Corsair Owns 5 Tech Brands: What Each One Makes
Corsair, a major name in gaming peripherals and PC components, owns five notable tech brands: Elgato, SCUF Gaming, Origin PC, Gamer Sensei, and EpocCam. Each brand targets a specific slice of the gaming and content-creation market, from streaming hardware and custom controllers to pre-built PCs and coaching services. Here is a clear breakdown of what each subsidiary makes and how it fits into Corsair’s larger ecosystem.
Background: How Corsair Built Its Brand Portfolio
Corsair started in 1994 as a maker of L2 cache modules for servers, then pivoted to high-performance memory for enthusiasts in the early 2000s. Over the years it expanded into power supplies, cases, cooling, and peripherals, becoming a household name among PC builders. But organic growth alone wasn’t enough—Corsair began acquiring companies that filled specific gaps in its lineup. The strategy mirrors what other tech giants do: buy proven brands with loyal followings, then integrate them into a wider ecosystem of software and hardware. Corsair’s acquisitions have been carefully chosen to complement its core products, not duplicate them.
Elgato: Streaming and Content Creation Hardware
Elgato, acquired in 2018, is the most well-known of Corsair’s brands. It makes hardware and software for streamers, YouTubers, and remote workers. Its signature products include the Stream Deck (a customizable macro keypad), Capture Cards (like the HD60 X and 4K60 Pro), Key Lights and Ring Lights, and the Wave series of USB microphones and audio mixers. Elgato also produces the Cam Link (turns a DSLR into a webcam) and the Facecam webcam. Beyond hardware, Elgato develops the Stream Deck software and the Wave Link app, which are free tools that integrate with OBS and other broadcasting software. For many streamers, Elgato is the default choice for capture and lighting, and its products are widely used in professional esports broadcasts and corporate webinars.
SCUF Gaming: Premium Custom Controllers
SCUF Gaming, acquired in 2019, specializes in high-end, customizable game controllers for consoles and PC. The brand is best known for its paddle attachments on the back of the controller, which let players keep their thumbs on the sticks while jumping, reloading, or sliding. SCUF offers controllers for Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, with models like the SCUF Instinct Pro (Xbox) and the SCUF Reflex (PlayStation). Customers can choose from a wide range of colors, materials, and button configurations. The controllers are popular among competitive gamers, especially in first-person shooters like Call of Duty and Fortnite, where a few milliseconds can decide a match. SCUF also sells accessories like thumbsticks, grip tape, and carrying cases.
Origin PC: Custom Pre-Built Gaming PCs
Origin PC, acquired in 2019, builds high-end, custom desktop and laptop computers. Unlike mass-market pre-builts, Origin PC offers a deep level of customization: buyers select the case, motherboard, CPU, GPU, RAM, storage, cooling, and even custom paint jobs and laser engraving. The company is known for its Origin Neuron (desktop) and Origin EON (laptop) lines, as well as the Origin Millennium (a premium desktop with a unique liquid-cooling design). Origin PC also provides a 1-year warranty and lifetime technical support, which appeals to buyers who want a high-performance machine without building it themselves. The brand sits at the premium end of the market, often competing with other boutique builders like Digital Storm and Maingear.
Gamer Sensei: Esports Coaching and Lessons
Gamer Sensei, acquired in 2017, is an online platform that connects gamers with professional coaches for one-on-one lessons. It covers popular games like League of Legends, Valorant, Fortnite, and Apex Legends. Coaches offer personalized feedback on mechanics, game sense, and strategy, often through video review and live play sessions. The platform also features Sensei Academy, a collection of free guides and tutorials. While Gamer Sensei doesn’t make hardware, it fills a service gap in Corsair’s portfolio, helping players improve their skills and, ideally, buy more Corsair gear. The service is subscription-based, with pricing varying by coach and game.
