Looking to elevate your game streaming or content creation setup? The choice of capture card can make all the difference in delivering a smooth, high-quality experience to your audience. Two popular options from Elgato often come up in discussions: the HD60X and the HD60S.
While both are designed to bring your gameplay to your PC with impressive clarity, they cater to slightly different needs and offer distinct features. Deciding between the Elgato HD60X and the HD60S might seem straightforward, but subtle differences can impact your workflow and the final output.
This comparison dives deep into what sets the Elgato HD60X apart from its predecessor, the HD60S. We’ll explore their capabilities, performance, and who each card is best suited for, helping you make an informed decision for your streaming journey.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | elgato hd60x | hd60s |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution Support (Input) | Up to 4K60 | Up to 1080p60 |
| Resolution Support (Passthrough) | Up to 4K60 HDR10+ | Up to 1080p60 HDR |
| Frame Rate Support (Capture) | Up to 1080p60 | Up to 1080p60 |
| HDR Capture | Yes (HDR10+) | Yes (HDR10) |
| Low Latency | Yes (Flashback Recording) | Yes |
| USB Connectivity | USB 3.0 | USB 3.0 |
| Software Compatibility | OBS, Streamlabs OBS, Twitch, YouTube | OBS, Streamlabs OBS, Twitch, YouTube |
| Audio Input | HDMI | HDMI |
| Dimensions | Compact | Compact |
| Power | USB Powered | USB Powered |
| HDMI Version | 2.1 | 1.4 |
| VRR Support (Passthrough) | Yes | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Resolution & Frame Rate
- Elgato Hd60x: Supports up to 4K60 HDR10 passthrough and 1080p60 HDR10 capture. This higher passthrough resolution is excellent for modern gaming displays, while the HDR capture provides richer, more vibrant footage.
- Hd60s: Supports up to 1080p60 capture and passthrough. It’s a solid performer for standard HD content but lacks the higher resolution passthrough and HDR capabilities of the newer model.
- Winner: elgato hd60x
HDR Support
- Elgato Hd60x: Offers HDR10 passthrough and capture. This means you can play your games with the enhanced color and contrast of HDR while also recording that same quality, a significant advantage for visually impressive games.
- Hd60s: Does not support HDR capture or passthrough. It captures standard SDR (Standard Dynamic Range) footage, which is perfectly fine for many but won’t offer the same visual fidelity as HDR.
- Winner: elgato hd60x
Latency
- Elgato Hd60x: Features significantly reduced latency, especially with its advanced passthrough. This is crucial for gamers who need a responsive experience when playing directly from the capture device’s output.
- Hd60s: Has relatively low latency for its generation, but it’s noticeably higher than the HD60X. For most users, this is acceptable, but competitive gamers might find the slight delay more apparent.
- Winner: elgato hd60x
Connectivity
- Elgato Hd60x: Utilizes USB 3.0 (or higher) for connection, ensuring ample bandwidth for high-resolution and high-frame-rate data. It also features HDMI 2.0 for its passthrough.
- Hd60s: Also uses USB 3.0 for connection, providing sufficient speed for its 1080p60 capabilities. Its HDMI 1.4 passthrough limits it to lower resolutions and frame rates compared to the HD60X.
- Winner: elgato hd60x
Software Integration
- Elgato Hd60x: Integrates seamlessly with Elgato’s own software like Game Capture HD and OBS Studio, offering robust features for recording, streaming, and editing. It benefits from the latest software optimizations.
- Hd60s: Works well with Elgato’s Game Capture HD software and other popular streaming applications. While functional, it doesn’t receive the same level of cutting-edge feature development as the newest hardware.
- Winner: elgato hd60x
Power
- Elgato Hd60x: Is powered via USB-C, drawing power from the connected computer. This simplifies setup as no external power adapter is typically required.
- Hd60s: Also powered via USB, typically USB 3.0. It’s a plug-and-play device that doesn’t require a separate power brick, making it portable and easy to set up.
- Winner: Tie
Design & Portability
- Elgato Hd60x: Features a compact and modern design, fitting well into most streaming setups. Its USB-C connectivity also contributes to a cleaner cable management.
- Hd60s: Is also a compact and portable device, making it easy to transport for LAN parties or different recording locations. Its design is functional and straightforward.
- Winner: Tie
Price Point (General Trend)
- Elgato Hd60x: As the newer and more feature-rich model, it typically comes with a higher price tag. The advanced capabilities like 4K passthrough and HDR justify the increased cost for many.
- Hd60s: Being an older model, it is generally more affordable, making it a great entry-level option for those on a tighter budget. Its value proposition lies in its solid 1080p60 performance at a lower cost.
- Winner: hd60s
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Features | elgato hd60x |
| 4K Passthrough | elgato hd60x |
| HDR Support | elgato hd60x |
| VRR Support | elgato hd60x |
| Value for Money (Basic Streaming) | hd60s |
| Ease of Use | Both |
| Build Quality | Both |
What They Have in Common
- USB Connectivity: Both devices utilize USB 3.0 for a stable and fast connection to your computer, ensuring smooth data transfer for your recordings and streams.
- Software Compatibility: They are both designed to work seamlessly with popular streaming and recording software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and are compatible with major platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
- Audio Input: Both capture audio directly through the HDMI input, meaning any audio present in your source signal will be captured alongside your video.
