10 Best Capture Cards With HDR10 Passthrough in 2026 for Smooth 4K Gaming

A capture card with HDR10 passthrough lets you record or stream gameplay without giving up the bright highlights, rich contrast, and smooth refresh rates your display supports.

We compare 10 options for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC setups, including USB and internal models with 4K, HDMI 2.1, high-refresh, and low-latency features.

Best 10 Capture Card with Hdr10 Passthrough Picks for 2026

Best Plug-and-Play Pick – ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30

The ASUS TUF Gaming CU4K30 is a practical capture card with HDR10 passthrough for console and PC streamers who want straightforward setup. It passes through up to 4K HDR at 60Hz while capturing up to 4K at 30fps, with lower-resolution modes supporting higher frame rates.

Best For: Gamers seeking easy USB setup, OBS compatibility, and flexible 4K, 1440p, or 1080p capture.

Pros:

• Supports up to 4K HDR passthrough at 60Hz.
• Captures up to 4K30, 1440p60, or 1080p120.
• Plug-and-play UVC and certified OBS Studio compatibility simplify setup.
• Headset and controller connections support shared team audio.

Cons:

• Requires a USB 3.2 Type-C port capable of handling the selected resolution and frame rate.
• 4K capture is limited to 30fps.

Its alloy housing, near-zero-latency design, and broad console compatibility make it a well-rounded choice for creators who prioritize convenience over 4K60 capture.

Best High-Refresh Option – AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1

The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra 2.1 is a high-end capture card with HDR10 passthrough for modern HDMI 2.1 gaming setups. It supports 4K144 HDR and VRR passthrough, while compatible Windows systems can capture up to 4K144 in MJPEG.

Best For: High-refresh PC and console gamers who need HDMI 2.1 passthrough, VRR, party chat, and advanced audio support.

Pros:

• Passes through up to 4K144 HDR/VRR, 1440p240, or 1080p360.
• Windows capture supports up to 4K144 MJPEG on compatible systems.
• USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C works with Windows, Mac, and iPad.
• Supports party chat and 5.1-channel audio in compatible Windows workflows.

Cons:

• macOS capture is limited to 4K60.
• Displays using DSC may limit 4K passthrough to 4K120.
• High-resolution performance depends on compatible hardware and software.

With HDMI 2.1, VRR, high-refresh passthrough, and flexible device support, this is the strongest fit for users building a current-generation, high-performance streaming setup.

Best Internal PCIe Card – Elgato 4K Pro

The Elgato 4K Pro is an internal capture card with HDR10 passthrough designed for Windows desktop streaming systems. Its HDMI 2.1 connectivity supports 8K60 passthrough, 4K60 HDR10 capture, and high-frame-rate recording up to 1080p240.

Best For: Windows desktop users who want an internal card for dual-PC streaming, 4K60 HDR10 capture, and high-refresh gameplay.

Pros:

• Supports 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 HDR10 capture.
• HDMI 2.1 handles up to 1080p240 recording.
• VRR passthrough and ultra-low latency support smooth gameplay.
• Works with OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Zoom, Teams, and other apps.

Cons:

• Requires a Windows 10 computer with an available PCIe slot.
• Its internal design is less convenient for laptops or portable setups.
• Supplied specifications list 1080p as the video capture resolution despite the 4K60 capture highlight.

This card makes the most sense in a capable Windows desktop, particularly for creators who want HDMI 2.1 bandwidth and a dual-PC streaming workflow without adding an external USB device.

Best Value 4K60 Passthrough – AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra

The AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra is a compact capture card with HDR10 passthrough for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and other HDMI gaming setups. It passes through 4K60 HDR while capturing up to 4K30, 1440p60, or 1080p120.

Best For: Console streamers who want 4K60 HDR passthrough, low-latency gameplay, and support for Windows or macOS.

Pros:

• Supports 4K60 HDR passthrough.
• Captures up to 4K30, 1440p60, or 1080p120.
• USB Type-C connectivity and compact construction suit flexible setups.
• Designed for virtually latency-free monitoring of uncompressed video.

Cons:

• 4K recording is limited to 30fps.
• HDR or high-frame-rate recording requires a supported NVIDIA graphics card according to the supplied notes.
• System requirements vary between Windows and macOS configurations.

Although it lacks the newer HDMI 2.1 features of the latest models, the GC553 remains a sensible choice when 4K HDR passthrough and reliable 4K30 capture are the main priorities.

