A capture card with passthrough lets you play on your TV or monitor while sending a separate video feed to a computer for recording or streaming. The right model can preserve smooth gameplay without forcing you to compromise on resolution or refresh rate.
We compare 10 options ranging from affordable USB 3.0 devices to advanced HDMI 2.1 hardware, with attention to passthrough resolution, capture quality, compatibility, and setup requirements.
Best 10 Capture Card with Passthrough Picks for 2026
Best Value
Swudloe C7-01 1080p60 Capture Card
- 1080p60 USB 3.0 capture
- 4K30 zero-latency passthrough
- 3.5mm microphone input
Best For: Budget console streaming and recording
Best Build
ByteWave AV-CC07 4K Passthrough Capture Card
- 1080p60 capture with 4K30 passthrough
- Aluminum shell with heat dissipation
- USB-A and USB-C connectivity
Best For: Extended streaming and content creation
Best Premium
Elgato 4K S High-Frame-Rate Capture Card
- 4K60 capture
- 1440p120 or 1080p240 passthrough
- HDR10 and analog audio input
Best For: High-end console gaming and recording
Best 2K Option
UGREEN 4K30 Loop-Out Capture Card
- 2K30 capture and 1080p60 support
- 4K30 HDMI loop-out
- USB-A and USB-C interfaces
Best For: 2K streaming with 4K monitoring
Premium HDMI 2.1 Pick
AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1
- 4K144 Windows capture
- 4K144 HDR/VRR passthrough
- Party chat and 5.1 audio support
Best For: High-refresh HDMI 2.1 gaming setups
Flexible 4K Value
- 4K60 capture and passthrough
- 2K120 and 1080p120 support
- Plug-and-play across major platforms
Best For: Versatile console, camera, and streaming setups
Budget Loop-Out Choice
- 4K60 HDMI loop-out
- 1080p60 or 2K30 capture
- Mic input for commentary
Best For: Affordable 1080p60 console streaming
Portable Creator Pick
- 1080p capture at 60fps with 4K preview
- 4K HDMI loop-out for passthrough play
- Plug-and-play Windows and macOS support
Best For: Traveling creators and console streamers
Commentary-Friendly Choice
Newhope USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card
- 1080p 60fps capture with low latency
- 4K pass-through through real-time HDMI loop-out
- 3.5mm TRS microphone input for commentary
Best For: Streamers adding live gameplay commentary
Low-Latency Gaming Pick
- 4K 30fps input with 1080p 60fps capture
- Zero-latency HDMI pass-through
- Simultaneous audio and video capture
Best For: Gamers seeking responsive passthrough play
Best Value – Swudloe C7-01 1080p60 Capture Card
If you need a practical capture card with passthrough for console streaming, the Swudloe C7-01 combines 1080p60 USB capture with 4K30 input and zero-latency HDMI passthrough. Its plug-and-play setup and microphone input make it suitable for straightforward game recording and live broadcasts.
Best For: Budget-conscious gamers and streamers who want 1080p60 capture, 4K30 passthrough, and external commentary support.
Pros:
- Captures YUY2 video at up to 1080p60 over USB 3.0.
- Supports 4K30 input and 4K30 zero-latency HDMI passthrough.
- Plug-and-play design works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and common streaming software.
- Includes a 3.5mm microphone input for commentary.
Cons:
- USB output is limited to 1080p60; 4K30 applies to HDMI passthrough.
- The microphone input does not record party chat.
- Windows 7 requires a USB 3.0 port.
The C7-01 is a versatile entry-level choice when smooth 1080p capture matters more than recording in 4K. Be sure your setup has USB 3.0 and note the separate capture and passthrough limits.
Best Build – ByteWave AV-CC07 4K Passthrough Capture Card
The ByteWave AV-CC07 is a capture card with passthrough aimed at users who want 1080p60 recording while sending a native 4K30 signal to a second display. Its aluminum shell, braided USB 3.0 cable, and broad platform support make it a well-equipped option for regular streaming use.
