Elgato Game Capture Neo review

The Neo series is Elgato's latest lineup of streaming gear, aimed at delivering simple solutions on a slimmer budget and with an environmentally friendly bend. Elgato has been behind several of our top picks for capture cards over the years, and I think the Neo might be the next in line

First thing to note about the Game Capture Neo is the device is made using recycled plastic, and packed in totally recyclable cardboard. The new Game Capture Neo is also white, which might be the first white capture card I've ever seen, to match the rest of the Neo range, such as the Facecam Neo, Key Light Neo, and Wave Neo.

Thanks to the eco-friendly initiative, all you'll find inside the Game Capture Neo's box is a fairly standard USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable, which is clearly marked as 5 GB/s, along with the Game Capture Neo itself. The cable plugs into the USB Type-C port nestled between the HDMI input and output ports on the back of the capture unit, with the Type-A plug heading to your streaming or recording PC. These are all recessed under a lip at the back of the unit which helps to keep things looking clean, while the unit's rubber feet keep it secure, even on a busy gaming desk.

Despite the Neo needing at least one to be any good, there aren't any HDMI cables to be seen in this package. Given I have an overflowing drawer full, this was a relief. I'd rather Elgato keep on that green initiative and save me the cost of another cable I sincerely don't need. To take full advantage of the 4K HDR passthrough you'll just want to make sure the cables you grab are capable of transmitting it, so having at least one of them be a 2.1 for passthrough is a great idea.

Interface: USB Type-C
Video input: HDMI
Audio input: HDMI
Max passthrough resolution: 4K 60 fps HDR
Max record resolution: 1080p 60 fps
Record format: MP4
Dimensions: 123 x 65 x 20 mm
Weight: 90g
MSRP: $120 | £120 | $199 AUD

One of the proposed hallmarks of the Neo series is that these devices should work straight out of the box