Have you recently gotten into a Nintendo switch and love to play games? You must be still wondering how you can uplift this experience. In the digital world of today, streaming games is quite common. Platforms like Mixer and Twitch are making game streaming an everyday experience for most people. Each of us loves to share the live experience of playing various games on several types of devices like PlayStation, PC, and Xbox.
Has it ever crossed your mind that it is possible to record games from gaming consoles such as Nintendo switch and edit and upload them on some platform like YouTube and show it to your friends or followers? Do you know how to develop a stream of high quality that will attract many viewers? It is easy to grab an hour of high-definition footage on Microsoft or Sony, but this function is very limited on Nintendo switch. Playing on The Nintendo switch can be problematic while streaming since they do not have such options and features. From the gaming session with the Nintendo switch, only 30 seconds of video can be captured. But you don’t have to worry much.
There are various capture card switches that are exclusively designed for Nintendo to assist the players in streaming the games they wish to play on it. A Capture card films your footage as you simultaneously play your games. Basically, it is a device developed and designed to capture what you can view on your screen and save it in a specific video format. You will need a capture card for streaming or recording your Nintendo switch game. With no live streaming utility or native recorder on the console, using a capture card is the only option for sharing your gameplay on the Nintendo switch.
Various high-quality devices permit users to stream their gameplay to the masses. There is a necessity for the best streaming equipment. Thanks to the HDMI port situated on the console, the Nintendo switch can use most capture cards. As there are a bounty of options available on the market, it may be a bit tricky for you to decide on the best capture cards. In this article, we will focus on the specifications, features, advantages, and disadvantages of different capture cards and discuss the crux surrounding capture cards, and thus, guide you in buying the best Nintendo Switch Capture cards.
Consumer guide for buying the best Nintendo switch capture cards
When you are a novice in buying capture cards, you need to follow some expert guidelines to invest your money in the proper hardware. These four main factors need to be taken care of-
- Pass-through: Instead of compelling users to use an HDMI splitter, a capture card having a pass-through allows users to connect the card to the display directly. There is no need to purchase another splitter or cable. USB connections, HDMI OUT, and IN ports are present in capture cards that have pass-through.
- Record resolution: Nowadays, most capture card provides high resolution to stream. Some capture cards maintain high definition, while others offer high resolution.Make sure to go for a capture card with 1080 capabilities and check that it has everything you need.
- Connection: Though capture cards can be connected in various ways, the Nintendo switch may not be compatible with most. So make sure to choose a capture card with HDMI OUT and IN capabilities. The only way to connect with the Nintendo Switch dock is this.
- Features: You need to pay unique attention to the features of the capture card that you are planning to purchase. This includes it’s speed, storage space, and memory. To fit any upward growth, these numbers need to be high. Though additional features may be helpful, there is a possibility that it is bloating your device with options that are not required.
- Build quality: Make sure you check the reviews before purchasing a capture card so that with regular use, the components don’t wear out. You must make sure that the construction is solid.
- Easy to access: Some gaming capture cards have a broad array of features which are helping the users at various points. But you need to explore the proper method for utilizing every feature. As a result, it is vital to go through the user manual or take assistance from technical help. A product that seems easy in terms of every application and feature is best for beginners as well as professionals.
- Console: While you are purchasing new hardware for live streaming, you must ensure that you have matched all the specifications of the capture card as well as your device. Make sure that it supports the recorded device input type. Famous gaming consoles such as Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, Play station 3, Play station 4, etc. accept HDMI transfers. When using the Nintendo 64 system, it must support component cables. A component video input type feature will also be needed.
- Video quality: Undoubtedly your capture card must deliver rich and top-quality video and, at the same time, extend support to resolutions of high image. You must ensure that the frame rate is high so that you can record valuable content. For the ones who have to record powerful games, are advised to look for a 4K resolution or a Full HD supporting capture card hardware so that it maintains perfect results at the time of live streaming. It is important to deliver videos on a powerful system if the user wishes to use capture cards of 4K resolution level.
- Cost: Cost is a vital element that needs to be considered while purchasing a capture card. If you need to capture some videos occasionally, you need not spend too much on costly hardware. But, if you wish the capture card to fulfill your daily needs, then you should pick a branded one. Professionals are advised to spare a little more penny so that they can record rich quality videos.
