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Do Capture Cards Work on PS5? A Comprehensive Guide

Yes, capture cards absolutely work on the PS5. In fact, for many gamers and streamers, they are an essential piece of equipment to record and stream high-quality PlayStation 5 gameplay. While the PS5 offers built-in recording and streaming capabilities, capture cards provide a level of control, quality, and flexibility that the console’s internal tools can’t match. Let’s delve into why and how capture cards enhance your PS5 gaming experience.

Why Use a Capture Card with Your PS5?

The PlayStation 5 offers a built-in recording feature, allowing you to capture gameplay footage with the simple press of a button. It also supports direct streaming to platforms like Twitch and YouTube. So, why invest in a capture card? Here’s a breakdown of the advantages:

Higher Quality Recording: Capture cards often offer superior recording quality compared to the PS5’s internal recording. They support higher bitrates and resolutions, resulting in cleaner, more detailed gameplay footage. The PS5’s screen capture is 1080p by default, or 2160p/4K.
Improved Streaming Capabilities: While the PS5 can stream directly to platforms like Twitch, a capture card provides more control over the stream’s layout, overlays, and alerts. This is crucial for creating a professional and engaging broadcast.
Two-PC Streaming Setup: For serious streamers, a capture card is vital for a two-PC setup. This setup dedicates one PC solely to gaming, and the other to streaming. The capture card bridges the gap, sending the gameplay from the gaming PC (or in this case, the PS5) to the streaming PC without impacting performance.
Bypassing Limitations: The PS5 might have limitations on recording certain “blocked scenes” in games due to developer restrictions (typically story cutscenes), to avoid sharing spoilers. A capture card can sometimes bypass these restrictions, allowing you to record even these restricted scenes.
Advanced Editing Options: The raw footage captured by a capture card is generally more versatile for editing. You have more control over the audio and video tracks, enabling you to create more sophisticated and polished content.

How to Set Up a Capture Card with Your PS5

The setup process is relatively straightforward, involving a few key connections and software configurations. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Connect the PS5 to the Capture Card: Use an HDMI cable to connect the HDMI output of your PS5 to the HDMI input of the capture card.
Connect the Capture Card to Your Display: Use another HDMI cable to connect the HDMI output of the capture card to your TV or monitor. This allows you to see and play the game on your display.
Connect the Capture Card to Your Computer: Use a USB cable (usually included with the capture card) to connect the capture card to your computer.
Install the Capture Card Software: Install the necessary drivers and software provided by the capture card manufacturer on your computer. This software is essential for recording and streaming.
Configure Your Recording/Streaming Software: Open your preferred recording or streaming software (e.g., OBS Studio, XSplit). Add the capture card as a “Video Capture Device” or similar source within the software.
Adjust Settings: Configure the video and audio settings in your software to match your desired recording/streaming quality. Pay attention to resolution, bitrate, and audio input.

Choosing the Right Capture Card

Selecting the right capture card depends on your budget, needs, and desired quality. Here are some factors to consider:

Resolution and Frame Rate: Determine the highest resolution and frame rate you want to record or stream at. Common options include 1080p60, 1440p60, and 4K60. Ensure the capture card supports your desired specifications. Some gaming monitors need to have HDMI 2.1 if you want to game on PS5 at up to 4K 120Hz.
Internal vs. External: Internal capture cards (installed inside your computer) offer better performance but require opening up your PC. External capture cards are more portable and easier to set up but might have slightly lower performance.
Pass-Through: Make sure the capture card supports HDMI pass-through. This allows you to play the game on your monitor or TV without any lag or delay.
Software Compatibility: Check that the capture card is compatible with your preferred recording and streaming software (e.g., OBS Studio, XSplit, Streamlabs Desktop).
Budget: Capture cards range in price from around $100 to $500 or more. Set a budget and find a card that offers the best value for your money.

Streaming directly from PS5

It’s also possible to stream directly from your PS5. While playing a game, press the Create button on your controller and then select Broadcast from the Create options, and select Twitch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about using capture cards with the PS5:

Do I need a capture card if I only want to record short gameplay clips?

Not necessarily. The PS5 has a built-in recording feature that allows you to save gameplay clips of up to 1 hour. However, for higher quality recordings and more advanced editing options, a capture card is recommended. You can record up to 1 hour of gameplay, and you can save anywhere from the last 15 seconds up to 1 hour of gameplay.
Can I stream directly from my PS5 without a capture card?

Yes, you can stream directly from your PS5 to platforms like Twitch and YouTube. However, a capture card offers more control over the stream’s layout, overlays, and alerts.
What is the best capture card for PS5 in 2024?

The “best” capture card depends on your specific needs and budget. Popular options include the Elgato HD60 X, AVerMedia Live Gamer 4K GC573, and Razer Ripsaw HD.
Do I need a powerful computer to use a capture card with my PS5?

Yes, a decent computer is required, especially for streaming. A two-PC setup often utilizes one for gaming, and one for streaming.
How do I connect my headset when using a capture card with my PS5?

Most capture cards have audio input and output ports. You can connect your headset directly to the capture card, or you can use the PS5’s audio settings to route audio to the capture card.
Can I use a capture card to record voice chat on my PS5?

Yes, most capture cards can record voice chat from your PS5. You need to configure the audio settings in your recording software to capture the correct audio input. After updating, players can join Discord voice chats directly from their PS5 consoles.
What software is recommended for recording and streaming with a capture card?

Popular software options include OBS Studio, XSplit, and Streamlabs Desktop. OBS Studio is free and open-source, making it a great choice for beginners.
Does using a capture card add input lag to my PS5 gameplay?

A good capture card with HDMI pass-through should not add noticeable input lag. However, it’s essential to use a high-quality HDMI cable and ensure the capture card is properly configured.
Can I record 4K gameplay with a capture card on my PS5?

Yes, many capture cards support 4K recording at 60fps. Ensure that the capture card and your recording software are configured to record at the desired resolution and frame rate.
How do I add overlays and alerts to my PS5 stream when using a capture card?

Overlays and alerts are typically added through your streaming software (e.g., OBS Studio). You can create or download overlays and alerts and add them as sources within the software.
Is it possible to use a capture card with a PS5 and a Mac?

Yes, many capture cards are compatible with both Windows and Mac. Check the manufacturer’s website for driver and software compatibility.
What is the difference between an internal and external capture card?

Internal capture cards are installed inside your computer, offering potentially better performance but requiring opening up your PC. External capture cards are more portable and easier to set up but might have slightly lower performance.
Can I use a capture card to record gameplay from other consoles besides the PS5?

Yes, capture cards can typically be used to record gameplay from other consoles such as the Xbox Series X/S and Nintendo Switch, as well as from PCs.
What are the common issues when using a capture card with a PS5 and how do I troubleshoot them?

Common issues include no video or audio, lag, and software crashes. Troubleshooting steps include checking the HDMI connections, updating drivers, and configuring the software correctly.
Are there alternative ways to capture gameplay from PS5 without using a capture card?

Yes, you can use PS Remote Play to stream your PS5 screen to your PC and then record the screen using software like OBS Studio. However, this method might result in lower quality compared to using a capture card. To use Remote Play, you’ll need a Windows PC, a PS5 console, an account for PlayStation™Network, high-speed internet connection, DualSense™ wireless controller, and a USB cable.

Conclusion

While the PlayStation 5 offers built-in recording and streaming capabilities, a capture card provides a significant upgrade in terms of quality, control, and flexibility. Whether you’re a casual gamer who wants to record highlights or a serious streamer looking to create professional broadcasts, a capture card is a valuable investment.

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Do capture cards work on PS5?