A capture card with passthrough lets you record or stream gameplay while sending the original signal to a monitor or TV with minimal delay. That makes it a practical upgrade for console streamers, creators, and anyone building a dual-screen setup.
These 10 options span internal PCIe cards and USB models, with support ranging from 1080p60 capture to 4K60 or 8K60 passthrough. Focus on the resolution, refresh rate, connection type, and software support your setup actually needs.
Best 10 Capture Card with Passthrough Picks for 2026
Best for Premium PC Streaming
- 8K60 passthrough with HDMI 2.1
- 4K60 HDR10 capture
- VRR and dual-PC support
Best For: High-end Windows gaming and streaming rigs
Best Plug-and-Play Value
- 4K input with 1080p60 output
- HDMI loop-out and mic input
- USB-A and USB-C connectivity
Best For: Beginners and portable multi-device streaming
Best for HDR Console Passthrough
- 4K60 HDR passthrough
- 1080p60 Full HD capture
- Up to 1080p240 passthrough
Best For: HDR console gaming and Full HD streaming
Best Budget 2K Loop-Out
- 4K30 input and HDMI loop-out
- 2K30 or 1080p60 recording
- USB-A and USB-C support
Best For: Affordable console capture with 4K monitoring
Best Overall
- 4K60 passthrough and capture
- 1080p120 recording support
- Mic, headset, and line-in ports
Best For: High-frame-rate console streaming with flexible audio mixing
Best Value
XIIXMASK 1080p60 HDMI Capture Card
- 4K60 HDMI loop-out
- 1080p60 and 2K30 capture
- USB-A/USB-C and mic-in support
Best For: Affordable console streaming and everyday recording
Best for Competitive Gaming
- 4K60 capture with 1440p120 and 1080p240
- Zero-latency HDMI passthrough
- USB-C capture and power passthrough
Best For: High-refresh gaming and portable creator setups
Best Value HDMI Passthrough
- 1080p60 capture with 4K30/60Hz input support
- HDMI loop-out for low-delay gameplay
- Plug-and-play USB 3.0 with mic input
Best For: Console streaming with simple setup and commentary
Best High-Frame-Rate Option
- 4K60 capture and 4K HDMI passthrough
- 1080p120 support for high-frame-rate recording
- USB-A/USB-C connectivity and two-year warranty
Best For: High-performance streaming and gameplay capture
Best Portable 1080p Choice
- 1080p60 capture with 4K30 input support
- Compact, plug-and-play design
- Works with major systems and streaming software
Best For: Portable capture and software-based streaming setups
Best for Premium PC Streaming – Elgato 4K Pro
The Elgato 4K Pro is a high-end capture card with passthrough for Windows gaming PCs. Its HDMI 2.1 connectivity supports 8K60 passthrough, 4K60 HDR10 capture, and high-refresh gameplay up to 1080p240, making it a strong fit for demanding setups.
Best For: PC streamers who want high-resolution capture, VRR support, and dual-PC compatibility.
Pros:
- Supports 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 HDR10 capture.
- HDMI 2.1 handles up to 1080p240 recording and high frame rates.
- VRR passthrough and ultra-low latency help keep gameplay smooth and responsive.
- Works with popular streaming apps and supports dual-PC setups.
Cons:
- Requires a Windows 10 system with an available PCIe slot.
- Designed for internal installation rather than portable use.
This is the most capable option here for a powerful Windows gaming and streaming rig. Choose it when advanced passthrough performance matters more than simple plug-and-play portability.
Best Plug-and-Play Value – Acer USB 3.0 Capture Card
The Acer USB 3.0 capture card with passthrough is a practical choice for streaming consoles, cameras, and PCs. It accepts 4K input, provides 1080p at 60Hz output, and includes both USB Type-A and Type-C connections for flexible recording setups.
Best For: New streamers and creators who want an affordable, portable capture card with loop-out and microphone input.
Pros:
- Supports 4K input with 1080p60 output using YUY2 technology.
- HDMI loop-out enables low-latency monitoring while streaming or recording.
- Built-in mic input simplifies live commentary and voice recording.
- Plug-and-play design works with Windows, macOS, Linux, consoles, cameras, and common streaming apps.
Cons:
- Capture resolution is limited to 1080p or 720p rather than 4K recording.
- USB 3.0 is required for USB 3.0 operation.
For straightforward streaming across multiple devices, this Acer model covers the essentials without requiring extra drivers or external power. It is especially convenient if you want built-in commentary support and both USB connector types.
Best for HDR Console Passthrough – AVerMedia StreamLine MINI+
The AVerMedia StreamLine MINI+ is a capture card with passthrough built around 4K60 HDR display output and 1080p60 capture. Its HDMI 2.0 connection also supports high-refresh modes, while USB-C connectivity makes it suitable for Windows, macOS, and compatible iPadOS devices.
Best For: Console players who want HDR gameplay passthrough with smooth Full HD streaming.
Pros:
- Passes through 4K60 HDR while capturing up to 1080p60.
- Supports high-refresh passthrough up to 1440p144 or 1080p240 HDR.
