every budget and streaming setup.
For most streamers, the Elgato HD60 X offers a perfect balance of features and price, making it a fantastic choice for capturing smooth, high-quality footage without breaking the bank. If you’re focused on recording in 4K, the AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K or Elgato 4K60 Pro MK.2 are unbeatable options.