As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, so too do the tools that help enhance the experience for both gamers and streamers. Capture cards have become essential for anyone looking to record or stream gameplay from their PlayStation 5 (PS5). In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of capture cards for PS5, key features to look for, and review the best options for 2024.
Why Do You Need a Capture Card for PS5?
A capture card allows you to transfer video and audio output from your PS5 to a computer or streaming platform for recording or live broadcasting. Whether you're a seasoned streamer or just starting your gaming journey, a capture card enhances your ability to share gameplay with friends, followers, and fans. It provides the following benefits:
- High-Quality Streaming and Recording: Capture cards can capture and broadcast in high resolutions (up to 4K) and frame rates, ensuring that your content looks professional.
- Dedicated Encoding: They offload the encoding process, freeing up your gaming system’s resources for better performance during gameplay.
- Versatile Use: Capture cards can be used across different consoles and devices, making them a long-term investment if you own multiple gaming platforms.
Key Features to Look for in a Capture Card
When choosing PS5 capture cards, consider these essential features:
- Resolution and Frame Rate: Look for capture cards that support 1080p at 60fps or 4K at 60fps for the best quality, especially if you want to capture your gameplay in stunning detail.
- Latency: A good capture card should have minimal latency to provide a seamless gaming experience without delays in video output.
- Compatibility: Ensure the capture card is compatible with the PS5 and any software (like OBS or Stream labs) you plan to use for streaming or recording.
- Connection Options: USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt connections are preferred for fast data transfer rates. HDMI input and output are essential for connecting your PS5 to the capture card and your display.
- Software Support: Look for capture cards that come with their own software for recording and streaming or are compatible with third-party software for customization and additional features.
The 5 Best Capture Cards for PS5
NearStream CCD30
$135 $149.99
Key Features
- 4K HDMI capture card: This game capture card supports HDMI input and output resolution up to 4K@60fps, allowing you to capture your gameplay while still playing on your monitor or TV without any lag, ensuring an uninterrupted gaming experience. The external capture card is compatible with most HDMI source devices like PS5, PS4 Pro, Switch, Camera, DSLR, PC, and more. It's considered one of the best capture cards for Switch due to its versatility and performance.
- 4K 60FPS Capture Card & USB-C 3.1: The 4k capture card can broadcast live or record in stunning 4K at 60fps, ensuring flawless clarity and smoothness. Enjoy versatile format support, including MJPG (4K at 60fps), YUY2 (1440p at 50fps), NV12 (1440p at 60fps), and I420 (4K at 30fps). The USB-C 3.1 interface ensures fast, reliable data transfer for seamless video capture. Ideal for gamers, content creators, and professionals.
- Support HDR Function: The HDMI video capture supports HDR10, providing enhanced color accuracy and contrast for more vibrant and lifelike video. This feature ensures a richer and more immersive viewing experience with expanded dynamic range, making every scene more detailed and realistic for both you and your audience.
- Plug and Play & Ultra-low Latency: The gaming capture card requires no driver setup on Windows and Mac. Simply connect the CCD30 to your device for seamless streaming. Enjoy unparalleled synchronization between your broadcast and gameplay.
NearStream CCD10
$63 $69.99
Key Features
- 4K Capture Card: This 4k capture card supports HDMI input and output resolution up to 4K@60fps, with backward compatibility, ideal for live streaming, video conference, game streaming, video recording.
- 1080P 60fps USB-C 3.0 Capture Card: The game capture card can capture video resolution up to 1080P at 60fps from HDMI video source devices, compatible with most HDMI source devices like PS5, PS4 Pro, Switch in obs, Camera, DSLR, PC and more. This makes it one of the popular capture cards for Switch.
- Plug and Play & Ultra-low Latency: The USB 4k video capture card needs NO driver setup on Windows and Mac. The ultra-low latency of the pass-through signal ensures a seamless and smooth audio/video syncing.
- Wide Compatibility: The HDMI video capture card is compatible with Mac and Windows devices, and supports streaming platforms like YouTube, Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook Gaming and more.
Elgato Capture Card-HD60 S+
$319.99
Key Features
- 1080p60 HDR10 Capture: Showcase your gameplay with exceptional visual clarity.
- 4K60 HDR10 Zero-Lag Pass through: Enjoy your high-fidelity Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X, PS5, and PS4 Pro games in their original format.
- Instant Game view: Enhance your workflow with ultra-low-latency technology.
- Unlimited Capture: Record endless hours of gameplay directly onto your hard drive.
- Flashback Recording: Go back in time to retroactively save incredible moments.
Elgato Capture Card-HD60 X
$139.02 $159.99
Key Features
- Premium Capture, Powerful Pass-through: Stunning 4K30 HDR10 or 1080p60 HDR10 quality, 4K60 HDR10, 1440p120, 1080p120, VRR pass-through.
- Plug and Play: Driverless setup on Windows and Mac.
- Use Any App, Stream to any Platform: OBS, Stream labs, Vmix, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, 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
AVerMedia Capture Card -4K30 Ultra
$149.99
Key Features
- Elevate your recording and streaming experience with the AVerMedia Live Gamer ULTRA GC553 capture card.
- Capture and record 4Kp60 HDR gameplay with ultra-low latency for an immersive experience on Xbox Series X/S, PS5, Switch, Windows 11, and macOS 10.13.
- Up to 120 fps capture card for Full HD signals delivers smooth and crisp motion for both console and PC gameplay recordings.
- VRR support enables Variable Refresh Rate through RECentral 4 software for capturing and pass-through for Windows users.
- Simple plug-and-play design with included cables and CyberLink PowerDirector 15 Product Key Card for easy setup and editing.
How to use capture card on PS5
Using a capture card with your PS5 is relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Connect the Capture Card: Plug one end of an HDMI cable into your PS5 and the other end into the HDMI input of your capture card. Then, connect another HDMI cable from the HDMI output of your capture card to your monitor or TV.
- Connect to Your PC: Using a USB cable, connect the capture card to your computer. Ensure that you’re using a USB 3.0 port for optimal performance.
- Install Software: Download and install any necessary software that came with the capture card, or use popular third-party applications like OBS Studio for streaming and recording.
- Configure Settings: Open the software and configure your capture card settings. Set up the resolution, frame rate, and any overlays or audio settings you want.
- Start Gaming & Streaming: Once everything is set up, launch your PS5, and start playing! From your streaming software, you can now begin recording or broadcasting your gameplay live.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality capture card PS5 is essential for gamers and streamers looking to elevate their PS5 experience in 2024. Among the top choices, we highly recommend NearStream CCD30 and NearStream CCD10 for their exceptional performance and user-friendly features.
NearStream CCD30 stands out with its support for 4K resolution at 60fps, delivering stunning video quality while maintaining low latency, making it perfect for streamers who want to showcase their gameplay in the best light possible. Meanwhile, NearStream CCD10 provides a solid combination of performance and affordability without sacrificing quality.
With options like these capture cards for PS5, you can be confident in producing engaging content that connects with your audience. Whether you're using a capture card PS5 to PC or enhancing your streaming setup, these choices will help you elevate your overall gaming sessions. Happy streaming!
