Streaming to Twitch is easy for PC games — you pretty much need to download Open Broadcaster Software and use its Game Capture mode. However, things get a bit trickier if you want to show off a game you're playing on an Xbox One, PlayStation 4, or Nintendo Switch. You'll need a capture card to connect your console to the computer you're using to stream. You might even want one to connect two computers to improve your recording quality. Whatever your needs, these options will help you share your gaming with your fans.
Ultrawide 4K
If you're playing on a large screen, you can still capture 4K video at up to 60 frames per second in an ultrawide resolution with almost no latency. The card also records 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound audio, so your footage with sound as good as it looks. A copy of CyberLink's PowerDirector 15 video editing software is included.
Audio mixing
4K 60 FPS pass-through allows the Razer Ripsaw HD to capture uninterrupted smooth gameplay, and it can also stream in full HD 1080p at 60 FPS. You can connect the device via HDMI 2.0 or USB 3.0 to remove latency and maximize the detail. The card also has full audio mixing capabilities so that you can receive sound from multiple sources and broadcast without a syncing delay.
Recording power
Record unlimited footage at 1080p60 at up to 60 megabits per second without putting too much strain on your CPU or creating massive files to store. You'll be able to stream to Twitch while simultaneously recording your gameplay, saving every aspect of your stream like your webcam and overlays separately so you can edit them together later easily.
Plug and play
The Elgato 4K60 Pro Mk.2 works right out of the box with most streaming software and lets you simultaneously capture video across multiple apps. Flashback recording means you don't have to worry about losing an awesome gameplay moment, and a video library makes it easy to organize your files. You can also add your voice as a separate commentary track to make editing easy.
Laptop compatible
The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra is an external capture card, meaning you can plug it into your laptop and still enjoy smooth recording in ultrawide resolution at up to 120 fps. The plug-and-play device provides a lag-free 4Kp60 video pass-through via an ultra-low-latency USB 3.1.
Flexible audio
This plug-and-play card has two HDMI and two 3.5 mm ports so you can record audio from your console or PC and utilize an audio mixer. The Live Gamer HD 2 supports up to eight cards so you can capture from multiple channels at the same time and choose between compressed or uncompressed video based on your bandwidth. Either way, you'll enjoy a smooth 1080p60 video.
Budget buy
If you're just starting to get serious about streaming, this is a perfect way to improve your channel without too big of an investment. You can set it up easily by plugging it into a PC or Mac with an HDMI cable and still get zero-latency pass-through without straining your CPU. It's also particularly suited to travel since it's small enough to fit in your pocket.
Stream on
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If you're getting serious about streaming on Twitch, you're going to need the right equipment. The AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K is one of the best you can buy since it captures 4K video and surround-sound audio with ultra-low latency.
For an exterior card that costs less, the Razer Ripsaw HD will still cover all your needs, providing smooth gameplay footage without hurting your experience playing.
Whatever your streaming needs, one of these devices should help you get the quality footage you need to make your channel look great and help you build your follower base.
