A capture card with passthrough lets your PC record or stream gameplay while sending the original signal to a monitor or TV with minimal interruption. The right model can simplify a dual-device setup, preserve high frame rates, and improve your workflow for streaming, recording, or video calls.
These 10 options cover compact USB capture devices, affordable 1080p models, and advanced internal or HDMI 2.1 cards. Use the buying guide below to match passthrough resolution, capture quality, connectivity, and latency to your setup.
Best 10 Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC Picks for 2026
Best Value USB Pick
ByteWave 1080p Capture with 4K Passthrough
- 1080p60 capture with 4K30 passthrough
- Plug-and-play USB 3.0 design
- Metal shell and wide compatibility
Best For: Portable PC and console streaming on a budget
Best Internal Card
Elgato 4K Pro with 8K60 Passthrough
- 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 HDR10 capture
- HDMI 2.1 with VRR support
- Up to 1080p240 recording
Best For: High-end Windows desktops and dual-PC streaming
Best 2K Budget Option
UGREEN 2K Capture with 4K Loop-Out
- 2K30 capture and 4K30 loop-out
- USB-A and USB-C recording interfaces
- Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android support
Best For: Flexible 2K streaming and low-latency monitoring
Best High-Refresh Pick
AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1
- 4K144 HDR/VRR passthrough
- Up to 4K144 Windows capture
- Party chat and 5.1-channel audio support
Best For: High-refresh PC and console gaming setups
Best for Easy Setup
- 4K60 capture and passthrough
- Supports 1440p120 and 1080p120
- 3.5mm audio in and mic out
Best For: PC gamers and streamers seeking 4K60 passthrough
Best Mainstream Brand Option
acer USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card
- 4K input and 4K loop-out
- 1080p60 capture with YUY2
- Mic-in and plug-and-play setup
Best For: Everyday streaming, teaching, and 1080p gaming capture
Best Budget 1080p Choice
XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card
- 4K60 HDMI loop-out
- 1080p60 or 1440p30 capture
- USB-A/USB-C cable included
Best For: 1080p streaming with 4K display passthrough
Best Overall Value
1080p 60FPS Capture Card with HDMI Pass-Through
- 1080p capture with 4K30/60Hz input support
- HDMI loop-out for low-delay gaming
- Plug-and-play with microphone input
Best For: PC streamers seeking simple 1080p capture and pass-through
Best for Compatibility
1080p 60FPS Capture with 4K Pass-Through
- 1080p 60fps capture with low latency
- 4K HDMI pass-through for external display play
- Supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and iPadOS 17+
Best For: Creators using multiple operating systems and HDMI sources
Best Portable Option
Compact 1080p 60FPS USB Capture Card
- 1080p 60fps recording for streaming
- 4K HDMI preview and pass-through
- Compact Windows and Mac setup
Best For: Mobile creators and users with changing gaming setups
Best Value USB Pick – ByteWave 1080p Capture with 4K Passthrough
If you want capture cards with passthrough for PC without adding an internal card, the ByteWave offers 1080p60 capture while passing through a native 4K30 signal to a second display. Its USB 3.0 connection, plug-and-play setup, and broad device compatibility suit straightforward streaming and recording setups.
Best For: PC users, console streamers, online teachers, and creators who need portable 1080p capture with 4K display passthrough.
Pros:
- Captures up to 1080p60 and supports 4K30 passthrough.
- USB 3.0 connectivity, plug-and-play operation, and no external power supply required.
- Metal shell, braided cable, microphone input, and compatibility with Windows and macOS.
Cons:
- Capture resolution is limited to 1080p, despite 4K passthrough.
- Requires a USB 3.0 port for its advertised high-bandwidth performance.
The ByteWave is a practical choice when you want a simple external capture card for PC and console use. It prioritizes easy setup, portability, and reliable 1080p60 streaming rather than native 4K recording.
Best Internal Card – Elgato 4K Pro with 8K60 Passthrough
For a high-end desktop setup, the Elgato 4K Pro is one of the more capable capture cards with passthrough for PC. Its PCIe design combines 4K60 HDR10 capture with 8K60 passthrough, HDMI 2.1 connectivity, VRR support, and high-frame-rate recording options.
