The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Yes. Elgato documents the HD60 S for use with a standard Nintendo Switch, provided the console is in its dock. The dock supplies the HDMI video output; the handheld console cannot connect directly to the capture card. The setup does not apply to Switch Lite, which does not support TV mode.
What you need
- A standard Nintendo Switch and its dock, with the dock’s power adapter connected.
- A computer with a USB 3.x port, plus Elgato Game Capture HD software.
- HDMI cables for the connections you plan to use. Elgato says one HDMI cable is included with the HD60 S; passthrough to a TV or monitor requires a second HDMI connection, so use a cable you already have if suitable.
How to connect the HD60 S to a docked Switch
- Place the standard Switch in its dock and connect the dock’s power adapter.
- Connect an HDMI cable from the dock’s HDMI OUT port to the HD60 S HDMI IN port.
- For TV or monitor passthrough, connect the HD60 S HDMI OUT port to the display’s HDMI input. Elgato describes this passthrough as real time.
- Connect the HD60 S to the computer over USB. Elgato’s Switch setup guide specifies a desktop PC with a USB 3.x port.
- Open Elgato Game Capture HD software to view and capture the Switch signal.
Elgato’s model-specific setup instructions document this connection sequence: Nintendo Switch setup with Elgato Game Capture HD60 S.
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What works—and what does not
Standard Nintendo Switch: supported when docked
Elgato lists Nintendo Switch as a supported source for the HD60 S. The card receives video from the dock’s HDMI output, so the dock is essential. The console itself has no video-out port for a direct connection to the capture card. Elgato explains the dock requirement in its Nintendo Switch compatibility guidance.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Nintendo Switch Lite: not supported by this setup
This connection does not work with Switch Lite: Nintendo says the Lite does not support TV mode, and this capture setup relies on the dock’s HDMI output. See Nintendo’s Nintendo Switch system comparison.
#1 Best Overall
- 1080p60 Capture: share your gameplay in superb viewing quality.
- True Passthrough: play your console games with zero lag.
- Instant Gameview: power your workflow with ultra-low-latency technology.
- Unlimited Capture: record hours of footage directly to your hard drive.
- Flashback Recording: slide back in time to save epic moments retroactively.
Resolution and frame-rate limits
Elgato lists supported HD60 S input formats including 1080p60, 1080i, and 720p60, along with standard-definition formats. That means the card’s documented input ceiling is 1080p at 60 frames per second; do not expect it to capture Switch output above that limit. These are Elgato’s published specifications, not results from an independent test. See the Elgato downloads and technical specifications page.
Computer requirements and display issues
On the Elgato system-requirements page consulted, the listed requirements include Windows 10 64-bit, a 4th-generation Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5-or-better processor, a compatible discrete GPU, and a USB 3.0 port. These are the requirements stated on that page; check Elgato’s current software support information for compatibility with a particular computer or operating system.
Rank #2
- Seamless Broadcasting and Versatile Streaming: Connect effortlessly to any app such as OBS, Streamlabs, Twitch Studio, Restream, Zoom, Teams, and stream flawlessly on various platforms like YouTube, Twitch, Discord, Facebook Gaming, etc., providing you with unparalleled flexibility and reach.
- Next-gen capture: Unleash the full potential of your content with cutting-edge 4K resolution, delivering crystal-clear visuals at an impressive 144 frames per second.
- HDMI 2.1 in/out: Elevate your recording capabilities with HDMI 2.1 support, allowing you to document high frame rates up to 240fps in glorious 1080p resolution for an unparalleled viewing experience.
- VRR passthrough: Immerse yourself completely in the gaming experience as our Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) passthrough ensures flawlessly smooth gameplay, eliminating screen tearing for an uninterrupted visual feast.
- Ultra-low latency: Stay in the moment with ultra-low latency powered by USB 3.2 Gen 2, ensuring your broadcast and gameplay remain perfectly synchronized, delivering an immersive and responsive streaming experience.
If the capture software shows video but a 720p-only TV or monitor remains blank, Elgato says to set the Switch’s TV output resolution to 720p. This addresses a display-mode mismatch rather than a failure of the capture connection.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesWhy Switch audio may be missing
Elgato documents an audio issue when headphones or a headset are connected to the docked Switch: sound may not reach HDMI, which also prevents it from reaching the HD60 S and a passthrough display. Remove the headphones to restore audio over HDMI. If needed, a display with a 3.5 mm audio output may provide a workaround, when available.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 4K60 Capture: Record in cinematic quality with crisp detail and vivid colors
- HFR Support: Play and capture in 1440p120 or 1080p240
- HDR10 Support: Capture brilliant HDR content with tone mapping on Windows
- Cross-Platform Compatible: Works with PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch 2, and more
- Analog Audio In: Capture in-game chat or commentary with 3.5mm input
Rank #4
- 1080p60 HDR10 Capture: share your gameplay in superb viewing quality.
- 4K60 HDR10 Zero-Lag Passthrough: play your high-fidelity Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X, PS5 and PS4 Pro games in original format.
- Instant Gameview: power your workflow with ultra-low-latency technology.
- Unlimited Capture: record hours of footage directly to your hard drive.
- Flashback Recording: slide back in time to save epic moments retroactively.
Rank #3
- 【1080P HD High Quality】Capture resolution up to 1080p for video source and it is ideal for all HDMI devices such as PS4, PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, DVDs, DSLR, Camera, Security Camera and set top box. Note: Video input supports 4K30/60Hz and 1080p120/144Hz. Does not support 4K120Hz/144Hz. Output supports up to 2K30Hz.
- 【Plug and Play】No driver or external power supply required, true PnP. Once plugged in, the device is identified automatically as a webcam. Detect input and adjust output automatically. Won't occupy CPU, optional audio capture. No freeze with correct setting.
- 【Compatible with Multiple Systems】suitable for Windows and Mac OS. High speed USB 3.0 technology and superior low latency technology makes it easier for you to transmit live streaming to Twitch, Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, OBS, Potplayer and VLC.
- 【HDMI LOOP-OUT】Based on the high-speed USB 3.0 technology, it can capture one single channel HD HDMI video signal. There is no delay when you are playing game live.
- 【Support Mic-in for Commentary】Rybozen capture card has microphone input and you can use it to add external commentary when playing a game. Please note: it only accepts 3.5mm TRS standard microphone headset.
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