The Elgato Video Capture is a fun and easy device to use. Let’s examine it and its capabilities in more detail.
Eventually, old VHS tapes and other analog memories will fade. Many people value the ability to turn their precious moments into digital files that will last forever. Elgato Video Capture can make that happen.
Elgato Video Capture works well with Mac and Windows. You just need to plug it in, install the software, and capture those memories.
The device’s box contains everything you need: the device, cables, and an adapter for older devices. All you need to provide are the tapes you want to convert.
The software is even more user-friendly since you no longer need a CD to install it. You only need to visit Elgato’s website and download the most recent version.
At $87.99, the Elgato Video Capture is an excellent investment for saving old videos.
Digital Preservation: A Personal Look at the Elgato Capture Device
My goal was to create a website dedicated to tech products and to help the average consumer learn how to use and compare various tech devices. The thought of preserving home videos eventually led me to Elgato.
Setting Up the Elgato: Smooth and Simple
The Elgato can connect to older systems. Once connected, downloading the software and converting your old tapes takes roughly 15 minutes.
The Capture Process: Surprisingly Smooth
Once you hit “Start Capture,” the video feed will appear quickly, and your tape will begin the conversion.
Elgato lets you adjust your film settings and regain the vibrant colors of your old memories. It does offer a type of control that makes it invaluable.
The Quality: Much Better Than I Anticipated
Elgato handles the conversion in a manner that sharpens the picture quality while syncing your tapes.
Editing and Finalizing the Videos: A Smooth Experience
The Elgato also has a trimming tool. This tool allows you to trim the beginning and end of your clips to enhance the experience.
Sharing and Storing the Videos: Simple and Convenient
Following the previous process, you can even share your files with others, such as family members, and upload them to sites like YouTube.
Challenges and Final Thoughts
Elgato is easy to use, even if the adjustment process mentioned above is a little time-consuming. Also, the software doesn’t have many advanced features. Elgato Video Capture is a way to convert your old tapes and preserve them for decades to come.
The Verdict: A Worthwhile Investment for Preserving Memories
The Elgato Video Capture is one of the best devices available. It’s easy to set up and use and provides excellent quality for those seeking to recapture their precious memories.
Here are some more critical points based on my research
- Perfect for Old Tapes: Old tapes, such as VHS and Hi8 files, can be quickly converted using the Elgato Video Capture.
- Works on Different Devices: The Elgato is versatile and works on a Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone for your added convenience.
- Easy to Use: Elgato’s software is easy to install and guides you step by step through connecting your old equipment to your computer.
- Supports Different Video Connections: The Elgato can connect to most older devices.
- No CD Needed Anymore: Previously, a CD was necessary for downloading software, but today, you can access the Elgato software online.
- High-Quality Videos: The quality of your videos will help when uploading them to iTunes or YouTube, allowing you to enjoy them more.
- Affordable for What You Get: The device costs about $87.99, which might seem high, but it’s reasonable for a product that works well and comes from a trusted brand.
- Works with New Computers: Although the Elgato Video Capture is an older product, it still works with modern computers and receives regular updates to stay compatible.
- Back Up Your Videos: This device allows you to save your videos to your computer or cloud storage, so you won’t have to worry about losing them on old tapes.
- Includes Everything You Need: The box has all the cables and adapters you need, so you can start capturing videos as soon as you open it.
These points make it clear that Elgato Video Capture is a simple and useful tool for saving old videos and ensuring their safety in digital format.
Elgato Video Capture vs ClearClick Video Device
1. Ease of Use
- ClearClick: The ClearClick is a plug-and-play device that doesn’t require a computer, which makes things a little easier. Plug your device into the ClearClick and hit record.
- Elgato: You need a computer to work with the Elgato, but there are clear and concise instructions on utilizing the software.
2. Picture Quality
- ClearClick: Unfortunately, it doesn’t match the original footage completely.
- Elgato: With the Elgato, your image will be more faithful to the original in terms of brightness and color accuracy. The ability to adjust the settings makes this possible.
3. Features
- ClearClick: The ClearClick has no editing tools.
- Elgato: This device has more advanced software that gives you far more control over the final product.
4. Stability
- ClearClick: Older and non-standard tapes present an issue for ClearClick, which can struggle during conversion.
- Elgato: Tracking issues and older tapes aren’t as much of a hassle for Elgato because its superior design allows the expert handling of older analog materials.
5. Convenience
- ClearClick: As an all-in-one solution, it’s hard to match ClearClick’s convenience. You can plug it in and start recording.
- Elgato: Despite the additional materials needed, Elgato delivers a superior experience when converting old tapes and other materials.
6. Price
- ClearClick: This device is slightly more expensive due to its built-in features and standalone nature.
- Elgato: The Elgato is still easier to afford and more cost-effective in the long run.
7. Software and Editing
- ClearClick: The ClearClick offers no software to work with, which leaves the record and view option.
- Elgato: You can preview and edit your materials with the Elgato before finishing the conversion.
8. Compatibility
- ClearClick: The ClearClick works with most older units and has only a few compatibility issues.
- Elgato: Its ability to work with PCs and Macs makes it incredibly versatile.
9. Long-Term Use and Quality
- ClearClick: Converting a large volume of material poses a few issues with ClearClick.
- Elgato: Elgato’s advanced features allow you to make adjustments as needed to improve the quality of your videos.
10. Final Thoughts
- ClearClick: If you want a simple conversion, ClearClick is your device.
- Elgato: Elgato is for those who desire greater control over the conversion of their old tapes.
Users have had plenty to say concerning using the ClearClick and Elgato systems.
ClearClick
- Quality Concerns: The lack of controls when converting tapes is also a concern.
- Simplicity: Simplicity is key when choosing ClearClick because it doesn’t require a costly computer or additional software.
- Audio Issues: Many users noted that ClearClick recorded audio lower than expected.
- Inconsistent Performance: At least one person stated that there’s a lack of consistency between units.
Elgato
- Better Quality: Elgato’s video quality is consistently praised.
- Software Features: Overall, most users appreciate the device’s flexibility.
- Compatibility: Users who desire more versatility when converting their old tapes appreciate the ability to work with Mac and Windows.
- Trimming and Editing: One key feature that people noted when working with Elgato was the ability to trim videos.
- Price and Value: The better features and slightly lower price make the Elgato more appealing than ClearClick.
Other Insights
- User Preference: The Elgato became the favorite due to its cost and advanced features.
- Lack of Real-Time Adjustments: When choosing between the lack of real-time adjustments and no adjustments at all, the Elgato still came out as the favorite of many users.
Conclusion from User Feedback
- ClearClick: As a simple solution for converting old tapes, this is a workable option but does not have advanced features.
- Elgato: The offer of better video quality offsets the need for a computer and downloadable software to make the device work.
Many users prefer Elgato’s advanced features, but ClearClick is still a good choice for those seeking a simple conversion of their old tapes.