A capture card with passthrough lets you record or stream gameplay while sending the original signal to your TV or monitor with minimal delay. That makes it especially useful for competitive console gaming, live production, and dual-PC streaming.
We’ve selected 10 options spanning internal PCIe cards, USB models, 4K HDR passthrough, and affordable 1080p solutions. The right choice depends on your source resolution, display refresh rate, recording needs, and computer setup.
Best 10 Capture Card with Passthrough Picks for 2026
Premium USB Pick
- 4K HDR passthrough at 60 Hz
- Capture up to 4K30 or 1080p120
- UVC plug-and-play with OBS support
Best For: High-resolution console streaming and recording
Internal Performance Pick
- Up to 8K60 passthrough
- 4K60 capture with HDMI 2.1
- VRR and up to 1080p240 recording
Best For: High-end Windows desktop and dual-PC setups
Low-Latency 4K Pick
- 4K HDR passthrough at 60 Hz
- 4K30 capture and 1080p120 support
- Virtually latency-free gameplay monitoring
Best For: External console streaming with 4K HDR passthrough
Budget Plug-and-Play Pick
- 1080p60 capture with 4K30 passthrough
- Works with Windows, Mac, and consoles
- No extra apps or external power required
Best For: Affordable 1080p streaming and versatile device compatibility
Premium 4K Passthrough
- 4K60 capture for detailed recordings
- 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough
- HDR10 and analog audio input
Best For: High-refresh PS5, Xbox, and Switch 2 capture
Flexible Loop-Out Value
- 4K@30Hz input and HDMI loop-out
- 2K30 or 1080p60 recording
- USB-A and USB-C connectivity
Best For: Versatile streaming and console monitoring
Internal Low-Latency Pick
- 1080p60 capture and true passthrough
- PCIe x1 internal installation
- Flashback and unlimited hard-drive recording
Best For: Desktop PC-based 1080p60 console capture
Best High-Frame-Rate Pick
4K60 Capture Card with Passthrough
- 4K60 capture and HDMI passthrough
- 1080p recording up to 120fps
- USB-A/USB-C and 3.5mm audio ports
Best For: High-frame-rate gaming and versatile streaming setups
Best Mainstream Streaming Option
- 4K input with 1080p60 output
- YUY2 video and low-latency capture
- Mic-in plus USB-A and USB-C ports
Best For: Everyday gaming, teaching, calls, and streaming
Best Value 1080p60 Pick
- 4K60 HDMI input and loop-out
- 1080p60 or 2K30 USB capture
- Mic-in and low-latency aluminum design
Best For: Console streaming with smooth Full HD capture
Premium USB Pick – ASUS TUF CU4K30
If you want a capable capture card with passthrough for console gaming, the ASUS TUF CU4K30 combines 4K HDR passthrough at 60 Hz with capture up to 4K at 30 fps. Its USB 3.2 Type-C, UVC plug-and-play setup and OBS certification make it a practical choice for streamlined streaming.
Best For: Gamers who want high-resolution passthrough, flexible frame-rate capture, and easy OBS setup.
Pros:
- Supports 4K HDR passthrough at 60 Hz.
- Captures up to 4K30, 2K60, or 1080p120.
- UVC plug-and-play operation requires no extra drivers or utilities.
- Includes controller and headset connections for sharing team audio.
Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Type-C port and a system that can handle the selected resolution and frame rate.
- Its 423-gram weight is higher than some compact alternatives.
The CU4K30 is a strong all-around option when passthrough quality and capture flexibility matter more than the smallest possible footprint. Its alloy shell and OBS compatibility add practical advantages for regular streaming.
Internal Performance Pick – Elgato 4K Pro
For a desktop setup, the Elgato 4K Pro is a powerful capture card with passthrough built around HDMI 2.1. It supports gameplay passthrough up to 8K60, 4K60 capture, high-frame-rate 1080p recording, and VRR for smoother visuals.
Best For: Windows desktop users building a high-end or dual-PC streaming setup.
Pros:
- Supports up to 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 capture.
- HDMI 2.1 connectivity enables up to 1080p240 recording.
- VRR passthrough helps reduce screen tearing.
- Works with major apps including OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, and Zoom.
Cons:
- Requires a Windows 10 computer with an available PCIe slot.
- It is an internal card rather than a portable USB device.
The 4K Pro is the most performance-focused option in this group, especially for users with compatible desktop hardware. Choose it when HDMI 2.1, VRR, and high refresh-rate passthrough are priorities.
Low-Latency 4K Pick – AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra is a practical capture card with passthrough for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch users. It delivers 4K HDR passthrough at 60 Hz, 4K30 capture, and uncompressed gameplay viewing with virtually no latency.
Best For: Console players who want 4K HDR passthrough and low-latency monitoring through a compact external device.
Pros:
- Provides 4Kp60 HDR passthrough.
- Captures up to 4K30, 1440p60, or 1080p120.
- Supports Windows 11 and macOS 10.13.
- Compact design and USB 3.1 Type-C connectivity suit external setups.
