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Unlocking the Potential: How Much Hz Does Your Xbox Series S Really Need?

The simple answer to how much Hz your Xbox Series S needs is that it depends on your goals. The Xbox Series S is capable of outputting a 120Hz signal, and while not every game will reach that frame rate, having a display that supports it allows you to take advantage of those titles that do. However, a 60Hz display is perfectly adequate for the majority of games, especially if you prioritize visual fidelity over frame rate.

The real question is: what are you hoping to achieve with your gaming experience? Let’s break down the factors involved.

Understanding Refresh Rate and Frame Rate

Before diving deeper, let’s clarify the difference between refresh rate (Hz) and frame rate (FPS).

Refresh Rate (Hz): This refers to how many times per second your monitor updates the image on the screen. A 60Hz monitor updates 60 times per second, a 120Hz monitor updates 120 times per second, and so on.
Frame Rate (FPS): This refers to how many frames per second a game is rendering. The higher the FPS, the smoother the gameplay appears.

Ideally, your frame rate should match or be slightly lower than your refresh rate to avoid screen tearing. Screen tearing occurs when your monitor displays parts of multiple frames at once, creating a visible line or distortion.

The Xbox Series S: Capabilities and Limitations

The Xbox Series S is a powerful little console, capable of delivering impressive performance, particularly for its price point. It’s designed to target 1440p resolution at up to 120 FPS. However, it’s important to note that it’s not as powerful as its sibling, the Xbox Series X, which is geared towards native 4K gaming.

Native Resolution vs. Output Resolution

While the Series S targets 1440p, it can also output a 4K signal. This means the console will upscale the image to fit a 4K display. However, this is not the same as native 4K, where the game is rendered at 4K resolution from the start.

Similarly, the Series S can output a 1080p signal at 120Hz, which some gamers prefer for its performance.

HDMI 2.0 vs. HDMI 2.1

A key point of contention for some Series S owners is the console’s use of HDMI 2.0. While HDMI 2.1 offers a higher bandwidth and is required for 4K/120Hz gaming, HDMI 2.0 can still support 1440p/120Hz. The frustration lies in the belief that the Series S sometimes artificially limits performance, not fully utilizing the bandwidth available through HDMI 2.0 on compatible displays.

Finding the Right Hz for Your Needs

So, what refresh rate is best for you? Here’s a breakdown based on different scenarios:

Casual Gamer: If you primarily play single-player games, are not overly concerned with competitive advantages, and prioritize visual fidelity, a 60Hz display is perfectly adequate. You can still enjoy a great gaming experience with vibrant colors and detailed graphics.
Competitive Gamer: If you play a lot of fast-paced multiplayer games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, or Apex Legends, a 120Hz or 144Hz display can provide a noticeable advantage. The smoother motion and reduced input lag can help you react faster and improve your aiming.
Budget Conscious Gamer: If you are on a tight budget, prioritize your money toward other gaming equipment. You will still be able to play games if you have a 60Hz display.
VRR Enabled Gaming: Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology, like AMD FreeSync or HDMI VRR, synchronizes your monitor’s refresh rate with the game’s frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and reducing stuttering. If your monitor supports VRR, it can improve the gaming experience at both 60Hz and 120Hz.

Optimizing Your Xbox Series S Settings

To get the most out of your Xbox Series S, make sure you have the correct display settings enabled:

Go to Settings > General > TV & display options.
Under the Advanced section, select Video modes.
Enable “Allow variable refresh rate” if your monitor supports VRR.
Go back to TV & display options and select Resolution. Choose the desired resolution (1080p, 1440p, or 4K).
Under Refresh rate, select the highest refresh rate supported by your monitor (60Hz or 120Hz).

Does Xbox Series S artificially limits performance?

Some users feel like their performance is artificially limited and point to the HDMI 2.0 implementation as a potential culprit.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the “best” refresh rate for your Xbox Series S depends on your individual needs and preferences. A 120Hz display unlocks the full potential of the console, allowing you to experience smoother gameplay in supported titles. However, a 60Hz display is still a perfectly viable option, especially if you prioritize visual fidelity and are not heavily invested in competitive gaming. Regardless of your choice, understanding the capabilities of your console and display will help you optimize your gaming experience and get the most out of your Xbox Series S.

