Key takeaways
- Pro: Lists 1080P240Hz passthrough for high-refresh gaming.
- Pro: Lists VRR passthrough and 4K60Hz support.
- Con: The provided specifications do not identify it as an internal PCIe card.
A dual-PC streaming setup can turn a desk into a cable-management puzzle fast: one computer runs the game, the other handles OBS, recording, chat, and stream controls. The capture card sits between them, and its passthrough connection matters just as much as its recording feed. If your gaming monitor is built for high refresh rates, a card that limits the display signal can make an otherwise polished setup feel like a downgrade.
For 2026, the strongest choice depends on whether you need HDMI 2.1-class console compatibility, 1080p60 capture for a straightforward two-PC desk, or simply an inexpensive way to bring a Switch, PS5, Xbox, camera, or DSLR into a streaming computer. These eight options are ranked by the passthrough and capture specifications provided, their intended use cases, and their prices—not by unlisted dimensions, weights, or performance claims.
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Quick Picks
| Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| DiamondTiger 4K60Hz 1080P240Hz Video Capture Card VRR Passthrough PS5 PC | High-refresh PS5 and PC gaming setups | $99.99 |
| AVerMedia GC575 Live Gamer 4K 2.1 | Premium internal PCIe dual-PC builds | $208.3 |
| 3rd Gen Dual Full HD USB3.0 4K Pass Through Capture Card | OBS-focused 1080p60 streaming | $129.99 |
| DiamondTiger 4K60Hz Capture Card 1080P240Hz VRR Passthrough PS5 Xbox | High-refresh console passthrough | $99.99 |
| USB 3.0 HDMI Video Capture Card for Switch 2 PS5 Xbox 1080P 60FPS Streaming | Low-cost console streaming | $35.99 |
| USB 3.0 HDMI Video Capture Card for Switch 2 PS5 Xbox DSLR Streaming | Console and DSLR capture on a budget | $35.99 |
| Newhope USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card | Basic 1080p60 capture with 4K passthrough | $24.99 |
| CENMATE Aluminum HDMI Capture Card | Streaming, meetings, and camera use | $27.99 |
How We Picked
For a dual-PC capture card, the first priority is preserving the gaming display experience. We favored models that specifically list 4K60 passthrough, 1080p240Hz passthrough, VRR passthrough, or HDMI 2.1 support over basic 1080p60 capture devices. A card can be perfectly usable for a casual stream while still being a poor fit for someone who plays at a high refresh rate.
Next, we considered capture targets and setup type. Internal PCIe hardware is best suited to a dedicated streaming desktop with an available expansion slot, while USB 3.0 models make more sense for flexible desks, laptops, and simple console-to-OBS workflows. Finally, price matters: this list spans $24.99 to $208.3, so there is a substantial difference between an entry-level capture accessory and a long-term centerpiece for a premium dual-PC room.
The 8 Best Picks
1. DiamondTiger 4K60Hz 1080P240Hz Video Capture Card VRR Passthrough PS5 PC
This DiamondTiger is the best overall fit for a gamer who wants a two-PC capture arrangement without giving up a high-refresh gaming display. Its listed 4K60Hz and 1080P240Hz VRR passthrough specifications are especially relevant for PS5 and PC players who prioritize the monitor feed while sending gameplay to a separate capture system. At $99.99, it sits well below the premium PCIe option while targeting the features that matter most for fast-play setups.
- Pro: Lists 1080P240Hz passthrough for high-refresh gaming.
- Pro: Lists VRR passthrough and 4K60Hz support.
- Con: The provided specifications do not identify it as an internal PCIe card.
Skip it if your main goal is a named internal card for a permanent desktop build or if 1080p60 capture is all you need.
2. AVerMedia GC575 Live Gamer 4K 2.1
The AVerMedia GC575 Live Gamer 4K 2.1 is the premium pick for a dedicated streaming PC with an available PCIe slot. It is explicitly described as an HDMI 2.1 internal PCIe capture card with 4K60 recording and ultra-low latency, and it supports a broad console list including PS5, PS4 Pro, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X, and Switch. At $208.3, it is the most expensive choice here, but it is also the clearest match for a polished, permanently installed dual-PC setup.
