10 Best Capture Cards With Passthrough in 2026 for Smooth Streaming and Gaming

The best capture card with passthrough lets you record or stream gameplay while sending the original video signal to your TV or gaming monitor with minimal delay. That makes passthrough especially useful for competitive play, console streaming, and flexible two-screen setups.

This roundup includes models ranging from affordable 1080p60 devices to higher-end options with 4K or 1440p support. Compare resolution, refresh rate, connection type, and compatibility before choosing the right fit for your setup.

Best 10 Capture Card with Passthrough Picks for 2026

Best Premium Control – EVGA XR1 Pro

The EVGA XR1 Pro is a strong choice if you want a capture card with passthrough for high-refresh gaming. It captures up to 1440p at 60fps or 4K at 30fps, while supporting 1440p at 144Hz and 4K at 60Hz HDR passthrough.

Best For: PC and console gamers who want HDR passthrough, an integrated audio mixer, and a physical control dial.

Pros:

• Supports 1440p/60fps and 4K/30fps capture.
• Offers 1440p/144Hz HDR and 4K/60Hz HDR passthrough.
• Includes a built-in audio mixer, control dial, and customizable ARGB lighting.
• OBS certified and designed for plug-and-play setup without drivers.

Cons:

• 4K capture is limited to 30fps.
• Requires a USB 3.1 interface.

The XR1 Pro stands out for its hands-on controls and high-refresh HDR passthrough. It is especially appealing for gamers who prioritize smooth gameplay monitoring over 4K recording at 60fps.

Best Versatile Connectivity – Guermok 4K Capture Card

The Guermok 4K capture card with passthrough combines 4K/60fps capture and 4K/60Hz monitoring with broad device support. Its USB 3.0 connection, flexible USB-A/USB-C adapter, and analog audio ports make it adaptable for streaming setups.

Best For: Streamers using consoles, computers, cameras, or Quest devices across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iPadOS.

Pros:

• Supports 4K/60fps capture and 4K/60Hz passthrough.
• Handles 1440p/120fps and 1080p/120fps high-refresh input.
• Includes 3.5mm audio input and microphone output.
• Works without drivers or external power and supports USB-A or USB-C connections.

Cons:

• USB 2.0 ports are limited to up to 1080p resolution.
• 4K capture uses MJPEG, while other listed formats have lower frame-rate limits.

With its wide compatibility and included cables and adapter, the Guermok is a practical all-around option. Use a USB 3.0 or faster port to access its higher-resolution capabilities.

Best for High-Frame-Rate Consoles – Elgato 4K S

The Elgato 4K S is a streamlined capture card with passthrough for console players who want 4K recording without giving up high-refresh gameplay. It supports 4K60 capture, 1440p120 or 1080p240 passthrough, HDR10, and analog audio input.

Best For: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch 2 users with compatible Windows, Mac, or USB-C iPad setups.

Pros:

• Captures video at up to 4K60.
• Supports 1440p/120fps and 1080p/240fps passthrough.
• Includes HDR10 support with tone mapping on Windows.
• Offers near-zero latency and a 3.5mm analog audio input.

Cons:

• Requires USB 3.0 Type-C and relatively recent operating systems and hardware.
• The listed capture resolution is 1080p, despite its 4K60 capture capability.

The 4K S is a focused option for high-frame-rate console gaming. Its hardware requirements are more demanding than basic capture devices, but its 4K60 recording and fast passthrough support are compelling for compatible systems.

Best Simple Budget Option – XIIXMASK 4K60 Capture Card

The XIIXMASK is a straightforward capture card with passthrough for 4K60 video workflows. It supports 4K60 capture and passthrough, 1080p/120fps high-frame-rate recording, and USB-A or USB-C connection options without requiring drivers or external power.

Best For: Console and PC streamers who want broad platform compatibility, simple setup, and integrated analog audio connections.

Pros:

• Supports 4K60 capture and 4K passthrough.
• Handles 1080p/120fps high-frame-rate input and recording.
• Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iPadOS 17+.
• Includes 3.5mm audio input, microphone output, and dual USB-A/USB-C connectivity.

Cons:

• High-frame-rate support is listed at 1080p rather than 1440p.
• Requires USB 3.0 for its stated performance.

The XIIXMASK keeps the setup uncomplicated while covering common consoles, computers, cameras, and streaming software. It is a sensible fit when you want 4K-capable capture and passthrough without extra power or driver installation.