10 Best Nintendo switch capture cards
Our Recommendations of The Best Nintendo Switch Capture Cards [2022]:
AWARD | MODEL | RETAILER |
SMALL FORM FACTOR, THIS IS QUITE AN EXCELLENT CAPTURE CARD | AVerMedia Live Gamer Mini | |
SET-UP IS QUITE SIMPLE, SO YOU CAN EASILY START TO RECORD AND STREAM YOUR GAME-PLAY SWIFTLY. STREAMING SOFTWARE SUCH AS OBS STUDIO AND XSPLIT IS COMPATIBLE WITH THIS CAPTURE CARD | Elgato Game Capture HD60 S+ | |
UNLIKE OTHER CARDS, RAZOR HAS A HEADPHONE PORT AND A MIC THAT HELPS THE USERS DIRECTLY AND EASILY RECORD THE VOICE-OVER TO THE RECORDINGS | Razer Ripsaw | |
MOST AFFORDABLE CAPTURE CARD ON THIS LIST. WHEN YOU SEARCH FOR A LOW-BUDGET CAPTURE CARD FOR STREAMING FOR NINTENDO SWITCH, THIS IS THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOU | Digitnow USB 2.0 | |
MAIN AIM OF THIS CAPTURE CARD IS TO PROVIDE THE BEST AUDIO AND VIDEO QUALITY RECORDING AT 1080 P AT 60 FPS | EVGA XR 1 | |
REPRODUCES HIGH-INTENSITY VIDEOS HAVING CLEAR PICTURE QUALITY AND VIVID COLORS AND DELIVERS A SMOOTH STREAMING EXPERIENCE WITHOUT ANY LAGGING | Mirabox USB 3.0 | |
YOU CAN ADD EXTERNAL COMMENTARY AT THE TIME OF PLAYING GAMES. THUS IT ENRICHES YOUR STREAMING EXPERIENCE | TKHIN Game video capture card | |
THIS MODEL CAN BE USED TO CONNECT DSLR, ACTION CAMERA, OR CAMCORDER TO YOUR PC OR MAC | AVERYN Audio Video Capture card | |
FIXES EVERY ISSUE ASSOCIATED WITH THE NINTENDO SWITCH. BECAUSE OF ITS PCIE INTERFACE, THE CAPTURE CARD IS INTEGRATED WITH THE CPU ON A DEEPER LEVEL | Elgato Game capture HD60 Pro | |
PRICE IS COMPARATIVELY LOW IN COMPARISON TO THE FEATURES IT HAS | Avermedia LGP Lite AVerCapture HD |
Specifications:
- 264 Hardware encoder
- Zero-Lag Pass
- Resolution: Full HD 1080P video recording
Overview:
In a small form factor, this is quite an excellent capture card. It has every feature necessary for a smooth and perfect streaming experience. This card’s real-time capturing can stream everything without any gap and delay between the streamer and game-play. It comes with a dedicated and built-in application to assist you in streaming and recording the games as per your preferred requirements and settings, and is quite easy to set up.
The design is very simple, with a black rectangular-shaped casing that is covered in a red trim and grooved cover. This small capture card consists of three ports on either side. It has a USB 2.0 to USB mini, HDMI OUT, and HDMI IN. HDMI pass-through permits zero-latency game-play. Since this is an external capture card, it has to be hooked to a desktop or laptop to run the game capture software. This capture card is pocket-friendly as it is sold for around $130. This card supports output quality up to 60fps and 1080p for smooth and better results.
PROS |
Great budget-friendly |
CONS |
Cannot capture directly to SD Card |
Specifications:
- Weight: 4.06 oz/ 115gms
- Dimensions: 4.4x 3 x 0.75 in
- HDR: 10 bit
- Resolution: Up to 2160p60 HDR
- Output: HDMI lag free pass-through
- Input: HDMI
Overview:
Elgato Company is offering this portable small external capture card. The casing is rounded, oblong, and unique. One end of this capture card has the HDMI IN port, and a USB C to USB 3.0 port, and the other end has HDMI OUT port. An audio jack for the headset and headphones are also present. For it’s price and size, Elgato HD60 S+ is an amazing capture card. The set-up is quite simple, so you can easily start to record and stream your game-play swiftly. Streaming software such as OBS Studio and Xsplit is compatible with this capture card.
This capture card can capture the highest quality with 60fps and 1080p, a standard output for the Nintendo switch. Three cables are required to start this card without being tedious and without any difficulty. After you connect the Elgato to the Nintendo switch, you can easily navigate to it’s applications and begin to record as per your preferred settings.
