When choosing between Elgato Game Capture 4K S and Game Capture 4K X, you're already picking pro-tier performance. Both deliver Elgato’s signature capture quality in sleek, compact form factors, but each card is tailored for a different kind of creator. Here's how they stack up.
At a glance
| 4K S | 4K X | |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP | 159.99 USD | 249.99 USD |
| Perfect for | Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X | Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X |
| Capture resolution (Max) | 4K60 | 4K144 |
| 1440p Capture (max) | 1440p120 | 1440p144 |
| Passthrough resolution | Up to 4K60 / 1440p120 | Up to 4K144 / 1440p240 |
| HDR Passthrough | Up to 4K60 | Up to 4K144 |
| HDR capture | Up to 1080p60 | Up to 4K30 |
| Variable Refresh Rate Passthrough | Yes | Yes |
| HDMI (Input & output) | HDMI 2.0 | HDMI 2.1 |
| PC interface | USB-C 3.0 (5Gbps) | USB 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps) |
| Analog Audio In | 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
| Software | Elgato Studio, OBS, etc. | Elgato Studio, 4KCU, OBS, etc. |
Enhanced 4K Capture
Both 4K S and 4K X offer up 4K60 capture, giving you crisp, detailed footage perfect for streaming or content creation. Whether you're recording gameplay from Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or Steam Deck, both cards preserve every pixel in stunning SDR fidelity.
But where 4K S is optimized for streamlined 4K workflows, 4K X pushes further. It can capture and passthrough up to 4K144 simultaneously, a game-changer for creators using high-refresh-rate monitors or next-gen consoles. Sometimes, it’s not just about raw speed: 4K X also supports 1440p60 HDR and 4K30 HDR capture, giving you more flexibility across various gaming setups. If your source can output 4K120 or higher, 4K X preserves that full experience while recording every frame, without compromising on resolution or fluidity.
Software & Workflow
Our new recording software, Elgato Studio, was built to give creators complete transparency and control, and it works with both 4K S and 4K X. With real-time HDMI diagnostics, detailed input readouts, and bold visual indicators, you’ll always know exactly what you're capturing.
Thanks to native Stream Deck integration, starting a recording, switching inputs, or monitoring your signal is just a tap away.
Price Point
4K S comes in at a creator-friendly $159.99, offering high frame rate capture, next-gen software, and wide platform compatibility including macOS, Windows, and iPadOS at an incredible value.
4K X, priced at $229.99, is designed for creators who need peak passthrough performance with high refresh rate support. It’s an investment for next-gen creation, where cutting-edge capture and play experiences must coexist.
Final Thoughts
Both 4K S and 4K X are exceptional tools in the Elgato ecosystem. Choose 4K X if you need 4K144 capture and passthrough, or 4K S if you need only 4K60 capture and passthrough. You'll also save a little bit of money with 4K S.
No matter which you choose, you’re getting next-gen capture technology designed to meet you at your level, and take your content further.
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