For PS5 gaming at 4K and up to 120 Hz, choose a TV whose exact model accepts 4K/120 Hz on the HDMI input you plan to use. Check VRR and ALLM separately: neither is guaranteed by an “HDMI 2.1” label alone. Sony recommends starting with the HDMI cable included with the console, then confirming the signal in the PS5’s video-output settings.
What to check before choosing a TV
PS5 supports 4K/120 Hz video output, but the TV and the particular HDMI input must accept that signal. Sony advises checking the TV’s manual for the HDMI port that supports HDMI 2.1; some TVs also require a setting to enable the higher-bandwidth input. Verify the exact model and regional variant rather than relying on a series name or a general “HDMI 2.1” badge. Sony’s PS5 resolution guide covers the console-side checks.
- 4K/120 Hz input: Confirm that the TV accepts 4K at 120 Hz, and identify which HDMI port supports it.
- VRR: Check for Variable Refresh Rate support independently, including any model-specific limits.
- ALLM: Confirm Auto Low Latency Mode separately in the manual. Sony notes that not every HDMI 2.1 TV supports ALLM.
- Fit for your room: Compare screen size, viewing distance, room brightness, picture quality, and price for the exact models you are considering. The cited Sony guidance does not rank TVs or provide comparative measurements for these qualities.
“HDMI 2.1” is not a complete feature guarantee. Sony’s support guide says PS5 supports the HDMI 2.1 specification and 4K 120 Hz output, while also directing users to check the display’s manual for individual capabilities. A TV can support one feature without supporting all the others.
How 4K/120 Hz, VRR, and ALLM differ
4K/120 Hz input
4K describes image resolution; 120 Hz describes how often the display can refresh each second. A compatible TV input lets the console send a 4K/120 Hz signal. That does not mean every PS5 game renders at 4K and 120 frames per second: Sony describes 120 Hz output for TVs and games that support 120 Hz frame rates. Check the individual game’s supported modes.
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Variable Refresh Rate
VRR synchronizes the display’s refresh rate with a compatible game’s output. It can reduce visual artifacts such as tearing and frame-pacing issues, but the experience depends on the TV, game, and selected game mode. Read Sony’s PS5 VRR guidance and confirm support for the precise TV model.
Auto Low Latency Mode
ALLM can switch a compatible TV into a low-latency mode during gameplay. It is a separate compatibility check, not something to assume from HDMI 2.1 branding or from VRR support. Sony’s PS5 features page describes VRR and ALLM; check your television’s manual to confirm ALLM support.
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Which HDMI cable should you use?
Start with the HDMI cable included with the PS5. Sony recommends it. If you need a replacement, or are troubleshooting a signal problem, choose an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 4K/120 Hz. Buying a new cable is not automatically necessary: the included cable is Sony’s recommended starting point. See Sony’s PS5 FAQ for its cable guidance.
Connect and verify the PS5 signal
- Connect the PS5 directly to the TV’s HDMI input identified in the television manual as supporting 4K/120 Hz. Avoid routing through another device while checking compatibility.
- Update the TV firmware. If the TV has a setting for its high-bandwidth HDMI input, enable it for the port in use.
- Use the included PS5 HDMI cable first. Once connected, open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output on the console.
- Inspect the connected display’s reported capabilities, including resolution, VRR, and HDR. Sony says PS5 detects TV capabilities and selects the best available resolution automatically; resolution can also be set manually.
- Check that the displayed output matches your goal and the TV’s capabilities. If it does not, confirm the selected port and TV setting before changing console options.
Troubleshoot a blank picture or 1080p/120 Hz fallback
If selecting or attempting 4K/120 Hz produces a blank picture or the signal falls back to 1080p/120 Hz, Sony recommends checking the full connection and settings chain:
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- Confirm that the TV’s exact model supports 4K/120 Hz, and that the console is connected to the correct HDMI port.
- Make sure the TV firmware is current and any required high-bandwidth input setting is enabled.
- Connect the PS5 directly to the TV and check that the cable is rated for 4K/120 Hz; try the included cable first if available.
- On PS5, check Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Set Resolution to Auto or 2160p, and Video Transfer Rate to Auto.
- If you reduce Video Transfer Rate as a troubleshooting step, note the trade-off: Sony says a lower setting can limit 4K/120 Hz output. It is not the preferred setting when 120 Hz is the goal.
These checks come from Sony’s PS5 resolution troubleshooting guidance. Confirm the signal again in Video Output after making a change.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.A practical TV comparison checklist
Before deciding between models, record the answers from each exact-model manual or specification page:
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- Does the TV accept 4K/120 Hz, and which HDMI input supports it?
- Does that input support VRR? Are any limits stated?
- Does the TV support ALLM?
- Does it require a setting change or a firmware update for the desired input mode?
- Does its size and picture performance suit your room, viewing distance, and budget?
Once the TV is connected, use the PS5’s Video Output screen to verify what the console actually detects. The official sources cited here establish compatibility and setup guidance, not a ranking of specific TVs or measured input-lag, HDR-brightness, or contrast results.
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