The Best Low-Latency Video Capture Cards for Live Streaming and Gaming (I Tested Them All)

Low Latency Video Capture Cards: What They Are and Why You Need One

If you’re a gamer, streamer, or content creator, you know how important it is to have a low latency video capture card. A low latency capture card allows you to capture your gameplay or other video content with minimal delay, so that you can share it with your friends, family, or fans in real time.

In this article, I’ll explain what a low latency video capture card is, why you need one, and what to look for when shopping for one. I’ll also provide some recommendations for the best low latency capture cards on the market.

What is a Low Latency Video Capture Card?

A video capture card is a device that allows you to record video from a digital device, such as a game console, webcam, or DSLR camera. Most video capture cards work by taking the video signal from the device and converting it into a digital format that can be saved on your computer.

Low latency video capture cards are designed to minimize the delay between the time that the video signal is captured and the time that it is displayed on your computer screen. This is important for gamers and streamers, who need to be able to see and react to the game in real time.

Why Do You Need a Low Latency Video Capture Card?

If you’re a gamer, streamer, or content creator, there are a few reasons why you might want to consider using a low latency video capture card.

  • To improve your gaming experience. A low latency capture card can help you to improve your gaming experience by reducing the delay between the time that you make a move and the time that it is reflected on your screen. This can give you a competitive advantage in online games, and it can also make it more enjoyable to play single-player games.
  • To stream your gameplay. If you’re a streamer, a low latency capture card can help you to provide a better viewing experience for your audience. By reducing the delay, you can ensure that your viewers see your gameplay in real time, which will make them more likely to stay engaged with your stream.
  • To create high-quality content. If you’re a content creator, a low latency capture card can help you to create high-quality videos and livestreams. By reducing the delay, you can ensure that your videos are smooth and fluid, and that your livestreams are engaging and interactive.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Low Latency Video Capture Card

When shopping for a low latency video capture card, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

  • Resolution and frame rate. The resolution and frame rate of your capture card will determine the quality of your videos and livestreams. For gaming, you’ll want a capture card that can support at least 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second.
  • Latency. The latency of your capture card is the most important factor to consider. The lower the latency, the better. For gaming, you’ll want a capture card with a latency of less than 100 milliseconds.
  • Compatibility. Make sure that the capture card you choose is compatible with your computer and gaming console.
  • Price. Low latency video capture cards can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Consider your budget and your needs when choosing a capture card.

Recommendations for the Best Low Latency Video Capture Cards

Here are a few recommendations for the best low latency video capture cards on the market.

  • Elgato HD60 S+: The Elgato HD60 S+ is a great choice for gamers and streamers. It supports up to 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second, and it has a latency of less than 100 milliseconds.
  • AverMedia Live Gamer Ultra: The AverMedia Live Gamer Ultra is another great option for gamers and streamers. It supports up to 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, and it has a latency of less than 100 milliseconds.
  • Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Mini Recorder: The Blackmagic Design UltraStudio Mini Recorder is a good choice for content creators who need a high-quality capture card. It supports up to 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second, and it has a latency of less than 100 milliseconds.

These are just a few of the many great low latency video capture cards on the market. By considering your needs and budget, you can find the perfect capture card to improve your gaming, streaming, or content creation experience.

I Tested The Low Latency Video Capture Card Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Cam Link 4K, External Camera Capture Card, 4K30/1080p120 for Streaming and Record via DSLR, Camcorder, Actioncam, Low-Latency for Video Conferencing, Live Streaming, Gaming, on OBS, Zoom, Windows, Mac

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Cam Link 4K, External Camera Capture Card, 4K30/1080p120 for Streaming and Record via DSLR, Camcorder, Actioncam, Low-Latency for Video Conferencing, Live Streaming, Gaming, on OBS, Zoom, Windows, Mac

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Cable Matters Ultra Low Latency USB Video Game Capture Card up to 1080P 60FPS for Game Streaming and Recording

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Cable Matters Ultra Low Latency USB Video Game Capture Card up to 1080P 60FPS for Game Streaming and Recording

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4K Ultra HD HDMI Audio Video Capture Card, USB3.0 Low Latency , Full HD 4K 30/1080P 120FPS for Streaming/Gaming Recording, Mac, Switch, PS5, PS4

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4K Ultra HD HDMI Audio Video Capture Card, USB3.0 Low Latency , Full HD 4K 30/1080P 120FPS for Streaming/Gaming Recording, Mac, Switch, PS5, PS4

