PS5 and Xbox TV settings: 4K120, VRR, HDR and game mode

A console will only deliver its best modes if the TV, the HDMI port, and the cable all support them. Work through these in order.

What the features mean

• 4K at 120Hz. Four times the pixels of 1080p, drawn 120 times a second. The HDMI Forum lists 4K120 among the resolutions in its HDMI 2.1 and later specification. Engadget says HDMI 2.0 is limited to 4K at 60Hz.
• VRR (variable refresh rate). Lets the console send each frame as soon as it is ready instead of at a fixed pace. The HDMI Forum says this reduces lag, judder and screen tearing.
• ALLM (auto low latency mode). The console signals the TV to switch to a low-lag mode and switch back afterward. The HDMI Forum points out that low-latency settings can switch off some picture processing, so you do not want them for movies.
• HDR. Gives brighter highlights and deeper shadows in games that support it. Turn it on in the console's video settings as well as on the TV input.

Step 1: Use the right cable

Cable names matter more than version numbers. Engadget says to buy by category: Ultra High Speed HDMI cables support up to 48Gbps, which covers 4K120. Look for the certification label on the packaging. Engadget also reports that Sony, for PS5 4K120 problems, recommends the cable that shipped with the console or an Ultra High Speed cable rated for 4K120. Catalog example: Belkin Ultra HD HDMI 2.1 cable.

Step 2: Use the right TV port

Not every HDMI port on a TV supports the same features. Check your TV's manual or our model pages for which inputs handle 4K120, VRR and eARC, and plug the console into one of those. Samsung also warns that if you cannot turn on game mode, the device may be plugged into the wrong HDMI port or the source may not be selected. Then check the TV's input list to make sure the source matches the port.

Step 3: Turn on game mode on the TV

Samsung says game mode switches on automatically when it detects a console, and it can be switched on manually. Samsung Australia lists these paths:

• 2025 models: open Settings, then All Settings, go to Advanced Features, choose Game Mode Settings and switch Game Mode on.
• 2023 and 2024 models: Game Mode Settings sits under Connection, inside All Settings.
• 2022 models: same Connection menu, reached via Home, then Menu, then Settings.
• 2017 to 2021 models: the setting is in General, under External Device Manager.

Samsung adds that picture mode and sound mode switch to game settings automatically in game mode. For other brands, TechRadar notes that a Game preset reduces input-lag processing and often adds an on-screen quick menu. The preset name and location vary by brand and model, so check the picture settings and your manual.

Step 4: Set the console output

Each console has its own video output screen where you choose resolution, refresh rate, VRR and HDR. Menu names change with system updates, and this guide could not verify the current paths on Sony's or Microsoft's support pages. Open your console's display or video output settings, look for 120Hz, VRR and HDR options, and confirm the console recognizes your TV. Engadget gives one verified PS5 path for HDMI control: Settings > System > HDMI > Enable HDMI Device Link.

Step 5: Test

1. Start a game that supports 120Hz and VRR.
2. Check that the TV shows a game or VRR indicator, if it has one.
3. If the picture drops out or the console falls back to 60Hz, see 4K 120Hz not working and HDMI handshake problems.

See also: Best TV picture settings and our TV finder for sets with strong gaming features.