PROS |
Has an ability to stream in 1080p60 HDR |
CONS |
Only 30fps pass-through in 4k |
Specifications:
- Dimension: 13 x 8.6 x 1.8 cms
- Weight: 6.35 ounces
- Resolution: Full HD 1080P at 60 FPS
- Connectivity: USB 3.0 and HDMI 2.0
- Output: 4K 60fps
Overview:
Razer Ripsaw is the foremost capture card that has been introduced by this company. This capture card is incorporated with a broad range of features, helping users achieve an obstacle-free and smooth streaming experience. It has a low latency rate and is easy to set up quickly. Razer Ripsaw is focused on providing the best results on current as well as upcoming consoles like Switch Pro, which supports 1440p. Unlike other cards, Razor has a headphone port and a mic that helps the users directly and easily record the voice-over to the recordings.
The description of this product even mentions growing users’ influence over streaming platforms such as Twitch and YouTube. The plug and play functionality helps you to connect and start. There is one USB Type C and two HDMI ports on the back. The audio out and audio in jack will help you hook up your favorite professional headphones and mic. While designing, two PCs have been kept in mind so that one device can be used for playing and the other can be used for monitoring the channel.
PROS |
Can be set with capture audio and headset |
CONS |
Is able to capture only up to 1080p60 |
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 8.89 x 2.54 x 1.52 cm
- Weight: 249 grams
- Connectivity: USB 2.0
- Number of ports: 2
- Resolution: 1080p at 30 fps
Overview:
This is the most affordable capture card on this list. When you search for a low-budget capture card for streaming for Nintendo switch, this is the best choice for you. Digitnow USB 2.0 can be connected to the source HDMI device like DVD, HD player, laptop, computer, XBOX, Nintendo Switch, PS4, and PS2. You can swiftly connect your action camera, camcorder or DSLR, or Mac for game recording. There is no need for any driver. This capture card captures HD video up to 1080p providing a realistic capture quality. It’s best suited for a no-latency game. Moreover, this capture card can record or stream pictures of game consoles.
PROS |
Good interface, and the software is easy to use and setup |
CONS |
Incapable of capturing stereo |
Specifications:
- Interface: USB 3.0
- Resolution: 1080 P at 60fps
- In pass- through mode, refresh rate up to 120 fps
- Weight: 159 grams
- Dimensions: 130 x 86.4 x 32.95 mm
- Audio input interface: HDMI
Overview:
EVGA XR1 is an innovative capture card released by a famous name in the industry of gaming. The main aim of this capture card is to provide the best audio and video quality recording at 1080 p at 60 fps. While you are not streaming or recording it delivers up to 4K output at 60fps by using advanced pass-through mode. It also has an advanced pass-through mode, allowing users to choose 144Hz refresh rate + HDR by just pressing a button. To get the full capabilities of the display, you don’t have to disable or disconnect.
PROS |
Solid audio features |
CONS |
Poor quality cable |
Specifications:
- Connector type: HDMI
- Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.3 x 2.2 cms.
- Weight: 249.48 grams
- USB Interface: USB 3.0
- Operating system: Mac OS x 10.3 Panther
Overview:
Mirabox USB reproduces high-intensity videos having clear picture quality and vivid colors and delivers a smooth streaming experience without any lagging. Zero-latency is ensured in this model’s HDMI pass-through port, thus, making it ideal to live-stream your favorite games. Mirabox capture card is compatible with all 1080p HDMI devices, including Nintendo Switch, Wii U, Wii, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS4, and PS3. Plug-and-play functionality for many OS software like Windows 10, 8, and 7, Windows Unix, and Mac OS are also offered with this capture card.
This card can be used for live streaming your games to YouTube, OBS, Twitch, and Potplayer. This stylish, standardized, and compact unit is best for beginners as any drivers need not be installed. It is portable and extremely easy to set up, making it suitable for video recording, live broadcasts, and conference rooms. The HDMI capture card can also be used for meetings, mobile game streaming, and online classes. It can even be used in the office for simplifying the work, thus, making your day more efficient and productive. Overall, the easier streaming at 1080p quality makes the Mirabox video capture card the best capture card for the Nintendo switch.
PROS |
Simple set up with no latency |
CONS |
There is a probability that the software freezes up from time to time |
Specifications:
- Hardware interface: HDMI, USB
- Resolution: 1080p at 60fps
- Output: 4K @ 30fps
- Weight: 108.86 grams
- Dimensions: 4.17 x 4.13 x 1.06 inches
Overview:
Being incredibly versatile, this capture card can be smoothly used for gaming broadcasts, video recordings, conference meetings, live streaming, and more. It has a maximum resolution of 4K @30fps. Moreover, it can stream videos at 1080p via its USB 2.0 port. A clear and vivid picture is produced without lag of frame, enabling you to enjoy recording your memorable moments in adventures of video games.
