Best Internal TV Tuner & Video Capture Cards in 2022

Last update: November 19, 2022

Are internal or external capture cards better?

Can capture cards record movies?

Yes, some capture cards can record movies. However, this is not their primary purpose. Capture cards are designed to record video games, so their movie recording capabilities are usually limited. If you want to record movies, you should get a dedicated video recorder.

Can I stream without a capture card?

Yes, you can stream without a capture card. All you need is a computer with a webcam and an internet connection. You can use sites like Twitch or YouTube to stream your gameplay.

Can I use a capture card without a PC?

Yes, you can use a capture card without a PC, but you will need a capture card that has its own onboard processor and memory. These capture cards are typically more expensive than ones that require a PC, but they offer the convenience of not needing a PC.


Elgato Video Capture - Digitize Video for Mac, PC or iPad (USB 2.0) Review:


Elgato Video Capture, white, records analog video for your computer, iPad, and iPhone. Review of Geezer: We were typical baby boomers and had a ton of VHS cassettes from our 1980s and 1990s family videos. We had to capture these valuable memories because we were retiring and relocating into a small house. In 2010, we utilized a VHS to DVD converter for a few cassettes, and as we finished the conversions, we mailed our children copies of the DVDs. Even DVDs, though, are difficult to copy, store, and use. However, we really wanted to skip that step and find a way to convert VHS (analog) video STRAIGHT to digital video files we could backup onto an external drive and also upload to a private YouTube channel to share with our children and future generations. We could have taken the DVDs and uploaded them as digital files to YouTube, but we really wanted to cut out that step. We had the idea that we would need to transport our VHS tapes somewhere and pay money to have them converted. However, our Amazon search revealed a method for us to digitize them directly into our PC or phone! We required a product with straightforward, step-by-step instructions for old people. Elgato Video Capture hit the mark with straightforward, user-friendly instructions and high-caliber tools. Our enormous project became a breeze! Watching massive stacks of VHS cassettes disappear was such a satisfying experience. And it was heartwarming to see their reactions when we shared the links to the family treasures from years ago with our children and grandchildren by emailing the films to a private YouTube channel. They are overjoyed that they can now do so anytime, anywhere thanks to this precious present. Although it wasn't the cheapest option we found for this, Elgato Video Capture wasn't the most expensive either. We've learnt from past experiences that it's preferable to avoid buying cheap electronics in order to ensure excellent quality and use. Elgato Gets a Visit from The Todd and Debra Show 4 of 4 total captures on video Geezer Good Job!!!



DIGITNOW USB Audio Capture Card Grabber for Vinyl Cassette Tapes to Digital MP3 Converter, Support Mac & Windows 10/8.1/8 / 7 / Vista/XP Review:


I couldn't exactly find the information I wanted before I ordered so I thought I'd provide it for everyone else.General Info:s- This is a "Full Speed" (12 Mb/s) device not a "High Speed" (480Mb/s) device. There is still plenty of bandwidth for 2 channels and the extra latency only matters for live performances (and will still probably be unnoticeable) (and will still probably be unnoticeable). Competitor products advertise USB 2.0 and I'd be curious if they are truly 480Mb/s or not.- The system sees this as a two channel input. I was worried it might identify as both an input and an output (just not have a connector for the output) but it correctly identifies as input only,s- The included CD does not contain any drives. Just an old version of the open source audio tool Audacity. (see picture) Don’t uses this, just go download the latest version.Mac Specific:s- The device works without drivers on MacOS Mojave (10.14.x) (10.14.x). Just plug it in. I expect it will work on most recent MacOS version but have not tried it with anything else.- It does not seem possible to change the sampling rate from a Mac (I have not tried on windows) (I have not tried on windows). It is set to 48kHz. You'd normally be able to change this in the Audio MIDI Setup app but not for this device (see picture) (see picture). This is not ideal but not the end of the world.- The included CD does not contain any drives. Just an old version of the open source audio tool Audacity. (see picture) Don’t uses this just go download the latest version or use it with QuickTime Player or GarageBandiOS:s- This is more of an obscure use case but the device also works fine on iOS with an Apple's Lightning to USB3 Camera Adapter. I tried it both with and without the power connected and it worked both times. I expect this would also work with Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter too but have not tested it.- Having an input only device is nice on iOS since the OS seems to have a limitation that if a USB device has input and output both must be used (you can not use headphones plugged into the iOS device) (you can not use headphones plugged into the iOS device)I have included some screen shots that show:- The devices USB infos- The derives audio infos- The info from Audio MIDI Setup- The listing of the CD



