Top 5 Budget Capture Cards for Streamers

If you’re serious about growing as a content creator — whether you’re streaming gameplay from a console, recording high-quality facecam footage, or just aiming for that crisp, professional look — one piece of equipment is non-negotiable: the capture card.

Sure, some platforms allow direct streaming from consoles, and there are workarounds for webcam capture. But if you’re aiming to level up your stream quality, add overlays, or stream console gameplay through OBS, you need a capture card.

But what if you’re on a budget? Good news — the market has expanded, and today’s affordable capture cards can deliver surprisingly good performance without the hefty price tag.

In this guide, we’ll break down the top 5 budget capture cards perfect for beginners. Whether you’re gaming on a PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or a second PC, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s plug in and start streaming smarter, not harder.

What Is a Capture Card and Why Do You Need One?

Simple Explanation: Your Stream’s Video Pipeline

A capture card takes a video signal (like your console output) and converts it into data your streaming software can use. It’s like a translator between your game and your audience.

Why Not Just Stream Directly?

Because you lose out on:

• Scene control in OBS/Streamlabs
• High-quality overlays and transitions
• Multi-camera setups
• Advanced audio syncing
• Archiving high-res recordings for YouTube

Basically, capture cards let you stream like a pro, even from non-PC devices.

What to Look for in a Budget Capture Card

Even if you’re spending under £100 (and many on this list are under £50), make sure to check:

• Resolution & Frame Rate: Minimum 1080p @ 30fps; 60fps is better
• Pass-Through Support: Lets you game in full quality while streaming
• Low Latency: Crucial for real-time gameplay and syncing
• Platform Compatibility: Check if it works with OBS, Windows, macOS, or even Android

Top 5 Budget Capture Cards for Streamers (Tested & Trusted)

1. Mirabox HSV321 USB 3.0 HDMI Video Capture Card

• Price: ~£45–£55
• Input: HDMI
• Max Capture: 1080p @ 60fps
• Pass-Through: Yes

Why It’s Great: Plug-and-play simplicity with top-tier performance for the price.

Pros:

• USB 3.0 for fast data transfer
• Compatible with OBS and Streamlabs
• Very low latency

Cons:

• Build feels plasticky
• No onboard controls

Perfect for: Console streamers and dual-PC users.

2. DIGITNOW! HDMI Video Capture Card

• Price: ~£25
• Max Capture: 1080p @ 30fps
• Pass-Through: No

Why It’s Great: Dirt cheap and surprisingly functional for facecam overlays or light streaming.

Pros:

• Works right out of the box
• Incredibly affordable
• No extra software needed

Cons:

• No pass-through
• Some quality loss in colour depth

Perfect for: Stream overlays, webcam capture, and test runs.

3. EVGA XR1 Lite Capture Card

• Price: ~£60
• Max Capture: 1080p @ 60fps
• Pass-Through: Yes (up to 4K @ 60Hz)

Why It’s Great: One of the most professional-feeling entry cards, officially certified for OBS.

Pros:

• High compatibility
• Smooth video with excellent colour accuracy
• EVGA support and warranty

Cons:

• Slightly pricier than ultra-budget picks
• No 4K recording (only pass-through)

Perfect for: Streamers ready to invest in smooth gameplay visuals.

4. AverMedia GC311 Live Gamer Mini

• Price: ~£75
• Max Capture: 1080p @ 60fps
• Pass-Through: Yes

Why It’s Great: AverMedia is a trusted brand, and this model brings reliability and support.

Pros:

• High-end compression engine
• Ultra-low latency
• Easy integration with AverMedia’s own RECentral software or OBS

Cons:

• Slightly above entry-level budget
• Needs firmware updates for optimal performance

Perfect for: Streamers wanting a set-it-and-forget-it solution.

5. Generic No-Brand USB HDMI Capture Dongle

• Price: ~£10–£15
• Max Capture: 1080p @ 30fps
• Pass-Through: No

Why It’s Great: This tiny dongle floods Amazon and eBay — and it surprisingly works (with caveats).

Pros:

• Ultra-cheap
• Works with OBS
• Good for webcam-style overlays or backup capture

Cons:

• Video quality can be inconsistent
• No audio pass-through
• No support or brand warranty

Perfect for: Learning the ropes before upgrading.

Bonus Tips: Making the Most of Your Capture Card

Pair with OBS Studio

Capture cards shine brightest when paired with software like OBS. If you’re unsure how to do that, check out this step-by-step OBS setup guide.

Use Game Mode on Your TV

If your capture card doesn’t support HDMI pass-through, using Game Mode on your monitor or TV can reduce input lag while streaming from console.

Don’t Overload Your USB Ports

Running a webcam, mic, and a capture card on one hub? Expect stutters. Try to spread your devices across different ports or use a powered USB hub.

Testing: Real Streamer Experience

Case Example: Ben, Twitch Streamer (UK) “I started with one of those £10 Amazon dongles just to test the waters. It was a bit laggy with my Switch, but it let me stream Mario Kart to a few mates. Once I got affiliate, I upgraded to the EVGA XR1 — and it’s been smooth sailing ever since.”

Takeaway: Start small, scale when ready. Even a basic capture card gives you a massive step up from direct console streaming.

Related Reads for Your Stream Setup

To complete your stream recording gear stack, explore:

• Affordable Lighting Setups for Small Streamers
• How to Build a Budget-Friendly Streaming Setup

Your stream’s look and sound are just as important as the gameplay itself.

Quick Comparison Table

Capture Without Breaking the Bank

You don’t need to spend £200+ to start streaming like a pro. Today’s affordable capture cards deliver solid performance, clear video, and flexibility for streamers on any budget.

From simple plug-and-play USB options to OBS-certified devices like the EVGA XR1 Lite, you’ve got great choices at every level. Whether you’re just dipping your toe into streaming or upgrading from basic tools, these beginner-friendly capture cards are smart investments in your growth.

So don’t wait to look better and stream smarter — plug in, power up, and start creating content that looks as good as it plays.

Your Turn: Let’s Talk Tech

Have you used any of the capture cards mentioned above? What was your experience like — smooth sailing or cable chaos?

Drop a comment below with your setup or any questions you have — we’re all here to help!

Found this useful? Share it with your streaming squad or post it on your Discord server!

Need help choosing between two models? Let’s compare notes in the comments.