If you want to set up a multi-camera streaming setup, it may be worth investing in a dedicated capture card. Until now, we used a USB connection for our cameras when streaming from our PCs. The problem with USB is that it can cause a loss of quality or even signal loss. We had no choice but to switch to HDMI to ensure both quality and stability. We decided on Elgato’s Cam Link Pro capture card, and here’s our review!
Cam Link Pro: four HDMI inputs!
This card is what is known as an acquisition card. It captures different signals, in this case video/audio via four HDMI inputs. In terms of supported resolutions, we’re talking about 2160p30, 1080p60, 1080p30, 1080i, 720p60, 576p, and 480p.
The card has a single slot format and a compact length of 122 mm. It requires at least a PCIe 2.0 x4 interface, but is compatible with more recent standards thanks to PCIe backward compatibility. Finally, no auxiliary power connector is required.
Our opinion:
For what we use it for: in terms of multi-camera management, this product meets our expectations. It allows the acquisition of four 4K signals at 30 FPS, which is more than enough to film PC montages without too much hassle. In addition, it benefits from Elgato’s complete ecosystem, which allows for management via a Stream Deck (camera changes, etc.). Let’s not forget to mention the Multiview feature, which allows you to combine multiple video streams into one.
With this, we can mention the quick detection of hardware after installation, while it adopts a compact format. Let’s say that once mounted under a graphics card, it won’t undermine the airflow of all the GPU fans.
However, there are a few drawbacks, such as the need to have at least one free PCIe slot on your motherboard. This effectively rules out ITX configurations for space savings. On the other hand, we can cite the price as a potential obstacle. At €350, it’s still a significant investment, which effectively limits this product to advanced users!
As it happens, this card has found a home in our configuration based on ASUS’s ProArt PA401 Wood case.