Elgato Game Capture Card HD60 S - Stream and Record in 1080p60, for PlayStation 4, Xbox One & Xbox 360 Review:


I'm writing this from the standpoint of someone who is brand-new to video game capture, which isn't all that dissimilar from traditional video capture. Numerous players online had suggested the HD60 S model to me, so I had little trouble making my decision.The key distinction between the HD60 and HD60 S is that the S has the shortest latency between the game you're watching on TV and the computer preview. Additionally, I bought it because, unlike the HD60, which can stream at one resolution while recording at another, it records at the resolution of your choice. A USB-C to USB cable rather than a USB to USB cable is also included with the HD60 S.— SETUP — Setup was simple and clear. Two cables are included: an HDMI cable and a USB-C to USB connection. What cable goes where is very self-explanatory. Connect a USB-C cable from your capture device to your computer before connecting an HDMI cable from your game console to the capture device, another HDMI wire from the capture device to your TV, and finally the USB-C cable. Install the program by going online (the link is in the box); and you're done.Find out which settings work best for your video game system online once the software has been loaded, or, if you know what you're doing, select exactly what you want. The typical method is to record at a high level (1080p) and cut down to what you need if you intend to edit this. That's what I do, at least. From there, you can arrange your unprocessed video files and edit them using the editing program of your choice.— RESUME —Since I first started using FireWire for video capture years ago, a lot has changed (what a headache that was). This gadget is the epitome of utility and simplicity. This device is simple to comprehend and operate for anyone. Recommended.



Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Mini Recorder - Thunderbolt Review:


I'm getting ready to do a weekly live-streaming event for my company. In the NPO world, who isn't on a tight budget? We're still researching streaming services. Although it would make our setup simpler, the only hardware encoder under $500 is connected to a particular provider, which would bind us to that provider. (Thanks but no.)Our HDMI camera could be connected to a MacBook Pro we already had with the help of the Blackmagic UltraStudio Mini Recorder, which was an intriguing and affordable option. We can choose from a variety of encoders and suppliers thanks to this device, which enables us to move more of the encoding chain into software. It came with an Apple MD861ZM/A Thunderbolt Cable - 2.0 M, which I also bought (NEWEST VERSION).I was aware to download the software directly from BMD and install it before plugging in any devices because to the experiences several other reviews have shared here. Blackmagic Desktop Video 10.3.7, the most recent release, also includes the following four applications:Blackmagic LiveKey, Blackmagic Media Express, Blackmagic Multibridge Utility, and Blackmagic Disk Speed TestIt appears that this gadget is completely unrelated to LiveKey and Multibridge Utility. Disk Performance Test does exactly what it says on the tin: it runs a write and read speed "stress test" to determine which video formats your present setup is most likely to support. Video from the Mini Recorder and other devices can be recorded, archived, and replayed using Media Express.My use of the Mini Recorder to connect a Canon HDMI camera to my MacBook Pro and feed it to Wirestream for a practice YouTube live video event went remarkably smoothly. Instead of having a large selection, I was limited to the format being consumed from HDMI. So, in my opinion, the video and audio streaming from the camera into Wirestream actually WAS "plug and play."Both how little and how hefty the box itself is unbelievable. In use, the exterior shell, which appears to be made of 1/32 inch steel, functions as a heat sink and becomes uncomfortable heated. The output is indicated by a solitary white LED next to the Thunderbolt port. BNC and full-size HDMI input ports are available, which are compatible with the HDMI/mini HDMI connector that came with my camera. Power cables and adapters are not included.The BMD Mini Recorder has pleased me a lot, and I can say that it has already earned a spot in my setup.



Elgato Game Capture 4K60 Pro MK.2-4K60 HDR10 Capture and passthrough, PCIe Capture Card, Superior Low Latency Technology Review:


I'm writing this from the standpoint of someone who is brand-new to video game capture, which isn't all that dissimilar from traditional video capture. Numerous players online had suggested the HD60 S model to me, so I had little trouble making my decision.The key distinction between the HD60 and HD60 S is that the S has the shortest latency between the game you're watching on TV and the computer preview. Additionally, I bought it because, unlike the HD60, which can stream at one resolution while recording at another, it records at the resolution of your choice. A USB-C to USB cable rather than a USB to USB cable is also included with the HD60 S.— SETUP — Setup was simple and clear. Two cables are included: an HDMI cable and a USB-C to USB connection. What cable goes where is very self-explanatory. Connect a USB-C cable from your capture device to your computer before connecting an HDMI cable from your game console to the capture device, another HDMI wire from the capture device to your TV, and finally the USB-C cable. Install the program by going online (the link is in the box); and you're done.Find out which settings work best for your video game system online once the software has been loaded, or, if you know what you're doing, select exactly what you want. The typical method is to record at a high level (1080p) and cut down to what you need if you intend to edit this. That's what I do, at least. From there, you can arrange your unprocessed video files and edit them using the editing program of your choice.— RESUME —Since I first started using FireWire for video capture years ago, a lot has changed (what a headache that was). This gadget is the epitome of utility and simplicity. This device is simple to comprehend and operate for anyone. Recommended.



