If you want to become a streamer, you are probably already informed about the basics of a classic setup. Computer, headset, microphone, camera... capture box? This term comes up quite often when talking about live streaming, however, its usefulness does not seem as clear as day. What is a capture box, what is it for and is it really a mandatory component to start streaming?
What is a capture box/card?
A capture box for streaming is a device used to capture, record and broadcast audio and video content from different sources. These boxes are generally used by content creators to capture the gameplay of video games, to make videos or live broadcasts. In its box form, it is used between a console and a computer.
The capture card is the internal format of the box. It has exactly the same role, but is integrated directly into the PC tower, with its other components. Both can also be known as a box and capture card, which sums up their usefulness very well.
Why is the capture box essential?
This small device has several advantages that streamers cannot do without. First of all, it allows to encode data from one machine (console for example) to another (PC) very easily. The box makes the whole procedure feasible, but also readable, so that viewers can see the images of your game in real time. Some have advanced features in terms of image quality and sound capture, according to each person's needs.
This is also its second strong point. The capture box allows to relocate image processing to a dedicated device. This load is then taken off the shoulders of the PC, which can focus on other needs during your stream/edit. Finally, some capture boxes allow you to integrate multiple video and audio sources, such as cameras, microphones, and computers, in order to create complex broadcasts with smooth transitions between different scenes or sources.
In what context is the capture box not necessary?
Of course, the capture box saves the lives of many creators, professional or not. But it is not essential in all situations. If you stream from your console (tutorial on PS5 and tutorial on Xbox), you will not need this equipment. Everything is taken care of by your console directly, without going through other software or hardware modification.
You will not necessarily need it either if you stream using only a PC. This can be very useful for bigger games, but after several weeks of testing, the case is actually dispensable for anything related to independent games, which are generally not very demanding. You can do very well without it.
Our case recommendation – feedback
However, if you were to fall for a device, you should know that two brands particularly stand out from the crowd in terms of value for money. The most profitable remains AverMedia, a leading figure in this field. We had the opportunity to test the Live Gamer Extreme 3 device, a recent product offered at a price of around €180. For this price, you can enjoy interesting specifications, here is a quick summary.
Live Gamer Extreme 3
- Interface: USB 3.2 (Gen 1) Type-C (plug and play, UVC)
- Video Input: HDMI 2.0
- Video Output (Pass-Through): HDMI 2.0
- Audio Input: HDMI 2.0 / 3.5 mm 3-Pole Jack
- Audio Output (Pass-Through): HDMI 2.0 / 3.5 mm 3-Pole Jack
- Maximum HDR Pass-Through Resolutions: 2160p60 / 1440p120 / 1080p240
- Maximum VRR Pass-Through Resolutions: 1440p120 / 1080p120
- Max Supported Resolutions (Video Input): 2160p60 / 1440p120
- Max Supported Recording Resolutions: 2160p30 / 1080p60
- Dimensions:(L x W x H):» 112.5 x 66.1 x 20.9 mm
- Weight: 85 g
But how does it behave in use? Light and discreet, it allows you to connect an HDMI input source and an HDMI output source, as well as an audio device thanks to its 3.5 mm jack ports for separate sound capture if necessary. It comes with access to streaming software that almost immediately recognizes the device, but also all those connected to it. It is easy to navigate through the different settings offered, which are quite complete without being transcendent either.
In any case, it adapts perfectly to the image quality offered by our console (PS5). It has the possibility of retransmitting gameplay in 4K and 30 fps, which is really a strong point, especially for its price. Supplied with an HDMI cable, it meets all our expectations as a beginner creator. For previous consoles, this particular device does not seem suitable. More specific or higher needs will require more investment in a different model of the brand, or an Elgato.
This is the second reference on the market. Its HD60 model remains one of the best sellers in the acquisition box sector. It is renowned for its reliability, ease of use and extremely sober design. Finally, NZXT Signal boxes are also cited as some of the best value for money, offering as many parameters as its counterparts.
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