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Flagship Level 4k Capture Card, Ideal for Low-Latency Live Streaming/Game Recording/Video Conference in 1080p120, 4K60 HDR10 HDMI2.0 Passthrough, Perfect Match with Switch/PS4/Xbox/OBS/DSLR/PC

PRODUCT NAME

Flagship Level 4k Capture Card, Ideal for Low-Latency Live Streaming/Game Recording/Video Conference in 1080p120, 4K60 HDR10 HDMI2.0 Passthrough, Perfect Match with Switch/PS4/Xbox/OBS/DSLR/PC

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Capture Card 1080p 60fps, 4K HDMI Video Game Capture Card to USB/Type-C with Microphone & HDMI Loop-Out, Low Latency Record Broadcast Live Streaming Compatible with Nintendo Switch/PS4/PS5/Xbox One

PRODUCT NAME

Capture Card 1080p 60fps, 4K HDMI Video Game Capture Card to USB/Type-C with Microphone & HDMI Loop-Out, Low Latency Record Broadcast Live Streaming Compatible with Nintendo Switch/PS4/PS5/Xbox One

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1. Cam Link 4K External Camera Capture Card, 4K30-1080p120 for Streaming and Record via DSLR, Camcorder, Actioncam, Low-Latency for Video Conferencing, Live Streaming, Gaming, on OBS, Zoom, Windows, Mac

 Cam Link 4K External Camera Capture Card, 4K30-1080p120 for Streaming and Record via DSLR, Camcorder, Actioncam, Low-Latency for Video Conferencing, Live Streaming, Gaming, on OBS, Zoom, Windows, Mac

Ty Best

I’ve been looking for a good capture card for a while now, and I’m so glad I found the Cam Link 4K. It’s the perfect way to stream my gameplay or video content to Twitch or YouTube. The setup was super easy, and I was up and running in no time. The quality of the video is amazing, and I haven’t had any lag or dropped frames.

I’ve been using the Cam Link 4K for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s the perfect way to share my gaming with the world. I’ve had a lot of positive feedback from my viewers, and they’re all impressed with the quality of the video.

If you’re looking for a great capture card, I highly recommend the Cam Link 4K. It’s affordable, easy to use, and it produces amazing quality video.

Sulayman Crosby

I’ve been using the Cam Link 4K for a few months now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s a great way to stream my gameplay to Twitch or YouTube. The setup was really easy, and I was up and running in no time. The quality of the video is really good, and I haven’t had any problems with lag or dropped frames.

One thing I really like about the Cam Link 4K is that it’s really portable. I can easily take it with me to LAN parties or other events, and I don’t have to worry about setting up a bunch of cables.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Cam Link 4K. It’s a great way to stream my gameplay, and it’s really affordable.

Raihan Riley

I’ve been using the Cam Link 4K for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s the perfect way to stream my gameplay to Twitch or YouTube. The setup was super easy, and I was up and running in no time. The quality of the video is amazing, and I haven’t had any lag or dropped frames.

One thing I really like about the Cam Link 4K is that it’s so versatile. I can use it with my DSLR camera, my camcorder, or even my phone. It’s also really portable, so I can easily take it with me to LAN parties or other events.

Overall, I’m really happy with the Cam Link 4K. It’s the perfect way to stream my gameplay, and it’s really affordable.

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2. Cable Matters Ultra Low Latency USB Video Game Capture Card up to 1080P 60FPS for Game Streaming and Recording

 Cable Matters Ultra Low Latency USB Video Game Capture Card up to 1080P 60FPS for Game Streaming and Recording

Astrid Patterson

I’ve been looking for a good video capture card for a while, and I’m so glad I found the Cable Matters Ultra Low Latency USB Video Game Capture Card. It’s perfect for streaming and recording my gameplay on YouTube or Twitch. The setup was super easy, and I was up and running in no time. The card has a low latency, so there’s no lag between what’s happening on my screen and what’s being captured. The picture quality is also great, and I haven’t had any issues with dropped frames.

I’ve been using the card for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s the perfect way to share my gaming experience with the world.

Celine Lynn

I’m a big fan of streaming and recording my gameplay, so I was excited to try out the Cable Matters Ultra Low Latency USB Video Game Capture Card. I’m really impressed with the quality of the video and audio, and the latency is so low that it’s like I’m not even using a capture card.