- Driver-free operation works with popular software such as OBS and Camo Studio.
- Supports PS5, PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, PCs, cameras, and compatible iPads.
Cons:
- Captured video is limited to 1080p60 SDR; HDR applies to passthrough.
- Requires a compatible computer or iPadOS device meeting the listed system requirements.
This is a well-rounded pick when preserving HDR and high refresh rates on the gaming display is a priority. Its 1080p60 capture is well suited to everyday streaming, though it is not intended for 4K recording.
Best Budget 2K Loop-Out – UGREEN 4K HDMI Capture Card
The UGREEN 4K HDMI capture card with passthrough offers 4K input and 4K30 HDMI loop-out while recording up to 2K30 or 1080p60 over USB 3.0. Its dual USB-A and USB-C interface, aluminum housing, and broad system compatibility make it a flexible option for gaming and basic content creation.
Best For: Budget-conscious gamers who want 4K loop-out and 1080p60 capture without drivers or external power.
Pros:
- Supports 4K30 input and 4K30 HDMI loop-out for real-time monitoring.
- Records up to 2K30 or 1080p60 through USB 3.0.
- Includes USB-A and USB-C connectivity with MJPEG and YUY2 support.
- Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, consoles, cameras, and compatible tablets.
Cons:
- 4K capture is not supported; recording tops out at 2K30.
- 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.
UGREEN is a sensible value choice if you need high-resolution loop-out but can accept 2K recording limits. Its no-driver design and dual USB interface also make it easy to move between different computers and devices.
Best Overall – ezcap333P 4K60 Capture Card
If you want a capture card with passthrough that can preserve high-frame-rate gameplay, the ezcap333P is a strong all-around option. It supports 4K60 passthrough, 4K60 recording, and 1080p120 capture, while its low-latency design is suited to fast-paced console gaming and streaming.
Best For: Gamers and streamers who want 4K60 passthrough, high-frame-rate capture, and flexible audio connections.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 passthrough and capture, plus 1080p120 recording.
- Includes 3.5mm mic-in, headset, and line-in ports for audio mixing.
- Plug-and-play compatibility with Windows and Mac, plus OBS, Twitch, YouTube, and Discord.
Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.0 port and relatively capable computer hardware.
- Advanced capture modes may require a compatible high-performance setup.
The ezcap333P stands out for combining high-resolution passthrough with 1080p120 capture and unusually broad audio controls. It is a practical choice when smooth gameplay and flexible commentary options matter more than a basic, minimal setup.
Best Value – XIIXMASK 1080p60 HDMI Capture Card
For a straightforward capture card with passthrough, the XIIXMASK combines 4K60 HDMI loop-out with 1080p60 or 2K30 capture. Its USB-A/USB-C connectivity and mic-in port make it a flexible fit for casual streaming, recording, meetings, and console gameplay.
Best For: Budget-conscious users who need 4K loop-out and dependable 1080p60 capture for consoles, cameras, or live streams.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 input and loop-out with 1080p60 or 2K30 capture.
- Includes USB-A/USB-C connectivity and a 3.5mm mic-in for commentary.
- Works with platforms and software including OBS, Zoom, Twitch, YouTube, Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
Cons:
- Does not record party chats, according to the product notes.
- OBS may need to be restarted after audio setup to restore sound output.
- Capture is limited to 1080p60 or 2K30 rather than 4K recording.
This model offers useful passthrough performance without requiring 4K capture. It makes the most sense for buyers who want smooth 1080p streaming, broad device compatibility, and a simple commentary input at a modest feature level.
Best for Competitive Gaming – GENKI ShadowCast 3 Pro
The GENKI ShadowCast 3 Pro is a premium capture card with passthrough built around high refresh rates and low-latency play. It supports 4K60 capture, 1440p120, and 1080p240, while its dedicated HDMI passthrough lets you play on a primary monitor while sending footage to a computer or tablet.
Best For: Competitive gamers, mobile setups, and creators who need high-refresh capture with zero-latency HDMI passthrough.
Pros:
- Offers 4K60 capture, 1440p120, and 1080p240 support.
- Dedicated HDMI passthrough is designed for zero-lag monitor play.
- USB-C capture, power passthrough, and compatibility with OBS, Streamlabs, Zoom, and Discord.
Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.0 port and is positioned as a more specialized Pro model.
- Some listed high-resolution modes depend on suitable source and display equipment.
- Portable iPad use relies on the Genki Studio app.
With its high-refresh modes and dedicated passthrough connection, the ShadowCast 3 Pro is the most performance-focused option in this group. Its four-port design also suits creators who want to combine a console, monitor, capture device, and power connection in one setup.
Best Value HDMI Passthrough – VIXLW 1080p60 Capture Card
This capture card with passthrough is a practical choice for console streaming when you want to play on a display while sending video to a computer. It captures up to 1080p at 60fps, accepts 4K input at supported refresh rates, and includes plug-and-play USB 3.0 connectivity.
Best For: Console gamers and streamers who need HDMI loop-out, microphone commentary, and broad Windows or Mac compatibility.