- Compact Design: Both the HD60X and HD60S feature a compact and portable form factor, making them easy to integrate into various setups without taking up much space.
- USB Powered: Neither device requires a separate power adapter; they draw power directly from the USB port they are connected to, simplifying setup and reducing cable clutter.
- Low Latency: Both aim to provide a low-latency experience, which is crucial for streamers to see what they’re doing in real-time and for viewers to have a responsive stream.
Elgato Hd60X Vs Hd60S Buying Guide
Target Audience and Use Case
The Elgato HD60X is an excellent choice for streamers and content creators who prioritize the latest technology and require superior performance. Its advanced features, like higher frame rate support and enhanced HDR capabilities, cater to those looking to produce polished, professional-grade content. If you’re aiming for the absolute best visual fidelity and smoothest gameplay capture, the HD60X is designed with you in mind.
Conversely, the HD60S remains a solid option for budget-conscious creators or those new to game capture. It still delivers reliable 1080p60 capture and low latency, making it perfectly suitable for many streaming and recording needs. If your budget is a primary concern and you don’t require the absolute cutting edge, the HD60S offers exceptional value and functionality. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Performance and Features
The HD60X shines with its ability to capture at higher frame rates, such as 1080p at 60fps with HDR10, offering a richer and more vibrant visual experience. It also boasts enhanced passthrough capabilities, ensuring your gaming display remains smooth and responsive even during demanding capture sessions. The inclusion of features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) passthrough further enhances the gaming experience by reducing screen tearing and stuttering.
The HD60S offers robust 1080p60 capture and a respectable low-latency passthrough. While it lacks the advanced HDR and VRR support of the HD60X, it still provides a high-quality capture experience for standard HD content. For most users, the performance difference might not be immediately apparent unless they are specifically looking for the nuanced improvements offered by the newer model.
Connectivity and Compatibility
Both the HD60X and HD60S utilize USB 3.0 for connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable data transfer to your computer. They are widely compatible with popular streaming and recording software like OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit. The HD60X, however, might offer slightly more robust driver support and potentially better integration with newer operating systems due to its more recent release.
When considering compatibility, ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for each device. While both are generally plug-and-play, the HD60X’s advanced features might benefit from a slightly more powerful system to fully leverage its capabilities. Both devices offer HDMI input and output for seamless integration into your gaming setup. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Price and Value Proposition
The Elgato HD60X typically comes with a higher price tag, reflecting its advanced features and cutting-edge technology. This makes it a premium investment for streamers and content creators who demand the best. The value proposition lies in its superior performance, enhanced visual quality, and future-proofing capabilities for high-end gaming setups.
The HD60S offers a more budget-friendly entry point into high-quality game capture. It provides excellent value for its price, delivering reliable 1080p60 capture without breaking the bank. For individuals starting out or those with a tighter budget, the HD60S is a fantastic option that still provides a professional-level recording experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy elgato hd60x If…
- You want to stream or record in 4K resolution with HDR10+ passthrough.
- You have a modern gaming console that supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and want to experience it without screen tearing.
- You are looking for the latest features and the best possible visual quality for your content.
- Your source device and display support HDMI 2.1.
Buy hd60s If…
- You primarily stream or record in 1080p and don’t need 4K capture capabilities.
- You are on a tighter budget and are looking for a reliable, well-established capture card.
- Your gaming setup and streaming goals are focused on standard HD content.
- You don’t require HDR10+ passthrough or VRR support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the HD60X and HD60S?
The Elgato HD60X is the newer model, offering enhanced features like 1080p60 HDR10 capture and higher refresh rate passthrough (up to 120Hz), including VRR support. The HD60S is an older, yet still capable, device primarily focused on 1080p60 capture and standard passthrough without HDR or VRR.
Can I use both the HD60X and HD60S with the same software?
Yes, absolutely. Both the Elgato HD60X and HD60S are compatible with major streaming and recording software such as OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, and XSplit. The integration and setup process are generally very similar across these platforms for both devices. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Which device is better for streaming with low latency?
Both devices are designed for low-latency performance, which is crucial for streaming. However, the HD60X’s more advanced processing might offer a slight edge in maintaining consistent low latency, especially when dealing with higher resolutions or frame rates.
Does the HD60X support 4K capture?
No, neither the Elgato HD60X nor the HD60S are designed for 4K capture. They are both primarily focused on high-quality 1080p capture at up to 60 frames per second. For 4K capture, you would need to look at Elgato’s more advanced models like the 4K60 Pro or 4K60 S+.
Is the HD60S still a good buy in 2023?
Yes, the Elgato HD60S remains a very viable option in 2023, especially for budget-conscious users or those who don’t require the advanced HDR or higher refresh rate passthrough features of the HD60X. It still provides excellent 1080p60 capture quality and reliable performance for most streaming and recording needs.
Final Verdict
While the Elgato HD60S remains a solid performer for 1080p60 capture, the HD60X is the clear winner for those seeking the latest in streaming technology. Its superior HDR support, higher refresh rate passthrough, and VRR compatibility offer a more visually stunning and responsive experience for both capture and gaming. For content creators aiming for the best quality and performance, the HD60X is the superior choice.
Winner: Elgato HD60X