A PS5 Can Look Fine on the Wrong HDMI Port and Still Lose Key Features

Most TVs and monitors have multiple HDMI ports, and their tiny labels can be difficult to read, if they are present and visible at all, according to the report. When no label is available, users must look up the specifications for their exact brand and model. The PS5 supports HDMI 2.1 for 4K output at 120Hz, among other gaming features, but that requires both a compatible screen and the correct output.

The problem grows when a PS5 is moved around a house and set up on different TVs, because each brand and model can have different HDMI arrangements. Engadget reported that users should never assume the same set of port numbers means the same specifications, even if every TV in the house comes from the same brand. On most TVs, though not all, HDMI 2.1 ports are the third or fourth option, and users seeking the maximum benefit should check the specs for their exact model and look for an HDMI 2.1 input that supports 4K at 120Hz.

The cable matters as well. Sony recommends using the HDMI cable that comes with the PS5, or another high-quality Ultra High Speed (HDMI 2.1) cable, according to Engadget. The report said it is best to plug the cable directly into the screen or TV without a soundbar or similar device between them. A PS5 console and TV cannot provide peak signal support if the port, cable or intermediary equipment is getting in the way.

The correct HDMI port and cable unlock the full breadth of output features the console supports. A 120Hz display can refresh its image 120 times per second, so compatible PS5 games offer smoother motion than a 60Hz setup can provide, but the game also has to support 120 fps output. That is not always enabled by default, and players should check the game’s video settings for an option such as '120Hz output,' 'High Frame Rate' or a similar label.

Engadget reported that 120Hz gaming at a lower resolution, such as 1080p or 1440p, can work through HDMI 2.0 on a compatible display. HDMI 2.1 is the relevant option for the PS5’s 4K 120Hz output. The report also noted that few PS5 games run at 4K/120, and most high frame rate modes lower the resolution to compensate. For monitors with a high refresh rate, users should check which resolutions and refresh rates the monitor supports over HDMI, because those may differ from its DisplayPort inputs; a high refresh rate alone does not indicate that a given HDMI port supports the desired PS5 mode.

Other HDMI 2.1 features include Variable Refresh Rate, which syncs the screen’s refresh rate with the system’s output to prevent screen tearing, and Auto Low Latency Mode, which tells the TV to switch into its 'Game Mode' by disabling picture processing features to minimize input lag, according to the report.

Engadget reported that neither input number on a TV is inherently better or worse. 'HDMI 1' and 'HDMI 2' are designators, not necessarily version numbers such as HDMI 1.x or HDMI 2.x. A port clearly labeled HDMI 2.1 can still fail to deliver 4K 120Hz after a cable is plugged in, because HDMI 2.1 is not always the default option in the TV or monitor’s input settings; manufacturers use different menu names and terms, such as 'Enhanced Features' or similar.

The feature also has to be enabled on the PS5. On the main menu, users can open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Engadget reported that the resolution should be set to Automatic for best results, Video Transfer Rate should be left on Automatic and Enable 120Hz Output should be set to Automatic as well. Selecting Information for the Connected HDMI Device shows details about the screen’s resolution, Variable Refresh Rate and HDR support, and Current Video Output Signal provides information for troubleshooting.

If the console still fails to deliver the expected signal, Engadget reported that users should recheck the input, cable and display settings before assuming the PS5 needs to be shipped off for repair.