10 Best Capture Cards for 1440p 240Hz Passthrough in 2026

Finding a capture card that preserves a high-refresh gaming signal while recording or streaming can be harder than it looks. A device may advertise 4K capture yet limit passthrough, introduce latency, or lack support for the exact HDMI features your setup uses.

This roundup compares 10 options for PC and console creators, focusing on 1440p and 240Hz passthrough, capture quality, HDMI 2.1 compatibility, HDR, VRR, connectivity, and installation requirements.

Best 10 Capture Card for 1440p 240hz Passthrough Picks for 2026

Best High-Refresh USB Pick

BlueAVS 4K Capture Card

BlueAVS 4K Capture Card
  • 4K60 capture with 1440p144 and 1080p240 passthrough
  • HDR, VRR, and ALLM support
  • Plug-and-play USB-C design with 3.5mm audio

Best For: Flexible console and PC streaming setups

Best Internal PCIe Option

Elgato 4K Pro Capture Card

Elgato 4K Pro Capture Card
  • Up to 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 capture
  • 1080p240 recording with VRR support
  • HDMI 2.1 and dual-PC compatibility

Best For: Windows desktop and dual-PC streaming

Best True 1440p240 Passthrough

Guermok 4K144 HDMI 2.1

Guermok 4K144 HDMI 2.1
  • 2560×1440 at 240Hz passthrough
  • 4K144 passthrough with HDR10 and VRR
  • Up to 2K144 or 1080p240 capture on Windows

Best For: Competitive gaming and high-refresh dual-PC streaming

Best 4K60 Console Balance

NearStream CCD30 Capture Card

NearStream CCD30 Capture Card
  • 4K60 capture with 4K60 passthrough
  • 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough
  • HDR10 passthrough and 3.5mm audio ports

Best For: Console and dual-PC streaming with 4K60 capture

Top HDMI 2.1 Pick

UGREEN 4K 144Hz Capture Card

UGREEN 4K 144Hz Capture Card
  • 4K 144Hz HDMI 2.1 passthrough
  • HDR and VRR support
  • Triple 3.5mm audio ports

Best For: Competitive gamers and feature-rich streaming setups

Best Verified High-Refresh Support

AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S

AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S
  • 1440p144 and 1080p240 passthrough
  • HDR and VRR support
  • Ultrawide and 5.1 audio support

Best For: High-refresh PC and console streaming

Best Budget-Friendly Feature Set

Zeroffi 4K USB Capture Card

Zeroffi 4K USB Capture Card
  • 4K60 HDR and VRR passthrough
  • 1440p144 and 1080p240 modes
  • Mic and line-in audio inputs

Best For: Budget-conscious Windows and Mac streamers

Premium PCIe Pick

Live Gamer 4K 2.1

Live Gamer 4K 2.1
  • Up to 240Hz refresh-rate support
  • 4K144 HDR pass-through
  • 1440p120 and 1080p240 capture

Best For: Windows gamers building a high-refresh internal capture setup

Flexible External Option

PORTTA DX20R

PORTTA DX20R
  • 1080p240 and 2K120 passthrough
  • 4K60 capture support
  • Windows, macOS, and Linux compatible

Best For: Multi-platform users wanting portable USB capture with VRR and HDR

Value PCIe Choice

Live Streamer Ultra HD

Live Streamer Ultra HD
  • 4K60 pass-through with VRR
  • 1080p120 high-frame-rate capture
  • Compatible with multiple PCIe slot sizes

Best For: Windows console streamers seeking simple 4K60 PCIe capture

Best High-Refresh USB Pick – BlueAVS 4K Capture Card

If you need a capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough, the BlueAVS is a flexible USB option for high-refresh gaming setups. It supports passthrough up to 1440p at 144Hz and 1080p at 240Hz, alongside 4K60 capture and HDR, VRR, and ALLM support.

Best For: Console and PC streamers who want high-refresh passthrough, 4K60 capture, and flexible audio connections in a plug-and-play external device.

Pros:

  • Supports 4K60 capture plus 1440p144 and 1080p240 passthrough.
  • Includes HDR, VRR, and ALLM support for smoother gameplay.
  • Offers 3.5mm line-in and headset audio connections.
  • Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and OBS without additional drivers.