Best For: Windows 10 users building a gaming or dual-PC streaming setup with a compatible PCIe slot.
Pros:
- Supports 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 HDR10 capture.
- HDMI 2.1 enables up to 1080p240 recording and high-refresh-rate workflows.
- VRR passthrough and ultra-low latency help preserve smooth gameplay.
- Works with OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Zoom, Teams, and other apps.
Cons:
- Internal PCIe installation is less flexible than an external USB card.
- Listed system requirements specify Windows 10 and a compatible PCIe slot.
The Elgato 4K Pro is aimed at enthusiasts who want advanced HDMI 2.1 features and substantial passthrough headroom. It is a strong fit for a dedicated Windows desktop, but less suitable for laptops or plug-and-play portability.
Best 2K Budget Option – UGREEN 2K Capture with 4K Loop-Out
The UGREEN is a flexible choice among capture cards with passthrough for PC, supporting 2K30 capture, 1080p60 capture, and 4K30 HDMI loop-out. Its USB-A and USB-C interfaces make it convenient for connecting to different computers and compatible recording devices.
Best For: Gamers and streamers who want 2K recording, low-latency monitoring, and broad Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android support.
Pros:
- Captures up to 2K30 or 1080p60 and accepts 4K30 input with loop-out.
- Includes both USB 3.0 Type-C and Type-A interfaces.
- Plug-and-play design with aluminum housing and no external power supply.
- Supports MJPEG and YUY2 formats for different workflow preferences.
Cons:
- It does not support 4K capture.
- PS4 and PS5 use requires HDCP to be turned off.
- Windows 7 requires USB 3.0 drivers, and Fire TV Stick is not supported.
UGREEN offers useful resolution and connection flexibility for the price, particularly if 2K30 capture is sufficient. Check your source device, operating system, and HDCP settings before buying to avoid compatibility surprises.
Best High-Refresh Pick – AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1
For modern high-refresh gaming, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 stands out among capture cards with passthrough for PC. HDMI 2.1 passthrough supports up to 4K144 HDR/VRR, while compatible Windows systems can capture up to 4K144 in MJPEG through AVerMedia Streaming Center.
Best For: PC and console gamers with high-refresh HDMI 2.1 displays who also need party chat and advanced audio support.
Pros:
- Supports 4K144 HDR/VRR passthrough, plus 1440p240 and 1080p360 modes.
- Windows capture reaches up to 4K144; macOS capture supports up to 4K60.
- USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C connects to Windows, Mac, or iPad.
- Includes party-chat features, 5.1-channel audio support, and dual 3.5 mm ports.
Cons:
- Windows is required for the highest 4K144 capture specification.
- Displays using DSC may limit 4K passthrough to 4K120.
- The advanced features may be unnecessary for standard 1080p streaming.
The Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 is designed for demanding setups where refresh rate, HDR, VRR, and audio routing matter. It costs more complexity than a basic capture card, but its passthrough capabilities provide valuable headroom for current gaming hardware.
Best for Easy Setup – Guermok 4K60 Capture Card
For shoppers comparing capture cards with passthrough for PC, the Guermok GM-72A stands out for its combination of 4K capture, 4K60 HDMI passthrough, and high-refresh support. It can capture up to 4K60 through USB 3.0 and handle 1440p or 1080p input at up to 120FPS, making it a flexible option for gaming and streaming setups.
Best For: PC streamers and gamers who want 4K60 passthrough plus high-refresh-rate input support.
Pros:
- Supports up to 4K60 capture and 4K60 HDMI passthrough.
- Handles 1440p120 and 1080p120 input for smoother gameplay monitoring.
- Includes 3.5mm audio input and microphone output.
- Works without drivers across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and PadOS.
Cons:
- USB 3.0 is required for resolutions above 1080p.
- Capture formats vary by resolution, with 4K60 listed in MJPEG.
The Guermok is the most feature-rich choice here for users who prioritize 4K passthrough and high-refresh gaming. Check your PC ports and preferred capture software before buying, especially if you plan to use 4K capture.