Reliable 1080p60 Classic – Elgato HD60 S

The Elgato HD60 S is a straightforward capture card with passthrough for console players who want smooth 1080p60 recording without adding noticeable delay to gameplay. Its USB 3.0 connection, HDMI passthrough, and compatibility with OBS, Twitch, and YouTube make it a practical choice for established streaming setups.

Best For: Console gamers prioritizing reliable 1080p60 capture and low-latency play.

Pros:

• Captures gameplay in 1080p60.
• True passthrough is designed for zero-lag console play.
• Flashback Recording can save recent gameplay retroactively.
• Supports extended recording directly to a computer hard drive.

Cons:

• Capture resolution is limited to 1080p.
• Listed minimum requirements specify Windows 10 and a fourth-generation Core i5 or comparable system.

The HD60 S focuses on dependable Full HD capture rather than newer 4K workflows. Choose it when 1080p60 is sufficient and features such as Instant Gameview and Flashback Recording are useful to your content process.

Flexible 2K Loop-Out Pick – UGREEN HDMI Capture Card

The UGREEN capture card with passthrough supports 4K input and HDMI loop-out while recording up to 2K at 30fps or 1080p at 60fps. Its USB-A and USB-C connectivity, broad operating-system support, and plug-and-play design suit streamers who need flexible connections across consoles and computers.

Best For: Multi-device streamers who want 4K loop-out with 2K30 or 1080p60 capture.

Pros:

• Supports 4K@30Hz input and 4K@30Hz HDMI loop-out.
• Captures up to 2K30 or 1080p60.
• Includes both USB-A and USB-C interfaces.
• Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.

Cons:

• It does not support 4K capture.
• PS4 and PS5 require HDCP to be turned off.
• It is not compatible with Fire TV Stick.

UGREEN is a versatile option when the display needs a 4K loop-out signal but the recording workflow can use 2K or 1080p. Verify your console settings and host-device connection before buying.

Compact 4K Passthrough Value – ByteWave AV-CC07 Capture Card

The ByteWave AV-CC07 is a capture card with passthrough that records at 1080p60 while sending a native 4K30 signal to a secondary display. Its USB 3.0 interface, metal housing, microphone input, and plug-and-play operation make it appealing for console streaming and portable content setups.

Best For: Gamers and creators who want 1080p60 capture with 4K30 display passthrough.

Pros:

• Captures 1080p60 and passes through 4K30.
• Metal shell and heat-dissipation design are suited to extended use.
• Supports microphone input for external commentary.
• Compatible with Windows and Mac plus software such as OBS, XSplit, and VLC.

Cons:

• The supplied details list capture resolutions up to 1080p rather than 4K.
• USB 3.0 is required for USB 3.0 operation.

The AV-CC07 offers a useful balance for users who play or monitor in 4K but create 1080p streams. Its compact design and microphone support add flexibility, though buyers should confirm their computer has the required USB 3.0 port.

Versatile 4K Loop-Out Pick – XIIXMASK HDMI Capture Card

If you need a capture card with passthrough for console gaming and streaming, the XIIXMASK combines 4K 60Hz HDMI input and loop-out with up to 1080p 60fps or 2K 30fps capture. Its USB-A/USB-C connectivity and mic-in port make it flexible for different computers and commentary setups.

Best For: Gamers and streamers who want 4K display passthrough, smooth capture, and optional microphone commentary.

Pros:

• Supports 4K 60Hz HDMI input and loop-out.
• Captures up to 1080p at 60fps or 2K at 30fps.
• Includes USB-A/USB-C connectivity and a 3.5mm mic-in port.
• Works with OBS, major streaming platforms, Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.

Cons:

• Does not record party chat.
• OBS may need to be restarted after audio setup.
• The listed minimum system requirement specifies Windows.

This is a well-equipped option when passthrough resolution matters as much as capture quality. The commentary input is useful for voice overlays, though users should account for the stated audio limitations during setup.

Simple Streaming Starter – Dcyfol 1080p60 Capture Card

The Dcyfol is a practical capture card with passthrough for users who want a straightforward USB 3.0 setup. It records up to 1080p at 60fps, supports 4K HDMI real-time preview and loop-out, and is designed to work with OBS, Streamlabs, and XSplit without requiring drivers.

Best For: Beginners and mobile creators who need plug-and-play capture for consoles, cameras, or PCs.

Pros:

• Supports 1080p 60fps capture and 4K HDMI real-time preview.
• Offers HDMI passthrough for responsive gameplay viewing.
• Plug-and-play compatibility with OBS, Streamlabs, and XSplit.
• Compact design includes USB and USB-C connection accessories.

