For PS5 gaming, choose a TV based on the resolution and refresh rate you want, then verify that the exact HDMI input you will use supports them. A “4K 120 Hz” label or HDMI 2.1 branding alone does not ensure every gaming feature works on every port: the TV, input, connection path, cable, firmware, and PS5 settings all matter.
Start with the resolution and refresh rate you want
Sony says PS5 supports 4K output at 120 Hz. To use that combination, however, the TV’s relevant HDMI input and the rest of the connection chain must support it. Sony’s 4K resolution and 120 Hz troubleshooting guide recommends checking the TV’s specifications, its firmware, the cable, the connection path, the correct HDMI port, and the console’s output settings.
When comparing TVs, distinguish native 4K resolution from 120 Hz input support. Confirm which specific HDMI inputs accept the desired signal; a model may not provide the same capabilities on every input. A 120 Hz-capable TV also does not establish that a particular game runs at 120 frames per second. The supported claim here is about PS5 output capability, not the performance of every game.
Check the HDMI input, not just the HDMI label
HDMI 2.1 is a useful specification reference, but the label does not guarantee that every related feature is implemented on every port. Sony explicitly notes that not all TVs with HDMI 2.1 support ALLM. Check the manual for the exact TV model and the input you intend to use, and look for which inputs support 4K at 120 Hz, VRR, and ALLM.
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- 4K UltraHD Resolution: Experience incredible detail with 4X the resolution of 1080p Full HDTVs
- QLED (Quantum Dot Technology): Rich, vibrant colors covering nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space to bring images to lifeQLED – Quantum Dot Technology: Rich, vibrant colors covering nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space to bring images to life
- 120Hz Panel Refresh Rate: Watch action-packed movies, fast-paced video games, and live sports with an ultra-smooth viewing experience, free of motion blur
- TCL AIPQ Pro Processor: Powerful, advanced processor that intelligently optimizes the color, contrast, and clarity for an unrivaled 4K HDR experience
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Advanced spatial audio processing can be found in movies, TV shows, and video games
Also check the TV’s menu for any setting that enables an enhanced HDMI signal on that input. If the TV has multiple HDMI ports, count how many support the features you need—especially if you plan to connect other gaming devices or equipment.
Understand what VRR and ALLM do
VRR: synchronize display refresh with game output
On a compatible TV and in a compatible game, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) dynamically synchronizes the display’s refresh rate with the PS5’s graphical output. Sony says this can minimize or eliminate visual artifacts such as screen tearing and frame-pacing issues, but the result varies by TV, game, and selected visual mode. Check model-specific compatibility and the TV’s supported VRR type and range rather than assuming every VRR implementation behaves identically.
Rank #2
- HI-QLED MINILED: Mini-LED backlighting uses thousands of precise light zones to enhance contrast across the screen, revealing deeper shadows, brighter highlights, and more visible detail. Whether watching movies at night or sports during the day, the picture stays clear and impactful
- NATIVE 144HZ GAME MODE: High refresh performance keeps fast movement fluid and sharp, reducing blur during gameplay and live sports. The quick response helps you stay in control during competitive gaming while making rapid camera shots in shows and movies easier to follow
- DOLBY VISION & DOLBY ATMOS: Experience cinematic HDR with vivid brightness and deeper contrast through Dolby Vision, paired with immersive, room-filling sound from Dolby Atmos—so every scene feels bigger, clearer, and more lifelike from your couch
- AI PICTURE: Advanced AI processing analyzes content scene by scene and automatically optimizes brightness, contrast, and color for a clearer, more natural image. Whether you’re streaming shows, watching sports, or gaming, the picture adjusts in real time to look its best without manual settings
- AI SMOOTH MOTION WITH MEMC: Motion enhancement technology reduces blur and sharpens fast-moving scenes, keeping action crisp and easy to follow. From live sports to action movies and gaming, fast transitions stay smooth and comfortable to watch
Sony’s April 25, 2022 announcement described the feature this way: “On HDMI 2.1 VRR-compatible TVs and PC monitors, VRR dynamically syncs the refresh rate of the display to the PS5 console’s graphical output.”
ALLM: switch to a low-latency mode automatically
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) lets a compatible TV switch automatically to a low-latency mode while playing. Sony cautions that HDMI 2.1 does not by itself mean ALLM is present, so verify it in the TV’s manual for the exact model and input.
Rank #3
- POWERFUL TV PROCESSING: The 4K Processor X1 delivers a lifelike picture that is full of rich colors and sharp details.
- ENHANCED COLOR AND FINE DETAILS: See natural and precise picture quality with a wide array of colors and dynamic contrast.
- EVERYTHING YOU STREAM. ALL IN ONE SCREEN: Get access to all your favorite streaming apps in one place with Google TV. Easily stream to your TV with support for Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Cast.
- MOVIES INCLUDED: Get movies included with the SONY PICTURES CORE app.
- INTELLIGENT MOTION HANDLING: See blur-free picture quality in fast-moving sports and action-packed movies powered by Motionflow XR.
