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On PS5, ALLM asks a compatible TV to use a low-latency picture mode, VRR synchronizes the display’s refresh rate with the console’s output, and HDR changes how supported content is displayed across bright and dark tones. They do different jobs, and you need compatible display support to use them.
What each PS5 feature changes
| Feature | What it affects | What to expect | Support needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) | The display’s latency mode | Signals a compatible TV that gameplay is underway so it can switch to a low-latency mode, often called Game Mode. It does not change resolution or HDR color. | A display that specifically supports ALLM; an HDMI 2.1 label alone does not guarantee it. |
| VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) | Refresh timing | Synchronizes a compatible display’s refresh rate with the PS5’s graphical output. The visual effect varies by display and game. | A VRR-compatible display; the game and display affect the result. |
| HDR (High Dynamic Range) | Image dynamic range | On an HDR-capable display, supported content can show image detail with a more realistic appearance. Output depends on the HDR setting you select. | An HDR-capable display; content support determines whether a game or app is natively HDR. |
These are not interchangeable picture-quality switches. ALLM concerns the display’s latency mode, VRR concerns refresh timing, and HDR concerns image output.
What to know about ALLM
When gameplay begins, the PS5 can signal an ALLM-compatible TV to switch to a low-latency mode. The name and behavior of that mode are controlled by the display, so check the TV or monitor manual for ALLM support and its relevant setting. Sony says the PS5 does not send an ALLM signal while a media app is running.
ALLM requires the latest PS5 system software and a compatible display. Sony notes that even a TV with HDMI 2.1 may not support ALLM. If the behavior is unexpected, check the display’s exact model specifications rather than relying on its HDMI version.
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What to know about VRR
VRR lets the display adjust its refresh rate in sync with the PS5’s graphical output. Sony says the intended benefit is improved visual performance in compatible games, but the result varies by display and game; it is not a guarantee that every title will look or run differently.
In Video Output settings, PS5 also offers Apply to Unsupported Games. Sony says enabling it can help stabilize frame rate in games that do not officially support VRR. If a game behaves unexpectedly with the option enabled, Sony advises turning it off.
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What to know about HDR
HDR output requires an HDR-capable TV or monitor. The PS5’s HDR choices determine how the console handles content that does not support HDR natively:
- On When Supported: HDR is used for supported content; unsupported games and apps display in SDR.
- Always On: The PS5 converts unsupported content to HDR output.
Use Adjust HDR in the console’s settings to fine-tune brightness for the display and optimize HDR rendering.
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Where to find the settings and check compatibility
- On PS5, open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
- Review the connected HDMI device information. The console can show detected resolution and whether VRR and HDR are available.
- Use the Video Output controls to configure HDR, VRR, and ALLM. For ALLM support and the display’s own low-latency behavior, check the TV or monitor manual as well.
Having a cable with a particular label cannot add a feature missing from the display, and game support still affects the result. Sony recommends using the HDMI cable supplied with PS5. For ALLM, Sony also identifies an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable as an alternative, and advises connecting the console to a compatible HDMI port.
How ALLM and VRR can interact
Sony notes that a display’s low-latency mode may still activate during VRR output even when ALLM is set to Off. To completely disable this automatic low-latency behavior, turn both VRR and ALLM off in Video Output settings.
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If a feature or video mode is not working
- Check the exact display model: Confirm it supports the specific capability—ALLM, VRR, or HDR—you expect to use. HDMI 2.1 by itself does not confirm ALLM support.
- Try the appropriate HDMI port: Some displays reserve particular ports for a capability such as 4K/120 Hz or ALLM; check the display manual.
- Check the signal path: Connect the PS5 to a compatible port, and make sure an intermediary receiver is not preventing the required signal.
- Update software: Sony requires the latest PS5 system software for ALLM and recommends checking that the TV firmware is current.
- Recheck the PS5’s detection: Return to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output and review the connected HDMI device information.
- For unexpected game behavior with VRR: Turn off Apply to Unsupported Games and check whether the game behaves as expected.
Sony’s descriptions of these features and their settings are available in its PS5 feature overview and PS5 video output support guide.
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