How to record videos on switch for youtube without capture card

How to stream Switch without capture card? With the increasing popularity of the Nintendo Switch over the years, both amateur and seasoned gamers are probably wondering how they can broadcast their gameplay to an audience. 

However, this process involves purchasing a capture card, which, in most cases, is expensive.

We will discuss the possible alternatives to get your stream up and running, even without your very own capture card in today’s guide.

What Are Capture Cards?

The Switch is among Nintendo’s highly functional and convenient releases that feature a portable hybrid console, perfect for a chill night with your family or friends.

Because of its increasing popularity, it is no surprise that gamers and even regular players would want to stream their gameplay on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or even Facebook.

However, the Nintendo Switch has several limitations. One of which is that it is incapable of streaming directly from the game console itself.

Unlike the latest gaming gears, you would need a capture card to broadcast some of the most popular Nintendo titles like Animal Crossing, Mario Kart, and Super Smash Bros.

If you have a spare capture card at home, here is how you can stream your games:

1. Download and install your capture card’s software on your laptop.

2. Afterward, make sure to dock your Nintendo Switch in its base station.

3. Plug your HDMI cable into your Nintendo Switch and the other end to your capture card.

4. Plug another HDMI cable into your capture card and then to your television screen or PC monitor.

5. Connect the USB-C cable on your capture card into your computer.

6. Turn on your Nintendo Switch and open both Game Capture and OBS.

Can I Still Stream Switch Without Capture Card?

Streaming various Nintendo titles on popular online platforms is easy and straightforward if you have a capture card with you.

But capture cards would typically range from about $60 and more for high quality and trusted brands. For instance, the most widely used in the streaming community is the Elgato Game Capture, which costs around $150.

However, if you prefer not to spend that much for your streaming gear, do not fret because there are other alternatives.

Seasoned gamers have released various tutorials that allow you to broadcast your gameplay on platforms like YouTube, even without a card. But of course, the quality would be much lesser than those with the right set of equipment.

How to Stream Switch Without Capture Card?

Even though you are just new to the streaming community, below are some of the most widely used methods to get your broadcasts up and running:

Using the Xbox One Console

If you have an Xbox One console at home, you can stream your gameplay on Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook even without a capture card.

You can follow the steps below to guide you throughout the process:

Step 1. Dock your Nintendo Switch into its base position.

Step 2. Connect your gaming console to your Xbox One using an HDMI cable. Make sure to have your Xbox One connected to your PC monitor.

Step 3. Launch OneGuide on your Xbox and turn on your Switch. Make sure to have your computer and gaming consoles connected to the same home WiFi network. For better streaming quality, we suggest connecting both your PC and Xbox to your router using Ethernet cables.

Step 4. Launch the Xbox application on your PC and select your Xbox One console.

Step 5. Once you have downloaded OBS, launch it on your PC to start streaming on your monitor.

Using the Streamlabs Application

Streamlabs is among the most widely used streaming tools and broadcasting applications in the gaming community.

With this program, you can easily edit and manage your chats, viewer interactions, and donations.

You can also go live on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook instantly with just a few simple clicks.

But aside from its sleek interface and highly functional tools, what puts Streamlabs among the best possible alternatives for streaming without a capture card is that it is free and easily accessible on both Android and iOS devices.

You can follow the steps below to guide you on setting up your first stream with this application:

Step 1. Download and install Streamlabs on your mobile phone.

Step 2. Launch the application and log in to your YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook account.

Step 3. Enable both your microphone and camera.

Step 4. Select your preferred widgets and press the Next button. These widgets will be shown on your screen once you stream your gameplay. Remember not to overdo this step.

Step 5. Re-position your chosen widgets on your screen, depending on your preferences. You can also add texts to add some designs on your stream.

Step 6. Go back to your Home screen and select Alert Profiles. If the Default Alerts is off, make sure to tick it back on.

Step 7. Afterward, select the Settings menu and click Broadcast. Make sure to have your output resolution set to 720p, expected frame time to 30 fps, and max video bitrate to 2500p. These are the recommended settings for average internet services. But if you have a high-quality internet connection, you can exceed these numbers.

Step 8. Place your Nintendo Switch on a stand and your phone on a tripod. Using Streamlabs, turn off your Auto-Brightness and put it to maximum instead. Afterward, zoom in or zoom out of your phone’s screen, depending on your preferences.

Step 9. Once you are good to go, click on the red button located below your screen to start streaming.

What’s Next?

If you need help on discord screen sharing, you can refer our article on how to screen share on discord mobile for more details.

Venturing into The Streaming Community

The Nintendo Switch is among the best hybrid and portable gaming consoles available in the market today. With this device, amateur gamers can follow the footsteps of highly esteemed players in the gaming community.

But of course, your experience would not be complete without learning how to stream your gameplay to an audience. Hopefully, you can do these methods at home to enjoy various Nintendo games.

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