EpocCam: Webcam Software for Phones
EpocCam, acquired in 2018, is a software tool that turns a smartphone into a high-quality webcam for a PC or Mac. The app streams video over Wi-Fi or USB, and it works with popular video conferencing apps like Zoom, Teams, and OBS. EpocCam offers features like auto-focus, exposure control, and a virtual background. The basic version is free, while a Pro version adds features like 1080p resolution, a clean HDMI feed, and a low-latency mode. This acquisition fits Corsair’s content-creation focus, giving streamers and remote workers a cheap way to get a better camera without buying dedicated hardware. It also integrates with Elgato’s software ecosystem, so users can control the phone camera from a Stream Deck.
How the Brands Work Together
Corsair doesn’t just collect brands—it integrates them into a unified ecosystem. The iCUE software (Corsair’s control center) can now manage Elgato lighting and capture devices alongside Corsair keyboards, mice, and fans. SCUF controllers work with Xbox and PlayStation, but they also connect to PC via Bluetooth or USB, and they’re often paired with Corsair’s gaming mice and keyboards. Origin PC systems come with Corsair components (like power supplies and cooling) and can be configured with Elgato capture cards pre-installed. Gamer Sensei coaches often recommend Corsair peripherals in their lessons, and EpocCam can be used as a secondary camera in Elgato’s software. This cross-promotion helps Corsair retain customers within its own ecosystem, much like how Apple’s devices work together seamlessly.
Common Misconceptions and Things to Consider
One common misconception is that Corsair owns all streaming gear brands—it doesn’t. For example, Razer and Logitech are competitors, not subsidiaries. Another is that SCUF controllers are only for pros; while they are pricey (often $200–$300), casual gamers can also benefit from the paddles. When choosing between these brands, consider your specific needs:
- Streaming: Elgato is the go-to for capture cards and lighting, but you can mix with other brands.
- Controller gaming: SCUF is premium; if you’re on a budget, look at cheaper alternatives like Xbox Elite or PlayStation DualSense Edge.
- Pre-built PC: Origin PC is excellent but expensive; compare with other boutique builders.
- Coaching: Gamer Sensei is one of several platforms; check coach ratings and reviews before paying.
- Phone-as-webcam: EpocCam is a solid free option, but paid apps like Camo offer more features.
Also, keep in mind that Corsair’s acquisition doesn’t change product quality overnight—each brand still operates with its own R&D and support teams. If you’re buying an Elgato product, you’re getting Elgato’s warranty, not Corsair’s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Corsair own Elgato?
Yes, Corsair acquired Elgato in 2018. Elgato continues to operate as a separate brand, but its products are now part of Corsair’s ecosystem, and they often work with Corsair’s iCUE software.
Are SCUF controllers worth the money?
For competitive players who want paddles and customization, yes. But they are expensive, and you can get similar features from first-party controllers like the Xbox Elite Series 2 or the PlayStation DualSense Edge, which sometimes cost less. SCUF’s advantage is the level of customization and the ergonomics of the paddles.
Is Origin PC better than building your own?
Origin PC is better if you want a custom PC without the hassle of building it yourself. You get a warranty and support, but you pay a premium. Building your own is cheaper and more educational, but it takes time and carries a risk of mistakes.
Can I use EpocCam without a Corsair product?
Yes, EpocCam works with any PC or Mac, regardless of whether you own Corsair hardware. It’s a standalone app that turns your phone into a webcam. The free version has limits, but it’s a good way to test the concept before paying for Pro.
Do Gamer Sensei coaches work with any game?
Gamer Sensei covers a wide range of popular games, but not every title. The platform lists available games on its website, and you can filter by game and coach. If your game isn’t listed, you may need to look elsewhere.
Will Corsair merge all these brands into one?
Unlikely. Corsair has kept each brand separate, which preserves their identity and customer loyalty. Merging them would risk alienating fans of Elgato or SCUF. Instead, they integrate behind the scenes through software and cross-compatibility.
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