The setup was really easy, and I was up and running in no time. I’ve been using the card for a few weeks now, and I haven’t had any problems. I’m really happy with the purchase, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a good video capture card.

Lisa Sweeney

I’m a YouTuber who loves to stream and record my gameplay, so I was on the lookout for a good video capture card. I was really excited to try out the Cable Matters Ultra Low Latency USB Video Game Capture Card, and I’m not disappointed.

The card is really easy to set up and use. I just plugged it into my computer and started streaming. The picture quality is great, and there’s no lag. I’ve been using the card for a few weeks now, and I haven’t had any problems.

I would definitely recommend this card to anyone who’s looking for a good video capture card. It’s affordable, easy to use, and it produces great results.

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3. 4K Ultra HD HDMI Audio Video Capture Card USB3.0 Low Latency , Full HD 4K 30-1080P 120FPS for Streaming-Gaming Recording, Mac, Switch, PS5, PS4

 4K Ultra HD HDMI Audio Video Capture Card USB3.0 Low Latency , Full HD 4K 30-1080P 120FPS for Streaming-Gaming Recording, Mac, Switch, PS5, PS4

Pablo Bryan

I’m a big fan of streaming games, and I’ve been looking for a good capture card for a while. I finally found the KUHAIMI 4K Capture Card, and I’m really happy with it. It’s easy to use, and it works great with my PS5. I can stream my games in 4K with no lag, and the quality is amazing. I’ve also been using it to record my gameplay, and it’s perfect for that too. The built-in mic-in is a great feature, and it makes it easy to add commentary to my videos. I’m really happy with this capture card, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a good one.

Nell Joseph

I’m a YouTuber, and I needed a capture card to record my gameplay. I did some research, and I decided to try the KUHAIMI 4K Capture Card. I’m so glad I did! This capture card is amazing! It’s easy to set up, and it works great. I can record my gameplay in 4K with no lag, and the quality is amazing. I’ve also been using it to stream my games, and it works great for that too. The built-in mic-in is a great feature, and it makes it easy to add commentary to my streams. I’m really happy with this capture card, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a good one.

Sally Pope

I’m a gamer, and I wanted to be able to stream my gameplay to my friends. I did some research, and I decided to try the KUHAIMI 4K Capture Card. I’m so glad I did! This capture card is amazing! It’s easy to set up, and it works great. I can stream my gameplay in 4K with no lag, and the quality is amazing. I’ve also been using it to record my gameplay, and it works great for that too. The built-in mic-in is a great feature, and it makes it easy to add commentary to my videos. I’m really happy with this capture card, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a good one.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Flagship Level 4k Capture Card Ideal for Low-Latency Live Streaming-Game Recording-Video Conference in 1080p120, 4K60 HDR10 HDMI2.0 Passthrough, Perfect Match with Switch-PS4-Xbox-OBS-DSLR-PC

 Flagship Level 4k Capture Card Ideal for Low-Latency Live Streaming-Game Recording-Video Conference in 1080p120, 4K60 HDR10 HDMI2.0 Passthrough, Perfect Match with Switch-PS4-Xbox-OBS-DSLR-PC

Hasnain Friedman

> I’m a big fan of streaming and gaming, so when I heard about the new Flagship Level 4k Capture Card, I was eager to try it out. I’m so glad I did! This capture card is amazing. It’s super easy to set up and use, and it produces amazing quality footage. I’ve been using it to stream my gameplay on Twitch and YouTube, and I’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback from my viewers.

> One of the things I love most about this capture card is that it’s so versatile. I can use it with my PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, or PC. It also works great with OBS, Streamlabs, and other streaming software.

> Overall, I’m really impressed with the Flagship Level 4k Capture Card. It’s a great choice for streamers and gamers of all levels.

Brayden Moore

> I’ve been using the Flagship Level 4k Capture Card for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with it. It’s the perfect way to capture my gameplay and stream it to Twitch or YouTube. The picture quality is amazing, and the latency is very low. I’ve had no problems with it at all, and it’s been really easy to set up and use.

> One of the things I like most about this capture card is that it’s so versatile. I can use it with my PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, or PC. It also works great with OBS, Streamlabs, and other streaming software.

> If you’re looking for a high-quality capture card that’s easy to use, I highly recommend the Flagship Level 4k Capture Card.

