Gaming technology has advanced dramatically in recent years. Modern consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, along with high-end gaming PCs, can output stunning visuals at 4K resolution with refresh rates up to 120Hz. However, achieving this level of performance requires more than just powerful hardware. Your HDMI setup plays a crucial role in delivering smooth, responsive gameplay. This guide explains everything you need to know about optimising your HDMI connection for gaming.
Understanding Gaming-Specific HDMI Features
Before diving into setup instructions, it's essential to understand the HDMI features that matter most for gaming. These technologies, introduced with HDMI 2.1, can significantly improve your gaming experience when properly configured.
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
Traditional displays refresh at fixed intervals, typically 60 or 120 times per second. When a game's frame rate doesn't match this refresh rate exactly, you experience screen tearing (visible horizontal lines where frames overlap) or stuttering. VRR solves this by allowing the display to synchronise its refresh rate with the game's actual frame output.
For example, if your game is running at 87 frames per second, a VRR-enabled display will refresh 87 times per second to match. This dynamic synchronisation eliminates tearing and creates noticeably smoother gameplay, particularly in games where frame rates fluctuate.
VRR is especially beneficial in open-world games and titles with variable performance. If you're playing a graphically demanding game that doesn't maintain a steady 60fps, VRR will make the experience feel much smoother than it otherwise would.
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Many televisions apply post-processing to improve picture quality. While these enhancements can make movies look better, they add latency that's detrimental to gaming. ALLM automatically switches your television to its low-latency game mode when it detects a gaming signal, then switches back to normal processing for other content.
This automation is convenient because you don't need to manually change picture modes when switching between gaming and watching movies. Your television handles the transition seamlessly, ensuring you always have the optimal settings for your current activity.
Quick Frame Transport (QFT) and Quick Media Switching (QMS)
These lesser-known HDMI 2.1 features also benefit gamers. QFT reduces latency by optimising how frames are transmitted from your console to your display. QMS eliminates the brief blackout that occurs when switching between different refresh rates, creating a more seamless experience when moving between menus and gameplay.
Setting Up Your PlayStation 5 for Optimal Performance
The PlayStation 5 supports 4K resolution at up to 120Hz, making proper HDMI configuration essential for experiencing its full capabilities. Here's how to optimise your setup:
First, ensure you're using the HDMI cable that came with your PS5. Sony includes an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable specifically designed for the console's capabilities. While third-party cables can work, the included cable is certified to handle all PS5 output modes.
Connect your PS5 to an HDMI 2.1 port on your television. Many TVs label these ports differently, sometimes indicating "4K 120Hz" or "Game" compatibility. Check your television's manual if port labelling is unclear. Using an HDMI 2.0 port will limit your maximum output to 4K at 60Hz.
Navigate to Settings, then Screen and Video, and select Video Output. Here you'll find several important options:
- Resolution: Set to Automatic or 2160p (4K) for optimal quality
- 120Hz Output: Enable this to allow supported games to run at higher frame rates
- HDR: Enable if your television supports HDR10 or Dolby Vision
- VRR: Enable to activate Variable Refresh Rate for supported games
After configuring these settings, test your connection using the Video Output Information option. This screen confirms your current output resolution, refresh rate, and whether HDR and VRR are active.
Optimising Xbox Series X Settings
Microsoft's Xbox Series X offers similar capabilities to the PS5, with some additional flexibility in how you configure output settings. The console also includes an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable in the box.
Access video settings through Settings, General, and TV & Display Options. The Xbox provides a helpful "4K TV Details" screen that shows exactly which features your television supports and whether they're currently functioning correctly. This diagnostic tool is invaluable for troubleshooting connection issues.
