Explore the Blackmagic DeckLink range of capture and playback cards, from SDI Micro to 8K Pro. Discover the top features and application options for each of the 15 models in the DeckLink family.

Blackmagic DeckLink Capture and Playback Cards: A Complete Guide for Professionals

The Blackmagic DeckLink family represents the pinnacle of video capture and playback technology, used by top filmmakers, TV producers, and video editors worldwide. With options ranging from miniature cards to 8K-ready solutions, DeckLink cards integrate seamlessly with industry-leading software like DaVinci Resolve, allowing content creators to work in the highest quality possible. Whether you’re capturing 1080p or 8K, DeckLink offers a solution for every professional video application.

Each DeckLink card works with Mac, Windows, and Linux workstations, delivering the flexibility and performance demanded in today’s fast-paced production environments. Here’s an in-depth look at the full range of Blackmagic DeckLink models and their ideal applications.

Blackmagic DeckLink ‘s family product range: as of November 2024, there are 15 models available

1. DeckLink SDI Micro

Features: M.2 form factor, 3G-SDI connectivity for simultaneous capture and playback, supports formats up to 1080p60.

Best For: Compact setups in HD broadcast or live streaming where minimal space and power consumption are key.

2. DeckLink Micro Recorder

Features: Mini PCIe form factor with HD-SDI and HDMI input, single-channel capture up to 1080p30.

Best For: Mobile video capture solutions, particularly for drones, portable rigs, or capture cards in restricted space environments.

3. DeckLink Mini Monitor HD

Features: 10-bit SDI and HDMI playback, supports SD and HD up to 1080p60 and 2Kp60 DCI, HDR compatible.

Best For: Professional broadcast monitoring in SD and HD environments, including HDR workflows.

4. DeckLink Mini Recorder HD

Features: 10-bit SDI and HDMI capture for SD and HD formats up to 1080p60 and 2Kp60 DCI.

Best For: Broadcast and event capture where high-definition, 10-bit quality is essential for post-production.

5. DeckLink Mini Monitor 4K

Features: PCIe card with 6G-SDI and HDMI 2.0a outputs, up to 2160p30, HDR compatible.

Best for: 4K monitoring setups, especially for HDR content in editing and color grading workflows.

6. DeckLink Mini Recorder 4K

Features: PCIe capture card with 6G-SDI and HDMI 2.0a, captures up to 2160p30, HDR compatible.

Best For: High-resolution 4K capture setups for live broadcasts, commercials, or digital cinema productions.

7. DeckLink SDI 4K

Features: 6G-SDI capture and playback, supports SD, HD, 2K, and Ultra HD.

Best For: Medium-scale production environments requiring Ultra HD and reliable 6G-SDI connectivity.

8. DeckLink Duo 2

Features: Four independent SD and HD channels; supports 1080p60.

Best for: multi-camera broadcasting or live streaming setups that require simultaneous capture and playback channels.

9. DeckLink Duo 2 Mini

Features: Low-profile version of Duo 2 with four independent channels, up to 1080p60.

Best For: Space-constrained multi-camera broadcast setups, including remote and rack-mounted systems.

10. DeckLink Studio 4K

Features: 6G-SDI, HDMI 4K, and analog I/O; supports SD, HD, and Ultra HD formats.

Best For: Versatile post-production setups with varied input/output requirements, especially in editing and color grading.

11. DeckLink 8K Pro Mini

Features: low-profile 8K capture and playback, quad-link 12G-SDI, supports SD through 8K.

Best For: High-end feature film production, virtual production, or large-scale studio setups with a need for 8K content.

12. DeckLink 8K Pro G2

Features: A full-sized 8K PCIe card with quad-link 12G-SDI and HDMI 2.1 supports SD through 8K.

Best For: Major cinematic productions requiring 8K workflows, HDR, and wide-gamut color spaces.

13. DeckLink 4K Extreme 12G

Features: 12G-SDI with SD, HD, Ultra HD, and 4K DCI support up to 60fps, 10-bit YUV, or 12-bit RGB.

Best For: High-end post-production studios focusing on high-frame-rate 4K video, perfect for visual effects and color grading.

14. DeckLink Quad 2

Features: Eight independent video channels, capturing up to 1080p60.

Best For: Intensive broadcast applications that require multiple simultaneous video feeds, ideal for live broadcasts and complex video switching.

15. DeckLink Quad HDMI Recorder

Features: Four HDMI inputs; supports SD, HD, Ultra HD, and 4K up to 2160p60.

Best for: multi-camera production and event recording setups where HDMI devices are primary sources.

Choosing the Right Blackmagic DeckLink Card for Your Production

Each Blackmagic DeckLink model caters to specific production needs, whether it’s capturing 1080p for live streaming, monitoring in 4K HDR, or capturing 8K for cinema-quality post-production. Here’s a quick guide to help select the right card:

• For Compact or Portable HD Capture: DeckLink SDI Micro or Micro Recorder provides miniature, high-quality solutions.
• For 4K Workflows and HDR Monitoring: The Mini Monitor 4K or Studio 4K is ideal for accurate 4K playback.
• For High-End Feature Film Production: DeckLink 8K Pro models are built for the highest resolution and color fidelity needs.
• For Multi-Camera Broadcast or Streaming: DeckLink Duo 2, Duo 2 Mini, and Quad 2 models handle multiple video channels effortlessly.

Each DeckLink card delivers Blackmagic‘s high-quality performance, ensuring professional-grade results in broadcast, post-production, and live-event applications. Whether you need high frame rates, HDR support, or expansive 8K resolution, Blackmagic’s DeckLink family provides the tools for any media production challenges.

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