- Pro: Internal PCIe design suits a dedicated streaming desktop.
- Pro: HDMI 2.1 and 4K60 recording are specifically listed.
- Con: Its $208.3 price is substantially higher than every USB option here.
Skip it if you need a portable USB capture device or are building around a strict sub-$100 budget.
3. 3rd Gen Dual Full HD USB3.0 4K Pass Through Capture Card
This 3rd Gen Dual Full HD USB3.0 model is a focused choice for streamers who want an OBS-certified device and plan to stream or record at 1080P@60Hz. It lists 4K passthrough and ultra-low latency, plus compatibility with PS5, PS4, Xbox Series, Xbox One, Switch, Switch OLED, and SteamDeck. At $129.99, it costs more than the DiamondTiger high-refresh options, so its appeal is less about the lowest price and more about its stated OBS-oriented positioning.
- Pro: Certified for OBS stream and recording use.
- Pro: Lists 4K passthrough with 1080P@60Hz capture.
- Con: Its stated capture target is 1080P@60Hz, not 4K60 capture.
Skip it if your priority is explicitly listed 1080P240Hz passthrough or an internal PCIe installation.
4. DiamondTiger 4K60Hz Capture Card 1080P240Hz VRR Passthrough PS5 Xbox
The second DiamondTiger listing is a strong alternative for console-centered desks, particularly PS5 and Xbox players who want 4K60Hz capability alongside 1080P240Hz VRR passthrough. Its $99.99 price matches the first DiamondTiger, making it one of the more accessible routes to a high-refresh-oriented passthrough specification. Choose between the two DiamondTiger options based on the devices named in the listing and the connections that best match your own gaming and streaming layout.
- Pro: Lists 4K60Hz capability for modern console setups.
- Pro: Lists 1080P240Hz VRR passthrough.
- Con: The provided details do not list an OBS certification.
Skip it if you only need basic 1080p60 capture and would rather spend $35.99 or less.
5. USB 3.0 HDMI Video Capture Card for Switch 2 PS5 Xbox 1080P 60FPS Streaming
At $35.99, this USB 3.0 HDMI capture card is a practical budget choice for console owners who want to stream at 1080P 60FPS. It is aimed directly at Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox use, making it easy to place in a basic console-to-computer workflow. It does not list high-refresh passthrough or VRR support, so it should be treated as an affordable capture tool rather than a solution for players determined to preserve a 120Hz or 240Hz display path.
- Pro: Specifically positioned for Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox.
- Pro: Lists 1080P 60FPS streaming over USB 3.0.
- Con: No high-refresh passthrough specification is provided.
Skip it if high-refresh passthrough is nonnegotiable or if you need a capture card expressly positioned for camera use.
6. USB 3.0 HDMI Video Capture Card for Switch 2 PS5 Xbox DSLR Streaming
This $35.99 USB 3.0 HDMI capture card earns its place for multipurpose desks where a console and DSLR may share the same streaming computer. Its listing names Switch 2, PS5, Xbox, and DSLR streaming, giving it broader source flexibility than the console-only budget alternative. That makes it a sensible entry-level choice for a creator who occasionally wants a camera feed without committing to a more expensive internal card.
- Pro: Lists support use for both game consoles and DSLR streaming.
- Pro: USB 3.0 format suits a simple external setup.
- Con: No capture resolution or high-refresh passthrough figure is listed.
Skip it if you need clearly stated 1080P 60FPS capture or 4K passthrough specifications before buying.
7. Newhope USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card
The Newhope USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card is the value pick for buyers who want listed 1080P 60FPS capture and 4K pass-through at the lowest price in this roundup: $24.99. It is a straightforward fit for an uncomplicated PS5, Xbox, Switch, camera, or PC capture task where the goal is getting a reliable-looking signal into streaming software rather than building a high-refresh gaming station. Its listed specifications are easy to understand and align well with basic streaming needs.