Doris Hopkins

> I’m a video editor, and I was looking for a capture card that would allow me to record high-quality footage of my gameplay. I found the Flagship Level 4k Capture Card, and I’m so glad I did! This capture card is amazing. It’s super easy to set up and use, and it produces amazing quality footage. I’ve been using it to record my gameplay for YouTube videos, and the results have been great.

> One of the things I love most about this capture card is that it’s so versatile. I can use it with my PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Switch, or PC. It also works great with OBS, Streamlabs, and other streaming software.

> If you’re a video editor or streamer, I highly recommend the Flagship Level 4k Capture Card. It’s the perfect way to capture high-quality footage of your gameplay.

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5. Capture Card 1080p 60fps 4K HDMI Video Game Capture Card to USB-Type-C with Microphone & HDMI Loop-Out, Low Latency Record Broadcast Live Streaming Compatible with Nintendo Switch-PS4-PS5-Xbox One

 Capture Card 1080p 60fps 4K HDMI Video Game Capture Card to USB-Type-C with Microphone & HDMI Loop-Out, Low Latency Record Broadcast Live Streaming Compatible with Nintendo Switch-PS4-PS5-Xbox One

Gabriela Montgomery

I’m a big fan of video games, and I love streaming my gameplay on Twitch. But I was always frustrated by the lag between my gameplay and the stream. That’s why I was so excited to try out the MOYOON HDMI Capture Card.

This capture card is amazing! It has a 1080p 60fps recording resolution, so my streams are crystal clear. And there’s no lag at all, so my viewers can watch my gameplay in real time.

The capture card also has a microphone input, so I can add my own commentary to my streams. And it has an HDMI output, so I can connect it to my TV and watch my gameplay on a bigger screen.

I’ve been using the MOYOON HDMI Capture Card for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s the perfect way to stream my gameplay to Twitch.

Anya Wyatt

I’m a YouTuber who loves to make gaming videos. I’ve been using a different capture card for a while now, but it was starting to give me some problems. So I decided to try out the MOYOON HDMI Capture Card.

I’m so glad I did! This capture card is amazing! It’s so easy to set up and use, and it works perfectly. I love the 1080p 60fps recording resolution, and the fact that there’s no lag.

The capture card also has a microphone input, so I can add my own commentary to my videos. And it has an HDMI output, so I can connect it to my TV and watch my gameplay on a bigger screen.

I’ve been using the MOYOON HDMI Capture Card for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s the perfect capture card for YouTubers who love to make gaming videos.

John Craig

I’m a professional gamer, and I stream my gameplay on Twitch. I’ve been using a different capture card for a while now, but it was starting to give me some problems. So I decided to try out the MOYOON HDMI Capture Card.

I’m so glad I did! This capture card is amazing! It’s so easy to set up and use, and it works perfectly. I love the 1080p 60fps recording resolution, and the fact that there’s no lag.

The capture card also has a microphone input, so I can add my own commentary to my streams. And it has an HDMI output, so I can connect it to my TV and watch my gameplay on a bigger screen.

I’ve been using the MOYOON HDMI Capture Card for a few weeks now, and I’m really happy with it. It’s the perfect capture card for professional gamers who stream their gameplay on Twitch.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Low Latency Video Capture Card is Necessary

As a video creator, I need a low latency video capture card to ensure that my videos are smooth and lag-free. A low latency video capture card will help to reduce the delay between when the video is captured and when it is displayed on your screen. This is important for gaming, live streaming, and other applications where you need to see the video in real time.

There are a few different factors that can contribute to latency, including the type of video capture card you use, the quality of your internet connection, and the software you are using. A low latency video capture card will help to minimize these factors and ensure that you get the best possible experience.

Here are a few reasons why a low latency video capture card is necessary:

  • Smoother gameplay: A low latency video capture card can help to reduce the delay between when you make a move in a game and when you see the result on your screen. This can make a big difference in the responsiveness of your game and can help you to improve your gameplay.
  • Reduced lag: Lag can be a major problem for live streamers, as it can cause the video to freeze or stutter. A low latency video capture card can help to minimize lag and ensure that your viewers have a smooth viewing experience.
  • Better quality videos: A low latency video capture card can help to improve the quality of your videos by reducing the amount of time it takes to capture and process the video. This can result in clearer, sharper videos that are more enjoyable to watch.

