The best capture cards with passthrough for PC let you record or stream gameplay while sending an unaffected video signal to your monitor or TV. That means smoother play, lower latency, and less compromise during live sessions.
These 10 picks cover internal and external designs, from budget-friendly 1080p USB devices to advanced 4K models built for modern consoles and high-refresh gaming PCs.
Best 10 Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC Picks for 2026
Premium Internal Pick
- 8K60 passthrough with HDMI 2.1
- 4K60 HDR10 capture
- VRR and 1080p240 support
Best For: High-end Windows gaming and dual-PC streaming
Flexible Loop-Out Value
- 4K30 input and loop-out
- 2K30 or 1080p60 capture
- USB-A and USB-C interfaces
Best For: Multi-platform streaming with low-latency monitoring
Console Streaming Pick
- 4K60 capture with HDR10
- 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough
- Analog audio input included
Best For: Modern console streaming and high-refresh gameplay
Compact USB Choice
- 4K30 input with 2K30 capture
- 1080p60 support
- USB-A and USB-C connectivity
Best For: Portable everyday streaming and recording
Premium HDMI 2.1 Choice
- 4K144 capture and passthrough with HDMI 2.1
- VRR passthrough and ultra-low latency
- Up to 1080p240 capture; works with OBS and more
Best For: High-refresh gaming and advanced PC or console streaming
Budget 4K Passthrough Pick
- 4K30 input and zero-latency passthrough
- 1080p60 USB 3.0 capture
- Plug-and-play with 3.5mm mic input
Best For: Entry-level streaming and everyday console capture
High-Frame-Rate Value Pick
- 4K60 capture and HDMI passthrough
- 1080p120 high-frame-rate support
- USB-A/USB-C and 3.5mm audio connections
Best For: Flexible PC, console, and camera streaming setups
Best Value 1080p Capture
Plug-and-Play HDMI Capture Card
- 1080p capture with 4K30/60Hz input support
- HDMI loop-out for low-delay gameplay
- 3.5mm mic input and Windows/Mac compatibility
Best For: Simple 1080p streaming with HDMI passthrough
Best Flexible Connectivity
4K HDMI Capture Card with USB-A/USB-C
- 4K60Hz HDMI input and loop-out
- 1080p60 or 2K30 capture
- Includes USB-A/USB-C connectivity and mic-in
Best For: Flexible multi-device streaming setups
Best Brand-Backed Option
Redragon VC321 4K Capture Card
- 1080p60 capture with 4K30 input
- Zero-latency HDMI pass-through
- Plug-and-play with a one-year warranty
Best For: Simple PC or Mac gaming capture
Premium Internal Pick – Elgato 4K Pro
For demanding PC setups, the Elgato 4K Pro is one of the most capable capture cards with passthrough for PC. Its HDMI 2.1 connectivity, 8K60 passthrough, 4K60 HDR10 capture, and VRR support make it a strong fit for high-refresh gaming and dual-PC streaming.
Best For: PC gamers and streamers who want high-end HDMI 2.1 passthrough, HDR capture, and support for high frame rates.
Pros:
- Supports 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 HDR10 capture.
- Handles up to 1080p240 recording and VRR passthrough.
- Works with popular streaming apps and supports dual-PC setups.
Cons:
- Requires a Windows 10 PC with an available PCIe slot.
- Its internal design is less convenient than an external USB capture card.
The Elgato 4K Pro is the specialist option here for users building a powerful Windows streaming rig. It offers excellent passthrough headroom, but its PCIe installation and premium feature set are best suited to advanced setups.
Flexible Loop-Out Value – UGREEN 4K Loop Out
The UGREEN 4K Loop Out is a practical choice among capture cards with passthrough for PC when you want local HDMI monitoring without a costly internal installation. It accepts 4K input and provides 4K30 loop-out, while capturing up to 2K30 or 1080p60 over USB 3.0.
Best For: Streamers who need simple HDMI loop-out, USB-A/USB-C compatibility, and broad console and computer support.
Pros:
- Supports 4K30 input and 4K30 HDMI loop-out for low-latency monitoring.
- Captures up to 2K30 or 1080p60.
- Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android without external power.
Cons:
- It does not capture 4K video.
- PS4 and PS5 require HDCP to be turned off.
- iPhone devices cannot be used as UVC data-acquisition devices.
This UGREEN model balances convenience and connectivity well. Its loop-out is useful for real-time play, but shoppers who specifically need 4K recording should look elsewhere.
Console Streaming Pick – Elgato 4K S
The Elgato 4K S is a compact external option for capture cards with passthrough for PC, especially if you stream from modern consoles. It combines 4K60 capture with 1440p120 or 1080p240 passthrough, HDR10 support, USB-C connectivity, and an analog audio input.
Best For: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch 2 users who want high-quality external capture with high-frame-rate passthrough.
Pros:
- Captures 4K60 video with HDR10 support.
- Supports 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough.
- Includes a 3.5mm analog audio input for chat or commentary.
Cons:
- Requires Windows 11, macOS 13 or later, or a compatible iPadOS device.
