Elgato 4K S: A Solid Mid-Range Capture Card
The Elgato 4K S offers an easy setup and impressive 4K capabilities at a competitive price of $160. While it excels in passthrough performance, it lacks some advanced features found in rivals like the AverMedia Live Gamer Ultra S. For casual creators, its plug-and-play nature is a major advantage, allowing quick access to streaming and recording without hassle. However, the absence of 5.1 audio support is disappointing, especially given its price point. The software is intuitive but could benefit from more robust features. In terms of quality, the Elgato captures footage well, though the difference in resolution may not be as pronounced as expected. For gamers seeking to stream from consoles like the Nintendo Switch, this card is almost essential. Ultimately, while the Elgato 4K S is a strong contender, it falls short against competitors in specific areas. Buy it if you want ease of use and decent quality, but consider alternatives for more advanced needs. Overall, it stands as a solid option in the mid-range market.