Cons:

  • Its listed 1440p passthrough limit is 144Hz, not 240Hz.
  • Requires a USB 5Gbps port for stable operation.

The BlueAVS is a capable all-purpose choice when 4K capture matters as much as high-refresh passthrough. Verify your monitor and source match its supported refresh-rate combinations before buying.

Best Internal PCIe Option – Elgato 4K Pro Capture Card

The Elgato 4K Pro is a strong fit for desktop creators seeking a capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough, with HDMI 2.1 connectivity and support for high-frame-rate gaming. It provides up to 8K60 passthrough, 4K60 capture, and up to 1080p240 recording.

Best For: Windows desktop streamers and dual-PC users who want an internal PCIe capture card with HDMI 2.1, VRR, and high-refresh support.

Pros:

  • Supports up to 8K60 passthrough and 4K60 capture.
  • Records up to 1080p240 for fast competitive gameplay.
  • HDMI 2.1 connectivity and VRR passthrough support.
  • Works with OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Zoom, Teams, and other apps.

Cons:

  • Requires a Windows 10 system with an available PCIe slot.
  • The supplied specifications list 1080p as the capture resolution, so confirm the desired recording mode.

This is the most desktop-oriented option in the group and offers substantial passthrough headroom. Choose it if you have a compatible Windows PC and prefer an internal installation over USB.

Best True 1440p240 Passthrough – Guermok 4K144 HDMI 2.1

For shoppers specifically looking for a capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough, the Guermok directly lists 2560×1440 at 240Hz passthrough. Its HDMI 2.1 design also supports HDR10 and VRR, while capture modes include up to 2K144 or 1080p240 on Windows.

Best For: Competitive gamers, esports streamers, and dual-PC creators who need 1440p240 passthrough with broad audio and connection options.

Pros:

  • Explicitly supports 2560×1440 at 240Hz passthrough.
  • Supports 4K144 passthrough plus HDR10 and VRR.
  • Captures up to 2K144 or 1080p240 on Windows, depending on format.
  • Includes mic, line-in, line-out, and speaker-out connections.

Cons:

  • Capture capabilities and formats vary between Windows and macOS.
  • High-bandwidth modes require a USB 3.2 Gen2 connection and compatible hardware.
  • Some advertised modes depend on the selected capture format.

The Guermok is the clearest match for a genuine 1440p240 passthrough requirement. Review the format table and host-device requirements carefully if you plan to capture at the highest available frame rates.

Best 4K60 Console Balance – NearStream CCD30 Capture Card

The NearStream CCD30 is worth considering if you want high-refresh passthrough in a straightforward USB capture setup. It supports 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough, plus 4K60 capture, but it does not list 1440p240 passthrough.

Best For: Console, camera, and dual-PC streamers who prioritize 4K60 capture, HDR10 passthrough, and simple audio monitoring.

Pros:

  • Supports 4K60 capture and passthrough up to 4K60.
  • Offers 1440p120 and 1080p240 passthrough modes.
  • Includes HDR10 passthrough for compatible sources and displays.
  • Provides 3.5mm microphone input and headphone monitoring.

Cons:

  • Does not list 1440p240 passthrough.
  • HDR10 applies to passthrough only and is not supported for capture.
  • 4K60 MJPG operation has comparatively demanding system requirements.

The CCD30 is a sensible middle ground for 4K60-focused streaming and console capture. It is less suitable when 1440p240 passthrough is a firm requirement, but its audio ports and broad OS compatibility add practical value.

Top HDMI 2.1 Pick – UGREEN 4K 144Hz Capture Card

If you need a capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough but also want HDMI 2.1 bandwidth for newer high-refresh setups, the UGREEN model is a versatile option. It supports 4K 144Hz passthrough, HDR, VRR, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 connectivity, while its extra audio ports suit more involved streaming setups.

Best For: Competitive gamers and creators who want high-refresh HDMI 2.1 passthrough, flexible audio connections, and broad device compatibility.

Pros:

  • Supports 4K 144Hz loop-out with HDR and VRR.
  • USB 3.2 Gen 2 provides high-speed data transfer for streaming and recording.
  • Includes dedicated headphone, microphone, and line-in ports with 48kHz/24-bit audio support.
  • Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, iPadOS, Android, OBS, and XSplit.

