Should You Use DisplayPort or HDMI for Your PS5?

The straightforward answer is: you should use HDMI for your PlayStation 5 (PS5). The PS5 does not have a DisplayPort output. It exclusively uses HDMI 2.1 for its video output, meaning your only option for connecting it to a display is via an HDMI cable. While DisplayPort is a powerful interface, especially for PC gaming, it’s simply not an option for the current generation of PlayStation consoles. The question shouldn’t be which to use, but what type of HDMI to use for your PS5 to get the best experience.

Understanding the Limitations and the Best HDMI Options

While you cannot use DisplayPort with a PS5 directly, understanding the differences between DisplayPort and HDMI is useful for context. DisplayPort is often preferred by PC gamers due to its higher bandwidth capabilities and advanced features. It is not uncommon for a computer, especially gaming rigs, to have a DisplayPort output. However, the PS5, like most consoles, has adopted HDMI as its primary output for its mainstream popularity and compatibility with TVs.

The PS5 was designed with HDMI 2.1 in mind. This means to extract the most out of your console, you should be aiming for a display that also has an HDMI 2.1 port. With HDMI 2.1, you can achieve high frame rates at high resolutions, such as 4K resolution at 120Hz, or 8K resolution at 60Hz , when compatible games and displays are used. Using lower versions of HDMI, like 2.0 or less, will limit your console’s capabilities and not allow you to get the benefits of 4K/120fps gaming where it is supported by your hardware. This includes refresh rates and resolutions.

While the PS5 comes with a certified HDMI 2.1 cable, any HDMI cable that meets this specification will work. The key thing to remember is the bandwidth capacity of that version of HDMI. In comparison, HDMI 2.0 is limited to around 18 Gigabits per second, and DisplayPort 1.4 reaches up to 26 Gbps. Meanwhile, DisplayPort 2.0 has a much larger potential bandwidth of around 77 Gbps. HDMI 2.1 has an approximate maximum bandwidth of 42.6 Gbps, which is more than enough for what the PS5 requires.

Making the Most of HDMI on Your PS5

To get the optimal experience on your PS5, focus on using a quality HDMI 2.1 certified cable with your console and a display that has an HDMI 2.1 port. This will ensure you can play compatible games at the highest possible resolution and frame rate. Keep your display’s settings set to Automatic, which can often be found in the console’s Video Output settings. It’s also worth noting that although HDMI 2.1 is important for 4K/120 fps gaming, it’s still possible to get a good experience even without an HDMI 2.1 enabled TV. For instance, gaming at 1080p or 1440p with a 120Hz refresh rate is achievable with a display that may not support the full bandwidth of HDMI 2.1, as long as the TV or monitor is capable of 120Hz at that resolution.

While it may be possible to use an HDMI to DisplayPort adapter to connect your PS5 to a monitor with DisplayPort, this is not recommended. It may introduce compatibility issues, and you might not get the best performance. It’s much better to either use a display with HDMI or consider using an HDMI to a Displayport monitor that has an integrated HDMI port, which often provide a higher and more stable level of performance.

Ultimately, the PS5 was designed for HDMI, and aiming for an HDMI 2.1 setup is the key to unlocking its best features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about PS5 and Display Connections

Can I Use DisplayPort with My PS5?

No. The PS5 only has an HDMI output and does not support a DisplayPort connection. You will need to use an HDMI cable to connect your PS5 to your display.

What Type of HDMI Cable Do I Need for the Best PS5 Experience?

To get the most out of your PS5, you need an HDMI 2.1 certified cable. This allows for 4K gaming at 120Hz, or 8K at 60Hz if your display supports those resolutions and refresh rates.

Is the HDMI Cable That Comes with the PS5 Good Enough?

Yes. The HDMI cable provided with the PS5 is an HDMI 2.1 certified cable, and it will provide excellent performance. Any HDMI 2.1 certified cable is usable, though.

Can I Use an HDMI 2.0 Cable with My PS5?

Yes, you can, but you will be limited to the HDMI 2.0 bandwidth. This means you won’t get 4K at 120Hz. Your maximum refresh rate in 4k will be 60Hz in this situation.

Does HDMI 2.1 Really Matter for PS5?

Yes, it does, especially if you are aiming for 4K gaming at 120Hz. If your display has the appropriate 2.1 port you will see a dramatic increase in the quality of your gameplay. While you don’t need HDMI 2.1 to use your console, it is essential to experience its full capabilities.

How Do I Get 120Hz Output on My PS5?

To enable 120Hz output on the PS5, go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output and then select “Enable 120Hz Output”. You must also ensure that your display has the ability to run at a refresh rate of 120Hz, along with the proper HDMI port.

What is the Best Connection Type for PS5 Online Gaming?

For online gaming, the best connection is NAT Type 1 or Open NAT. This ensures a smooth and reliable connection with other players. For the best online experience, use a Cat6a or better ethernet cable if you are using wired internet.

Should I Use HDMI 2.0 or HDMI 2.1 for PS5?

HDMI 2.1 will provide the best possible results on your PS5. With it, you’ll get 4K at 120Hz if your display is compatible. HDMI 2.0 will only support 4K gaming at 60Hz.

Which HDMI Port is Best for Gaming?

HDMI 2.1 is the best HDMI port for gaming, allowing for gameplay at 1440p or 4K at up to 120Hz. Older versions like HDMI 2.0 will not support such high resolution and refresh rate combinations.

Can the PS5 Output 1440p Resolution?

Yes, the PS5 can now output at 1440p resolution. You can enable this in the settings under ‘Screen and Video’. There are multiple refresh rate options with 1440p, up to a 120Hz refresh rate.

Do I Need HDMI 2.1 for 1440p Gaming on PS5?

No, you do not need HDMI 2.1 specifically for 1440p gaming, but for 1440p gaming at 120Hz you may still benefit. The bandwidth of HDMI 2.0 may limit you to 60Hz, whereas an HDMI 2.1 connection will allow you to hit 120Hz, provided that the TV supports it.

Is 120Hz Refresh Rate Noticeable on the PS5?

Yes, 120Hz is noticeable, especially in fast-paced games. While many games are limited to 30FPS or 60FPS, you will still get the benefit of lower input lag at high refresh rates even on games at lower frames per second.

Can the PS5 Actually Run Games at 4K 120FPS?

Yes, the PS5 can run some games at 4K resolution at 120 FPS, provided you have an HDMI 2.1 compatible display. Not every game supports these settings though, so research is needed before setting up for a game at this frame rate.

Why Is HDMI More Popular Than DisplayPort?

HDMI is more popular for general consumer use because of its wider availability and adoption by TV manufacturers and console makers. DisplayPort is generally a niche standard for professional and high-end PC gaming.

Can I Use HDMI and DisplayPort Simultaneously?

While this is possible on PCs where you have both types of outputs, the PS5 is limited to HDMI only. You can use a PC with multiple monitors with one using HDMI and another using DisplayPort, but this is not a capability of the PlayStation 5.