DIGITNOW Video Capture Converter, Capture Analog Video to Digital for Your Mac or Windows 10 PC, iPad and iPhone, VHS to DVD Review:


From the moment I started using this way of capturing, I was incredibly happy with it. My goal was to convert my outdated video to a pure digital cinema format (vs create DVD which I may not be able to edit). This provides me with a format that I can later edit in another program because I might only need a few minutes of a much longer video clip. The program is straightforward and straight forward. Before saving, you can trim the clip's leading and trailing ends, which I found to be very useful as I broke up long videos into smaller events. Before beginning to record, you can preview to ensure ideal positioning. But I was happy with the outcomes for my aims of preserving unique outdated media. and have already cherished a lifetime of memories and had the opportunity to share brief clips with loved ones. I've finished recording all of my videos and am now extending an offer to other family members. I owe the system credit for making this a fantastic winter project. Anyone looking to preserve video that can be played on a device with component output capabilities should consider doing this, in my opinion.



Elgato Cam Link 4K — Broadcast Live, Record via DSLR, Camcorder, or Action cam, 1080p60 or 4K at 30 fps, Compact HDMI Capture Device, USB 3.0 Review:


Disclaimer: This system has a Core i7-6770, 2800MHz DDR4 RAM, and 12 upstream channels.Below is a link to a gameplay example.After considerable deliberation (I'm cheap), I finally went in and purchased the Elgato Cam Link to utilize as a gaming capture card. Even though several other capture cards cost half as much as Elgato's HD60, HD60S, and Cam Link, they all made the same claims. I chose this device after completing a lot of research. Even though many tech experts pointed out problems with all the gadgets (including Elgato's), I must admit that I got sick of hearing "Elgato is the best" at the conclusion of every video.Since this is my first "capture card," I am unable to compare it to others, but I can say that the Elgato Cam Link exceeded my expectations and accomplished my objectives for purchasing it. Perfectly captures game audio and gameplay. There is clearly no Mic-in on the Cam Link for individuals who want to record their voice along with the gaming, however I believe the Elgato software allows you to record an alternative audio input device. It's helpful for someone like me who doesn't require a 3.5mm-in slot because so many people are switching to USB mics (or XLR to USB preamps) anyhow.I can't comment on utilizing the Cam Link for its stated purpose because I don't use a camera. I solely use it to capture gaming. Simply download the free Elgato software, connect the Cam Link to a PC's USB 3.xx port using the Cam Link, and then plug in the PS4 HDMI. You may easily capture 1080p60 video of a game. If you utilize the software's preview feature as your display, there is no video lag and the incoming resolution is perfectly sent through. When I choose "Enter Full Screen" and then "Hide Sidebar" (see image), there isn't even a hint of a change from when my console is plugged straight into the TV.Go to options (see photo) and turn off "Enable Flashback Recording" if, like me, you want NOT to save your captures locally. I believe that this will relieve your SSD/HDD(?) of all effort. With the Elgato software, you may stream directly to Twitch, YouTube, and other sites (see photo). This gadget makes it simple for me to do so in the best quality. I use YouTube as a free cloud storage for my personal gameplay videos (shhh don't tell Google or else they'll start charging).One of my two issues with this device—which has since been resolved—was that the audio channels for games were switched around. 2: Audio stutter.————————————Edit 01/16/18I contacted Elgato, and they told me to upgrade the firmware to address the L/R audio swap. Click the "Device" section's settings wheel while holding "ctrl." Update Firmware can be found by clicking the "Advanced" option.Listen directly to the recording device rather than the playback device on the computer to eliminate audio latency. Select "Right Click" on the taskbar's volume mixer for Windows OS. Go to the "Recording Devices" menu and select "Digital Audio Interface 2- Cam Link" from the list of available options (see photo). The "Listen to this device" checkbox should be selected. Choose the device you want the route to go to from the drop-down menu. Game audio should now play without lagging (pass-through).Now, in the Elgato program, click the speaker square UNDER the display screen to silence the preview screen sound (the choppy noise). (NOTE: If you don't want game audio to be recorded, don't mute the "Game Audio" volume dial on the RIGHT SIDE of the display window.)————————————Overall, Elgato lived up to the promise, and if they produce a Cam Link in 4K, I'll probably buy it. However, I suppose it would be far larger and need an extra power supply.Regarding the CamLink Gameplay Video Quality: Bear in mind that I broadcast my capture straight to YouTube. They somewhat lower the upload quality, whereas Twitch has never given me that problem. However, it still appears to be of high quality.