Key settings to configure include:
- Resolution: Select 4K UHD for maximum visual quality
- Refresh Rate: Choose 120Hz if your display supports it
- Allow Variable Refresh Rate: Enable for smoother gameplay
- Allow Auto Low Latency Mode: Enable for automatic game mode switching
- Allow YCC 4:2:2: Enable if using 4K at 120Hz (some displays require this)
The Xbox Series X includes a dedicated HDMI input for connecting your cable or satellite box. This allows you to watch television through your Xbox without switching inputs, though this feature doesn't affect gaming performance.
PC Gaming HDMI Configuration
Gaming PCs offer the most flexibility in HDMI output options, but they also require more manual configuration. Your graphics card's capabilities and driver software determine available settings.
For NVIDIA graphics cards, right-click on your desktop and select NVIDIA Control Panel. Navigate to Display, then Change Resolution. Here you can select your resolution and refresh rate. If 4K at 120Hz doesn't appear as an option, ensure you're using an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable and that your television's HDMI port is configured for enhanced signal format in its settings menu.
AMD users can access similar options through AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition. The display settings section allows you to configure resolution, refresh rate, and enable FreeSync (AMD's implementation of VRR) if your display supports it.
Note that many PC gamers prefer DisplayPort connections for gaming monitors, as DisplayPort historically supported higher refresh rates before HDMI 2.1. However, if you're connecting to a television, HDMI is typically your only option and performs excellently with proper configuration.
Troubleshooting Common Gaming HDMI Issues
Even with proper setup, you might encounter issues that affect your gaming experience. Here are solutions to common problems:
No 4K 120Hz Option Available
If your console or PC won't allow 4K at 120Hz, first verify that your television supports this mode. Many TVs only offer 120Hz on specific HDMI ports, often labelled for gaming. Check your TV's settings for an "Enhanced Signal Format," "HDMI Deep Color," or similar option that must be enabled for high-bandwidth signals.
Also confirm you're using an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. Standard or High Speed cables cannot handle the 48Gbps bandwidth required for 4K at 120Hz.
Input Lag Feels High
If games feel unresponsive, your television might not be switching to game mode automatically. Manually enable game mode in your TV's picture settings. Some televisions have game mode disabled by default even when ALLM signals are detected.
VRR Causing Flickering
Some television and console combinations experience brightness flickering with VRR enabled, particularly in scenes with dramatic lighting changes. This is often related to local dimming settings on the television. Try disabling local dimming or setting it to a lower level. Console and TV firmware updates frequently address VRR-related issues, so ensure all devices are running the latest software.
Not all games support 120Hz or VRR. These features must be implemented by game developers. Check individual game settings to see if performance modes are available. Many games offer a choice between quality mode (higher resolution, 30 or 60fps) and performance mode (slightly lower resolution, 60 or 120fps).
Choosing the Right Display for Gaming
Your HDMI cable and settings only matter if your display can take advantage of them. When shopping for a gaming television or monitor, look for these specifications:
- HDMI 2.1 ports: Essential for 4K at 120Hz and advanced features
- VRR support: Listed as VRR, FreeSync, or G-Sync Compatible
- Low input lag: Look for measurements under 15ms in game mode
- Response time: Lower is better, with 1ms being ideal for competitive gaming
Many mid-range and high-end televisions from major manufacturers now include full HDMI 2.1 support with VRR. OLED televisions are particularly popular among gamers for their instant pixel response times and perfect black levels, though high-quality LED televisions also deliver excellent gaming performance.
Future-Proofing Your Gaming Setup
Gaming technology continues to advance rapidly. While current consoles max out at 4K 120Hz, PC gaming already pushes beyond these limits with some games supporting 8K resolution. By investing in Ultra High Speed HDMI cables and HDMI 2.1-equipped displays now, you're preparing for the next generation of gaming technology.
Keep your console firmware and television software updated, as manufacturers regularly add features and fix bugs that affect gaming performance. What doesn't work perfectly today might work flawlessly after an update.
With proper HDMI configuration, you'll experience games exactly as developers intended, with smooth motion, vibrant colours, and responsive controls that let you focus on what matters most: enjoying the game.