Cons:
- 4K, HDR, or high-frame-rate recording requires a supported NVIDIA graphics card.
- Its listed system requirements include specific processor and graphics hardware.
Live Gamer Ultra balances strong passthrough performance with broad console compatibility and low-latency play. It is a sensible middle ground for users who want 4K features without installing an internal card.
Budget Plug-and-Play Pick – ByteWave AV-CC07
The ByteWave AV-CC07 is a straightforward capture card with passthrough for users who want 1080p60 capture and 4K30 video sent to a second display. Its USB 3.0 connection, plug-and-play design, and compatibility with Windows and Mac make it easy to use across common streaming setups.
Best For: Streamers, educators, and console gamers seeking an affordable, portable card with broad device and software compatibility.
Pros:
- Captures 1080p60 while providing 4K30 passthrough.
- Works with Windows, Mac, consoles, Android, and multiple streaming platforms.
- Requires no additional apps or external power.
- Metal shell, heat dissipation design, and microphone input add practical features.
Cons:
- Capture resolution is limited to 1080p rather than 4K.
- USB 3.0 is required for USB 3.0 operation.
The AV-CC07 focuses on accessibility and versatility rather than advanced capture resolution. It is a useful fit for basic 1080p streaming where 4K passthrough to a separate display is still desirable.
Premium 4K Passthrough – Elgato 4K S
The Elgato 4K S is a strong choice if you need a capture card with passthrough for current-generation consoles and high-refresh gameplay. It captures up to 4K60, supports 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough, and adds HDR10 support on Windows.
Best For: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch 2 users who want high-resolution capture with high-refresh passthrough.
Pros:
- Captures video at up to 4K60 for detailed recordings.
- Supports 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough for responsive high-refresh play.
- Includes HDR10 support, near-zero latency, USB-C connectivity, and analog audio input.
Cons:
- Windows HDR tone mapping requires Windows 11.
- Its listed capture resolution is 1080p despite the 4K60 capture feature description.
- Requires a compatible USB 3.0 Type-C system and modern hardware.
With broad console compatibility, analog audio support, and strong passthrough specifications, the 4K S is the most capable option here for high-end console capture. Check your computer’s USB-C, operating system, and GPU requirements before buying.
Flexible Loop-Out Value – UGREEN 4K HDMI Capture Card
The UGREEN 4K HDMI model is a practical capture card with passthrough for streaming setups that need 4K input and loop-out monitoring. It records up to 2K at 30fps or 1080p at 60fps, while its USB-A and USB-C interfaces make it adaptable to different computers and recording devices.
Best For: Streamers who want affordable 4K loop-out, 1080p60 recording, and broad Windows, macOS, Linux, or Android compatibility.
Pros:
- Accepts 4K@30Hz input and provides 4K@30Hz HDMI loop-out.
- Records up to 2K30 or 1080p60 with MJPEG and YUY2 format options.
- Offers USB 3.0 Type-C and Type-A connectivity without external power or driver installation.
- Works with consoles and systems including PS5, Xbox Series X, Switch 2, Meta Quest, Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
Cons:
- Does not support 4K recording; 4K is limited to input and loop-out.
- PS4 and PS5 require HDCP to be turned off.
- Not compatible with Fire TV Stick, and iPhone cannot be used as a data-acquisition device.
The UGREEN card is well suited to a versatile, low-latency setup where 4K passthrough matters more than 4K recording. Its 1080p60 capture ceiling and platform-specific limitations are the main trade-offs.
Internal Low-Latency Pick – Elgato HD60 Pro
The Elgato HD60 Pro is an internal PCIe capture card with passthrough designed for 1080p60 console gameplay. Its true passthrough and Instant Gameview features prioritize low-latency play, while Flashback Recording and direct-to-hard-drive capture support longer recording sessions.
Best For: Desktop PC users who want a dedicated internal card for 1080p60 capture and lag-free console passthrough.
Pros:
- Captures gameplay at 1080p60.
- True passthrough is designed for zero-lag console play.
- Instant Gameview provides ultra-low-latency workflow performance.
- Supports unlimited hard-drive recording and Flashback Recording for saving earlier gameplay.
Cons:
- Requires an available PCI Express x1 slot, so it is not a portable USB solution.
- Limited to 1080p60 capture rather than 4K recording.
- Listed operating-system information is inconsistent, with Windows and macOS details alongside older Windows Vista platform data.
For a compatible desktop, the HD60 Pro remains a focused option for reliable 1080p60 capture and low-latency passthrough. Choose it over a USB model only if an internal PCIe installation fits your setup.
Best High-Frame-Rate Pick – 4K60 Capture Card with Passthrough
If you need a capture card with passthrough for high-resolution gameplay, the XIIXMASK supports 4K60 capture and 4K HDMI passthrough, letting you monitor video while recording. It also handles 1080p at 120fps and includes USB-A/USB-C connectivity for a broad range of computers and devices.