The model features a 3.5 mm and an audio output/input microphone port so that your voice can be easily recorded using the ports. Further, you can add external commentary at the time of playing games. Thus it enriches your streaming experience. This video card is compatible with different software and consoles. It supports Windows 10, 8, and 7, Mac OS X 10.9 and above version, Linux, etc. it is also compatible with webcam, PS4, DSLR, and Nintendo switch. This card can be used for streaming on Potplayer, YouTube, Twitch, VLC, and OBS as well.
The total unit comes with an HDMI capture card, a user manual, and a USB 3.0 cable. The in-built super performance chip ensures a clear and smooth picture without any blue screen or delay. This product is the best, but you need to make some compromises, like you have to enter deep into the OBS forums to find the proper setup options. Once it’s completely set up and installed, this device can stream and record incredibly smooth frame rates and impressively sharp footage.
PROS |
Perfect for video recording and conferencing |
CONS |
A bit inconvenient USB cable |
8. AVERYN Audio Video Capture card
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 5.39 x 3.7 x 1.02 inches
- Weight: 1.44 ounces
- Hardware interface: USB 3.0
- Input : 3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz
- Output: 1920 x 1080 @ 60Hz
- Resolution: 1080p 60 fps
Overview:
The superior low latency technology port of AVERYN Audio Video Capture card ensures minimum lags while live-streaming a game. The HDMI single loop-out function of this capture card makes it easier for the users to begin real-time streaming on OBS, VLC, Potplayer, Twitch, or YouTube. The card can be used for directly recording videos to the hard disk of the user. This model can be used to connect DSLR, action camera, or camcorder to your PC or Mac. This model is also compatible with Linux, Mac OS, and Windows and also accepts HDMI signal inputs from various devices like set-top boxes, Xbox, PS4, mobile phones, and cameras.
The plug-and-play function is an in- built-in AVERYN Audio Video Capture card. Also, it does not need any external power supply or driver. This capture card is best for games of low latency. It can easily meet the requirements of conference meetings. Its compact size coupled with the lack of external power supply makes this capture card one of the best available on the market. AVERYN also offers 24-hour customer service and a 100% satisfaction guarantee which showcases the company’s confidence in the product.
PROS |
Budget-friendly |
CONS |
Difficulty in streaming and gaming action games because of a noticeable delay |
Specifications:
- Advanced H.264 encoding
- Resolution: 1080p @ 60fps
- HDMI pass- through to TV
- Interface: PCI e x 4
- Weight: 105 grams
- Dimensions: 16 x 12.2 x 5.6 cm
Overview:
When it comes to making high-quality capture cards, Elgato has been a forerunner. Elgato products are used by many famous gaming content creators and streamers for their go-to game capture device. HD60 Pro is an external game capture device, so you can easily plug it into a laptop, Mac, and desktop. HD60 Pro has a PCIe connection which means it has to be plugged into your computer’s free slot to reap the advantages.
This capture card fixes every issue associated with the Nintendo switch. Because of its PCIe interface, the capture card is integrated with the CPU on a deeper level. This capture card helps reduce unwanted lag that USB capture cards are famous for. An instant game-view feature is present in the HD60 pro capture card. So, streaming from low-latency becomes easy. Your viewers can see things happening on the screen of the game.
PROS |
PCI e connection makes it lag-free |
CONS |
A bit pricey |
Specifications:
- Dimensions (B x H): 13.1 x 2.2 cm
- Weight : 117 grams
- 264 Hardware encoder
- USB 2.0, HDMI, 3.5mm Audio
- Stream and capture in Full HD 1080p
Overview:
This capture card is ideal for video streaming and recording and is compatible with the Nintendo switch. The price is comparatively low in comparison to the features it has. The H.264 encoder in LGP Lite lowers the file size of your recordings. The H.264 + C features allow it to record video in MPEG-4 format. Videos can be captured in 1080p HD format. RECentral software backs it, which helps the user to moderate the stream with overlays. This capture card is also compatible with video capture and party streaming software. The capture card is connected through USB 3.0 which allows a low latency. You can definitely give it a buy if you are searching for some serious capture as well as easy on the wallet.
