Is there a video capture device that can record 1080p and still connect to a Wii?

The Wii only does 480p. Some games support 576i, but it isn't too much better than 480p. 480p is what the console ouputs (for the majority of its games), it's not what the capture devices output. The capture device is only a medium for what the console displays. Some capture devices don't record up to higher resolutions, but those that do record what's outputted to the console record what's outputted to the console.

Console -------> capture device ------> TV AND COMPUTER

When it comes to the video files its self on the computer, those can be compressed and re-exported and whatnot which can decrease the quality.

Capture devices take the output of the console, and record that. So, 480p is all that can official be supported by it. This is because 480p is the highest default that is sent out from the console (minus the 576i supported games). Component cables allow for 480p instead of 480i, which is used by default (because the Wii comes with composite cables, not component).

Now, there is a nice part to this though: The Wii can be upscaled using converters. there are some Wii2HDMI converters available on Amazon that can convert the signal the Wii outputs to HDMI, and to some extent it does look better and more crisp than component.

Also, PS3 cannot be recorded in 1080p due to HDMI encryption (since the PS3 can play CDs, DVDs and Blu-rays). The highest the PS3 gameplay can be recorded in is 1080i.

If you want a compatible capture device, then you really don't have to look much since any capture device that supports composite, component or HDMI will work with the Wii. If you have a Wii2HDMI converter, then HDMI works with the Wii. If you have component cables for the console (GameStop, third party or even official component cables), then it will work.

Elgato Game Capture HD

Elgato EyeTV HD (Mac Only)

Elgato EyeTV Hybrid

Roxio Game Capture HD

Roxio Game Capture HD Pro

Happauge HD PVR

Happauge HD PVR2

Avermedia

Black Magic Intensity

etc

The list goes on. Since you're looking for one that will go directly into your computer, then you need to make sure that you have a open space in your computer for one (or already built in). Otherwise you'll be using a USB device. Especially for laptops, you will be using a USB device. Built in devices require the computer to take on the task of recording and encoding, and that can be a heavy strain.

Some USB devices actually do the encoding for your computer. EyeTV Hybrid, for example, will record TV shows, movies and video gameplay, but the computer must encode the videos. This means your computer takes on the task, and for some computers to can be heavy on the processor. EyeTV HD, for example, and its predecessor EyeTV 250 Plus, did this task and did the encoding via its own hardware, which limited the strain on the computer.

Unfortunately, i don't know which USB devices do the encoding and which ones don't; however, to answer your question (at the end), using a USB capture device would be for the best, unless you plan on using a desktop.

I hope this answers your question,

~Barolb

Without doubt. You need to have suitable plugs although. Your output in your video card wants to be the equal because the input on the television. There are some converters, although. You're no longer going to have as crisp and great of a photograph as you might have on a reveal, but it surely's really handy.