Best For: Streamers and creators who value a durable enclosure, low-latency 1080p60 capture, and 4K30 display passthrough.
Pros:
- Captures 1080p60 and passes through 4K30 to a secondary display.
- Aluminum alloy housing is designed for heat dissipation during extended use.
- Includes USB 3.0 Type-A and Type-C connectivity options.
- Supports microphone input, plug-and-play operation, and major streaming platforms.
Cons:
- USB 3.0 is required for the stated high-bandwidth performance.
- Capture resolution is listed up to 1080p rather than 4K.
- Compatibility is specified for Windows and macOS, so other systems may require verification.
Choose the AV-CC07 if sustained use and flexible USB connectivity are priorities. It delivers the useful combination of 1080p60 capture and 4K30 passthrough, but it is not a 4K recording device.
Best Premium – Elgato 4K S High-Frame-Rate Capture Card
For demanding console setups, the Elgato 4K S is a premium capture card with passthrough that supports 4K60 capture plus high-frame-rate playthrough at 1440p120 or 1080p240. HDR10 support, near-zero latency, and analog audio input make it especially capable for modern gaming systems.
Best For: Serious gamers and creators using PS5, Xbox Series X/S, or Switch 2 who want 4K60 capture and high-refresh passthrough.
Pros:
- Captures video at up to 4K60.
- Supports 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough for high-refresh gaming.
- Supports HDR10 with tone mapping on Windows.
- Includes 3.5mm analog audio input for game chat or commentary.
Cons:
- Requires comparatively recent hardware, including Windows 11, macOS 13 or later, or compatible iPadOS hardware.
- Requires a USB 3.0 Type-C port and a capable CPU/GPU for stated performance.
- Its feature set may be more than needed for basic 1080p streaming.
The 4K S is the strongest fit when both recording quality and passthrough refresh rate matter. Its higher system requirements make it less suitable for older computers, but the 4K60 and HDR10 features provide substantial headroom.
Best 2K Option – UGREEN 4K30 Loop-Out Capture Card
UGREEN’s HDMI capture card with passthrough is a practical middle ground for users who want sharper-than-1080p capture without moving to 4K recording. It captures up to 2K30, accepts and loops out a 4K30 signal, and supports USB-A or USB-C recording devices.
Best For: Streamers who want 2K30 recording, 4K30 loop-out monitoring, and broad Windows, macOS, Linux, or Android compatibility.
Pros:
- Captures up to 2K at 30fps and supports 1080p60.
- Accepts and loops out 4K30 HDMI with zero-latency monitoring.
- Offers USB 3.0 Type-A and Type-C interfaces plus MJPEG and YUY2 formats.
- Aluminum housing supports durability and heat dissipation.
Cons:
- Does not support 4K capture.
- Windows 7 systems require USB 3.0 drivers.
- PS4 and PS5 require HDCP to be turned off, and Fire TV Stick is not supported.
The UGREEN model is a sensible choice when 2K recording is enough and 4K is needed primarily for passthrough. Check device restrictions before buying, particularly for protected console or streaming-stick content.
Premium HDMI 2.1 Pick – AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1
If you need a high-end capture card with passthrough for current consoles and high-refresh PC gaming, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 is built for demanding setups. It can capture up to 4K144 on supported Windows systems while passing through 4K144 HDR/VRR, 1440p240, or 1080p360 to a compatible display.
Best For: Windows streamers using HDMI 2.1 consoles or high-refresh gaming PCs who want HDR, VRR, party chat, and high-frame-rate passthrough.
Pros:
- Supports up to 4K144 capture on compatible Windows PCs.
- HDMI 2.1 passthrough supports 4K144 HDR/VRR and other high-refresh modes.
- Includes party-chat connectivity and compatible 5.1-channel audio support.
- Works with OBS Studio, Windows, Mac, and iPad over USB-C.
Cons:
- 4K144 capture and some advanced audio features depend on supported Windows hardware and workflows.
- Displays using DSC may limit 4K passthrough to 4K120.
