Looking for an easy way to record gameplay footage on your Nintendo Switch console? You've come to the right place, as we've found the very best capture cards for streaming your adventures. Using a capture card is the most reliable and efficient way to share your gaming footage online without lagging or interruptions, and it's also a great option if you need to edit the footage first.
The Nintendo Switch has no way of recording in-game footage, only capturing images, and doesn't support direct live streaming via Twitch or other platforms. So if you want to record your gameplay, you'll need a capture card with high-quality software and a PC to hook it up to (or an Xbox One console). Take a look at our FAQs below to learn more about streaming and using capture cards.
The best capture cards for the Nintendo Switch
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The best value capture card available
Connectivity: USB 2.0
Max capture quality: 1080p 30fps
Size: 6.4 x 2.8 x 2.8cm
We think the DIGITNOW USB capture card is a great choice if you're just starting out and want something simple. It's convenient for those on a tighter budget, too, but the lower price (under $15) means that streaming at 60fps isn't an option. Portable and easy to store, this capture card couldn't get any smaller, plus it's fully compatible with OBS studio.
Top capture card for serious streamers
Connectivity: USB 3.0
Max capture quality: Uncompressed 1080p 60FPS
Passthrough: 2160p at 60FPS
We think the Razer Ripsaw HD capture card is a fantastic option for Pro streamers, offering 4K 60FPS pass-through capture for uninterrupted and smooth gameplay. It uses both HDMI 2.0 & USB 3.0 connectivity for polished output, and we think it's affordable for most too – at a price of $150/£160.
Best beastly capture card
Connectivity: USB 3.0
Max capture quality: 1080p 60fps
Size: 0.75 x 4.41 x 2.95 inches
The Elgato HD60 S+ is easy to set up and works on a multitude of devices, including the Nintendo Switch. We think the 1080p quality at 60fps with HDR10 Capture is impressive, with smooth and professional rendering. But that's the least you should expect for $300. The free Elgato software is easy to work with and a great starter option for those getting into streaming.
The best capture card for beginners
Connection: USB 2.0, USB 3.0
Max capture quality: 1080p 60fps
The initial set-up of this capture card from AVerMedia is easy, with a plug-and-play approach and simple connections. It works on a range of consoles, Switch included, and provides an optimised gaming experience with full HD 1080p 60fps HDMI pass-through. You'll be streaming in no time with this budget-friendly capture card for beginners.
Clever Switch-specific capture card
Connectivity: HDMI
Max capture quality: 720p 60fps
Size: 12.9 x 12.4 x 2.39 cm
This tiny Genki powerhouse from Human Things is a great option for streaming your gameplay onto other devices, and what's more, it slots into the back of your Nintendo Switch Dock! It might not offer the best quality compared with other options in this guide, but you can plug it into any HDMI port to connect it to your PC/laptop and you're set.
A sleek, powerful capture card
Interface: USB 3.0
Max capture quality: 1080p 60fps
We think this Pengo capture card is a solid option if you're looking for a mid-range and affordable device that offers quality and ease of use. The sleek aluminium design is modern and easily portable, but our research has found that the set-up for this one can be a bit tricky. Probably best avoided for beginners and more adapted to the Pros.