- Pro: Lists 1080P 60FPS capture.
- Pro: Lists 4K pass-through at a $24.99 price.
- Con: VRR and 1080P240Hz passthrough are not listed.
Skip it if your gaming monitor needs explicitly stated high-refresh or VRR passthrough support.
8. CENMATE Aluminum HDMI Capture Card
The CENMATE Aluminum HDMI Capture Card is the best low-cost all-purpose choice for creators who split time between gaming, video conferencing, and camera work. It lists USB 3.0, 1080P 60FPS capture, 4K@30Hz input and pass-through, and compatibility use with Nintendo Switch, PS5, Xbox, camera, and PC. At $27.99, it is only slightly more than the Newhope while offering a clearly stated 4K@30Hz passthrough figure and an aluminum housing.
- Pro: Lists 1080P 60FPS capture through USB 3.0.
- Pro: Designed for gaming, streaming, video conferences, and camera use.
- Con: Its listed 4K pass-through figure is 4K@30Hz.
Skip it if you play high-refresh competitive games and need 4K60 or 1080P240Hz passthrough.
Buying Guide
Prioritize the Passthrough Signal
Passthrough is the signal that continues to your gaming display. For a high-refresh monitor, look for explicitly stated 1080P240Hz passthrough and VRR support, as listed on the two DiamondTiger options. For a 4K television or monitor, 4K60 passthrough is the more relevant number. A 4K@30Hz passthrough specification may be sufficient for a camera or conference desk, but it is not the same fit for fast console gaming.
Match Capture Resolution to Your Stream Plan
Many streamers do not need 4K capture. The 1080P@60Hz and 1080P 60FPS options here are appropriate for common streaming and recording workflows. The AVerMedia GC575 stands apart by listing 4K60 recording. If you mainly want the game to look great on your own display while the stream runs at 1080p60, a card with strong passthrough may be more valuable than paying for capture capabilities you will not use.
Choose PCIe or USB 3.0 for Your Room
PCIe makes sense when the streaming computer is a desktop that will stay in place. The AVerMedia is the sole explicitly internal PCIe option in this list. USB 3.0 models are better suited to flexible setups, including desks where the capture device may move between a gaming PC, console, laptop, DSLR, or camera. Before ordering, confirm that your streaming computer has the needed USB 3.0 connection or an open PCIe slot.
Our Verdict
For the best dual-PC capture card with passthrough high refresh rate, choose the DiamondTiger 4K60Hz 1080P240Hz Video Capture Card VRR Passthrough PS5 PC. At $99.99, its listed 4K60Hz, 1080P240Hz, and VRR passthrough features directly address the display-side compromise that can undermine a dual-PC setup. Choose the AVerMedia GC575 instead if you want an HDMI 2.1 internal PCIe card with listed 4K60 recording and accept the $208.3 price. For basic 1080p60 capture at the lowest cost, the $24.99 Newhope is the clear value selection.
FAQ
What is the best choice for a 240Hz gaming monitor?
The two DiamondTiger cards are the only options in this list that specifically state 1080P240Hz passthrough. Both are priced at $99.99 and also list VRR passthrough.
Do I need a 4K capture card to stream from a PS5 or Xbox?
Not necessarily. A 1080P 60FPS or 1080P@60Hz capture card can be enough for many streams. The key is distinguishing capture resolution from passthrough resolution, especially if you want a 4K display feed.
Is an internal PCIe capture card better than USB 3.0?
Neither format is automatically better. PCIe suits a permanent streaming desktop, while USB 3.0 is more flexible for movable or multi-device setups. The AVerMedia GC575 is the internal PCIe option listed here.
Which is the least expensive capture card with 4K pass-through?
The Newhope USB 3.0 HDMI Capture Card is priced at $24.99 and lists 4K pass-through with 1080P 60FPS capture. The CENMATE costs $27.99 and lists 4K@30Hz input and pass-through.
