Driver FixRecommendedSound, Wi-Fi or graphics acting up? Check drivers firstFind missing or outdated drivers fast.Check DriversOctober DealsAmazon USOctober deal check: compare before you payAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix Now×
Skip to content
VGSources
Blog

How to Optimize PS5 Video Output Settings for Your TV

Use the PS5’s detected HDMI capabilities to choose compatible resolution, refresh rate, HDR, VRR and ALLM settings—and troubleshoot 4K output problems.
Length4 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Start at Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Leave Resolution on Automatic for the simplest setup: PlayStation says the PS5 detects your TV’s capabilities and selects the best available resolution. Then check Current Video Output Signal and HDMI Device Information to see what the console and connected display have negotiated. Change settings only to test a supported mode or resolve a specific issue; your TV, HDMI connection, and game all affect which options work.

Check what your TV and PS5 support

In Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output, review the current signal and HDMI device information before changing anything. These details are a practical starting point for checking detected resolution and supported features, but they do not guarantee that every game uses every mode. Resolution, refresh rate, HDR, VRR, and ALLM availability can depend on the TV, the HDMI port and connection path, and the game.

For a specific port’s capabilities or any required TV-side setting, consult the TV manual. HDMI 2.1 branding alone does not confirm support for every feature, including ALLM.

Choose a resolution

Automatic or 4K

Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > Resolution. Automatic selects the highest resolution the PS5 detects as supported. A compatible 4K screen can receive 4K/2160p output when the console is set to 4K; selecting 4K output does not mean every game renders internally at native 4K.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Highwings 8K 10K 4K HDMI Cable 48Gbps 6.6FT/2M, Certified Ultra High Speed
  • Top Technology--8K@60HZ: This 8K Ultra-High Speed 2.1 HDMI Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, which is compatible with 8K@60HZ,4K@240HZ and 4K@120HZ clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source.
  • Upgrade Revolution: Highwings Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 8K supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) which can will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video. It is also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions.
  • For Game Enthusiasts: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120HZ. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU to obtain a smoother and more detailed picture.
  • Reinforced high-quality materials: This 8K HDMI Cord uses Highwings' most popular classic style. The tail's anti-bending design has been upgraded to make it more durable. The military grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life.
  • The ultimate perfectionist: Highwings every parts of the cable has been put through rigorous the performance tests in the laboratory. After we've combined every flawless part into a perfect 8K cable and it can be presented to you.

1440p

If your TV or monitor supports 1440p, select Test 1440p Output to check supported combinations of SDR or HDR, 60 Hz or 120 Hz, and VRR. Set Resolution to 1440p to use that output. Sony notes that some higher-resolution games may benefit from improved anti-aliasing through supersampling to 1440p; the image and frame-rate result still depends on the game and display.

Set refresh rate and VRR

120 Hz Output

Enable 120 Hz Output when both the display and the game support a 120 Hz frame rate. This option does not make every game run at 120 frames per second. If a game has output problems on a monitor or another display, Sony advises turning the setting off.

Rank #2
Sale
PowerA Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable for PlayStation 5, Cable, HDMI 2.1, PS5, Officially Licensed
  • Reliable high-performance Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
  • 10-foot (3 meter) length and included cable tie for ultimate setup flexibility
  • Uninterrupted speed and maximum visual performance
  • Transmits 4K resolution at 120 Hz and 8k resolution at 60 Hz as specified in HDMI 2.1
  • Supports up to 48 Gbps bandwidth

Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)

On a compatible TV or monitor, VRR can synchronize the display’s refresh rate with the PS5’s graphical output. Results vary by display and game. The PS5 also offers Apply to Unsupported Games; Sony says this may stabilize frame rate, but recommends turning it off if a game behaves unexpectedly.

Choose HDR behavior

Under Video Output, choose the behavior that suits the content you play:

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
PowerBear 4K HDMI Cable 10 ft | High Speed Hdmi Cables, Braided Nylon & Gold Connectors, 4K @ 60Hz, Ultra HD, 2K, 1080P, ARC & CL3 Rated | for Laptop, Monitor, PS5, PS4, Xbox One, Fire TV, & More
  • 4K HDMI Cable: Male to Male HDMI Cable Supports 4K Video @ 60Hz, 2K, 1080P, 48 bit/px HDR color depth, TrueHD 7.1, Audio Return Channel (ARC) & Ethernet
  • Premium Quality HDMI Cable: This HDMI cable has 30WG copper wire, triple tin shielded in a double braided premium nylon with gold plated corrosion resistant connectors for guaranteed top tier image & sound
  • Full Compatibility: High speed 4K HDMI cable supports 18Gbps transfer and is backwards compatible with earlier versions of HDMI cable (1.3/1.4/2.0/2.0a) NOT for 8K
  • Universal HDMI Cable: Works with all of your HDMI devices. Compatible with Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS5, PS4, XBox One, Nintendo Switch, computer, laptop, monitor, projector and more. An essential HDMI cable for all of your home & office devices
  • 10 Feet 1 Pack: One 10 ft HDMI cables (3 meters) thickness 0.24 inches (6 mm)
  • On When Supported: HDR-compatible content uses HDR; non-HDR content remains in SDR.
  • Always On: The PS5 converts non-HDR-compatible games and apps to HDR output as well.

Use Adjust HDR and follow the on-screen calibration for your specific TV. There is no single brightness setting established as correct for every display.

