Unleashing the Speed: Finding and Enabling 120 FPS on Your PS5
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Finding and enabling 120 FPS (Frames Per Second) on your PlayStation 5 involves a few key steps across both your console settings and, sometimes, individual game settings. First, ensure your display (TV or monitor) supports a 120Hz refresh rate and has an HDMI 2.1 port – this is crucial. Next, navigate to your PS5’s settings: go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Here, you’ll find the “120 Hz Output” option. Ensure this is set to “Automatic.” Finally, many games require you to select a “Performance Mode” within their own settings menus to prioritize frame rate over resolution. Now, let’s delve deeper into the specifics of maximizing your PS5’s frame rate potential.
Understanding the 120 FPS Landscape on PS5
The PlayStation 5 offers the potential for incredibly smooth and responsive gameplay at 120 FPS. However, achieving this isn’t always a straightforward plug-and-play experience. Several factors come into play, including your display’s capabilities, the game’s optimization, and specific settings configurations. It’s not simply about finding a hidden menu; it’s about understanding how the PS5 interacts with your setup to deliver the highest possible frame rate.
Checking Your Hardware: The Display is Key
The most critical component in achieving 120 FPS is your display (TV or monitor). It absolutely must support a 120Hz refresh rate. This specification refers to how many times per second the display can refresh the image on the screen. A 60Hz display, for example, can only show a maximum of 60 frames per second, regardless of what the PS5 is outputting.
Furthermore, to get 120 FPS at higher resolutions (like 4K), you need a display with an HDMI 2.1 port. HDMI 2.1 offers significantly more bandwidth than older HDMI versions, allowing it to transmit the massive amount of data required for high frame rates and resolutions simultaneously. Some displays may advertise 120Hz support but only offer it at lower resolutions or via DisplayPort, which is not used by the PS5. Double-check your display’s specifications to ensure it supports 120Hz specifically via HDMI at your desired resolution (usually 1080p or 1440p, as 4K 120 FPS is still relatively uncommon).
Navigating PS5 System Settings
Once you’ve confirmed your display supports 120Hz, the next step is configuring your PS5’s system settings.
- Accessing the Settings Menu: From the PS5 home screen, navigate to the top-right corner and select the “Settings” icon (it looks like a cogwheel).
- Screen and Video: Scroll down and select “Screen and Video.”
- Video Output: Choose “Video Output.”
- 120 Hz Output: Locate the “120 Hz Output” option. Make sure this is set to “Automatic.” This tells the PS5 to automatically enable 120Hz output when connected to a compatible display.
- Enable VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) if Supported: If your display supports HDMI Forum VRR, you will see a setting to enable or disable this. VRR helps to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering by dynamically adjusting the display’s refresh rate to match the game’s frame rate. Enabling this can further enhance the smoothness of your gameplay experience.
Game-Specific Settings: Performance Mode or Resolution Mode?
Even with the system settings configured correctly, you might not automatically get 120 FPS in every game. Many games offer a choice between “Performance Mode” and “Resolution Mode.”
- Performance Mode: This prioritizes frame rate, often targeting 60 FPS or 120 FPS (if supported). To achieve this, the game may reduce the resolution, graphical details, or other visual effects.
- Resolution Mode: This prioritizes image quality and resolution, aiming for a sharper and more detailed image. However, this typically results in a lower frame rate, usually 30 FPS or 60 FPS.
To enable 120 FPS in compatible games, you’ll usually need to select “Performance Mode” within the game’s settings menu. The location of this setting varies depending on the game. Look for it in the graphics settings or display settings menus.
Games That Support 120 FPS on PS5
While the PS5 is capable of outputting at 120 FPS, not all games support this frame rate. Some popular titles that offer 120 FPS support (as of October 2024) include:
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II/III
- Fortnite
- Rocket League
- Rainbow Six Siege
- Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition
- Destiny 2
It’s essential to check the specific game’s documentation or online resources to confirm whether it supports 120 FPS on PS5 and how to enable it.
Troubleshooting Common 120 FPS Issues
Even with the correct hardware and settings, you might encounter issues getting 120 FPS to work on your PS5. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
- The “120 Hz Output” Option is Greyed Out: This usually indicates that your display is not being detected as a 120Hz-capable device. Double-check your HDMI cable, ensure it’s securely connected, and verify that your display’s settings are configured to use the HDMI 2.1 input. Try using a different HDMI cable as well.