Best Overall – OREI 4K60 HDR10 Capture Card

If you want a capture card with HDR10 passthrough that also supports high-refresh gaming, the OREI VC-4K60 is a versatile option. It accepts up to 4K at 60Hz and can capture up to 4K at 60Hz, while supporting VRR at 1080p and 120/240Hz capture modes.

Best For: Gamers, streamers, and creators who want HDR10 passthrough, VRR support, and broad Windows, macOS, and Linux compatibility.

Pros:

• Supports 4K60 input and capture
• HDR10 passthrough and VRR support
• UVC/UAC compatibility works with OBS and other streaming software
• Plug-and-play USB 3.0 setup with no external power

Cons:

• The supplied details do not state minimum system requirements
• High-resolution capture may require a capable computer and storage setup

With its combination of 4K60 capture, HDR10 passthrough, VRR, and multi-platform support, the OREI is the strongest all-around choice in this group for demanding gaming and streaming setups.

Best Premium Pick – Elgato 4K S Capture Card

The Elgato 4K S is a polished choice for a capture card with HDR10 passthrough, especially if you use a current console and want high-refresh passthrough. It captures in 4K60 and supports passthrough at 1440p120 or 1080p240, with HDR10 support and tone mapping on Windows.

Best For: PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Switch 2 users who want 4K60 capture, high-refresh passthrough, and an analog audio input.

Pros:

• 4K60 capture with HDR10 support
• 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough
• Near-zero-latency design
• 3.5mm analog audio input for chat or commentary

Cons:

• Listed operating-system support is centered on Windows 11, macOS 13 or later, and iPadOS
• The supplied details list video capture resolution as 1080p despite the 4K60 capture specification

The 4K S stands out for console-focused setups that value responsive passthrough and integrated audio connectivity. Check your operating system and hardware against the listed requirements before buying.

Best Budget Option – XIIXMASK 4K Loop-Out Capture Card

This XIIXMASK model is a practical budget capture card with HDR10 passthrough-style 4K loop-out capability, supporting 4K at 60Hz input and loop-out while sending up to 1080p60 or 2K30 to the computer. It also includes a microphone input for commentary.

Best For: Entry-level streamers and console users who need 4K60 loop-out, 1080p60 capture, and flexible USB-A/USB-C connectivity.

Pros:

• 4K60 HDMI input and loop-out
• 1080p60 or 2K30 capture output
• USB-A and USB-C cable compatibility
• 3.5mm mic input for commentary

Cons:

• It does not list HDR10 support specifically; the supplied information describes 4K pass-through
• It does not record party chats through the mic input
• OBS may need to be restarted after audio setup

This is a sensible lower-cost pick when 4K pass-through matters more than 4K recording. Its 1080p60 capture and mic input cover common streaming needs, but buyers specifically requiring confirmed HDR10 passthrough should verify that feature before purchase.

Premium 4K120 Capture – Elgato 4K X

The Elgato 4K X is a high-end capture card with HDR10 passthrough, HDMI 2.1 connectivity, and support for high-refresh-rate gaming. It is designed for creators who want smooth passthrough, ultra-low latency, and broad compatibility with streaming software.

Best For: PS5, Xbox Series X, PC, and Mac streamers who need HDMI 2.1, VRR passthrough, and high-refresh-rate capture.

Pros:

• Supports 4K144 capture and passthrough, plus up to 1080p240 capture.
• HDMI 2.1 input and output support high frame rates up to 240fps at 1080p.
• VRR passthrough and USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity help provide smooth, responsive gameplay.
• Works with OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Zoom, Teams, and other platforms.

Cons:

• Full performance requires a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port and capable computer hardware.
• The listed capture resolution is 1080p, despite its higher-resolution passthrough capabilities.

The Elgato 4K X is a strong choice for advanced setups where HDMI 2.1, VRR, HDR10, and high-refresh-rate passthrough matter most. Its system requirements are worth checking before purchase.

HDR10 Passthrough Pick – NearStream CCD30

The NearStream CCD30 is a capture card with HDR10 passthrough for compatible HDMI sources and displays. It combines 4K60 capture with high-refresh-rate passthrough, making it a practical option for console streaming, dual-PC setups, and camera workflows.

Best For: Streamers who want HDR10 passthrough, 4K60 capture, flexible format support, and built-in audio connections.

Pros:

• Captures up to 4K60 and supports passthrough up to 4K60, 1440p120, or 1080p240.
• HDR10 passthrough helps preserve HDR detail on compatible displays.
• Includes 3.5mm microphone input and headphone output for commentary and monitoring.
• Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, OBS, PotPlayer, and a range of HDMI sources.

