All about the Elgato 4K S: Specs, Compatibility, and Real-World Experience

The Elgato 4K S capture card has arrived to change the way creators and gamers capture and share their gameplay. If you're a streamer, content creator, or just someone looking to record your sessions with the highest quality, this device promises an unparalleled experience and plug-and-play ease of use, compatible with most modern platforms, whether it's your PC, Mac, next-gen console, or even an iPad. Want to know if it's really worth it? Here's the most complete and detailed guide that you can find.

In this article you will discover absolutely everything about the Elgato 4K S: from its true technical specifications and real-life performance, to compatibility with different systems, consoles, and the most widely used software today. In addition, we will explain the Little tricks and solutions to typical problems when trying to record games on consoles like PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch 2, so you don't miss a thing and get the best possible configuration.

What is the Elgato 4K S and who is it for?

The Elgato 4K S is an external video capture card, super compact and lightweight, ideal for those who prioritize portability without sacrificing power. It is designed to work smoothly both on next-generation consoles such as PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2, as in PCs and Macs. Your goal is clear: to achieve the maximum recording and streaming quality, even at 4K resolutions at 60 fps, without any annoying latency.

As an important plus, It is completely plug-and-play, so you won't have to install complicated drivers. All you need is a USB 3.0 port and the right software to start capturing video with ultra-low latency and full support for HDR, VRR, and analog audio inputs.

Key technical features

The Elgato 4K S is packed with advanced technology and features that position it as a top-of-the-range option. Here are all its key specifications and features:

• Video capture: Up to 4K at 60 FPS (4K60), maintaining vivid colors, maximum sharpness and spectacular fluidity.
• Passthrough (signal passage): Up to 4K60 with full support for HDR10 and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), allowing you to game and record in the highest lossless quality.
• Ultra-wide support: Supports widescreen resolutions (3440×1440 and 2560×1080), ideal for ultrawide monitors.
• Analog Audio: 3,5mm input for recording or monitoring audio directly.
• Full compatibility: It works with Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, computers and even mobile devices like iPhone or Google Pixel via HDMI.
• USB-C 3.0 Interface: Fast and stable data transfer to ensure minimal latency and maximum reliability.
• Size and weight: Super compact (112 x 72 x 18 mm) and lightweight (90 g), perfect for carrying in your backpack or leaving on your desk.

In addition, it has HDR10 passthrough up to 4K60 and HDR capture up to 1080p60 (the latter on Windows), which is an advantage over many traditional capture cards.

Picture quality: true 4K60 and HDR

4K60 capture is the big draw. Elgato 4K S allows Record games with crystal-clear clarity, excellent fluidity, and color reproduction almost identical to the original signalAdded to this is support for HDR10 in 4K, which enhances the contrast and vibrancy of every game—ideal if you play or produce content on next-gen consoles.

If you want to opt for a higher frame rate for competitive gaming or fast-paced action scenes, you can capture 1440p up to 120 FPS and 1080p up to 240 FPSThese modes are perfect if you're looking for maximum smoothness for shooters or eSports. Plus, latency is virtually nonexistent (less than 30ms in the preview), which is essential for lag-free streaming or playing games while looking at the capture card monitor without any noticeable difference.

HDR, VRR and ultra-wide: all the latest technologies

As soon as you connect the Elgato 4K S you will notice that it supports HDR10 passthrough and capture, which ensures that recorded content respects the dynamic ranges of brightness and color. This feature allows games and videos to look just as spectacular as playing them directly on a compatible TV or monitor.

El VRR support (variable refresh rate) is another plus: if you play on a console or PC that supports it, you'll have a much smoother experience without tearing or stuttering, even at high frame rates.

If you have an ultrawide monitor (3440x1440 or 2560x1080), 4K S is also ready. Capture widescreen content without distortion or cropping, ideal for creators who want to work with different formats.

Performance and latency: gaming and recording in parallel

One of Elgato's priorities with this capture card is undoubtedly the gaming experience while recording or streaming. The HDMI 2.0 signal pass-through allows you to enjoy Smooth 4K60 HDR gaming with VRR while recordingThis way, you can play at the highest quality while capturing content without any lag or frame loss.

For those looking for maximum performance, we're not just talking 4K60. You can record up to 1440p120 or 1080p240, and the preview time is very low (less than 30 milliseconds), so you can monitor the signal almost in real time from the software, without feeling "disconnected" from the game.

