To benefit from a display at 120 frames per second with the PS5, it is essential that your screen is compatible with this high refresh rate. This means it must be able to display content at 120 Hz, which is often the case with TVs or monitors equipped with a HDMI 2.1 input. This recent HDMI standard allows for the transmission of a video signal with a wide bandwidth, necessary to support the smoothness at 120 frames per second in high definition.
Some older TVs or screens may be limited to 60 Hz, which prevents the use of the 120 fps output, even if the console allows it. It is therefore important to check the technical specifications of your screen or its user manual. Furthermore, a 1080p (Full HD) screen can also display 120 Hz, which is a good alternative if you do not have a compatible 4K screen.
Activate the 120 Hz output in the PS5 settings
Once the screen is suitable, the console must be configured to allow the switch to 120 frames per second. This option is found in the PS5’s video settings, under the video output menu. By activating the 120 Hz Output function, you allow the console to transmit a high-frequency signal to your screen.
However, this option remains accessible only if the PS5 detects a screen capable of handling this frequency. If not, it will appear grayed out in the settings. It is also recommended to use a certified 2.1 HDMI cable, as an older or poor-quality cable can limit the bandwidth and prevent the switch to 120 frames per second.
Games compatible with the 120 frames per second frequency
Even if your console and screen are ready, the smoothness at 120 fps also depends on the game you are playing. Not all titles support this frequency. Developers must optimize their game to allow such smoothness, which often requires significant technical adjustments.
Some popular games like Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, Doom Eternal, or Destiny 2 offer a specific mode allowing them to run at 120 fps. This mode is generally offered in the graphics options under the name “performance mode” or “120 fps mode”. In these cases, the game prioritizes smoothness over advanced graphical details to achieve this goal.
Effects on visual quality and game smoothness
Switching to 120 frames per second results in a smoother and more responsive experience, particularly appreciated in games requiring quick reflexes like FPS or racing games. On-screen movements become sharper, making precision easier and enhancing the sense of immersion.
However, to ensure this high pace, developers often choose to reduce the resolution or simplify certain visual effects in the game. This compromise allows maintaining smoothness without overloading the console. Consequently, the image quality may be slightly lower than that obtained at 60 fps with more detailed graphics rendering. Some games offer to switch between a “quality” mode at 60 fps and a “performance” mode at 120 fps, thus offering a choice according to the player’s preferences.
Resolve difficulties to activate 120 fps on PS5
If despite a correct configuration you cannot enjoy 120 fps, several checks need to be made. Ensure that the HDMI cable used is indeed compatible with the 2.1 standard. This detail is often overlooked, but an unsuitable cable can limit the video output to 60 Hz.
Also, check that the 120 Hz option is activated in the console settings. It is also necessary to confirm that the game actually supports this frequency in its internal settings. A recent update of the console or the game may sometimes be necessary to benefit from this feature.
In case of persistent problems, a full restart of the PS5 can reset some display settings. For more complex cases, it is advisable to consult the official Sony support or gamer forums where solutions specific to certain screen models are often shared.
