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Elgato 4K X
ElgatoRanked #1

Elgato 4K X

The ultimate external capture card for next-gen gaming. The Elgato 4K X features HDMI 2.1 with up to 4K144 HDR10 capture and passthrough, making it the only external card that handles the full output of PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X without compromise. VRR passthrough eliminates screen tearing while USB 3.2 Gen 2 ensures high-bandwidth transfer.

We may earn a commission when you buy through our links. Prices and availability shown are accurate as of Apr 1, 2026 and are subject to change; the merchant's price at purchase applies.

Our Verdict

The only external capture card with true 4K144 HDR10 capture and passthrough via HDMI 2.1. Handles the full output of PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X without compromise. VRR passthrough, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and the Elgato software ecosystem make it the undisputed best capture card available.

Score Breakdown

Capture Quality10/10
Passthrough10/10
Compatibility9/10
Build Quality9/10
Value7/10

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 4K144 HDR10 capture and passthrough via HDMI 2.1
  • VRR and ALLM passthrough for tear-free gaming
  • Works with PC, Mac, and iPad
  • Ultra-low latency with Instant Gameview
  • Compact and portable (91g)

Cons

  • Premium price at $249
  • Requires USB 3.2 Gen 2 for full performance
  • No standalone recording to SD card
  • High CPU/GPU requirements for 4K144 capture

Specifications

Max Capture4K @ 144fps
Max Passthrough4K @ 144fps HDR10
ConnectionUSB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C)
HDMI2.1
VRRYes
Weight91g

Quick Answers

What is the max capture of the Elgato 4K X?

Elgato 4K X max capture: 4K @ 144fps.

What is the max passthrough of the Elgato 4K X?

Elgato 4K X max passthrough: 4K @ 144fps HDR10.

What is the connection of the Elgato 4K X?

Elgato 4K X connection: USB 3.2 Gen 2 (Type-C).

What is the HDMI of the Elgato 4K X?

Elgato 4K X HDMI: 2.1.

What is the VRR of the Elgato 4K X?

Elgato 4K X VRR: Yes.

What is the weight of the Elgato 4K X?

Elgato 4K X weight: 91g.

How much does the Elgato 4K X cost?

The Elgato 4K X lists at $200 at Amazon as of April 1, 2026. Prices change often, so the merchant page shows the current figure.

Who is the Elgato 4K X for?

It suits next-gen 4K144 console streamers, pS5 Pro and Xbox Series X content creators, high-refresh competitive gaming capture. It is not the right pick for budget-conscious beginners, those without USB 3.2 Gen 2, users wanting standalone SD card recording.

Is the Elgato 4K X worth buying?

The ultimate external capture card for next-gen gaming. The Elgato 4K X features HDMI 2.1 with up to 4K144 HDR10 capture and passthrough, making it the only external card that handles the full output of PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X without compromise. VRR passthrough eliminates screen tearing while USB 3.2 Gen 2 ensures high-bandwidth transfer. It ranks #1 in our Top 5 Capture Cards. The only external capture card with true 4K144 HDR10 capture and passthrough via HDMI 2.1. Handles the full output of PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X without compromise. VRR passthrough, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and the Elgato software ecosystem make it the undisputed best capture card available.

Who Is This For?

Best For

  • Next-gen 4K144 console streamers
  • PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X content creators
  • High-refresh competitive gaming capture

Not For

  • Budget-conscious beginners
  • Those without USB 3.2 Gen 2
  • Users wanting standalone SD card recording

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