Console and PC compatibility

The strength of the Elgato 4K S is in its wide compatibility. Can be used directly with:

• Nintendo Switch 2: Capture 4K60, 1440p120, or 1080p60 HDR, perfect for titles like Mario Kart World or Donkey Kong Bananza.
• PlayStation 5: Recording and streaming in 4K60/HDR or 1440p120, essential for games like Final Fantasy VII Rebirth or competitive shooters.
• Xbox Series Enjoy VRR and HDR, streaming titles like Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree or The Outer Worlds 2 in the highest quality.
• PC and Mac: Compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1 (64-bit), macOS 13/12, and Linux, plus iPadOS 18 via USB-C.
• Other HDMI sources: Even cameras, iPhone, Google Pixel and other unencrypted HDMI sources can be captured.

Its plug-and-play operation makes it perfect for hassle-free users: you don't need additional drivers or advanced configurations to start recording or streaming.

Software and application compatibility

Elgato has bet heavily on its own software with the arrival of Elgato Studio, a new professional recording tool with real-time HDMI diagnostics, detailed signal information, and full integration with Stream Deck for creating shortcuts and automation. It also allows you to capture snapshots and easily manage clip thumbnails or social media accounts.

Of course, it is also compatible with the most used programs by the community, such as:

• OBS Studio
• Streamlabs Desktop
• 4K Capture Utility
• Zoom, TikTok Live Studio and many other UVC-compatible programs

Integration is straightforward: the system detects the capture device as a webcam, and you can add it as a video or audio source in a matter of seconds.

Installation and configuration on PlayStation 5 (how-to tutorial)

To get the most out of the Elgato 4K S with your PS5, follow these steps to avoid HDCP blocks and get the best possible audio and video:

1. Disable HDCP on the console (from Settings > System > HDMI), as it prevents the capture of copyrighted content.
2. Connect an HDMI from the PS5 OUT port to the HDMI IN of the capture card.
3. With another HDMI, connects the 4K S OUT to the monitor or TV.
4. Use the included USB-C cable to connect the capture card to your computer. or iPad.
5. Opens Elgato Studio to view the signal and start recording, streaming or capturing.
6. To go live with OBS Studio, simply select the capture card from the list of sources and set the resolution and FPS you prefer.

The latency is so low that You can play with the capture card signal without noticing much difference. regarding direct console output.

High-Fidelity Audio: How to Record Sound and Chat

For streamers and YouTubers who want to capture both game and chat audio in the highest quality, Elgato has thought of everything. By default, the HDMI signal includes all audio, but if you use headphones connected to the PS5 controller, the audio channel is diverted and no longer recorded by the capture card.

To avoid this, you have two simple alternatives:

• Connect your headphones directly to your PC or Mac and monitor the sound with Elgato Studio or OBS Studio.
• Use the accessory Elgato Chat Link Pro, designed to redirect group chat audio and voice. This way, all audio sources are recorded and synchronized.

The 3,5mm analog input also helps record audio from external sources, ideal for live commentary or custom mixes.

Differences between Elgato 4K S and 4K X: which one is right for you?

If you're hesitating between the 4K S and the 4K X, here's a quick comparison:

• Elgato 4K S: Up to 4K60, HDR and VRR, USB-C 3.0 interface, more affordable and highly portable. Perfect for creators looking for professional performance without breaking the bank.
• Elgato 4K X: Up to 4K144, supports HDR at 4K30 and 1440p60 HDR, USB 3.2 Gen2 interface, ideal for those who work with ultra-high refresh rate monitors and want to record at maximum fluidity.

Both offer the highest streaming quality, compatibility with OBS/Elgato Studio, and seamless integration into content creation workflows. If you don't need to capture at anything higher than 4K60, you'll save a significant amount of money by choosing the 4K S.

What's in the box?

When you purchase the Elgato 4K S, you'll find:

• The Elgato 4K S capture card
• USB-C to USB-C cable (150 cm, enough for most setups)
• High-quality HDMI 2.0 cable (also 150 cm)

Everything you need to connect it to your console or PC right out of the box, without relying on extra accessories.

Technical requirements: Is my equipment compatible?

To enjoy all the benefits, your system must meet certain minimum requirements:

• Operating system: Windows 11 or later, macOS 13/12 and Linux
• Processor: 5th Gen Intel Core i8 or higher, AMD Ryzen (or Apple M1 and higher)
• Graphic card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 10xx (GTX 1050) or equivalent for 4K60 HDR
• RAM: 8GB or more, preferably in dual-channel configuration
• USB port: USB 3.0 type C

Be careful! Processors with the U or M suffix (designed for low power consumption) will offer much lower performance. Pentium and Celeron processors are out of the equation for demanding tasks.