Cons:

• HDR10 is supported for passthrough only, not video capture.
• 4K60 capture requires relatively capable computer hardware, especially in MJPG mode.

The CCD30 offers a balanced feature set for creators who want 4K60 capture without giving up HDR gameplay on the connected display. Its flexible inputs and audio ports also suit more involved streaming setups.

Flexible VRR HDR Option – PORTTA DX20R

The PORTTA DX20R is a versatile capture card with HDR and VRR support, 4K60 capture, and high-refresh-rate passthrough. It is aimed at gamers and streamers who want plug-and-play compatibility plus software controls for video, audio, EDID, and VRR settings.

Best For: Windows, macOS, and Linux users who want 4K60 capture, VRR and HDR features, and configurable streaming controls.

Pros:

• Supports 4K60 capture along with 2K144Hz and 1080p240Hz passthrough.
• VRR and HDR technology is designed to support smoother, higher-quality gameplay.
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux without driver installation.
• CapHub Utility enables video, audio, firmware, EDID, and VRR adjustments.

Cons:

• The supplied notes identify HDR support but do not specifically confirm HDR10.
• Listed compatibility details emphasize Windows and macOS, while platform details also mention Linux.

The DX20R is a useful pick for buyers prioritizing configurable VRR and HDR features alongside 4K60 capture. Its utility software adds control, though shoppers specifically seeking confirmed HDR10 passthrough may prefer a model that states it explicitly.

How We Picked the Best Capture Card with Hdr10 Passthrough

We focused on the features that most affect real-world gaming and streaming: passthrough resolution and refresh rate, HDR10 support, capture quality, latency, connectivity, compatibility, and setup requirements. The list includes external USB models for flexible laptop and desktop use, plus an internal PCIe card for systems that need high-bandwidth capture with minimal cabling.

Specifications can vary by resolution, color format, HDR mode, and software. Before buying, confirm that the card supports the exact signal from your console or graphics card and that your computer has the required USB or PCIe connection.

Quick Comparison

Best For	Recommended Type	What to Prioritize
PS5 or Xbox Series X|S at high refresh rates	HDMI 2.1 external card	4K120 or 4K144 passthrough, HDR, VRR, and USB 3.x bandwidth
4K streaming and recording	Premium USB or internal card	4K capture support, stable drivers, and strong encoding compatibility
Desktop streaming workstation	Internal PCIe card	High-bandwidth passthrough, low latency, and reliable system integration
Budget 1080p streaming	USB 3.0 card	1080p60 capture, UVC/UAC support, and dependable passthrough

Key Buying Factors for a Capture Card with Hdr10 Passthrough

Passthrough Versus Capture Resolution

Passthrough is the signal sent to your gaming monitor or TV, while capture resolution is what the computer records or streams. A card may pass through 4K120 or 4K144 while capturing at 4K30, 4K60, or 1080p60. Match both specifications to your goals rather than judging the product by one headline number.

HDR10, VRR, and HDMI 2.1

HDR10 passthrough preserves compatible HDR gameplay on the display, but the entire chain must support HDR: console or GPU, capture card, cable, monitor, and software. VRR is important for tear-free gaming, while HDMI 2.1 is generally necessary for 4K at 120Hz or higher. Check whether HDR and VRR work simultaneously at your preferred resolution.

Connectivity and Computer Requirements

USB 3.0 can handle many 1080p and some 4K workflows, but high-resolution, high-frame-rate capture may require faster USB or a PCIe interface. Use the manufacturer’s recommended port and cable, and check operating-system support before purchasing. UVC/UAC compatibility can simplify setup with streaming applications.

Latency, Audio, and Software

Low-latency passthrough keeps gameplay responsive, but audio routing still deserves attention. Look for support for console party chat, microphones, embedded HDMI audio, and the software you plan to use, such as OBS. “Certified” or optimized software support can reduce troubleshooting, though it does not replace checking your specific configuration.

Who Should Buy Which Capture Card with Hdr10 Passthrough?

Choose an HDMI 2.1 model if you play competitive games at 4K120 or higher and want HDR10 and modern console features preserved. Pick a premium USB card when you need portability or use both a laptop and desktop. An internal card makes the most sense for a dedicated streaming PC with an available PCIe slot. For basic commentary, tutorials, or occasional console streaming, a 1080p60 USB 3.0 model can deliver a better value without unnecessary high-end specifications.