Internet message boards have been buzzing since the PS4 and Xbox One launched about the two next-gen consoles’ video capabilities. The PS4 generally has more consistency in terms of offering full 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second, though claims of the Xbox One’s inability to pull-off those same specs is greatly exaggerated. Fortunately, no matter what side of the fence you sit on a new device called the Elgato Game Capture HD60 will let you record your most epic gameplay moments.
The Elgato Game Capture HD60 went on sale in 900 Best Buy stores nationwide this past weekend. The tool captures gameplay in full 1080p and at 60fps, allowing gamers to record gameplay moments regardless of the console on which those moments took place.
The hardware comes with a new design with a matte, soft-touch surface and a set of LEDs. All told the unit’s just 0.75 inches thick, making it easy to pack-up and take to a friends house if you so desire.
The Elgato Game Capture 2.0 software features a new user interface and a unique “Stream Command” feature that lets players live-stream their PS4 and Xbox One experience as well. Stream Command enables you to easily add a webcam and overlays, and change your stream layout on-the-fly with scenes.
Elgato Game Capture HD60 uses H.264 hardware encoding to create smooth footage in easily manageable files that you can access directly on your PC or Mac. In addition, a feature called “Flashback Recording” eliminates the need to remember to press the record button. Players can just “slide back in time” on their PC or Mac and hit the record button retroactively at the right moment.
The system also features built-in live streaming capability using “Stream Command.” This feature lets players connect to Twitch, YouTube, Ustream or Dailymotion in a snap, complete with webcam functionality and overlays. A built-in “Live Commentary” feature then lets you add some voiceovers.
One nice feature is that the hardware also allows owners to simultaneously live-stream their gameplay while making HD gameplay recordings. No matter what resolution you broadcast, the Elgato Game Capture HD60 lets players simultaneously capture full resolution 1080p.
The biggest downfall may be the unit’s price: $179.99. Although it’s certainly convenient and powerful, both the PS4 and Xbox One have broadcast and recording functionality built-in for free. So, just how much are those highlight reels worth to you? If you’re big into broadcasting or archiving games, it might be worth the investment. Otherwise, using the off-the-shelf functions in the PS4 and Xbox One, as comparatively clunky as they may be, could very well be your best bet.
