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No. You can use a PS5 with a supported 1080p or other lower-resolution display; 4K is optional. The console detects the connected screen and selects the highest resolution it supports. You need a compatible 4K display only if you want 4K output.
What resolutions does PS5 support?
Sony lists 720p, 1080i, 1080p and 2160p (4K UHD) as supported PS5 output resolutions. That means a 4K TV is not a prerequisite: a compatible 1080p TV or monitor can display gameplay at its supported resolution. The screen determines which output options are available. Sony’s PS5 FAQ states directly that the console does not require a 4K TV.
How to check or change PS5 resolution
Use the console’s video output settings to see what the connected screen supports and choose a resolution.
- Open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
- Check Current Video Output Signal and the HDMI-device information to review the active signal and detected display capabilities.
- For automatic selection, set Resolution to Automatic. Sony says the PS5 detects the TV’s capabilities and selects the highest available resolution.
- To request a specific supported mode, set Resolution to 1080p, 1440p or 2160p, as appropriate for your display.
These options and the 720p, 1080i, 1080p and 2160p output list are described in PlayStation Support’s resolution guide.
#1 Best Overall
- 4K UltraHD Resolution: Experience incredible detail with 4X the resolution of 1080p Full HDTVs
- QLED (Quantum Dot Technology): Rich, vibrant colors covering nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space to bring images to lifeQLED – Quantum Dot Technology: Rich, vibrant colors covering nearly the entire DCI-P3 color space to bring images to life
- 120Hz Panel Refresh Rate: Watch action-packed movies, fast-paced video games, and live sports with an ultra-smooth viewing experience, free of motion blur
- TCL AIPQ Pro Processor: Powerful, advanced processor that intelligently optimizes the color, contrast, and clarity for an unrivaled 4K HDR experience
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Advanced spatial audio processing can be found in movies, TV shows, and video games
Can you use a 1440p monitor with PS5?
Yes, provided the TV or monitor is compatible. In Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output, select Test 1440p Output if it appears. The test checks supported output modes, including SDR or HDR at 60 Hz or 120 Hz and VRR. If the screen supports the mode you want, choose 1440p under Resolution.
Is 4K the same as 120 Hz?
No. Resolution describes the image detail; refresh rate describes how many times per second the display refreshes. PS5 supports 4K at 120 Hz, but getting that combination requires a compatible screen, the right HDMI port and connection, suitable settings, and a game that supports the desired mode. A 4K label by itself does not mean a display supports 120 Hz, VRR or ALLM.
Rank #2
- HI-QLED MINILED: Mini-LED backlighting uses thousands of precise light zones to enhance contrast across the screen, revealing deeper shadows, brighter highlights, and more visible detail. Whether watching movies at night or sports during the day, the picture stays clear and impactful
- NATIVE 144HZ GAME MODE: High refresh performance keeps fast movement fluid and sharp, reducing blur during gameplay and live sports. The quick response helps you stay in control during competitive gaming while making rapid camera shots in shows and movies easier to follow
- DOLBY VISION & DOLBY ATMOS: Experience cinematic HDR with vivid brightness and deeper contrast through Dolby Vision, paired with immersive, room-filling sound from Dolby Atmos—so every scene feels bigger, clearer, and more lifelike from your couch
- AI PICTURE: Advanced AI processing analyzes content scene by scene and automatically optimizes brightness, contrast, and color for a clearer, more natural image. Whether you’re streaming shows, watching sports, or gaming, the picture adjusts in real time to look its best without manual settings
- AI SMOOTH MOTION WITH MEMC: Motion enhancement technology reduces blur and sharpens fast-moving scenes, keeping action crisp and easy to follow. From live sports to action movies and gaming, fast transitions stay smooth and comfortable to watch
Sony notes that VRR, HDR and ALLM support and results vary by connected display. These features can inform a display choice, but they are not needed for ordinary PS5 use. See Sony’s PS5 resolution and video-output guidance for capability details.
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Do you need HDMI 2.1 or a new cable?
Do not replace a cable just because you own a PS5. Sony recommends using the HDMI cable included with the console and notes that older HDMI cables can also be used. For 4K at 120 Hz, the cable and the display’s HDMI port must support the mode; Sony recommends the included cable or an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 4K 120 Hz.
Rank #3
- POWERFUL TV PROCESSING: The 4K Processor X1 delivers a lifelike picture that is full of rich colors and sharp details.
- ENHANCED COLOR AND FINE DETAILS: See natural and precise picture quality with a wide array of colors and dynamic contrast.
