When it comes to capture cards, Mac users have fewer options than their Windows counterparts.
This is often due to manufacturers failing to develop the necessary drivers or even support them if they do.
What is the best capture card for Mac?
Whats great about this card is that its very flexible and great for on the go.
It works straight out of the box with no plugin-play drivers and does not require any external power supply.
Moreover, the aluminum build is quite robust so you wont have to worry so much about damaging it.
This card has all the standardized input connections you would expect for a newer model.
Additionally, the package comes with all the necessary cables.
Including the USB power, USB 3.0, and HDMI.
Lower resolutions (1080p, for example) are even easier to capture.
Streamers searching for a true plug and play option will love this capture card for Mac.
Latency issues are a big problem for streamers wanting to record their gameplay to OBS.
Luckily, the high-speed USB 3.0 technology guarantees a smooth transmission of HD video with almost no lag.
As a result, this handy bit of gear eliminates those problems.
This makes it specific for broadcasting using a DSLR, camcorder, or action cam.
The Cam Link produces superb quality at 1080p60 or even up to 4K30fps.
Thanks to the ultra-low latency technology, you’re able to expect less than 200ms of delay.
Besides its small, portable size, whats great about this little dongle is that its plug-and-play.
No drivers are necessary for installation.
In terms of compatibility, the Cam Link Capture Card works with macOS and OBS on macOS.
No middle-man capture is required.
Just add it as a video source and youll be on your way.
4K resolution can pass through internally at 60fps.
It can then record at 4K, at a slightly lower 30 frames per second.
To broadcast live, youll be glad to know that its fully compatible with OBS.
Just as you would expect with most modern-day cards, the DIGITNOW can also sync audio.
Having the ability to capture video from one source and audio from another( e.g.
your mic) streamlines the workflow significantly.
On one end is a 3.5.mm audio port that lets you achieve this.
The beauty of this card comes down to its usability.
Theres no external power supply or driver software necessary and it works right out-of-the-box.
Lightweight and portable, the whole unit connects via USB 3.0 for high-speed data transmission.
The USB 3.0 connectivity eliminates any latency issues.
It allows you to enjoy mesmerizing 4K HDR gameplay at 60 FPS and record at 4Kp30.
Due to having a high frame rate pass-through, it also supports 240Hz in Full HD.
The build has a solid plastic top shell with curved rounded corners.
Underneath is a flashing RGB strip that lets you personalize your desktop.
Compatibility is an important factor for any capture equipment and one area where the Live Ultra excels.
Besides being fully functional on both Windows and Mac, it works well for any of the latest consoles.
Additionally, its supports OBS, StreamLabs, and other popular third-party live streaming software.
The plug-and-play capabilities of this capture card should be mentioned, too.
A lot of other capture /pass-through options require a relatively complex setup process.
Setting it up takes absolutely no effort at all.
Its ready to connect straight out of the box.
The super-portable design with heat dissipation properties is a big bonus.
Additionally, the multi-platform support for Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android devices is another big advantage.
That software greatly expands the usability and features of this gadget at no extra cost.
The ultra-low-latency connection provides Instant Gameview to give you full creative control over your workflow.
In short, its one of the best mid-range, external capture devices around.
In addition to featuring the latest Thunderbolt 3 connectivity.
If your Mac is compatible with Thunderbolt 3, this capture card will work wonders.
What makes a good capture card for a Mac?
For a streamer, the biggest deal-breakers are having high-quality footage and no input lag.
The majority of input lag issues come from external capture cards using USB 2.0 ports.
Internal cards tend to cost more but provide instant passthrough due to connecting directly with the motherboard.
To install an internal card you will need a spare PCI-e slot inside your box.
You will also need to confirm your processor is powerful enough to handle it.
If youre using a 4K monitor, be sure to buy a 4K capture card.
How does a capture card work?
Capture cards process analog video signal to digital video over an HDMI connection.
Click hereto find out more about What is a capture card?
Can You Use a Capture Card with a Mac?
Elgatos HD60 S+ and Cam Link 4K cards are Mac-compatible.
Additionally, plenty of generic UVC devices allow you to stream directly to a Mac.
Of course, dual streaming between Macs is possible, too.
Simply hook the HDMI output of the gaming PC up to a dedicated system you might have.
That will be more than sufficient for use with a capture card.
How to Choose the Best Capture Card for Mac in 2025?
Elgato capture cards have excellent pass-through.
Besides that, itll have a USB output and a 3.5mm microphone jack for audio.
Ease of Use
The same rules that apply for connectivity apply here as well.
Click herefor the best Budget Capture Cards!