PROS |
Included H.264 encoder software |
CONS |
Mac products are not supported |
Summary for The Best Nintendo Switch Capture Cards [2022]:
AWARD | MODEL | RETAILER |
SMALL FORM FACTOR, THIS IS QUITE AN EXCELLENT CAPTURE CARD | AVerMedia Live Gamer Mini | |
SET-UP IS QUITE SIMPLE, SO YOU CAN EASILY START TO RECORD AND STREAM YOUR GAME-PLAY SWIFTLY. STREAMING SOFTWARE SUCH AS OBS STUDIO AND XSPLIT IS COMPATIBLE WITH THIS CAPTURE CARD | Elgato Game Capture HD60 S+ | |
UNLIKE OTHER CARDS, RAZOR HAS A HEADPHONE PORT AND A MIC THAT HELPS THE USERS DIRECTLY AND EASILY RECORD THE VOICE-OVER TO THE RECORDINGS | Razer Ripsaw | |
MOST AFFORDABLE CAPTURE CARD ON THIS LIST. WHEN YOU SEARCH FOR A LOW-BUDGET CAPTURE CARD FOR STREAMING FOR NINTENDO SWITCH, THIS IS THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOU | Digitnow USB 2.0 | |
MAIN AIM OF THIS CAPTURE CARD IS TO PROVIDE THE BEST AUDIO AND VIDEO QUALITY RECORDING AT 1080 P AT 60 FPS | EVGA XR 1 | |
REPRODUCES HIGH-INTENSITY VIDEOS HAVING CLEAR PICTURE QUALITY AND VIVID COLORS AND DELIVERS A SMOOTH STREAMING EXPERIENCE WITHOUT ANY LAGGING | Mirabox USB 3.0 | |
YOU CAN ADD EXTERNAL COMMENTARY AT THE TIME OF PLAYING GAMES. THUS IT ENRICHES YOUR STREAMING EXPERIENCE | TKHIN Game video capture card | |
THIS MODEL CAN BE USED TO CONNECT DSLR, ACTION CAMERA, OR CAMCORDER TO YOUR PC OR MAC | AVERYN Audio Video Capture card | |
FIXES EVERY ISSUE ASSOCIATED WITH THE NINTENDO SWITCH. BECAUSE OF ITS PCIE INTERFACE, THE CAPTURE CARD IS INTEGRATED WITH THE CPU ON A DEEPER LEVEL | Elgato Game capture HD60 Pro | |
PRICE IS COMPARATIVELY LOW IN COMPARISON TO THE FEATURES IT HAS | Avermedia LGP Lite AVerCapture HD |
Conclusion
If you plan to begin your own YouTube gaming channel or streaming channel, a quality capture card is a must-buy. It might be intimidating to choose one if you don’t understand what you are looking for. The main things that must be kept in mind are what kind of device you will use, what you wish to game on, and your budget. To stream games on various platforms with a smooth experience, you must have the most suitable tools and devices required. Having various capture cards available on the market, it is difficult for the content creators to choose from. So, we have gathered the necessary information that will definitely help you to select the best capture card as per your requirements.
AVerMedia Live gamer mini capture card is the most budget-friendly one. Now, if we talk about the best performance, then Razor Ripsaw is worth purchasing. If you are a beginner, we would suggest you purchase Mirabox USB 3.0 video capture card. Talking about the most versatile one, the TKHIN Game video capture card is the best choice. But, if you want your capture card to be compact, we suggest you go for AVERYN audio video capture card.
FAQs
(Q) Is there a requirement to buy capture cards for Nintendo switch?
(A)Yes, you must definitely purchase a capture card for your Nintendo switch. Unlike the PS5 or Xbox series, game-play cannot be recorded or streamed on the Nintendo switch itself. The Nintendo Switch is not a very dominant console, but you don’t have to spend too much money. You can find the cheapest models that support the resolution and frame of the switch and have enough power for support.
(Q) How to use a capture card with Nintendo switch?
(A) You have to play the capture card in docked mode if you wish to use a capture card for getting footage. A video out port is not present on the Nintendo switch console. Then, into the HDMI port, you have to plug the HDMI cable on the dock of your Nintendo switch. Another end of the cable has to be plugged into the capture card’s HDMI IN port. Then, plug one end in the capture card’s HDMI OUT port with the second HDMI cable. Your final job is to run another end into your screen’s HDMI port. You must ensure that you have plugged the capture card into your computer through the USB cable and then start to run the capture software for it.
(Q) Can audio be recorded in capture cards?
(A) Yes, all the above capture cards mentioned in the list record both audio and video. Otherwise, the users would miss half the experience.
(Q) How to record on a Nintendo switch without a capture card?
(A) Your computer doesn’t have any way to convert and receive analog video signals without the help of a capture card. You can either point a top-quality webcam at your monitor or connect to an unusual device of pass-through like an Xbox one console.
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