- Its advanced feature set may be more than needed for basic 1080p streaming.
This is the strongest option here for HDMI 2.1 gaming, especially when maintaining a high-refresh display signal matters as much as recording quality. Mac users should note that capture is limited to 4K60.
Flexible 4K Value – Guermok 4K60 Capture Card
This Guermok model is a practical capture card with passthrough for creators who want 4K60 monitoring without external power or driver installation. It captures up to 4K60 in MJPEG, supports 2K120 and 1080p120 inputs, and includes 3.5mm audio connections for commentary.
Best For: Streamers and meeting hosts who need broad device and operating-system compatibility, 4K60 passthrough, and simple USB 3.0 setup.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 capture and 4K60 HDMI passthrough.
- Handles 1440p120 and 1080p120 high-refresh inputs.
- Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and PadOS 17+.
- Includes audio input and microphone output for external commentary.
Cons:
- USB 2.0 connections are limited to up to 1080p.
- 4K capture uses MJPEG, while other listed formats have lower frame-rate limits.
- It is a 4K60 passthrough solution rather than an HDMI 2.1 high-refresh model.
With plug-and-play support and compatibility with consoles, cameras, Quest devices, and common streaming software, this is a versatile choice for mixed-device setups. Use a USB 3.0 or faster port to access its higher-resolution capabilities.
Budget Loop-Out Choice – XIIXMASK USB 3.0 Capture Card
For basic game streaming and recording, the XIIXMASK is an affordable capture card with passthrough that accepts a 4K60 HDMI signal while outputting up to 1080p60 or 2K30 over USB 3.0. Its compact design also provides a 3.5mm mic input for live commentary.
Best For: Budget-conscious streamers who primarily need 1080p60 capture, 4K loop-out, and broad console and computer compatibility.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 HDMI input and 4K60 loop-out.
- Captures up to 1080p60 or 2K30 through USB 3.0.
- Offers USB-A and USB-C connection flexibility.
- Works with OBS Studio and multiple Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android setups.
Cons:
- It does not record party chat.
- Capture resolution is below the 4K60 passthrough resolution.
- The supplied notes specify a Windows requirement despite broader listed compatibility.
This model makes the most sense when smooth 1080p60 streaming is the priority and the display should retain a 4K signal through loop-out. Its mic input is useful for commentary, but users needing integrated party chat should consider another option.
Portable Creator Pick – Dcyfol 4K HDMI Capture Card
This Dcyfol model is a practical capture card with passthrough for creators who want 1080p at 60fps while previewing a 4K HDMI source in real time. Its USB 3.0 connection, plug-and-play setup, and compatibility with OBS, Streamlabs, and XSplit make it suitable for straightforward streaming and recording.
Best For: Gamers and traveling creators who need a compact card for PS5, Xbox, Switch, PC, or camera capture.
Pros:
- Captures up to 1080p at 60fps and supports 4K HDMI real-time preview.
- Includes 4K HDMI loop-out for playing while capturing.
- Works with Windows and macOS without requiring drivers.
- Compact, lightweight design includes useful cables and adapters.
Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.0 port.
- Capture output is limited to 1080p at 60fps rather than 4K recording.
Choose this option if portability and broad console compatibility matter more than native 4K capture. It offers the essential passthrough and low-latency features for everyday streaming setups.
Commentary-Friendly Choice – Newhope USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card
The Newhope is a versatile capture card with passthrough that records 1080p video at 60fps while sending the signal to an external display through HDMI loop-out. It also adds a 3.5mm TRS microphone input, making it useful for gameplay commentary, teaching, conferencing, and streaming.
Best For: Streamers who want external-display passthrough and a dedicated microphone input for commentary.
Pros:
- Captures 1080p at 60fps with low latency.
- Provides real-time HDMI loop-out for delay-free gameplay viewing.
- Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and iPadOS 17 or later.
- Includes plug-and-play setup and a two-year manufacturer warranty.
Cons:
- The microphone input accepts only a 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
- Capture resolution is specified at 1080p, despite 4K pass-through support.