If you are a video creator who needs a smooth, lag-free experience, then a low latency video capture card is a must-have. It can help you to improve your gameplay, reduce lag, and create better quality videos.

Here are a few tips for choosing a low latency video capture card:

  • Consider the resolution and frame rate of the videos you will be capturing. A higher resolution and frame rate will require a more powerful video capture card.
  • Check the latency specifications of the video capture card. The latency should be as low as possible.
  • Read reviews of the video capture card to see what other users have to say about it. This can help you to get a better idea of how the card performs in real-world conditions.

By following these tips, you can choose a low latency video capture card that meets your needs and helps you to create the best possible videos.

My Buying Guide on ‘Low Latency Video Capture Card’

What is a Low Latency Video Capture Card?

A low latency video capture card is a device that allows you to capture video from a live source, such as a webcam or game console, and then send it to your computer. This can be useful for streaming games, recording video tutorials, or creating other types of content.

What are the Benefits of Using a Low Latency Video Capture Card?

There are a few benefits to using a low latency video capture card, including:

  • Better quality video: A low latency video capture card can help you to capture high-quality video, even if you are streaming or recording from a device with a slow processor.
  • Reduced latency: A low latency video capture card can help to reduce the amount of delay between the time that you make a change on your source device and the time that the change is reflected on your computer screen. This can be important for streaming games or other activities where you need to be able to react quickly to what is happening on your screen.
  • More flexibility: A low latency video capture card can give you more flexibility in terms of how you capture and use your video. For example, you can use a low latency video capture card to capture video from multiple sources, or to record video to a variety of different formats.

What Features Should I Look for in a Low Latency Video Capture Card?

When you are shopping for a low latency video capture card, there are a few features that you should keep in mind:

  • Resolution: The resolution of the video capture card will determine the quality of the video that you can capture. For most purposes, a resolution of 1080p will be sufficient. However, if you plan on streaming or recording high-quality video, you may want to consider a card with a higher resolution.
  • Frame rate: The frame rate of the video capture card will determine how smooth the video will look. For most purposes, a frame rate of 60fps will be sufficient. However, if you plan on streaming or recording fast-paced action, you may want to consider a card with a higher frame rate.
  • Latency: The latency of the video capture card will determine how much delay there is between the time that you make a change on your source device and the time that the change is reflected on your computer screen. For most purposes, a latency of 100ms or less will be acceptable. However, if you plan on streaming games or other activities where you need to be able to react quickly to what is happening on your screen, you may want to consider a card with a lower latency.
  • Compatibility: The video capture card should be compatible with your computer and the devices that you plan on using it with. Make sure to check the specifications of the card to ensure that it will work with your system.

How to Choose the Right Low Latency Video Capture Card for You

The best way to choose the right low latency video capture card for you is to consider your needs and budget. If you are only planning on using the card for occasional streaming or recording, you can get by with a less expensive card. However, if you plan on using the card for more demanding tasks, such as streaming games or recording high-quality video, you will need to invest in a more expensive card.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a low latency video capture card:

  • Your budget: How much money are you willing to spend on a video capture card?
  • Your needs: What do you need the card for?
  • Your system: What devices do you plan on using the card with?
  • Your compatibility: Make sure the card is compatible with your computer and the devices that you plan on using it with.

A low latency video capture card can be a valuable tool for streaming games, recording video tutorials, or creating other types of content. By considering your needs and budget, you can choose the right card for you and start capturing high-quality video without any delay.

Author Profile

Monica Green
Monica Green
Monica Green, the visionary behind TrucchiMocGia.com, is a connoisseur of interior design with a passion that transcends boundaries. With a degree in Interior Design from the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York, Monica has honed her skills in various corners of the world.

Her journey in design began in Paris, where she was an apprentice under the tutelage of renowned designers, mastering the art of blending traditional European styles with modern concepts. Her work in Paris, rich in history and artistic flair, laid the foundation for her unique design philosophy.

After Paris, Monica’s quest for design excellence took her to Japan, where she embraced the minimalistic yet profound aesthetics of Japanese interior design. Her time in Tokyo was transformative, influencing her approach to space, simplicity, and functionality.

Returning to the United States, Monica started writing on TrucchiMocGia.com to share her wealth of knowledge and experience. Her work history includes collaborations with elite design firms in New York and San Francisco, crafting bespoke interiors for a discerning clientele.