Best For: Gamers and creators who want 4K60 passthrough, high-frame-rate 1080p capture, and flexible device compatibility.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 capture and 4K HDMI passthrough
- Handles 1080p video at up to 120fps
- Includes 3.5mm audio input and microphone output
- Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iPadOS 17+
Cons:
- Its higher-end capture features may be more than needed for basic 1080p streaming
- Audio setup and device compatibility may still depend on the software and connected hardware
This is the strongest option here for users prioritizing 4K60 capture and high-frame-rate recording. Its included cables, plug-and-play setup, and two-year manufacturer warranty add practical value for a versatile streaming setup.
Best Mainstream Streaming Option – Acer 4K Loop-Out Capture Card
The Acer USB 3.0 capture card is a practical capture card with passthrough for streamers who want 4K input and smooth 1080p at 60Hz output. Its YUY2 support, low-latency audio-video capture, and built-in mic input make it well suited to gaming, teaching, calls, and recording.
Best For: Streamers and educators seeking straightforward 1080p60 capture with 4K HDMI loop-out and direct microphone connectivity.
Pros:
- Accepts 4K input and provides 1080p at 60Hz output
- YUY2 support is designed for richer color than MJPEG
- Includes mic-in for commentary and voice recording
- USB Type-A and Type-C ports support flexible connections
Cons:
- Its listed capture resolutions focus on 1080p and 720p rather than 4K capture
- USB 3.0 is required for USB 3.0 performance
Acer’s model is a sensible middle ground for everyday streaming: it offers 4K loop-out without positioning itself as a 4K recording solution. The compact, plug-and-play design and wide app and device support make it easy to add to a standard setup.
Best Value 1080p60 Pick – 4K Loop-Out HDMI Capture Card
For a capture card with passthrough focused on smooth Full HD recording, the XIIXMASK offers 4K60 HDMI input and loop-out while capturing up to 1080p60 or 2K30 over USB 3.0. Its aluminum-alloy housing, low-latency design, and mic-in make it a useful choice for console streaming and real-time recording.
Best For: Console streamers who want 4K60 loop-out, 1080p60 capture, and external microphone support at a practical feature level.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 HDMI input and 4K60 loop-out
- Captures 1080p at 60fps or 2K at 30fps
- Includes 3.5mm mic-in for commentary
- Supports USB-A and USB-C connections with broad software compatibility
Cons:
- It does not capture 4K video over USB
- The notes state that mic-in does not record party chats
- OBS may need to be restarted after audio setup
This model is best understood as a 4K passthrough device with capable 1080p capture rather than a 4K recorder. It offers the core features many console streamers need, while its cooling-focused housing and low-latency design support stable real-time use.
How We Picked the Best Capture Card with Passthrough
We compared these capture cards by passthrough resolution and refresh-rate support, capture quality, latency, connectivity, compatibility, and setup requirements. We also considered whether each model is better suited to a desktop streaming PC, a laptop, a console setup, or a budget starter system.
Passthrough specifications describe the signal sent to your display, while capture specifications describe what the computer records or streams. A card may pass through 4K at a high refresh rate while capturing at 1080p or 4K at a lower frame rate, so both figures matter.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Recommended Type | What to Prioritize |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive PS5 or Xbox gaming | USB or internal 4K model | 4K passthrough, 120Hz support, low latency |
| Dual-PC streaming | Internal PCIe card | Stable bandwidth and reliable software support |
| Portable streaming | USB 3.0 capture card | Plug-and-play setup and broad compatibility |
| Budget 1080p streaming | Entry-level USB model | 1080p60 capture and dependable loop-out |
Key Buying Factors for a Capture Card with Passthrough
Passthrough Resolution and Refresh Rate
Match the card to your gaming display. If you play at 4K, look for 4K passthrough; if you use a 120Hz or 144Hz monitor, confirm that the card supports the required refresh rate. A lower passthrough limit can force you to reduce your console or PC output.
Capture Quality
1080p60 remains sufficient for many livestreams and uses less computer bandwidth. Choose 4K capture when you want higher-resolution recordings, detailed editing, or archival footage. HDR support is also important if you want captured color and brightness to match the source.
Connection and Compatibility
USB 3.0 and newer connections are convenient for laptops and portable setups, but use an appropriate high-speed port and cable. Internal PCIe cards can offer a cleaner permanent installation, though they require an open desktop slot. Check support for your operating system, streaming software, console, and audio setup before buying.
Latency, Audio, and HDCP
Near-zero-latency passthrough helps you play from the connected display rather than from the preview window. Verify that the card handles the audio format and microphone workflow you need. Console content protected by HDCP generally cannot be captured, so protected apps and media services may not work.
Who Should Buy Which Capture Card with Passthrough?
Choose a premium 4K model if you use a PS5, Xbox Series X, or high-end gaming PC and want HDR or high-refresh passthrough without compromising your display experience.
Choose an internal PCIe card for a fixed desktop or dual-PC streaming station where stability, low cable clutter, and sustained performance matter most.
Choose a USB 3.0 model if you stream from a laptop, move between locations, or want a simpler installation. Confirm that your computer has a compatible high-speed port.
Choose a budget 1080p option if you are starting out, stream primarily at 1080p, or need basic console recording with passthrough rather than advanced HDR and 4K workflows.