- Uses USB 3.0 Type-C and may require a suitable host port.
With near-zero-latency passthrough and strong console support, the 4K S is a well-rounded external capture card. Its newer operating-system requirements are the main compatibility detail to verify before buying.
Compact USB Choice – UGREEN 2K Capture Card
For straightforward capture cards with passthrough for PC, the UGREEN 2K model offers a compact, driver-free setup with 4K30 HDMI input and up to 2K30 capture. USB-A and USB-C interfaces make it convenient for computers, tablets, phones, and compatible gaming devices.
Best For: Budget-conscious streamers who need 1080p60 or 2K30 capture, broad device compatibility, and a portable USB design.
Pros:
- Supports 4K30 input, 2K30 output, and 1080p60 capture.
- Provides USB-A and USB-C connectivity with 5 Gbps transfer speeds.
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and supported iPadOS devices.
Cons:
- It supports HDMI input to USB output only, rather than HDMI loop-out passthrough.
- iPadOS devices require version 17 or later.
- Console HDCP must be disabled for supported PS4 and PS5 use.
This UGREEN card is a sensible portable option for everyday streaming and recording. It is versatile and lightweight, but shoppers specifically seeking a monitor feed through the card should note its unidirectional HDMI-to-USB design.
Premium HDMI 2.1 Choice – Elgato 4K X
For shoppers comparing capture cards with passthrough for PC, the Elgato 4K X is the high-end option for modern consoles and gaming PCs. It combines HDMI 2.1 connectivity, 4K144 capture and passthrough, VRR passthrough, and ultra-low-latency USB 3.2 Gen 2 performance.
Best For: Gamers and creators who need HDMI 2.1, high refresh rates, VRR passthrough, and broad streaming-app compatibility.
Pros:
- Supports 4K144 capture and passthrough with HDMI 2.1.
- VRR passthrough helps provide smooth, tear-free gameplay.
- Captures up to 1080p240 and works with OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Zoom, and more.
Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port for its full capture capability.
- Compatible operating systems and hardware requirements are more demanding than basic capture cards.
The 4K X is the strongest fit when passthrough quality and high-refresh gaming matter most. Its premium feature set is particularly appropriate for PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC setups built around HDMI 2.1 displays.
Budget 4K Passthrough Pick – Swudloe C7-01
If you want affordable capture cards with passthrough for PC, the Swudloe C7-01 offers 4K input and zero-latency 4K30 HDMI passthrough while capturing up to 1080p60 over USB 3.0. Its plug-and-play setup and microphone input make it practical for straightforward streaming.
Best For: Beginners and casual streamers who want broad device compatibility, 1080p60 capture, and basic audio commentary.
Pros:
- Supports 4K@30Hz input and 4K@30Hz passthrough.
- Provides 1080p60 capture through USB 3.0.
- Plug-and-play design includes a 3.5mm mic or headset input.
Cons:
- USB output is limited to 1080p60, while 4K30 is available through HDMI passthrough.
- The mic input does not record party chat.
- Its listed operating-system details are less current than some alternatives.
The C7-01 covers the essentials without requiring external power or drivers. It is a sensible value choice for Switch, PlayStation, Xbox, camera, and PC workflows where 1080p60 capture is sufficient.
High-Frame-Rate Value Pick – XIIXMASK 4K60 Capture Card
Among capture cards with passthrough for PC, this XIIXMASK model stands out for combining 4K60 capture and passthrough with 1080p120 support. USB-A and USB-C connectivity, broad operating-system support, and built-in audio ports add flexibility for gaming, streaming, and meetings.
Best For: Streamers who want high-frame-rate capture, flexible USB connections, and support for current consoles, cameras, and computers.
Pros:
- Supports up to 4K60 capture and 4K HDMI passthrough.
- Handles 1080p120 input and recording for high-frame-rate content.
- Includes USB-A/USB-C connectivity plus 3.5mm audio input and mic output.
Cons:
- The listed video capture resolution is centered on 4K60 and 1080p120 rather than 4K144.
- Feature support may depend on the connected computer, software, and source device.
This model is a versatile middle ground for users who want more than basic 1080p capture but do not need the HDMI 2.1 feature set of a premium card. Its included cables and broad compatibility make setup convenient across PC, Mac, consoles, and cameras.
Best Value 1080p Capture – Plug-and-Play HDMI Capture Card
For shoppers comparing capture cards with passthrough for PC, this model offers 1080p capture, HDMI loop-out, and broad device compatibility in a compact plug-and-play design. It supports 4K input at up to 60Hz, while capture and output limits should be checked against your setup.
Best For: Gamers and streamers who want simple 1080p capture with HDMI loop-out and microphone commentary.
Pros:
- Captures video at up to 1080p and supports 4K30/60Hz input.
- HDMI loop-out is designed for low-delay gameplay.
- Plug-and-play operation works with Windows and Mac without external power.
- Includes a 3.5mm microphone input for commentary.
Cons:
- Does not support 4K120Hz or 4K144Hz input.
- Output is limited to up to 2K30Hz.