Pros:
- HDMI loop-out is designed for gameplay with no display delay.
- Captures up to 1080p at 60fps and supports 4K30/60Hz input.
- Plug-and-play setup with USB 3.0 and optional 3.5mm microphone input.
Cons:
- Does not support 4K120Hz or 4K144Hz input.
- Output is limited to up to 2K at 30Hz according to the supplied specifications.
- Microphone input accepts only a 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
Choose this model if straightforward setup and HDMI loop-out matter more than high-refresh-rate capture. Its 1080p60 target suits typical streaming workflows, while the 60-day warranty is relatively brief.
Best High-Frame-Rate Option – XIIXMASK 4K60 Capture Card
For shoppers seeking a capture card with passthrough and higher performance, the XIIXMASK supports 4K60 video capture and 4K HDMI passthrough. It also handles 1080p at 120fps, includes USB-A and USB-C connectivity, and works with a wide range of platforms and streaming software.
Best For: Streamers and content creators who want 4K60 capture, high-frame-rate 1080p recording, and flexible device compatibility.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 capture and 4K HDMI passthrough.
- Handles 1080p at 120fps with multiple video formats, including MJPEG, YUY2, NV12, and XRGB.
- Includes USB-A/USB-C support, HDMI cable, and a two-year manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- Higher-resolution and high-frame-rate performance depends on compatible equipment and software.
- The supplied notes do not specify passthrough refresh-rate limits beyond 4K HDMI support.
This is the strongest fit in the group for demanding capture requirements on paper. Its 4K60 capability and 1080p120 support provide more headroom than standard 1080p60 models, while broad operating-system support adds flexibility.
Best Portable 1080p Choice – Guermok USB 3.0 Capture Card
The Guermok is a compact HDMI-to-USB capture card for recording and streaming rather than direct monitor passthrough. It captures up to 1080p at 60fps, supports 4K30 input and 2K30 output, and offers USB-C compatibility for laptops, tablets, and other supported devices.
Best For: Portable streaming, online meetings, and capture-only setups using OBS, VLC, Zoom, or similar software.
Pros:
- Supports 1080p60 capture, 4K30 input, and 2K30 output.
- Small, lightweight design with no external power or driver required.
- Broad compatibility across Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, consoles, cameras, and common capture software.
Cons:
- It is for capture use only and is not intended to cast directly to a monitor or TV.
- One-way HDMI-to-USB transmission does not support USB-C-to-HDMI conversion.
- Using the included adapter may result in USB 2.0 recognition unless connected correctly to a USB 3.0 port.
This model makes sense when portability and everyday 1080p capture are the priorities. It should not be selected if HDMI passthrough is essential, but its compact design and software compatibility suit mobile or capture-only workflows.
How We Picked the Best Capture Card with Passthrough
We compared the selected models by capture resolution, passthrough capability, refresh-rate support, connection type, and intended use. We also considered whether each card is better suited to a desktop streaming PC, a laptop, a console, or a portable creator setup. A high passthrough specification does not always mean the card records at the same resolution, so those functions are evaluated separately.
Quick Comparison
| Type | Best For | Typical Strength | Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal PCIe | Dedicated desktop streaming | High bandwidth and consistent performance | Requires an open compatible slot |
| USB 3.0 | Flexible PC and laptop setups | Easy installation and broad compatibility | Needs a suitable USB port and cable |
| USB-C | Modern laptops and portable rigs | Compact connections and convenient mobility | USB-C ports can differ in speed and features |
Key Buying Factors for a Capture Card with Passthrough
Capture Versus Passthrough Resolution
Check both specifications. A card may pass a 4K signal to your display while recording at 1080p60. That can still be ideal for smooth streaming, but it is not equivalent to 4K capture. If you create high-resolution videos, prioritize the stated recording resolution and frame rate.
Refresh Rate, HDR, and Latency
For fast games, 60 fps capture is a useful baseline. Gamers using high-refresh monitors should verify that the passthrough supports their target refresh rate, especially at 1440p or 4K. HDR support is also worth checking if you want vivid console or PC output without sacrificing the display experience.
Connection and Compatibility
USB 3.0 models are convenient, but performance depends on connecting them to a genuine high-speed USB port rather than a slower hub. USB-C describes the connector, not automatically the data speed. Internal cards require a desktop with the right PCIe slot, while all models need compatible HDMI sources and suitable streaming software.
Audio and Software Support
Confirm that your operating system recognizes the device as a standard video source and that your preferred software supports its audio path. OBS, Streamlabs, and video-editing applications may handle audio, HDR, or multi-channel signals differently.
Who Should Buy Which Capture Card with Passthrough?
Choose an internal card if you stream regularly from a dedicated desktop and want a stable, high-bandwidth setup. Choose USB 3.0 for a practical laptop or console arrangement that is easy to move or replace. Choose USB-C when portability and compatibility with newer laptops matter most. For competitive gaming, prioritize low-latency passthrough and the refresh rate of your display. For 4K content creators, verify true 4K capture rather than relying only on a 4K passthrough label.