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Does Elgato Work with HDMI? A Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is a resounding yes, Elgato devices absolutely work with HDMI. In fact, HDMI is the primary interface through which Elgato capture cards receive and transmit video and audio signals. Understanding how HDMI interacts with Elgato devices is crucial for anyone looking to record or stream gameplay, presentations, or any other type of video content. Elgato products are designed to seamlessly integrate with HDMI technology, providing a reliable and high-quality experience. This article will delve deeper into the specifics of Elgato’s HDMI implementation, explaining how to connect devices, what kind of HDMI cables to use, and answer frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive guide to the subject.

How Elgato Uses HDMI

Elgato capture cards utilize HDMI ports for both input and output. The HDMI IN port receives the signal from your gaming console, computer, or other video source. This signal is then processed by the Elgato device. The HDMI OUT port transmits the processed signal to your display (TV or monitor) allowing you to see the content while it is being captured. This pass-through functionality is essential, as it ensures that you can play your games or use your device with no noticeable lag or loss of quality. The signal from the HDMI IN is converted into a digital format that your computer can process for streaming or recording.

Setting up your Elgato with HDMI

Setting up your Elgato device is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Connect the source: Plug one end of an HDMI cable into the HDMI OUT port of your source device (e.g., PC’s graphics card, gaming console’s dock).
Connect to Elgato Input: Plug the other end of this HDMI cable into the HDMI IN port of your Elgato capture card.
Connect Elgato Output: Take another HDMI cable and plug one end into the HDMI OUT port of your Elgato device.
Connect to Display: Plug the other end of this second HDMI cable into your TV or monitor.
Connect to Computer: Connect the Elgato capture card to your computer using the provided USB cable. This is usually a USB-C to USB-A cable.
Install Software: Install the necessary Elgato software (e.g., Game Capture HD software or OBS Studio) on your computer.

This simple setup allows for seamless recording or streaming of your gameplay or other video content.

Understanding HDMI Cable Types with Elgato

Most Elgato capture devices come with an HDMI cable. However, understanding different types of HDMI cables is important for optimal performance.

Bidirectional vs. Unidirectional: Elgato devices typically come with bidirectional HDMI cables, meaning they can be connected in either direction without any issues. However, some longer HDMI cables may be unidirectional, meaning they can only work in one direction and are usually marked with the direction.
HDMI Versions: Elgato devices are designed for HDMI 2.0 specifications, which is often sufficient for 4K at 60Hz. While HDMI 2.1 offers higher bandwidth (48 Gbit/s) for capabilities like 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz, Elgato capture cards currently do not support this. It’s crucial to use certified HDMI cables to avoid signal issues. Using a Certified HDMI 2.1 Cable, will not provide any advantage beyond HDMI 2.0.

HDMI Considerations with Elgato

While HDMI is a core component of Elgato’s function, here are a few additional points to consider:

HDMI Splitters and Switches: You can use HDMI splitters to duplicate the signal to multiple displays. However, be mindful that using lower quality splitters may degrade the signal. HDMI switches are used to connect multiple source devices to a single display. The Nintendo Switch requires use of its Dock and its HDMI Out port to connect to an Elgato capture card.
HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection): HDCP is a form of digital copy protection. If it’s enabled, you may experience a flickering screen or a black screen when capturing video. Turning off HDCP may be necessary before capturing the content.
Cable Length: If you experience signal issues, try using shorter HDMI cables, as longer cables can introduce signal loss. Additionally, ensure that your HDMI cable is not damaged.
DisplayPort and HDMI: While Elgato capture cards primarily use HDMI, they may work with display devices using HDMI adapters connected to DisplayPort ports.
Refresh Rate and Resolution: It’s important to choose HDMI cables and connections that support your desired resolution and refresh rate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What type of HDMI cable is best for Elgato capture cards?

A certified HDMI 2.0 cable is usually sufficient for most Elgato devices. Although Elgato devices don’t support the higher bandwidth of HDMI 2.1, using a certified HDMI 2.1 cable will not harm it. Ensure it is bidirectional and not too long to avoid signal issues.

2. Can I use an HDMI switch with my Elgato?

Yes, you can use an HDMI switch to connect multiple source devices to your Elgato capture card. Just make sure your HDMI switch supports the resolution and refresh rate you need.

3. Does Elgato support HDMI 2.1?

No, Elgato capture cards do not support HDMI 2.1. They are generally designed to work with HDMI 2.0 specifications. The additional bandwidth and features of HDMI 2.1 are not compatible with current Elgato hardware.

4. What if my Elgato says “no signal”?

This could be caused by several reasons: try using a shorter HDMI cable, ensure that all the connections are secure, and check that your source device’s resolution is supported by the Elgato. A system reset of the Elgato device may also help.

5. Can I use a display adapter with Elgato?

Yes, you can use an HDMI adapter with a DisplayPort port on your monitor. If you use an active HDMI 2.0 adapter you can still receive 4096 x 2160 pixels.

6. Why is my screen flashing when using Elgato?

A flashing screen is often a result of **HDCP**. Try turning off **HDCP** on your gaming console or video source. If the issue persists, try using a shorter **HDMI cable** or reducing the video resolution.

7. Can I use an HDMI splitter for capturing gameplay?

Yes, you can use an **HDMI splitter** to send the video signal to both your display and your capture card. However, be aware that splitters might cause signal degradation. Using an active splitter may help maintain the signal's integrity.

8. Does my monitor need two HDMI ports for my Elgato?

No, your monitor doesn’t need two HDMI ports. You only need one HDMI port to connect to the Elgato’s HDMI OUT port.

9. Do I need OBS to use my Elgato?

While Elgato has its own software, it is highly recommended to use **OBS Studio** for recording and streaming. Elgato capture cards work well with OBS Studio on Windows, but not MacOS.

10. Is an HDMI capture card required to record games?

 Yes, an **HDMI capture card** like Elgato is required to record the **HDMI** signals coming from your console or PC. It is used to convert the signals into something your computer can read. It's not possible to just record via your computer without one.

11. What is the difference between an HDMI splitter and switch?

 An **HDMI splitter** duplicates the **HDMI** signal to multiple displays. An **HDMI switch** allows you to select between multiple **HDMI** sources to a single display.

12. Can I use the Elgato Thunderbolt™ 3 Dock with my capture card?

 The Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Dock has a DisplayPort port, not an **HDMI** port. You would still need to use an **HDMI cable** from the source device to your Elgato capture card, and then an **HDMI cable** from the capture card to the display.

13. Does HDMI 2.1 matter for gaming?

**HDMI 2.1** can support higher frame rates for smoother video and also allows variable frame rates. While it is the best for living room gaming, Elgato devices do not support **HDMI 2.1**.

14. Is it better to use HDMI or DisplayPort for gaming?

For gaming on your monitor, DisplayPort is generally better due to its optimized features, including its support for adaptive sync technologies. For recording or capturing gameplay with an Elgato, you will need an **HDMI** connection to your capture card.

15. Can I use an Elgato to record PC gameplay?

Yes, you can record PC gameplay by outputting the signal from your gaming PC to the **HDMI IN** port of the Elgato and connecting the Elgato to your second computer via USB.

Conclusion

Elgato capture devices rely heavily on HDMI for their functionality. Understanding how HDMI works with these devices is essential for ensuring a smooth and high-quality recording or streaming experience. By using the correct HDMI cables and following the setup instructions, you can utilize your Elgato device to its full potential, capturing high-quality video from various sources. Remember to consider the different versions of HDMI and their impact on your setup. When in doubt, refer to the FAQs above for further clarification.

Does Elgato work with HDMI?