- EVERYTHING YOU STREAM. ALL IN ONE SCREEN: Get access to all your favorite streaming apps in one place with Google TV. Easily stream to your TV with support for Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Cast.
- MOVIES INCLUDED: Get movies included with the SONY PICTURES CORE app.
- INTELLIGENT MOTION HANDLING: See blur-free picture quality in fast-moving sports and action-packed movies powered by Motionflow XR.
If a 4K 120 Hz signal is not working, Sony advises checking the display’s supported modes, updating its firmware, using the correct HDMI port, connecting the PS5 directly or through compatible equipment, and confirming the console’s resolution settings. Its picture and sound troubleshooting guide covers these checks.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should you look for in a PS5 display?
Choose based on the experience you want, not the 4K label alone. Compare these capabilities in the display specifications and confirm the HDMI port you plan to use supports them:
Rank #4
- MOVIES INCLUDED WITH THE BRAVIA TV: Access SONY PICTURES CORE with Pure Stream and the largest IMAX Enhanced collection included with BRAVIA. 5 credits to redeem on latest release movies and 12 months subscription on hundreds of classics.
- CINEMATIC PICTURE AND SOUND AT HOME: Support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos delivers an immersive viewing experience. DTS:X creates cinema-like audio that surrounds you.
- SMARTER PICTURE IN REAL TIME: The XR Processor uses AI scene recognition to optimize color, contrast, and clarity in every frame. XR Clear Image uses AI to restore lost detail and reduce noise in your content.
- SMOOTH, BLUR-FREE MOTION IN SPORTS AND ACTION: Enhanced 120Hz clearness and smoothness when watching fast-moving action. Motionflow XR keeps fast scenes clear and easy to follow.
- PERFECT FOR PLAYSTATION 5: Take your PS5 gaming to the next level with exclusive features – Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode – that optimizes picture quality for gaming and streaming. Game Menu puts all your gaming picture settings and exclusive assist features in one place. HDMI 2.1 features 4K/120, VRR, and ALLM deliver smooth, responsive gameplay.
- Resolution: 1080p, 1440p or 4K (2160p).
- Refresh rate: 60 Hz or 120 Hz, depending on your priorities and the games you play.
- HDMI ports: Check the capabilities of the specific port, not just the TV’s general feature list.
- HDR, VRR and ALLM: Treat these as optional features and verify compatibility with the display and games you use.
A compatible 1080p screen is enough to play; a compatible 1440p or 4K display offers those respective output options. Higher refresh rates and other features require their own support across the screen, connection and game.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- [Silky 144Hz MiniLED picture with VRR up to 288Hz — fast action, zero blurEquipped]Native 144Hz panel with Variable Refresh Rate (4K@48–144Hz, up to 240Hz) .Featuring the highest-tier FreeSync Premium Pro technology that significantly reduces screen tearing and lowers input lag during intense gameplay, and keeps sports motion crisp. With up to 1000 nits of bright HDR luminance, local dimming and a 6,000:1 contrast ratio, this gaming TV vividly brings the vibrant neon world of Cyberpunk to life.
- [Every major HDR format — Dolby Vision IQ, Dolby Vision Gaming, HDR10+, IMAX Enhanced]Dolby Vision IQ reads your room's light and adjusts the picture automatically. Switch to Dolby Vision Gaming for your console with zero setup. IMAX Enhanced certification delivers director-approved visuals and sound from compatible streaming titles on a 55" canvas.
- [4 × HDMI 2.1 — connect PS5, Xbox, PC, and soundbar all at once]Two ports run 4K@144Hz for next-gen consoles and gaming PCs; two more handle 4K@60Hz for streaming boxes or Blu-ray players. Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) switches the TV into game mode instantly — no menu diving required.
- [Your built-in home theater — 50W audio with Dolby Atmos & DTS Virtual:X] A 2.1-channel system (2×15W tweeters + 20W woofer) with Dolby Atmos passthrough and DTS Virtual:X. Transform your bedroom into an immersive gaming battlefield, your small office into a crystal-clear conference space, and your living room into a cinematic wonderland. . eARC on HDMI 4 also supports lossless audio to an external soundbar when you want to upgrade.
- [Built-in hotel mode & IP/IR control — ready for hospitality and commercial installs]Google TV hotel mode, IR blaster, and IP control come standard — features consumer TVs at this price rarely include. Ideal for Airbnb properties, hotel rooms, fitness centers, and waiting areas. Lock menus, set default inputs, and manage displays remotely.
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