Live streaming is not an easy task, primarily when you are focusing on the quality of a video and audio to attract viewers. You should have all the necessary tools and equipment used for live streaming to make your final results appealing and eye-catching for your viewers.
In addition to encoders and live streaming platforms, you use other means to make your live streaming well-organized and thoroughly structured. This is basically the Video Capturing Device.
Video capturing devices have become a necessity for online streamers to make them professional and efficient in their performance. The primary function of these video capturing devices is to transform the upcoming video signals from the camera while live-streaming towards digital signals which your computer can interpret.
It gives maximum stability and high performance during your streaming sessions. Moreover, many skilled and renowned streamers use video capturing devices for excellence in their performances resulting in catching more viewers.
Which Capture Device to Use For Live Streaming?
This is the place where you will find all the essential information you need to know about the best video capturing device. Let us start with the basics of what a video capturing device is.
What Is a Video Capturing Device?
Video capturing devices is video capturing cards that are highly recommendable during the live streaming online Videos. They link into your computer, most PCs, and to the laptops that contain specific ports for the card fixation to use by you during your streaming.
It is used to decode the camera’s video signals towards an acceptable digital format, so your computer brain would easily interpret it. Let’s look into the three best video capturing devices you can use for live streaming.
Top Video Capturing Cards Reviewed
There are three most recommended and productive cards that are functional and reliable. If you are a regular live steamer, buy these cards and maximize your watch time with a higher follower count.
1. Elgato HD60 S+
It is the best time-saving, superb and high, 1080p resolution video capturing device. This makes your live streaming at a speed of 60fps.
This video capturing card is efficient in working with Streamlabs, XSplit, and OBS Studio. It allows you to play games and stream with PS5, PS4 Pro, and Xbox Series on both YouTube and twitch in outstanding resolution.
2. Atomos Ninja V
This video capturing device gives you extraordinary results at the end of the processing. It enhances and maximizes the details captured in your camera and makes sure your viewers can watch exceptional definitions of your streaming more keenly.
It has a touchscreen display and gives you good performance with 4K HDMI input. It provides an unstoppable 150 minutes recording at 4k resolution with the only drive.
3. ASUS TUF CU4K30
ASUS TUF CU4K30 gives video streaming of high resolutions with different frames per second values. Such as 4k for 30fps, 2k for 60 fps, and with 120 fps, we have got Full HD resolution.
There are two jacks made for the headset and controller’s connections. It is designed in a smaller size to help you save space and carry anywhere you want. The card can be used for OBS Studio settings too.
Although these three best video capturing devices are expensive but with the features they provide and the enhancement they give to your live streaming makes these capturing devices worth buying.
How To Find the Best One?
There are two important factors that should be kept in mind before getting the best video capturing device. Read the following to get the details.
Video Sources
You have to pay attention to some of the details before getting the best video capturing device for your use. Get the knowledge about how many video sources you are going to use for your streaming.
And select the card according to that, such as if you use only a camera, make a selection of USB video capturing devices. Similarly, if you use more than one device, you can get a PCIe capture card as it has multiple input options available.
Audio/Video Connections
The video-capturing device you’re selecting should have the audio and video connections you need in your live streaming.
Do not use converters for audio and videos in your card to connect them to video capture cards. These adaptors affect the signal’s quality and efficiency.
Benefits of Using Video Capture Devices in Live Streaming
Using video capture devices in live streaming offers several advantages that can improve the overall quality and professionalism of your content:
- High-quality video and audio: Video capture devices enable you to capture high-resolution video and high-quality audio, ensuring that your live streams look and sound the best they can.
- Smooth frame rates: These devices can maintain stable and smooth frame rates during your live streams, providing a better viewing experience for your audience.
- Compatibility with multiple platforms: Video capture devices are designed to work with various live streaming platforms and software, such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit, making it easier for you to integrate them into your setup.
- Lower system strain: By offloading the video processing from your computer to the video capture device, your system experiences less strain, resulting in smoother performance and reduced risk of crashes or slowdowns during your live streams.
- Streamline your setup: Video capture devices simplify your streaming setup by reducing the need for multiple cables and connections, making it easier to manage and troubleshoot your equipment.
Types of Video Capture Devices: USB vs. PCIe
Video capture devices can be divided into two main categories: USB and PCIe.
USB Video Capture Devices:
- Easy to install and use, requiring only a USB connection to your computer.