Best Mainstream Brand Option – acer USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card
The acer OCB5B0 is a straightforward option for shoppers seeking capture cards with passthrough for PC. It accepts 4K HDMI input, provides 4K loop-out, and captures at up to 1080p60 over USB 3.0, while YUY2 support is designed to provide detailed color for streaming and recording.
Best For: Streamers, educators, and creators who want plug-and-play 1080p60 capture from a recognizable brand.
Pros:
- Offers 4K HDMI input and 4K loop-out with 1080p60 capture.
- Includes a 3.5mm mic-in for commentary and voice recording.
- Supports USB Type-A and Type-C connections.
- Works with Windows, Linux, macOS, OBS, XSplit, VLC, and common gaming devices.
Cons:
- Capture output is limited to 1080p60 in the supplied specifications.
- USB 3.0 is required for USB 3.0 operation.
This acer model is a practical fit when 1080p60 capture is sufficient and you want 4K loop-out for a compatible display. Its mic-in and no-driver setup also make it convenient for classes, calls, and casual game streaming.
Best Budget 1080p Choice – XIIXMASK USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card
The XIIXMASK HDMI capture card is a compact choice for capture cards with passthrough for PC when 1080p60 recording is the priority. It supports 4K60 HDMI input and loop-out while sending up to 1080p60 or 1440p30 video to a computer over USB 3.0, with USB-A and USB-C connectivity included.
Best For: PC users who want 4K display passthrough and reliable 1080p60 capture for consoles, cameras, or streaming.
Pros:
- Supports 4K60 HDMI input and 4K60 loop-out.
- Captures up to 1080p60 or 1440p30 through USB 3.0.
- Provides a 3.5mm mic-in for live commentary.
- Includes a USB 3.0 cable supporting USB-A and USB-C connections.
Cons:
- It does not record party chats through the mic-in.
- OBS may need to be restarted after audio setup.
- The supplied minimum requirements specify a Windows operating system.
The XIIXMASK offers the essential passthrough features for a 1080p-focused setup without emphasizing 4K capture. It is worth considering for console or camera capture, provided you are comfortable with the listed audio setup note and system requirements.
Best Overall Value – 1080p 60FPS Capture Card with HDMI Pass-Through
If you need capture cards with passthrough for pc, this plug-and-play model combines 1080p capture with HDMI loop-out for gaming without a noticeable display delay. It accepts 4K30/60Hz input, supports Windows and Mac OS, and works with common streaming software including OBS, Twitch, YouTube, and VLC.
Best For: PC streamers who want an affordable capture card with 1080p capture, HDMI pass-through, and microphone commentary support.
Pros:
- Captures video up to 1080p and accepts 4K30/60Hz input.
- HDMI loop-out supports low-delay gameplay on a separate display.
- Plug-and-play USB 3.0 setup requires no driver or external power.
- Includes a 3.5mm TRS microphone input for commentary.
Cons:
- Does not support 4K120Hz or 4K144Hz input.
- Output is limited to up to 2K30Hz.
- Microphone input accepts only 3.5mm TRS standard headsets.
This is a practical all-around choice for PC-based streaming, especially if you value simple setup and pass-through gaming. Its limitations mainly affect high-refresh-rate and higher-resolution workflows.
Best for Compatibility – 1080p 60FPS Capture with 4K Pass-Through
For shoppers comparing capture cards with passthrough for pc, the Newhope model offers 1080p 60fps capture alongside low-latency 4K pass-through. It is designed for Windows, macOS, Linux, and iPadOS 17 or later, with broad compatibility across consoles, cameras, OBS, VLC, and Zoom.
Best For: Multi-platform creators who need 4K pass-through, 1080p 60fps capture, and support across PC, Mac, Linux, or compatible iPadOS devices.
Pros:
- Captures smooth 1080p video at 60fps.
- Provides real-time HDMI loop-out for playing without capture delay.
- Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and iPadOS 17 or later.
- Includes microphone input and cables, adapter, and instruction manual.
