How to stream switch on pc without capture card

As Nintendo Switch has gained popularity over the years, both amateur and seasoned gamers are likely getting one question, how to stream switch without capture card.

Gamer who want to broadcast Nintendo Switch to Discord or on any other platform must purchase a capture card which helps them accomplish this.

We are going to discuss here different alternatives to purchasing a capture card for stable streaming.

When you have a video capture card, it’s simple and straightforward to stream Nintendo titles on various online platforms.

However, high quality and trusted brands of capture cards would typically cost more than $60. In the streaming community, for instance, Elgato Game Capture is the most widely used product, priced around $150.

However, if you want to save money by not spending as much on streaming gear, do not worry since there are other options available.

Here are main two ways you can stream switch without capture card.

1. Streamlabs application.
2. Xbox One Console.

Stream switch using Streamlabs Application

In the gaming community, Streamlabs is one of the best streaming tools and broadcasting applications.
Streamlabs makes it easy for gamers to edit chats, management donations, and other stuff. Also allows you to broadcast simultaneously on Facebook, Twitch, YouTube, and other platforms.

Streamlabs is one of the best alternatives for streaming videos without a capture card not only because of its sleek interface and highly functional tools, but also because it is free and easy to use on both Android and iOS devices.

Time needed: 15 minutes.

Follow following steps to go live

• Step 1

  Download Streamlabs Application on your device

• Step 2

  Install the application and login to the main social networks, such as Facebook, Twitch, YouTube, etc.

• Step 3

  Enable camera and microphone on your device.

• Step 4

  The widgets section will appear. Select a widget and click the Next button. These widgets will appear on your live stream.

• Step 5

  On this screen you can set widgets according to your choice, you can add designed text to your livestream as well.

• Step 6

  Navigate to the Home Screen and select Alert Profiles.

• Step 7

  Click on Broadcast and select resolution and other preferences. Set output resolution to 720 with 30fps and 2500p for peak video bitrate.

• Step 8

  Set your Nintendo Switch on tripod. Make sure to turn off self-Highlight and Optimize using Streamlabs. You can zoom in or out your phone screen as per your requirements.

• Step 9

  Click red button located below the screen and start streaming

Final Words

Nintendo Switch is a smart handheld game console with advanced capabilities. With live streaming, you can enjoy your favorite games in a whole new way.

Capture cards allow you to stream Nintendo Switch games more easily, as well as save the gameplay. If you want to stream without the catch card, you’ll need an Xbox One. Two ways are presented in this article: one using Xbox One and the other using Streamlabs.

The Nintendo Switch has taken the world by storm since its release in early 2017 with great titles making for a huge amount of viewer interest on platforms like Twitch. One concern of owners is that compared to other consoles like PS4 and Xbox the Switch does not come ready to stream out of the box. Most streamers use a capture card to resolve this issue but this can also be an expensive investment considering the cards themselves range in price from $100 right up to $200 USD depending on the model and brand.

Can You Stream Nintendo Switch Without a Capture Card?

Yes, the easiest way to stream your Nintendo Switch to Twitch without using a capture card is by using an Xbox-One. While this is a relatively expensive up-front purchase many gamers already own the highly popular console. It is easily repurposed to stream Twitch gameplay on Twitch, Youtube or even Facebook Gaming.

The simplified way to set-up for perfect image quality is by having the Switch connected to the dock to Xbox (with monitor) to a PC running the Xbox app and then finally to either OBS or Streamlabs which is online with Twitch.

What You Need: 

• Xbox One:  The console makes for a great substitute for a capture card and is a common fixture in the households of gamers.

• A PC (or Mac): Twitch recommends having at least an Intel Core i5-4670 processor (or its AMD equivalent), 8GB of RAM, and Windows 7 or newer. Some laptops are also capable although as a whole they are not recommended. 

• Streaming Software: The most popular free software options are OBS Studio or Streamlabs. Both programs can connect your Switch to a live Twitch stream lag-free.

• Internet Requirement: Your internet should have an upload speed of at least 3mb which is attainable on most home connections even on wireless or via hotspot.

Process:

Step 1. Connect your switch to the dock

Step 2. Use an HDMI cable to connect your dock to the Xbox One port in

Step 3. Connect the Xbox to a monitor

Step 4. Boot OneGuide on your Xbox and turn on the Switch. The picture from your Switch should appear on the monitor.

Step 5. Connect your Xbox to Your PC ideally using an ethernet cable. While wireless is possible it is not ideal. It is highly recommended to have your consoles set-up in the same room as your PC.

Step 6. Download the Xbox App onto your PC. Look for your Xbox console in the app which should now be showing your Nintendo Switch.

Step 7. Boot either OBS or Streamlabs and configure your streaming software to capture the Xbox app window. You are now streaming your Switch to Twitch and can go live as you would a regular game booted from your PC.

Capture Cards For Streaming Switch

If you are planning to purchase a capture card for your Switch at a later date we highly recommend Elgato as a brand. The setup process is simple and the software is easy to use for a lag-free stream.

A Nintendo Switch Compatible Capture Card: A capture card is mandatory if you don’t own an X-box One and want a smooth stream without a huge delay. The two most popular, cost-effective models are:

Elgato Game Capture HD60

• USB 2.0
• H.264 Encoder
• Unlimited Capture

Elgato Capture HD60S

• USB 3.0
• Instant Gameplay
• Unlimited Capture

Conclusion

As it is more difficult to stream a Nintendo Switch than it is other consoles this can actually work in your favor as there is less competition in these categories. Nintendo games have a hugely loyal viewer base and are a great source to tap into for new streaming looking to grow their channel fast.

About the Author

Chris

Chris is a digital marketer with a strong background in small business and influencer branding. He applies his knowledge of content and promotional strategies to design actionable advice for new and intermediate streamers. When he’s not busy crunching analytics, he can be found in the salt pits of League of Legends.

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