CES 2025: Standalone Capture Gets Smarter, and 4K@120fps Recording Arrives
CES 2025 in Las Vegas (January 7-10) continued to push the boundaries of video capture technology, with announcements that signal where the industry is heading. The theme this year: making high-quality capture simpler and more accessible.
AVerMedia X’Tra Go Capture Dock (GC515)
The most exciting announcement for the capture card market came from AVerMedia. The X’Tra Go Capture Dock blurs the line between a capture card and a standalone recorder.
What makes it special:
- PC-free recording: Insert a microSD card, toggle to capture mode, and press the front button to start recording — no computer needed
- Full docking station: HDMI 2.1 port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, three USB-C ports, 3.5mm headphone jack
- Dual-mode operation: Works as both a traditional PC capture card and a standalone recorder
This represents a significant evolution in capture device design. Instead of choosing between a PC-based capture card and a standalone recorder, the GC515 offers both in one device.
Elgato 4K X Captures at 4K@120fps
Elgato continued to push capture resolution and frame rates. The updated Elgato 4K X now captures at 4K@120fps, doubling the frame rate capability of previous external capture cards and matching what internal PCIe cards have offered.
ezcap at CES 2025
ezcap, known for their budget-friendly capture solutions, exhibited at CES 2025 in the Gaming/Metaverse/XR Hall, showcasing their latest capture card lineup. Their presence highlights the growing mainstream interest in video capture technology.
Trends Emerging from CES 2025
1. Convergence of Capture Cards and Docking Stations
The AVerMedia GC515 exemplifies a trend toward multi-function devices. Rather than single-purpose capture cards, manufacturers are building capture capabilities into devices that serve additional roles — like USB hubs and docking stations.
2. Standalone Capture Goes Mainstream
The ability to record without a PC is no longer limited to dedicated standalone recorders. Capture cards are gaining standalone recording capabilities, giving users the flexibility to choose their workflow.
3. Higher Frame Rates at 4K
4K@120fps capture is becoming available, driven by demand from gamers who play PS5 and Xbox Series X games at 120Hz. This capability was previously limited to 1080p capture.
4. Content Creator-Focused Features
Manufacturers are increasingly designing for content creators rather than just gamers, with features like simultaneous multi-stream output, integrated audio mixing, and companion mobile apps.
What to Expect in 2025
Based on CES 2025 announcements, the capture card market is moving toward:
- More hybrid devices that combine PC-based and standalone capture
- 4K@120fps becoming standard in mid-to-high-end cards
- Better integration with content creation workflows
- Continued price decreases for 4K@60fps capture capabilities
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