Understand ALLM and low-latency behavior

On a compatible TV, ALLM can switch the television into a low-latency mode during gameplay. The PS5 does not send an ALLM signal while a media app is running. Also, VRR output can trigger low-latency behavior even when ALLM is set to Off. If you want to disable that behavior entirely, turn VRR off as well as ALLM. TV controls and mode names vary, so check the television manual.

Rank #4
Sale
Silkland Certified HDMI 2.1 Cable for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Switch2, 5FT
  • Born for Game Enthusiasts: Perfectly tailored for PS5, Xbos Series X/S, Switch2, and gaming PCs. Supports 4K@120Hz refresh rates, VRR, and ALLM to eliminate screen tearing and input lag for a flawlessly smooth experience
  • Certified HDMI 2.1 Cable: Silkland HDMI 2.1 cable is officially certified, delivering the full 48Gbps bandwidth for flawless 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz video. It's the ideal choice for high-end gaming and home theater setups, ensuring zero loss in signal quality
  • Minimalist & Durable Design: With a slim 17.5x8.5mm profile, a one-piece ABS body and an ultra-dense braided exterior, it saves port space behind your TV or media cabinet while offering durable, sleek construction. The triple shielding and 30AWG copper core eliminate interference for less screen flickering, or white dots, more flawless videos
  • Immersive Audio & Visuals: Transmits stunning 8K HDR and dynamic HDR (Dolby Vision, HDR10+) video. Its eARC feature sends lossless audio like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X from TV to soundbar or AV receiver via a single cable, delivering a cinematic, immersive experience at home
  • Universal Compatibility: Fully backward compatible with HDMI 2.0, 1.4, and older versions. Plug-and-play seamlessly with new TVs, Apple TV, soundbars, laptops, monitor or other devices with hdmi port for entertainment, work, or desktop expansion
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Troubleshoot 4K/120 Hz or a flickering 4K signal

If 4K/120 Hz is missing or the screen goes blank

If you expect 4K/120 Hz but see a blank screen or 1080p/120 Hz, Sony’s troubleshooting guidance recommends checking each part of the signal path:

  1. Confirm that the TV supports 4K/120 Hz.
  2. Update the TV’s firmware.
  3. Connect the PS5 directly to the TV to rule out an AV receiver or other intermediary.
  4. Use the TV’s HDMI port intended for the supported high-bandwidth signal, and check whether that input requires a setting change. The port and setting names vary by TV.
  5. Use the HDMI cable included with the PS5, or an Ultra High-Speed HDMI cable rated for 4K/120 Hz.
  6. On the PS5, set Resolution to Automatic or 2160p, and set Video Transfer Rate to Automatic.

A replacement cable will not fix a limitation in the TV, its selected port, firmware, or an intermediary device.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Sale
Ubluker 10K 8K 4K HDMI Cable 6.6FT Certified Passed, Ultra High Speed HDMI®
  • Certified HDMI Cable: The package has an official HDMI certification label. HDMI Officially Certified Fully compliant with the HDMI Forum’s strict requirements as specified in HDMI
  • It supports the latest features: 0.01ms, low EMI, SBTM, 48Gbps Bandwidth, ALLM, VRR, QMS, QFT, Dynamic HDR, HDR10+, CEC, HDCP 2.2 & 2.3, VESA DSC 1.2a
  • Resolution & Deep Color: 10k@60Hz 12-bit, 8K@60Hz 4:4:4 12-bit, 5k@144Hz 120Hz 90Hz 4:4:4 12-bit, 4K@240Hz 120Hz 144Hz 12-bit, 2k@360H 240Hz 165Hz,1080p@360Hz, 720p, 480p
  • Digital Audio Video Format Support: The latest high-bitrate audio formats are supported including eARC, ARC, DTS Master, DTS:X, Dol-by TrueHD, Dol-by Vision, Dol-by Atmos and more
  • Wide Compatibility: Gaming PC, FreeSync, G-SYNC, All GeForce RTX 40&30 series, Soundbar, PS5 PS4 PS3, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, All Apple TV+, All OLED TV, All Mac-book, laptop, Projector, Monitor, Netflix, Fi-re TV, Ro-ku TV, SHIELD TV

If the 4K signal flickers

Try Video Transfer Rate at -1, then -2 if needed. These settings limit some output formats: -1 limits some 4K 120 Hz and 4K 50/60 Hz RGB/YUV444 Deep Color formats; -2 limits some 4K 120 Hz and 4K 50/60 Hz RGB/YUV444 output. This is a compatibility workaround, not a picture-quality enhancement. Return to Automatic if the reduced output options are unnecessary. Sony’s additional 8K 60 Hz limitations for these settings apply to the CFI-7000 model group.

Is 8K output available on every PS5?

No. The 8K output toggle is limited to PS5 consoles in the CFI-7000 model group and requires an 8K/60 Hz TV and DSC (Display Stream Compression). Do not assume this option is available on other PS5 models.

Quick Recap

SaleBestseller No. 2
PowerA Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable for PlayStation 5, Cable, HDMI 2.1, PS5, Officially Licensed
PowerA Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable for PlayStation 5, Cable, HDMI 2.1, PS5, Officially Licensed
Reliable high-performance Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable; 10-foot (3 meter) length and included cable tie for ultimate setup flexibility
$27.99

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

More quests from Patch Notes

  1. 5 Best Pixelmon Server Hosting Providers for 2026, ComparedBlog8min
  2. 6 Best RLCraft Server Hosting Providers in 2026 (Ranked)Blog8min
  3. 6 Best Palworld Dedicated Server Hosts in 2026 (Ranked)Blog8min
Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.