Cons:
- Microphone input supports only 3.5mm TRS standard headsets.
- Its advertised capture resolution is 1080p, while 4K is specified for pass-through.
The Newhope stands out when device and operating-system flexibility matter. It is a strong fit for a mixed setup, but buyers should distinguish its 1080p capture capability from its 4K pass-through feature.
Best Portable Option – Compact 1080p 60FPS USB Capture Card
This compact option is worth considering if you want capture cards with passthrough for pc that are easy to move between setups. It records 1080p at 60fps, supports 4K HDMI real-time preview and pass-through, and works with OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit on Windows and Mac.
Best For: Traveling streamers, LAN-party users, and creators who switch between PC, console, camera, and other HDMI sources.
Pros:
- Records smooth 1080p video at 60fps.
- Supports 4K HDMI real-time preview and loop-out.
- Compatible with PS5, PS4, Switch, Xbox, PC, Mac, and cameras.
- Compact design includes USB and HDMI connection accessories.
Cons:
- Requires a USB 3.0 port.
- 4K content is recorded at 1080p 60fps rather than captured in 4K.
- Listed operating-system compatibility is limited to Windows and macOS.
The Dcyfol is a convenient choice for portable streaming rigs and everyday console capture. Its pass-through and software compatibility are useful, though creators seeking native 4K recording will need a different class of device.
How We Picked the Best Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC
We focused on capture cards that include HDMI passthrough or loop-out, since that feature is central to playing on a dedicated display while the PC captures video. The lineup includes USB 3.0 devices for straightforward setups, an internal PCIe option, and higher-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 hardware for modern consoles and gaming PCs.
We also compared advertised capture and passthrough limits, output frame rates, connection type, and practical use cases. Specifications can vary by resolution, software, cable, and computer hardware, so treat maximum figures as setup-dependent rather than guaranteed in every configuration.
Quick Comparison
- Best for high-end gaming: The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 is designed for HDMI 2.1 setups with high refresh rates and 4K passthrough.
- Best internal option: The Elgato 4K Pro suits desktop users who want an internal card and advanced passthrough capability.
- Best affordable starting point: The ByteWave, acer, XIIXMASK, Newhope, and similarly named USB 3.0 models target 1080p60 capture with 4K passthrough.
- Best for flexible resolution support: The Guermok and UGREEN models offer combinations of 4K, 2K, and 1080p support, but check the exact capture limit before buying.
Key Buying Factors for Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC
Passthrough Versus Capture Resolution
Passthrough is the signal sent onward to your monitor; capture resolution is what the PC records or streams. A card may pass through 4K while capturing at 1080p60. That is often a useful compromise, but do not assume 4K passthrough means 4K recording.
Refresh Rate and Latency
Competitive players should check passthrough refresh rates at their intended resolution. A 4K60 card may be fine for console gaming, while 4K120 or 4K144 support is more appropriate for high-refresh PC displays. Low-latency passthrough helps keep the monitor responsive, but your display, cables, and source device must support the same standard.
USB, PCIe, and Compatibility
USB 3.0 models are easy to move between computers, but they require a suitable high-speed port and a stable connection. Internal PCIe cards can offer a cleaner desktop installation and consistent bandwidth. Confirm operating-system support, recording software compatibility, HDCP handling, and the required HDMI version before purchase.
Audio and Setup Details
Check whether the card captures HDMI audio, supports microphone mixing, and works with your preferred software such as OBS Studio. You may also need certified HDMI cables, an available USB 3.0 port, or a monitor that supports the desired passthrough resolution and refresh rate.
Who Should Buy Which Capture Cards with Passthrough for PC?
Choose an affordable USB 3.0 model if you mainly stream or record at 1080p60 and want simple plug-and-play connectivity. Choose the UGREEN or Guermok type of option if you need more flexibility for 2K or 4K sources and have verified the specific capture limits. Choose the Elgato 4K Pro for a permanent desktop setup where an internal card makes sense. Choose the AVerMedia HDMI 2.1 model if preserving very high refresh rates and modern 4K gaming signals is more important than minimizing cost.