- Portable and convenient for use with laptops or computers without PCIe slots.
- Generally lower in cost compared to PCIe devices.
- May have lower performance capabilities and be more susceptible to latency issues due to the limitations of USB bandwidth.
PCIe Video Capture Devices:
- Installed directly into a PCIe slot on your computer’s motherboard, providing a more stable and high-speed connection.
- Capable of handling higher resolutions, frame rates, and multiple video inputs simultaneously.
- Typically more expensive than USB devices.
- Less portable and not suitable for use with laptops or computers without available PCIe slots.
Setting Up Your Video Capture Device for Optimal Performance
To get the best performance from your video capture device, follow these setup tips:
- Install the latest drivers and software: Make sure to download and install the most recent drivers and software for your video capture device to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
- Choose the right video and audio settings: Configure your video capture device to match your camera’s resolution, frame rate, and audio settings for seamless integration.
- Test your setup: Conduct test streams to ensure that your video capture device is functioning correctly and that there are no issues with video or audio quality.
- Optimize your computer: Close unnecessary programs and processes on your computer to free up system resources and ensure smooth streaming performance.
- Update your streaming software: Regularly update your streaming software to take advantage of new features and improvements, which can enhance the performance of your video capture device.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Video Capture Devices
If you encounter problems with your video capture device, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Check your connections: Ensure that all cables and connections are properly seated and secure.
- Restart your computer and software: Sometimes a simple restart can resolve issues with video capture devices.
- Update drivers and software: Ensure you have the latest drivers and software installed for your video capture device.
- Adjust video and audio settings: Try changing the video and audio settings in your streaming software and video capture device to see if it resolves the issue.
- Consult the manufacturer’s support resources: Many video capture device manufacturers provide online support resources, such as forums, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides, which can help you resolve common issues.
FAQs
Is a capture card needed for streaming?
For recording and streaming at a time, many live streamers recommend and prefer using capturing cards. There are many gaming consoles that contain an inbuilt system of live streaming that doesn’t require external connections. Select them if you are planning to live-stream your game.
Are capture cards expensive?
Yes, the capture cards are expensive, but it depends on the efficiency of the card and its features. These capture cards come in hundreds of dollars range of price, but if you look for high-end resolution, which gives you 4K, then they are worth buying.
What is a video capture device for live streaming?
These are also known as video capture cards. They are used to build up the connection between the camera you use for live streaming and your computer. Some gaming consoles come with inbuilt video capturing devices.
Do I need the capture card for the live stream?
It is not always necessary to have a video-capturing card for live streaming. You can even live stream without the presence of a video-capturing device. But for this purpose, you should have an appropriate output port for making a reliable connection between your device and streaming.
Can video capture devices improve the quality of my webcam?
Yes, a video capture device can improve the quality of your webcam streams by offloading video processing tasks from your computer to the capture device. This can result in smoother frame rates, better color accuracy, and improved overall video quality.
However, the improvement will also depend on the quality of your webcam and the capabilities of the video capture device.
Are video capture devices compatible with all streaming platforms?
Most video capture devices are designed to work with a wide range of streaming platforms, such as Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Live. They are typically compatible with popular streaming software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs, and XSplit.
However, it’s always a good idea to check the specific compatibility of the video capture device you’re considering with the streaming platform and software you plan to use.
Can I use multiple video capture devices simultaneously for multi-camera streaming?
Yes, you can use multiple video capture devices simultaneously to capture video from different sources or cameras for multi-camera streaming. However, this will require a more powerful computer and enough available USB ports or PCIe slots, depending on the type of capture devices you’re using.
Additionally, your streaming software must support multi-camera setups, and you may need to configure the software accordingly.
How do I know if my computer can support a video capture device?
To determine if your computer can support a video capture device, check the system requirements provided by the manufacturer of the capture device.
These requirements typically include minimum and recommended specifications for the processor, RAM, graphics card, and available USB or PCIe slots. If your computer meets or exceeds these requirements, it should be able to support the video capture device.
Conclusion
Video capturing devices for live streaming have become a necessity for live streamers. This maximizes the visuals of your live streaming videos. The best-capturing devices for live streaming are a little expensive but worth buying.
These cards make your live streaming perfect and highly professional, which increases your watch time, and followers count. Your followers always demand perfection in your live streaming. To serve this purpose, buy these cards and bring professionalism to your work.
