Ultimate Guide: Elgato HD60 X External Capture Card
Elgato is well-known for its extensive line of equipment for video makers and broadcasters. Capture cards, green screens, and everything else are examples of this.
The business is shifting its focus to capture card technology, with its previous products being consumer-level devices capable of 4K recording. Furthermore, its solutions deliver near-latency-free streaming.
Elgato has refreshed its capture card selection with the HD60 X, a new addition to the roster. Elgato’s fourth-generation external capture card supports 4K video with variable frame rate compatibility, relegating the HD60 S to the company’s range for streaming for gaming cards.
The new product seems to be a good substitute for the HD60 S+, with which it shares a price point. The HD60 X is the ideal partner for console makers eager to elevate their content to the next level, with plug-and-play simplicity, HDR, 120fps choices, and delay-free 4K passthrough.
Design
The Elgato HD60 X has a totally redesigned design. While the HD60 S+’s predecessor had a rounded design with inputs and outputs on both sides, the new model has a straight support surface at the top and bottom, as well as sharper edges on the sides.
That isn’t that intriguing in and of itself. However, the design choice to relocate all ports, save the jack, to the rear of the HD60 X is even more intriguing. When permanently integrating the gadget into one’s own setup, an almost inconspicuous wire routing may be obtained.
The HDMI Out, USB-C, and HDMI In ports are positioned on the rear and are used to connect to consoles or video sources, respectively, while the USB-C port connects to a PC, laptop, or Mac. Apart from the status LED on the left, the printed manufacturer logo with type indication, and the 3.5 mm jack input, there is nothing more to see on the front.
The HD60 X is somewhat smaller than its indirect predecessor, measuring 112 mm x 72 mm x 18 mm (length x height x depth), but weighs much less at 91 g (against 115 g for the HD60 S+). Given the budget, the construction quality is decent.
Software
The Elgato HD60 X has a wide range of inputs that it can support, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and GeForce RTX. Elgato 4K Capture Utility, which is also included with the 4K-capable Elgato 4K60 S+, is a simple-to-use tool that provides a rapid display of the signal identified and how much capture storage space is remaining.
The settings are very simple to understand, and it is here that you can change the recording bitrate and whether or not to capture HDR material. On that point, this function is only available in Windows 10 and Windows 11, and based on the low quantity of gaming-related HDR broadcasts and videos on YouTube; it’s unlikely that many people would utilize it.
Performance
The HD60 X can handle a variety of signal sources and optimizes recording quality accordingly. It can handle 2160p60, 1440p120, and 1080p240 output signals, as well as VRR and HDR. 2160p30, 1440p60, 1080p60, 1080p30, 1080i, 720p60, 576p, and 480p are the recording resolutions.
The 4K Capture Utility’s Flashback Recording option is useful since it allows you to rewind gaming video at any moment, even if you haven’t been recording. Furthermore, the HD60 X is seamlessly integrated with Elgato’s Stream Deck, allowing you to manage your recording sessions with the stroke of a button.
You may, however, simply abandon Elgato’s software and use your own recording or streaming program (such as OBS) to capture any video you need.
Is the HD60 X a viable option for your duties and requirements? Let’s take a look at the Elgato HD60 X Capture Card’s many capabilities.
Designed for Console Use
The HD60X is a small and streamlined capture card that works with any console. Its rear HDMI ports keep your setup organized, while the audio input is conveniently located at the front for quick access.
Connect and Play
The HD60 X is simple to set up and connects to your console through HDMI and USB-C connection. It also transmits raw video to your game monitor and streaming PC.
HDR10 Passthrough
Use the HD60 X’s 4K60 HDR10 passthrough to play games or enjoy 1440p120 or 1080p240 frame rates.
VRR Gameplay VRR (Variable Refresh Rates) is a cutting-edge screen and console technology. The HD60 X provides next-generation gaming without screen tearing or latency.
Manage Your Stream
You can manage your stream and utilize your PC setup with the HD60 X. Choose the finest broadcast software for your needs, then start streaming high-resolution videos.
Stream with Any Platform and Application
Select the HD60 X as a source when using streaming tools such as Twitch Studio, OBS, Streamlabs, XSplit, Streamyard, and others. There is no need for extra configuration. This is also possible with video communication apps such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
Aside from apps, you may utilize this capture card on Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Gaming, and other platforms.
Synchronization
We saw an improvement in our workflow when evaluating the device for our Elgato HD60 X Capture Card review. The HD60 X can automatically sync your broadcast with your gaming, thanks to its ultra-low latency technology.
Prepared for editing
AAF files comprising video and audio can be simply exported as separate files for simple editing. You can use tools like Vegas Pro and Adobe Premiere.
Takeaway
The Elgato HD60 X accomplishes its goal of capturing 4K/30fps or 1080p/60fps footage. It transmits a lag-free, 4K/60fps, HDR-enhanced signal to your TV while recording the same stream at a lesser frame rate or quality of your choosing.
With streaming growing increasingly popular, you may be one of many shopping for streaming equipment. Elgato’s new capture card is a versatile method to enhance your multimedia production experience.
It’s a plug-and-play alternative with a lot of features and fair pricing. And, of course, it performs well and delivers on its promises.
PROS
Reliable 4K/30fps and 1080p/60fps game capture
Simple to use with third-party software
USB Type-C connectivity
CONS
Chroma Subsampling
No Mac capture software
Poor software
