Elgato 4K S: New capture card for 4K streams

Corsair subsidiary Elgato has introduced a new capture card called 4K S. The current model looks very similar to its predecessor, the HD60 X: the black box has an HDMI 2.0 input that can be connected to a console, as well as an HDMI output that can be connected to a screen to follow the gameplay. A microphone can be connected to an analog 3.5 mm jack socket.

The signal can be tapped via a USB-C port with USB 3.0 speed and fed into a computer. This makes the 4K S interesting for streamers who want to broadcast their games online, but also for video producers and content creators who want to record cameras into a small setup via HDMI output.

On an external display, the 4K S shows the 4K resolution (3840 × 2160 pixels) at a maximum of 60 fps. It can also record 4K at 60 Hz or WQHD (2560 × 1440 pixels) at up to 120 fps. In Full HD (1920 × 1080 pixels), 240 fps is also possible. The predecessor HD60 X only achieved half the frame rates. The device can also handle variable refresh rates (VRR) and supports HDR10. Elgato's Capture Card 4K X, which was released in 2024, was already able to record 4K at up to 144 fps with its HDMI 2.1 ports. The 4K X is therefore positioned between the two models.

Recording via Elgato Studio and others

Using the Universal Video Codec (UVC), the capture card works with various programs, such as Open Broadcaster Software (OBS) or Apple's Quicktime. The model can also be connected to iPads, provided they have a USB-C port and the appropriate app. At the same time, the manufacturer has released its recording software called Elgato Studio, which allows video recordings and screenshots. The software works under macOS and Windows and can be downloaded free of charge from the manufacturer. Elgato plans to deliver some functions, such as HDR recording, at a later date.

Like its predecessor, the HD60 X, the 4K S costs 179.99 euros. Elgato requires Windows 11, a moderately fast processor (8th generation Core i5, comparable AMD Ryzen), and a GeForce GTX 1000 graphics card or similar. On a Mac, it can also be an M1 and macOS 13. Those interested also need a 5 Gbit/s USB connection (USB 3.2 Gen 1, formerly known as USB 3.0) for the full resolution.

(hze)