Cons:

  • PS4 and PS5 capture requires HDCP to be turned off.
  • The supplied specifications emphasize 4K 144Hz support rather than explicitly listing 1440p 240Hz passthrough.

The UGREEN is the most feature-rich choice here for users building an HDMI 2.1 setup. Its audio I/O and included cables add convenience, while HDR and VRR support help preserve a smooth gaming experience.

Best Verified High-Refresh Support – AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S

For shoppers specifically comparing a capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough, the AVerMedia Live Gamer Ultra S clearly lists support for 1440p144 and 1080p240 passthrough, alongside 4K60 HDR and VRR. It also adds ultrawide support and VRR recording for compatible PC workflows.

Best For: PC and console streamers who prioritize clearly documented high-refresh passthrough, ultrawide compatibility, and 5.1-channel audio.

Pros:

  • Supports 4K60, 1440p144, and 1080p240 passthrough with HDR and VRR.
  • Handles ultrawide inputs including 3440×1440 and 2560×1080.
  • Supports VRR recording up to 1440p60 or 1080p240 with Streaming Center.
  • Offers 5.1-channel audio support on Windows and a three-year manufacturer warranty.

Cons:

  • The supplied specifications do not list 1440p240 passthrough; they list 1440p144 and 1080p240.
  • System support is limited to newer Windows, macOS, and iPadOS versions.

The GC553Pro is a strong high-refresh option when 1440p144 or 1080p240 meets your needs. Its ultrawide handling, HDR/VRR passthrough, and dedicated software features make it particularly appealing for modern PC gaming setups.

Best Budget-Friendly Feature Set – Zeroffi 4K USB Capture Card

The Zeroffi is a straightforward USB option for shoppers seeking a capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough on a smaller setup budget. Its listed passthrough modes include 4K60 HDR, 1440p144, and 1080p240, with VRR support and external microphone and line-in connections.

Best For: Windows and Mac streamers who want flexible high-refresh passthrough, 4K60 recording, and simple external audio support.

Pros:

  • Supports 4K60 HDR, 1440p144, 1080p240, and VRR passthrough.
  • Records in up to 4K60 and works with OBS, Twitch Studio, XSplit, and Zoom.
  • Includes microphone and line-in inputs for simultaneous game and voice capture.
  • Uses USB 3.1 Type-C and includes USB-C-to-C/A and HDMI cables.

Cons:

  • The supplied specifications do not explicitly list 1440p240 passthrough.
  • HDCP-protected content cannot be recorded, and PS5 users must disable HDCP.
  • Its listed warranty is only three months.

Zeroffi covers the most common high-refresh formats at a potentially accessible price, while retaining useful audio inputs. It is best suited to buyers who need 1440p144 or 1080p240 rather than confirmed 1440p240 support.

Premium PCIe Pick – Live Gamer 4K 2.1

For shoppers seeking a capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough, the AVerMedia GC575 is a powerful internal PCIe option. It supports refresh rates up to 240Hz, captures 1440p at 120Hz, and provides 4K144 HDR pass-through for compatible gaming setups.

Best For: Windows gamers who want high-refresh passthrough, 4K60 capture, and an internal PCIe installation.

Pros:

  • Supports refresh rates up to 240Hz.
  • Offers 4K144 HDR pass-through.
  • Captures 1080p at 240Hz and 1440p at 120Hz.
  • Uses HDMI 2.1 and includes ultra-low-latency capture.

Cons:

  • Designed for Windows 10/11 systems.
  • Requires an available PCIe slot.
  • Its listed capture modes do not include 1440p at 240Hz.

The GC575 is the strongest fit here for advanced high-refresh gaming, especially when 4K144 HDR passthrough and HDMI 2.1 connectivity matter more than external portability.

Flexible External Option – PORTTA DX20R

The PORTTA DX20R is a practical external capture card for 1440p 240hz passthrough needs, with passthrough support for 1080p at 240Hz and 2K at 120Hz. It also captures 4K at 60Hz and connects to a computer over USB 3.0 Type-C.

Best For: Windows, macOS, or Linux users who want plug-and-play external capture with HDR, VRR, and high-refresh support.

Pros:

  • Supports 1080p240 and 2K120 passthrough.
  • Captures 4K at 60Hz.
  • Works with Windows, macOS, and Linux without driver installation.
  • Includes HDR, VRR, and utility software for configuration.