Cons:

• Capture output is limited to 1080p at 60fps despite 4K input support.
• Requires a USB 3.0 port.
• Compatibility details are centered on Windows and macOS systems.

Its main appeal is uncomplicated setup: connect an HDMI source, use the included adapters as needed, and open compatible capture software. It is a sensible choice for standard 1080p streaming rather than native 4K recording.

Audio-Flexible Gaming Setup – Guermok USB 3.0 Capture Card

The Guermok provides a capture card with passthrough aimed at gaming, live production, and recording workflows. It supports up to 4K 60Hz HDMI input and loop-out, while capture reaches 1080p 60fps or 2K 30fps, with multiple audio ports for microphones, headphones, and speakers.

Best For: Streamers who need flexible audio monitoring and 4K passthrough for consoles, cameras, or PCs.

Pros:

• Supports 4K 60Hz HDMI passthrough in YUV420 mode.
• Captures up to 1080p 60fps or 2K 30fps.
• Includes mic-in, audio-in, headphone monitoring, and speaker output ports.
• Driver-free compatibility with OBS, Streamlabs, VLC, Zoom, Teams, and XSplit.

Cons:

• 4K passthrough is limited to 30Hz in RGB/YUV444 mode.
• The mic input may not support TRRS headset microphones or USB microphones.
• Capture software is required for display and recording.

This model stands out for its audio connections and clearly specified passthrough modes. It is a strong fit for more involved streaming setups, provided your microphone uses the supported 3.5mm TRS connection.

How We Picked the Best Capture Card with Passthrough

We focused on devices that support HDMI passthrough and USB connectivity for recording or live streaming. The selection covers several use cases, including PS5 and Xbox Series X|S gaming, Switch setups, PC streaming, and budget-friendly 1080p capture. We also considered advertised input, passthrough, and capture resolutions, refresh-rate support, low-latency performance, compatibility with common streaming software, and the practical trade-offs between USB 3.0 and newer interfaces.

Specifications can vary by source device, cable, display, and software settings. A card advertised for 4K passthrough may still capture at 1080p, so check each product’s separate input, loop-out, and recording limits.

Quick Comparison

Best For	What to Look For	Typical Strength
Competitive console gaming	High-refresh passthrough and low latency	Smoother play while recording
PS5 or Xbox streaming	4K input support and reliable HDMI loop-out	Modern console compatibility
1080p streaming	1080p60 capture over USB 3.0	Good quality without large files
Budget setups	Clear resolution limits and broad software support	Lower cost and simple installation

Key Buying Factors for a Capture Card with Passthrough

Passthrough Resolution and Refresh Rate

Passthrough determines what reaches your display, while capture resolution determines what gets recorded or streamed. For a 4K console, choose a model that supports the desired 4K signal and refresh rate through its HDMI output. If you play at 120Hz, verify 120Hz passthrough specifically; 4K at 60Hz does not guarantee high-refresh support.

Capture Quality and Connection

1080p60 remains a practical standard for Twitch, YouTube, and most livestream workflows. USB 3.0 is generally preferable for higher-bitrate video than USB 2.0, but your computer must also have a suitable port and enough processing power. Check whether HDR, 1440p, or 4K capture is supported if those features matter to your content.

Compatibility and Audio

Confirm support for your console, computer, operating system, and streaming application. OBS compatibility is useful, but also check how the card handles party chat, HDMI audio, microphones, and headsets. HDCP-protected content typically cannot be captured, and some consoles require HDCP to be disabled for gameplay capture.

Who Should Buy Which Capture Card with Passthrough?

Choose a higher-end model such as the EVGA XR1 Pro or Elgato 4K S when you want stronger support for modern consoles, HDR, higher resolutions, or a more polished streaming workflow. These options are better suited to creators who plan to keep the same setup for several years.

For straightforward 1080p60 streaming, the Elgato HD60 S and comparable USB 3.0 models are sensible choices. They provide a familiar balance of quality, latency, and ease of use. Budget options from Guermok, XIIXMASK, UGREEN, ByteWave, and similar brands can work well for casual streaming or recording, provided their stated passthrough and capture limits match your equipment.

Before buying, check the exact product specification for your target resolution, refresh rate, HDR requirements, and port type. The best Capture Card with Passthrough is the one that preserves your preferred gaming signal while delivering the capture quality your audience actually needs.