This is a strong fit when audio commentary and operating-system flexibility are priorities. Its 4K pass-through supports compatible sources, while the actual capture target remains smooth 1080p60.
Low-Latency Gaming Pick – Redragon VC321 Capture Card
The Redragon VC321 is a capture card with passthrough designed for responsive gaming and streaming. It accepts up to 4K at 30fps and captures at 1080p 60fps, while its zero-latency HDMI pass-through sends video and audio to a display for real-time play.
Best For: Gamers and content creators who prioritize zero-latency passthrough and simultaneous audio-video capture.
Pros:
- Supports up to 4K 30fps input and 1080p 60fps capture.
- Offers zero-latency HDMI pass-through for responsive gameplay.
- Plug-and-play operation requires no additional drivers or power source.
- Compatible with Windows 7 or later and macOS 10.15 or newer.
Cons:
- Capture resolution is limited to 1080p.
- Compatibility details are centered on Windows and macOS rather than Linux or iPadOS.
The VC321 is the most gaming-focused choice in this group, especially for users who want zero-latency monitoring. It combines 4K input support with dependable 1080p60 capture and dual audio-video recording.
How We Picked the Best Capture Card with Passthrough
We focused on the features that matter most in a Capture Card with Passthrough: supported input and passthrough resolutions, refresh rates, capture limits, connection type, latency, and compatibility with current consoles and computers. Models advertising 4K passthrough were separated from products designed primarily for 1080p capture, since passthrough and recording quality are not always the same.
We also considered whether each card suits casual gameplay, console streaming, PC recording, or demanding HDMI 2.1 setups. Check the manufacturer’s specifications before buying, particularly when using HDR, variable refresh rate, 4K at high refresh rates, or newer consoles.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | What to Look For | Typical Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Budget streaming | USB 3.0, 1080p60 capture, 4K passthrough | Low cost and simple setup |
| Console gameplay | Low-latency loop output | Play on a TV or monitor while recording |
| High-refresh gaming | HDMI 2.1 and 4K120 or higher passthrough | Better fit for PS5, Xbox Series, and gaming PCs |
| Portable recording | USB-powered design and broad software support | Easy laptop-based streaming |
Key Buying Factors for a Capture Card with Passthrough
Passthrough Versus Capture Resolution
Passthrough is the signal sent to your display, while capture resolution is what reaches your streaming or recording software. A card may pass through 4K video but capture only 1080p at 60 frames per second. That is often sufficient for streaming, but it is not equivalent to 4K recording.
Refresh Rate and HDMI Generation
For standard 1080p60 streaming, USB 3.0 HDMI cards are usually adequate. If you want 4K at 120Hz, high-frame-rate 1440p, HDR, or minimal compromises with a modern console, look for HDMI 2.1 support and confirm the exact refresh-rate limits. Your cables, display, and computer must support the same standard.
Latency, Audio, and Software
Choose a model with a dedicated loop-out connection when you want responsive local gameplay. Verify support for your preferred software, such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs, or a video-call application. Also check audio handling, microphone inputs, party-chat requirements, and whether the card needs separate drivers.
Computer and Port Requirements
USB 3.0 is preferable to USB 2.0 for reliable 1080p60 capture. A computer with sufficient CPU or GPU performance is still necessary for encoding and streaming. Avoid unpowered hubs when possible, and confirm that your laptop has the required USB connector or use a suitable adapter.
Who Should Buy Which Capture Card with Passthrough?
Choose a budget 1080p60 model if you mainly stream Nintendo Switch, older consoles, or 1080p gameplay and want affordable 4K passthrough. Choose a midrange USB 3.0 card if you need dependable plug-and-play recording for a laptop, webcam, or multiple console sources.
Choose an HDMI 2.1 model if preserving 4K high-refresh gameplay is more important than minimizing cost. This is the better direction for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and gaming PCs with compatible displays. Finally, prioritize verified software, HDR, and audio compatibility if you plan to stream regularly rather than record occasional clips.