- The Game Doesn’t Offer a “Performance Mode”: This simply means the game doesn’t support 120 FPS on PS5. Some games are capped at 60 FPS, even on the PS5.
- Screen Tearing or Stuttering: This might be related to VRR. If your display supports VRR, ensure it is enabled in both the PS5 system settings and the display’s settings. If problems persist, try disabling VRR to see if it resolves the issue.
- Lowered Resolution in Performance Mode: This is a common trade-off for achieving higher frame rates. Many games dynamically adjust the resolution to maintain a stable frame rate. If the resolution drop is too significant, you may prefer to use Resolution Mode instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does my TV support 120Hz?
Check your TV’s specifications. Look for confirmation of 120Hz support specifically over HDMI (ideally HDMI 2.1) at your target resolution (1080p, 1440p, or 4K).
2. Do I need a special HDMI cable for 120 FPS on PS5?
Yes, you need an Ultra High-Speed HDMI cable that supports the HDMI 2.1 standard. These cables have the bandwidth necessary to transmit 4K video at 120 FPS.
3. How do I enable 120 FPS in Call of Duty on PS5?
First, ensure “120 Hz Output” is set to “Automatic” in the PS5’s system settings. Then, in Call of Duty‘s settings, navigate to the graphics options and enable the “120Hz Refresh Rate” option (if available; some older CoD titles may not support it).
4. Why is my PS5 not showing 120 FPS even though my TV supports it?
Double-check all your settings, including the “120 Hz Output” in the PS5 settings and any game-specific performance mode options. Ensure your HDMI cable is correctly connected and meets the HDMI 2.1 specification. Try a different HDMI port on your TV.
5. What resolution can I get at 120 FPS on PS5?
This depends on the game and your display. Some games offer 120 FPS at 1080p or 1440p, while others might support it at 4K. Check the game’s documentation for specific details.
6. Is 120 FPS worth it on PS5?
For many gamers, yes. The increased frame rate results in noticeably smoother and more responsive gameplay, particularly in fast-paced action games.
7. Does the PS5 have FPS boost like the Xbox Series X?
The PS5 doesn’t have a direct “FPS Boost” feature in the same way as the Xbox Series X. However, the PS5’s hardware enhancements often allow PS4 games to run at higher frame rates or with improved performance compared to the original PS4. This is often called “Game Boost”.
8. What is VRR and how does it help with 120 FPS on PS5?
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) synchronizes the refresh rate of your display with the frame rate output by the PS5. This eliminates screen tearing and reduces stuttering, resulting in a smoother and more consistent gaming experience. To use VRR, both your display and the PS5 must support HDMI Forum VRR.
9. How do I know if a game supports 120 FPS on PS5?
Check the game’s official website, patch notes, or online forums. Many websites and YouTube channels also compile lists of games that support 120 FPS on PS5.
10. Can I force a game to run at 120 FPS on PS5 even if it doesn’t officially support it?
No, you cannot force a game to run at 120 FPS if it is not designed to do so. The game’s code and engine need to be optimized for higher frame rates.
11. Will all future PS5 games support 120 FPS?
Not necessarily. While many developers are increasingly targeting higher frame rates, some games may prioritize higher resolutions and graphical fidelity over frame rate.
12. Does 120 FPS affect input lag on PS5?
Yes, a higher frame rate can reduce input lag. Input lag is the delay between your actions (e.g., pressing a button) and the corresponding action appearing on the screen. Higher frame rates mean that the screen updates more frequently, reducing this delay.
13. Can I use a 144Hz monitor with my PS5?
Yes, you can use a 144Hz monitor with your PS5. However, the PS5 will only output a maximum of 120Hz. You won’t be able to take advantage of the monitor’s full 144Hz refresh rate.
14. Is it better to have 4K at 60 FPS or 1080p at 120 FPS on PS5?
This is a matter of personal preference. 4K at 60 FPS offers a sharper and more detailed image, while 1080p at 120 FPS provides smoother and more responsive gameplay. Consider the type of games you play and your priorities when making this decision.
15. Where can I learn more about game performance and optimization?
You can learn more about game performance, optimization, and the intersection of learning and games by visiting the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.