- The microphone input accepts standard 3.5mm TRS headsets only.
This is a practical choice when dependable 1080p streaming and passthrough matter more than high-refresh-rate 4K capture. Its automatic webcam detection and support for common streaming software help keep setup straightforward.
Best Flexible Connectivity – 4K HDMI Capture Card with USB-A/USB-C
If you need capture cards with passthrough for PC and flexible connection options, this unit combines 4K60Hz HDMI loop-out with USB-A and USB-C support. It captures up to 1080p60 or 2K30 and includes a microphone input for live commentary.
Best For: Streamers using PCs, Macs, laptops, or compatible mobile setups who want dual USB connectivity and 4K passthrough.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60Hz HDMI input and 4K60Hz loop-out.
- Captures up to 1080p60 or 2K30 for recording and streaming.
- Dual USB-A/USB-C connectivity adds setup flexibility.
- Works with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iPadOS 17+, OBS, and other listed software.
Cons:
- Requires restarting OBS after audio setup for sound output.
- The microphone input does not record party chat.
- The supplied details list Windows as the minimum system requirement despite broader compatibility claims.
With its higher-resolution passthrough and dual-port cable, this model is well suited to varied streaming stations. Choose it if 4K60 loop-out and connection flexibility are more important than capturing above 2K30.
Best Brand-Backed Option – Redragon VC321 4K Capture Card
The Redragon VC321 is a straightforward option for buyers seeking capture cards with passthrough for PC, combining 4K30 input, 1080p60 capture, and zero-latency HDMI pass-through. Its driver-free setup and one-year warranty add convenience for regular gaming and streaming use.
Best For: PC and Mac gamers who want simple 1080p60 capture, real-time passthrough, and broad console or camera compatibility.
Pros:
- Supports up to 4K30 input and 1080p60 video capture.
- Zero-latency HDMI pass-through is intended for real-time gameplay.
- Plug-and-play design requires no additional drivers or power source.
- Compatible with Windows 7 and newer and macOS 10.15 and newer.
Cons:
- Capture resolution is limited to 1080p according to the listed specifications.
- Input support is listed up to 4K30 rather than 4K60.
- The supplied details identify HDMI and USB interfaces but do not specify a dedicated microphone input.
This is a sensible pick for users who prioritize uncomplicated setup and responsive passthrough over higher-resolution recording. The one-year warranty may also make it appealing for buyers seeking added coverage.
How We Picked the Best Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC
We focused on capture cards that provide HDMI passthrough, since this feature allows the source device to connect directly to a display while the card sends a separate feed to a PC. We compared supported input, capture, and passthrough resolutions; refresh-rate limits; connection standards; latency claims; software compatibility; and overall practicality for streaming, recording, and video calls.
The selection includes internal PCIe cards and USB 3.0 models. It also spans basic 1080p capture, 4K input with lower-resolution recording, and premium HDMI 2.1 hardware capable of handling high-refresh 4K signals.
Quick Comparison
| Type | Best For | Typical Strength | Watch For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal PCIe | Permanent desktop setups | High bandwidth and stable performance | Requires an open PCIe slot |
| USB 3.0 external | Flexible PC or laptop streaming | Simple installation and portability | USB bandwidth and cable quality matter |
| 4K passthrough | Console and high-resolution gaming | Play at a sharper resolution while recording | Capture resolution may be lower than passthrough |
| HDMI 2.1 | 4K high-refresh gaming | Greater bandwidth for advanced displays | Higher cost and stricter compatibility requirements |
Key Buying Factors for Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC
Passthrough Resolution and Refresh Rate
Check the passthrough specification first. A card may accept a 4K signal but only pass through 4K at a particular refresh rate. If you play at 120Hz or 144Hz, confirm that the card supports your exact resolution and refresh combination.
Capture Quality
Passthrough and capture are separate functions. Many affordable models pass through 4K but capture at 1080p60, while premium cards can capture 4K at higher frame rates. Choose based on the quality your audience or recordings actually require.
HDMI and USB Standards
HDMI 2.1 is important for 4K high-refresh signals, while HDMI 2.0 is often sufficient for 4K60. External models should connect to a genuine USB 3.0 or faster port; older USB connections can limit stability or reduce performance.
Latency, HDR, and Compatibility
Low-latency passthrough is essential for competitive play. Also verify HDR, variable refresh rate, HDCP, and console compatibility if those features matter to your setup. Your streaming software should recognize standard UVC devices, but proprietary features may require additional software.
Who Should Buy Which Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC?
Choose an internal Elgato card if you use a dedicated desktop and want high bandwidth, clean cable management, or advanced 4K and high-refresh support. An external USB 3.0 model is better for laptop users, multi-PC setups, travel, or anyone who wants installation without opening a computer.
Budget USB cards suit occasional streaming, 1080p recording, and basic console capture. Models advertising 4K passthrough are a good middle ground when you want to play in 4K but do not need 4K recordings. For PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, or a gaming PC with a 4K120-plus display, prioritize a card whose passthrough specification matches the complete signal chain—not just the headline resolution.