PS5 does not send an ALLM signal while a media app is running. Sony also says VRR output triggers low-latency behavior even when the ALLM setting is off; to turn that behavior fully off, VRR must be turned off as well. The relevant console controls and caveats are covered in Sony’s PS5 display settings guide.
Compare input lag using measurements for the exact model
Input lag is a useful model-comparison criterion, particularly if you play games where control timing matters. Look for independent measurements for the exact TV model and the picture mode you expect to use. Results may differ by mode, so a number measured in one mode should not automatically be applied to another.
Rank #4
- MOVIES INCLUDED WITH THE BRAVIA TV: Access SONY PICTURES CORE with Pure Stream and the largest IMAX Enhanced collection included with BRAVIA. 5 credits to redeem on latest release movies and 12 months subscription on hundreds of classics.
- CINEMATIC PICTURE AND SOUND AT HOME: Support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos delivers an immersive viewing experience. DTS:X creates cinema-like audio that surrounds you.
- SMARTER PICTURE IN REAL TIME: The XR Processor uses AI scene recognition to optimize color, contrast, and clarity in every frame. XR Clear Image uses AI to restore lost detail and reduce noise in your content.
- SMOOTH, BLUR-FREE MOTION IN SPORTS AND ACTION: Enhanced 120Hz clearness and smoothness when watching fast-moving action. Motionflow XR keeps fast scenes clear and easy to follow.
- PERFECT FOR PLAYSTATION 5: Take your PS5 gaming to the next level with exclusive features – Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode – that optimizes picture quality for gaming and streaming. Game Menu puts all your gaming picture settings and exclusive assist features in one place. HDMI 2.1 features 4K/120, VRR, and ALLM deliver smooth, responsive gameplay.
There is no universal millisecond threshold established here for what counts as acceptable, and the official PS5 compatibility pages do not provide comparative input-lag measurements. Do not infer that one TV is faster than another from HDMI 2.1, VRR, or ALLM branding alone.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Use the included cable unless you need a replacement
Sony recommends using the HDMI cable included with the PS5. If you need to replace it for 4K 120 Hz use, choose an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 4K 120 Hz. A new cable is not an upgrade requirement when the supplied one works in your setup.
Best Value
- [Silky 144Hz MiniLED picture with VRR up to 288Hz — fast action, zero blurEquipped]Native 144Hz panel with Variable Refresh Rate (4K@48–144Hz, up to 240Hz) .Featuring the highest-tier FreeSync Premium Pro technology that significantly reduces screen tearing and lowers input lag during intense gameplay, and keeps sports motion crisp. With up to 1000 nits of bright HDR luminance, local dimming and a 6,000:1 contrast ratio, this gaming TV vividly brings the vibrant neon world of Cyberpunk to life.
- [Every major HDR format — Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Vision Gaming, HDR10+, IMAX Enhanced]Dolby Vision IQ reads your room's light and adjusts the picture automatically. Switch to Dolby Vision Gaming for your console with zero setup. IMAX Enhanced certification delivers director-approved visuals and sound from compatible streaming titles on a 55" canvas.
- [4 × HDMI 2.1 — connect PS5, Xbox, PC, and soundbar all at once]Two ports run 4K@144Hz for next-gen consoles and gaming PCs; two more handle 4K@60Hz for streaming boxes or Blu-ray players. Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) switches the TV into game mode instantly — no menu diving required.
- [Your built-in home theater — 50W audio with Dolby Atmos & DTS Virtual:X] A 2.1-channel system (2×15W tweeters + 20W woofer) with Dolby Atmos passthrough and DTS Virtual:X. Transform your bedroom into an immersive gaming battlefield, your small office into a crystal-clear conference space, and your living room into a cinematic wonderland. . eARC on HDMI 4 also supports lossless audio to an external soundbar when you want to upgrade.
- [Built-in hotel mode & IP/IR control — ready for hospitality and commercial installs]Google TV hotel mode, IR blaster, and IP control come standard — features consumer TVs at this price rarely include. Ideal for Airbnb properties, hotel rooms, fitness centers, and waiting areas. Lock menus, set default inputs, and manage displays remotely.
Troubleshoot missing 4K 120 Hz output
If the PS5 does not offer the expected output, check the chain in a practical order:
- Confirm the selected TV input. Make sure the console is connected to an HDMI port that supports the desired resolution and refresh rate. Enable any required enhanced-signal setting for that port in the TV menu.
- Check the TV firmware. Install available firmware updates, then recheck the input’s capabilities.
- Check the cable and connection path. Use the included PS5 cable or an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 4K 120 Hz. For diagnosis, connect the PS5 directly to the TV rather than through an intervening device.
- Review PS5 output settings. Open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output and check the available resolution and 120 Hz output options. Sony’s resolution guide provides its full checklist.
A practical checklist for comparing TVs
For each candidate, record the answers for the exact model and intended HDMI input:
Quick Recap
- Is the panel native 4K?
- Does the input accept 120 Hz, and which HDMI inputs support it?
- What VRR type and range does the TV support, and is its PS5 compatibility established?
- Does that input support ALLM?
- What is the measured input lag in the picture mode you plan to use?
- How many inputs offer the gaming features you need?
- Does the TV’s size, price, brightness, and viewing setup suit your room and habits?
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