So why use a capture card to live stream? It helps reduce the load on your computer and stream at a high quality! If you are looking to live stream games using a console like PS5 or Xbox One, then your console may already have a built-in streaming capability. Using a capture card gives you better control over your live stream's video quality. It also becomes essential if you are using a DSLR/mirrorless camera or using a gaming console to live stream. However, when you use some of the best capture cards for streaming, it can sharply elevate your live streaming experience. You can live stream without a capture card, provided your camera has a compatible output port that can be connected to the device you use for streaming. Out of the box, you don't really need a capture card for live streaming. Do I need a capture card for live streaming? They simply facilitate data transmission from one device (a computer or phone) to another (a video player or platform). One key point to note here is that capture cards don't do data encoding. When you use a capture card, it takes the live feed and translates it into a language that the platform (YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitch, etc.) can decipher.
Often seen as a necessity for content creators who use a camera that outputs HDMI, HD-SDI, etc., a capture card recognizes the camera and records video to be replayed on various devices. It works by converting video signals into digital data and uploading it to the web. Let's get started! What is a Capture Card?Ī capture card is an input device that captures footage and streams it online.
This guide brings you a list of the 12 best capture cards for streaming. Whether you want to stream using a console, or you want to use a DSLR as a webcam, you'll need a capture card.īut with so many capture cards available, which one to buy? One such tool that's a must-have for every live streamer is a capture card. With the live streaming industry being stronger than ever, streamers need the right equipment to win the attention of their audience.