Remember to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to explore the intersection of gaming and education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can Xbox Series S run 4K at 120 FPS?

No, the Xbox Series S cannot natively run games at 4K resolution and 120 FPS simultaneously. It is capped at 1440p for its highest refresh rate. It can output a 4K signal, but that doesn’t mean games are rendered natively in 4K.

2. Do I need a special HDMI cable for 120Hz on Xbox Series S?

For 1080p/1440p at 120Hz on the Xbox Series S, the HDMI cable that comes with the console is typically sufficient. However, if you are using a very old or low-quality cable, it may be worth upgrading to a certified High Speed HDMI cable.

3. Why is 120Hz grayed out on my Xbox Series S?

If the 120Hz option is grayed out, it could be due to several reasons:

Your monitor does not support 120Hz at the selected resolution. Make sure your monitor’s specifications support 120Hz at the resolution you are trying to use.
Your HDMI cable is not capable of transmitting a 120Hz signal. Ensure you are using a High Speed HDMI cable.
Your monitor’s settings may need to be adjusted. Some monitors require you to enable 120Hz in their settings menu.

4. What games support 120 FPS on Xbox Series S?

Several games support 120 FPS on the Xbox Series S, including Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, Halo Infinite (multiplayer), Gears 5, and Ori and the Will of the Wisps. The list is constantly growing as developers optimize their games for the new generation of consoles.

5. Is VRR worth it on Xbox Series S?

Yes, VRR is highly recommended if your monitor supports it. It eliminates screen tearing and reduces stuttering, resulting in a smoother and more responsive gaming experience, especially in games with fluctuating frame rates.

6. Can a 60Hz monitor display more than 60 FPS?

No, a 60Hz monitor can only display up to 60 FPS. Any frames rendered above that will not be visible.

7. What resolution is best for Xbox Series S?

The best resolution for the Xbox Series S is typically 1440p, as it is the console’s target resolution. However, you can also use 1080p for higher frame rates or 4K for upscaled visuals on a 4K display.

8. Does the Xbox Series S support FreeSync or G-Sync?

The Xbox Series S supports HDMI VRR, which is compatible with AMD FreeSync. It does not officially support NVIDIA G-Sync, although some G-Sync Compatible monitors may work.

9. How do I check the frame rate of a game on Xbox Series S?

The Xbox Series S does not have a built-in frame rate counter. Some games may have an option to display the frame rate in their settings, or you can use third-party software or hardware to monitor it.

10. Is it better to have higher resolution or higher frame rate on Xbox Series S?

This depends on your preferences. Higher resolution provides sharper and more detailed visuals, while higher frame rates offer smoother and more responsive gameplay. For competitive gaming, frame rate is often prioritized.

11. Does enabling 120Hz reduce the graphics quality on Xbox Series S?

In some games, enabling 120Hz may require reducing some graphics settings to maintain a stable frame rate. This is because the console has to work harder to render more frames per second.

12. Can I use a TV as a monitor for my Xbox Series S?

Yes, you can use a TV as a monitor for your Xbox Series S. However, make sure the TV has a low input lag and supports the desired resolution and refresh rate for optimal performance.

13. What is input lag, and why is it important?

Input lag is the delay between your actions (e.g., pressing a button on your controller) and the corresponding action appearing on the screen. Lower input lag is crucial for a responsive gaming experience, especially in fast-paced games.

14. Are there any downsides to using a 120Hz monitor with Xbox Series S?

The main downside is the cost, as 120Hz monitors are typically more expensive than 60Hz monitors. Additionally, you may need to adjust graphics settings in some games to maintain a stable frame rate at 120 FPS.

15. Can the Xbox Series S upscale to 4k?

Yes, the Xbox Series S can upscale to 4K, effectively taking a lower resolution image and stretching it to fit a 4K display. Keep in mind that the upscale feature will not provide the same detail or image quality as true, native 4K. The Xbox Series S console delivers next-generation capabilities powered by the Xbox Velocity Architecture and enables richer dynamic worlds.

How much Hz does a Xbox Series S need?