UCEC USB 2.0 Video Capture Card Device, VHS VCR TV to DVD Converter for Mac OS X PC Windows 7 8 10 Review:


This was utilized on a Windows 8 computer. My first bit of advice is to just use the VHS to DVD 3.0 software and not the OBS Studio if you are not very tech aware. I installed both software options from the included disc. I had problems the first time I used the OBS program because I'm not very tech-savvy. Once I switched to the VHS to DVD program, I was able to start recording video from an old Sony Handycam MiniDV Camcorder in a matter of minutes. I recorded the video on the DVD setting since I believe it yields the largest file size and highest quality. I then edit the video using Adobe Premiere. I'm not sure if the video quality would be any better if you used a different converter, but this is a very reasonable, good alternative for assembling collections of home video content for online streaming (or even to burn to DVD). I doubt I will have any alternatives there, but I have VHS tapes that I will convert using a VHS player.



HDMI Game Capture Card HD Video Capture 1080P HDMI Video Recorder Compatible with Xbox One/ PS4/ Wii U /Nintendo Switch etc. Support Mic in Review:


This has worked well. I wanted to record the screen when I do product demos, without having to run extra software on the laptop. This does it perfectly. The compression is remarkable when used for standard screen capture. Sharp. The sound is very clear as well. The operation is simple and clear. In the ~2 weeks I have had it, I am starting to use it a lot because I can just leave it connected between the laptop and the screen, and record with a single press of the button. The MP4 files have been readable everywhere I have tried.I was not able to get it to record in 720 P mode. Other claim have done that, but it always record 1080 for me, even when sending a 720P signal. However recording at the higher level was not a real problem for me, since the compression still seems to work quite well.I was not able to get mic input to work well, but I think that was a problem with the microphone I was using ... too cheap. Probably would work better with an amplified mic using the line in, but didn't have the equipment for that. I figured how to mix the mocrophone from the laptop into the HDMI signal, and that worked fine for me.



REDGO Video Audio VHS VCR USB Video Capture Card to DVD Converter Capture Card Adapter Review:


There seem to be other varieties of this identical product, but I chose this one because of the excellent price and positive ratings. I purchased this in order to scan a number of old family videos that were stored on Sony Hi8 cassettes and had become unplayable after 30 years due to degradation. This was just what I needed to retrieve the digital copies of these ancient tapes before they stopped working altogether.Although my setup may differ slightly from others' because I use Linux (Kubuntu) as my operating system, I'm delighted to say that this works flawlessly as a capture device under my particular installation of Linux with no additional configuration or driver compilation/installation. After experimenting with a few different codecs and using VLC to preview via the inputs and capture to a file, I discovered some settings that offered a reasonable compromise between file size and quality.Physically, everything was easy to plug in, link, and unhook between capture sessions; the color-coded cable extensions make connecting the various cables a pleasure. I had a readily available USB port on my laptop, so plugging this in and having it stick out the side wasn't a hassle. For the older analog sources, a capture device with a lower resolution is still excellent because it isn't actually necessary. The red/white RCA audio inputs worked without any issues, and I was able to use both the s-video and yellow RCA visual inputs.In conclusion, this worked flawlessly for my purposes under Linux and is an incredible value!


Can you use a laptop as a capture card?

Yes, you can use a laptop as a capture card. You would need to purchase a capture card that is compatible with your laptop and then install the software that comes with the capture card. After the software is installed, you should be able to connect the capture card to your laptop and use it to capture video.

Do capture cards work with TV?

Yes, capture cards work with TV. You can use a capture card to record or stream your TV signal.

Do cheap capture cards work?

Yes, cheap capture cards work. They may not have all the features of more expensive cards, but they will capture video.

Do you need an internal capture card to stream?

If you want to stream content from your PC, you don't necessarily need an internal capture card. You can use a software encoder like Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) to capture and stream your gameplay. However, if you want to stream console gameplay, you will need an internal capture card.

Do you need two monitors to stream with a capture card?

No, you do not need two monitors to stream with a capture card. A capture card can be used with a single monitor.

How much does a decent capture card cost?

A good capture card can cost anywhere from $100 to $400. The price will depend on the quality of the card and the features it offers. If you want a top-of-the-line capture card, be prepared to spend a bit more money.