PS5 1080p 120Hz Not Working: Solutions for Smooth Gameplay

Many of us have faced the issue of 1080p and 120Hz not working properly on the PS5, which can be frustrating, considering the console’s capabilities. The PS5, released by Sony, supports 120Hz output at 1080p resolution, a feature that can significantly enhance the gaming experience with smoother motion and responsiveness. However, compatibility with this high refresh rate depends on several factors including your display’s specifications and settings within the PS5 system itself.

PS5 1080p 120Hz Not Working: Solutions for Smooth Gameplay

When the setup doesn’t function as expected, the cause is typically related to incorrect settings or compatibility issues with the display. It’s important to ensure that your monitor or TV actually supports the VESA standard version of 1080p at 120Hz because some displays implement a non-standard version of this resolution which the PS5 may not recognize. Adjusting the PS5’s settings is crucial; you need to navigate to the ‘Screen and Video’ settings to confirm the ‘Enable 120Hz Output’ is set correctly.

In addition to checking the PS5’s settings and the display’s compatibility, it’s also recommended to use the HDMI cable provided with the console or an HDMI 2.1 cable, as older HDMI versions might not support 120Hz. Furthermore, enabling ‘Performance Mode’ in the ‘Saved Data and Game/App Settings’ can prioritize higher frame rates in compatible games, which could resolve some issues. With the right setup and troubleshooting, we can overcome these hurdles and enjoy the full potential of 120Hz gameplay on the PS5 at 1080p resolution.

Setting Up PS5 for 1080p 120hz Gaming

PS5 connected to 1080p monitor, settings adjusted for 120hz gaming. Error message displayed, indicating 1080p 120hz not working

To fully utilize the PS5’s capabilities for 1080p 120Hz gaming, we must ensure both our display and console settings are properly configured. This setup is critical for achieving a smooth, high-refresh-rate experience.

Checking TV or Monitor Compatibility

Firstly, we have to verify that our TV or monitor supports 120Hz refresh rate at 1080p. Not all displays can handle this, so consulting the user manual or specifications online is a must. The HDMI port on the display must also be HDMI 2.1 compatible to transmit high bandwidth signals that 1080p 120fps gaming requires.

Key Checks for Display Compatibility:
  • 1080p resolution support
  • 120Hz refresh rate
  • HDMI 2.1 port

Configuring PS5 Screen and Video Settings

Next, we’ll dive into configuring our PS5’s settings. Navigate to ‘Settings’ from the home screen, and after that, to ‘Screen and Video.’ Here, we must ensure the resolution is set to 1080p, as some screens might default to a different resolution. Additionally, under ‘Video Output’ we need to set the ‘120Hz Output’ to ‘Automatic’ which allows the PS5 to adjust the refresh rate based on what the connected HDMI device can support.

Essential PS5 Video Settings:
  • Resolution: 1080p
  • 120Hz Output: Automatic

Enabling 120hz in Game Presets

Finally, for the games to utilize the 120Hz refresh rate, we need to toggle the correct setting in ‘Game Presets.’ This is found within the ‘Save Data and Game/App Settings’ menu. We’ll set the ‘Performance Mode or Resolution Mode’ to ‘Performance Mode.’ This action prioritizes frame rates over resolution, paving the way for a smoother 120fps gameplay experience where supported by individual PS5 games.

Action Items for Game Presets:
  • Select ‘Performance Mode’ over ‘Resolution Mode’
  • Ensure individual game supports 120fps

Troubleshooting Common 120hz Issues

When it comes to ensuring smooth performance at 1080p 120Hz on your PS5 console, solving hardware compatibility and settings adjustment issues is key. These troubleshooting steps can help you achieve the best display output for your gaming experience.

Solving HDMI Cable and Port Problems

Check Your HDMI Cable: Make sure you’re using an HDMI 2.0 or higher cable for 120fps. For HDMI 1.4, this refresh rate isn’t achievable. If 4K at 120fps is what you’re aiming for, you’ll need an HDMI 2.1 cable.

Inspect the HDMI Port: Both your PS5 and the monitor must support HDMI 2.0 or higher. If there’s an issue with the port, consider using an HDMI converter or a DisplayPort adapter.

Adjusting Console Video Output Information

Our consoles come with various settings that might need tweaking to display 120Hz correctly. Navigate to the ‘Settings cog’ and then to ‘Screen and Video’. Set the resolution to 1080p as some monitors might not automatically switch to this setting.

Refresh Rate Video Output Information
120Hz Ensure HDMI 2.0 or higher is used and HDCP is disabled if needed.

Correcting Settings and Firmware Discrepancies

Sometimes, our consoles might not perform optimally due to outdated firmware. Always ensure you have the latest update installed. Additionally, navigate to ‘Saved Data and Game/App Settings’, and under ‘Game Presets’, turn on ‘Performance Mode’ to prioritize higher refresh rates.

Settings Action
Performance Mode Enable this setting to prioritize refresh rate over resolution.
Firmware Status Check and update to latest to ensure compatibility.

By carefully addressing these aspects, we can enhance our gaming sessions to fully enjoy the capabilities of the PS5 with the immersive smoothness that comes with a 120Hz refresh rate at 1080p resolution.

Enhancing the PS5 120Hz Experience

To truly harness the potential of our PS5, we must optimize both our game selection and accessories for 120Hz play. This enhancement delivers smoother visuals, crisper responses, and an overall elevated gaming session.

Selecting the Right Games for 120Hz

Not every game will benefit from the high-refresh rate ecosystem our PS5 offers. To experience gaming at 120fps, we need to choose titles that support this feature. High frame rates are crucial for fast-paced games where reaction time is vital. Popular games compatible with 120Hz include Fortnite, Call of Duty: Warzone, Destiny 2, Borderlands 3, and Doom Eternal. Playing these on a 120Hz setting means smoother animation and a competitive edge in reflex-oriented gaming scenarios.

Upgrading Accessories for Optimal Performance

We must ensure our accessories can keep up with the high demands of 120Hz gameplay. A crucial component is the HDMI 2.1 cable, without which our PS5 won’t transmit 120fps to our display. The right HDMI cable supports not just a higher refresh rate but also features like ray tracing, which enhances graphics with realistic lighting effects.

Accessory Importance for 120Hz Gaming
Gaming Monitor with HDMI 2.1 Port Enables the full potential of the PS5 by displaying 120fps.
DisplayPort to HDMI 2.1 Adapter Useful for monitors without an HDMI 2.1 port but with DisplayPort capabilities.
DualSense Controller with Adaptive Triggers Provides tactile feedback, enhancing the immersive experience at higher frame rates.

Accessories are not just limited to cables. Our gaming monitors need HDMI 2.1 ports or, at the very least, a high-quality DisplayPort adapter to fully utilize the PS5’s capabilities. Additionally, the PlayStation’s DualSense controller with adaptive triggers adds a deeper touch experience that complements the graphical fluidity of 120Hz gaming. With the right games and properly upgraded gear, we can transform our PS5 experience into something truly remarkable.

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