The Elgato HD60 X is a popular external capture card designed for gamers and content creators who want to record or stream high-quality gameplay footage. With its sleek design and advanced features, many users wonder whether this device can record in full 4K resolution. Understanding the capabilities of the HD60 X is crucial for those looking for the best recording solution.
Understanding the Recording Capabilities of the Elgato HD60 X
The most important aspect to clarify is that while the Elgato HD60 X supports 4K passthrough, it does not record in full 4K resolution. Instead, it is designed primarily for recording and streaming at 1080p at up to 60 frames per second, while allowing 4K signals to pass through to a connected display.
Key Features of the HD60 X:
- 4K60 HDR10 passthrough: The device allows users to experience their games in full 4K at 60 frames per second with HDR, ensuring a smooth and immersive gameplay experience.
- 1080p60 recording: Despite the ability to handle 4K signals, the HD60 X is limited to capturing gameplay at a maximum resolution of 1080p at 60 frames per second.
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support: This feature helps eliminate screen tearing for seamless visuals during gameplay.
- Low-latency technology: The device ensures near-instant response times, making it suitable for live streaming and real-time gameplay recording.
Why Doesn’t the HD60 X Record in 4K?
One of the main limitations of the Elgato HD60 X is that it is optimized for Full HD recording rather than 4K capture. This limitation exists due to several key factors:
1. Bandwidth and File Size Considerations
Recording in 4K requires significant data bandwidth and storage capacity. The HD60 X is designed for streamlined recording and streaming without excessively large file sizes or requiring high-end hardware to process and store the recordings.
2. Target Audience and Usability
The HD60 X caters primarily to content creators and streamers who prefer smooth, high-quality 1080p gameplay over raw 4K recordings. Most streaming platforms, including Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook Gaming, prioritize reliability over ultra-high resolutions.
3. Focus on Latency-Free Experience
Since the device prioritizes low latency and high refresh rates, it avoids the additional processing power required for 4K recording. This ensures that live streams remain smooth, and gamers do not experience delays.
Alternative Options for 4K Recording
If you need an external capture card that can record in 4K, there are other options available in Elgato’s lineup, such as:
- Elgato 4K60 S+ – A portable capture device that can record 4K HDR gameplay directly to an SD card.
- Elgato 4K60 Pro – An internal PCIe card designed for high-performance 4K60 HDR recording.
These devices are more suitable for users who require 4K recording capabilities but come at a higher price point and require more powerful hardware.
Final Verdict: Is the HD60 X Right for You?
While the Elgato HD60 X does not support native 4K recording, it remains a fantastic option for gamers and streamers looking for a high-quality capture solution. Its ability to provide 4K60 passthrough ensures that the gaming experience remains visually stunning, while its 1080p60 recording capability delivers smooth and reliable footage for content creation.
If your primary focus is recording or streaming in Full HD with high frame rates, the HD60 X is an excellent choice. However, for users who require 4K60 recording, opting for a higher-end model like the 4K60 S+ or the 4K60 Pro would be a better investment.
