A game capture card converts the game signals into digitalized form to aid in uploading it on the internet. Read on to find out what makes a game capture card so great, and later, we will introduce you to some of the best cards for capturing games.
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Gameplay Stream Recording Experience
So, do you really need a game capture card?
If you want praiseworthy data streaming and have a desire to gather recognition amongst the competition, a game capture card is your best bet. You will be able to generate high-quality content that can be streamed lag-free, so that it is well-received by your viewers.
Game capture cards will allow you to create high-quality content. It is important to go through the following pointers, which are worth investigating before looking at the products themselves.
1. Cost
The price tag is deeply related to your usage. If your life happens to orbit around gameplays and live streaming, then sure, we fully back your decision to invest in a good quality game capture card. These will have richer video quality and will run more smoothly. However, if you have only an occasional need for this item, you can buy one that gets the job done without spending too much.
2. Image Quality
One of the main pillars of online gameplay streaming is video quality. You certainly do not want your high definition graphics to go down the drain when converting the database to a digital platform.
Look for the FPS (Frames Per Second) rate that the device is capable of recording. Going for 1080p or Full HD quality is ideal, but expanding your budget to support 4K or Ultra HD will give you excellent results.
However, keep in mind that to support Ultra HD video quality, you will need a hardy software system to back it up.
3. User Specifications
To utilize all the features offered by a game capturing card, you will have to go through numerous manuals to achieve a balance between data input and storage, in sync with your platform.
Professionals will not have issues with this, but novices are advised to use a less complex setup so that you record your sessions without any hassle.
4. Hardware
Be aware of the compatibility of all your hardware items, such as gaming consoles, memory cards, storage spaces, etc. Good game capture cards come with tutorials and tech support ready to handle any issue you throw their way. User manuals that are direct and to-the-point also come in handy.
Types of Game Capture Cards
The type of game capture card depends on the support platform, including five different kinds:
1. PC
Especially for competitive gamers with high FPS rates, and the ability to record and stream side-by-side.
2. Play Station
Enhances editing and comes with additional features.
3. XBOX
Game capture cards accentuate the simple software of XBOX.
4. Mac
Mac-supported game capture cards aid you to play in ideal resolution levels.
5. 3DS and Wii
You need to buy a platform-specific card to allow seamless uploads and transfer.
Now that you have some idea about what to look for, the following section will look at some of the best game capture cards available today.
1. Roxio Game Capture HD Pro
The Roxio HD Pro game capture card is outstanding in video, sound, and speed. Roxio gives you the ability to record, edit, share, and even manage live streaming, all through your PS4, Xbox One, or PC.
What makes this game capture card the best, is the clear, crisp Full HD video having up to 1080 30p/1080 60i.
This game capturing card is perfect for content creators, especially when you want to publish your game reviews directly to Twitch or YouTube. This card also comes with the added benefit of testing your bandwidth for you.
You will get the chance to be an editing king, as this model allows you to edit H.264-encoded videos, totaling over 95 transitions, special effects, soundtracks, and so much more!
This model comes with the capturing card, a USB cable 2.0, the Roxio game recording device, editing software, and a starting guide to kick things off. However, if you purchase this card, you would also be required to separately purchase the HDMI and cables designed specifically for your console.
Buy Here: Amazon
2. Elgato Game Capture HD60
If you want something quick and instantaneous, then Elgato Game Capture HD60 is worth looking into.
This model allows the user to record and play games in 1080p quality with up to 60 FPS. This card takes the gamer directly into instant gameplay, with high-end, low latency technology.
Whether it is putting up live Twitch or YouTube sessions, or adding an interesting commentary in the background, Elgato Game Capture HD60 lets you do it all.
You can easily connect the card to your TV through HDMI support. This product comes with the Elgato Game Capture Card, a USB 3.0 cable, and an HDMI cable. The HD 60 card is supported by both Windows 10 and Mac and is super easy to use. However, you will need to download the required drivers and software to be able to run this card.
Overall, this model provides a lag-free, high definition experience for all your recordings.
Buy Here: Amazon
3. AVerMedia Live Gamer Portable 2 Plus
AVerMedia is a quick and easy solution for all your on-the-go recording sessions. All you need to do is record, stream, plug it in, and press play!
This game capture card has a unique headset commentary feature. This allows gamers to add in their reactions and responses as they progress through the game.
Chatrooms can easily be captured while playing through the console party chat. Making gameplays even more interesting by using this feature results in more views! People always love the involvement and interaction in between gaming sessions.
The AVerMedia Game capture cards also have PC and PC-free modes. This means you do not require a PC at your disposal all the time to be able to record. Simply connect your console anywhere, and press play!
This model is an exceptional, on-the-fly game capture card, with a rich 4K pass-through experience that you can use to record in Full HD. However, this product is lacking in its manual, which carries very little detail. Moreover, the card does not specify if it is recording or not because it does not have indicatory lights.
Buy Here: Amazon
4. Hauppauge HD PVR 2
The personal video recorder by Hauppauge is one of the best game capture cards available.
This product not only looks chic, but it also delivers in tech. This game capture card contains the digital audio SPDIF, along with the phenomenal IR blaster technology that lets you record seamlessly.
This card is compatible with laptop or desktop PC with a 3.0 GHz single-core or 2.0 GHz multi-core processor. As for the video quality, Hauppauge provides high definition H.264 Blu-ray compatibility through the set-top box. The model is compatible with Xbox360 using HDMI, or from the PS3 via component video.
The whole package includes HDMI and component cables, a 9 ft. long USB cable perfect for Microsoft 10, 8, 7, or Vista (32 or 64-bit). However, note that the Blu-ray burner software is not included in the unit. You do get a detailed instruction guide to easily install and download the software.
Buy Here: Amazon
5. Razer Ripsaw HD
The last in our list of game capture cards is the versatile Razer Ripsaw. The basic features of this model include 4K 60 FPS pass-through, which lets your gameplay run smoothly and lag-free. This card’s streaming performance is up-to-mark as well, giving a powerful display of Full HD 1080p at 60 FPS. Razor Ripsaw card also supports other resolutions like 2160p, 1440p 30 FPS, 720p, 480p.
Furthermore, you also get the option of mixing audio with this model. This allows you to manage and control audio recordings of the gameplay much more efficiently.
The setup is quite simple and to-the-point. With this model, you will get a Hemi 2.0 and USB 3.0 connectivity, along with the benefits of zero latency output. A 3.5 mm audio cable allows you to connect everything with ease.
However, there are several cheaper game capture cards than the Razer. There have also been configuration and crashing issues reported with this device. If you are someone who likes including party chats in your stream, this may not be the best option. The Razer Ripsaw works better on Xbox One and Pc, as opposed to PS4.
Buy Here: Amazon
Final Thoughts
All things considered, the best game capture cards will record, transmit, and help you store or upload your gameplay sessions. The products mentioned above have been tried and tested over the years for their reliability and functionality. Remember, there is no compromising on your passion, so be sure to get the capture card that best suits your needs.
