The PlayStation 5 now offers the ability to display games at 120 frames per second for a significantly smoother gaming experience, provided you have the right equipment and properly configure the console. This switch to 120Hz notably reduces display latency, a valuable advantage for competitive players. However, activating this frequency is not automatic and requires several specific steps. Technical explanations to fully enjoy this performance mode.
Checking screen compatibility with 120Hz
The starting point for benefiting from 120Hz primarily relies on the screen connected to the PS5. Not all TVs or monitors support this frequency, so it is essential to check the technical specifications of your screen.
Recent high-end models, often equipped with HDMI 2.1 inputs, allow resolutions up to 4K at 120Hz. However, some older TVs or basic monitors are limited to 60Hz, which restricts the PS5 to this frequency.
If your screen is HDMI 2.0 compatible, it may support 120Hz, but only in 1080p (Full HD) and not in 4K. In short, the display frequency directly depends on the resolution: in 4K on HDMI 2.0, the PS5 caps at 60Hz. To display 120 frames per second in 4K, a screen with HDMI 2.1 is required.
To ensure compatibility, consult your screen’s technical documentation, settings menus, or search for specifications online targeting the mention “120Hz” or “HDMI 2.1”.
Configuring video settings on the PS5 for 120Hz
Once the compatible screen is identified, it is essential to adjust the console settings to activate the refresh rate at 120 frames per second.
In the PS5 main menu, open Settings, then go to the Screen and Video section. Under Video Output, check the displayed frequency. By default, the console may be set to 60Hz to ensure maximum compatibility.
If the 120 Hz option does not appear, it means the PS5 does not detect a screen or cable capable of handling this frequency. In this case, recheck the HDMI cable and the specifications of your TV or monitor.
Once 120Hz is selected, the console automatically adjusts the resolution and video bitrate to best match the screen. This step is crucial for the PS5 to send a smooth signal without interruption or display artifacts.
Importance of the HDMI cable: favor the 2.1 standard
The cable connecting the PS5 to the screen plays an often underestimated role in the ability to display 120Hz.
The PS5 comes with an HDMI version 2.1 cable, specially designed to handle the bandwidth required for 4K at 120Hz, but also to support features like HDR and VRR (variable refresh rate).
Using an HDMI 2.0 cable or a low-end cable can drastically limit this capability. Insufficient bandwidth will either lock at 60Hz or cause image cuts, or even intermittent black screens.
It is therefore strongly recommended to use the cable provided with the console or a certified HDMI 2.1 cable. This choice ensures optimal video signal transmission and prevents issues related to connection quality.
Activating performance mode in compatible games for 120Hz
Beyond system settings, support for 120Hz also depends on the games themselves.
Many titles optimized for PS5 offer two graphic profiles: a “quality” mode where the focus is on resolution and visual details, often limited to 60 frames per second, and a “performance” mode that prioritizes smoothness aiming for 120 frames per second.
For example, in games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, Destiny 2, or Fortnite, it is possible to choose this performance mode in the graphic options. Switching to 120Hz sometimes results in a reduction of graphic effects or resolution to maintain smoothness.
This feature is particularly appreciated by competitive players who prioritize responsiveness and smoothness over maximum visual quality.
Solutions to common issues preventing 120Hz
Even with a compatible screen and the right cable, sometimes the PS5 does not offer 120Hz. Several technical causes are often behind this blockage.
Among the most common:
- A poorly connected or damaged HDMI cable can prevent the console from detecting the screen’s 120Hz capability.
- Certain display options, such as HDR or VRR (variable refresh rate) management, may interfere with the high frequency. It is advisable to try temporarily disabling these functions to test.
- The HDMI Deep Color mode can also cause issues on some equipment.
- A firmware update of the console or TV is often necessary to correct incompatibilities or bugs related to 120Hz management.
- Finally, the configured resolution must be compatible: many screens accept 120Hz only in 1080p. Attempting to force 120Hz in 4K on an HDMI 2.0 screen will result in an automatic return to 60Hz.
In any case, a complete restart of the PS5, a cable check, and then a test on another compatible screen are steps not to be overlooked.