Cons:

  • Its supplied specifications do not list 1440p240 passthrough.
  • Requires a USB 3.0 connection to the PC.
  • The CapHub utility is needed for advanced settings such as EDID and VRR modes.

The DX20R stands out for platform flexibility and external convenience. It is a solid choice if your target signal is 1080p240 or 2K120 rather than true 1440p240 passthrough.

Value PCIe Choice – Live Streamer Ultra HD

The AVerMedia GC571 is an internal PCIe capture card with 4K60 passthrough, VRR support, and 1080p120 high-frame-rate capture. While it is not specified for 1440p240 passthrough, it offers a straightforward option for high-quality console streaming on Windows.

Best For: Windows streamers who prioritize 4K60 passthrough, VRR, and easy PCIe installation over 1440p240 support.

Pros:

  • Provides 4K60 pass-through.
  • Supports VRR for smoother gameplay.
  • Captures 1440p at 60Hz and 1080p at 120Hz.
  • Fits PCIe x1, x4, x8, or x16 slots and uses drive-free plug-and-play setup.

Cons:

  • Does not list 1440p240 passthrough.
  • Limited to 4K30 capture according to the supplied details.
  • Designed for Windows systems.

The GC571 is best viewed as a reliable 4K60 passthrough and VRR card rather than a true 1440p240 solution. It makes sense for mainstream console streaming where installation flexibility is useful.

How We Picked the Best Capture Card for 1440p 240hz Passthrough

We evaluated these capture cards around the needs of high-refresh gaming setups rather than capture resolution alone. Key considerations included stated passthrough limits, supported refresh rates, HDMI version, capture output, HDR and VRR support, connection type, latency claims, and compatibility with current consoles and gaming PCs.

For a Capture Card for 1440p 240hz Passthrough, the passthrough specification matters most: a card can capture at 4K60 while still limiting the gaming display to a lower refresh rate. Always match the card’s input and passthrough capabilities to your graphics card, monitor, console, and cable.

Quick Comparison

  • Best for internal PC builds: Elgato 4K Pro and AVerMedia’s HDMI 2.1 PCIe model.
  • Best for flexible external setups: BlueAVS, Guermok, UGREEN, and AVerMedia external models.
  • Best for console-focused recording: NearStream, PORTTA, and the AVerMedia console-oriented options.
  • Best for high-refresh passthrough claims: Choose models that explicitly list 1440p at 240Hz rather than relying on a generic “4K” label.

Key Buying Factors for a Capture Card for 1440p 240hz Passthrough

Passthrough and Capture Specifications

Separate passthrough from capture resolution. Passthrough determines what reaches your gaming monitor, while capture resolution determines what your computer records or streams. Check whether 1440p at 240Hz is explicitly supported, and verify whether HDR, VRR, and ALLM remain available in that mode.

HDMI 2.1 and Compatibility

HDMI 2.1 is important for newer consoles, high-refresh 1440p, and many 4K120 setups. However, the source, capture card, display, and cables must all support the desired signal. Some cards use HDMI 2.1 for input but offer more limited capture or output modes.

Connection and Software

USB 3.x external cards are easier to move between systems, while PCIe cards can offer a cleaner permanent installation and consistent bandwidth. Confirm that your computer has the required USB port or available PCIe slot, then check support for OBS, your preferred streaming software, and the operating system you use.

Latency, Audio, and Features

Ultra-low-latency passthrough is useful for competitive play, but it does not necessarily mean zero processing delay in preview software. Look for reliable audio handling, microphone or party-chat requirements, HDR support, and VRR behavior if those features are central to your setup.

Who Should Buy Which Capture Card for 1440p 240hz Passthrough?

Competitive PC gamers should prioritize explicit 1440p240 passthrough, VRR support, and a direct monitor connection. Streamers with desktop PCs may prefer an internal PCIe model for a tidy, permanently installed setup. Multi-console creators should favor external HDMI 2.1 cards with broad console compatibility and simple USB connectivity.

If you mainly record 4K60 gameplay and play at 1080p240 or 1440p120, a less expensive USB card may be sufficient. If your monitor runs at 1440p240, do not buy based on capture resolution alone—confirm the exact passthrough mode, refresh rate, HDR behavior, and cable requirements before purchasing.