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For PS5 4K/120Hz gaming, choose a TV whose exact model accepts a 4K, 120Hz signal on the HDMI port you plan to use. Then verify VRR and ALLM separately: neither is guaranteed just because a TV is labelled HDMI 2.1. Sony recommends using the HDMI cable included with the console and checking the connected signal in the PS5’s Video Output settings.

Which TV features matter for PS5 gaming?

The PS5 supports 4K/120Hz video output, but that describes the console’s capability—not a guarantee that every game renders at 4K and 120 frames per second. Sony says 120Hz output applies when both the TV and game support 120Hz frame rates. Check the specifications for your exact TV model and regional version, and confirm which HDMI input accepts the required signal. Sony recommends consulting the TV manual and notes that some sets need their settings changed. See Sony’s PS5 resolution and output guide.

Feature What to verify What it means
4K resolution and 120Hz input That the exact model accepts 4K at 120Hz, and which HDMI port supports it Allows the console to send a sharp 4K signal at up to 120Hz when supported by the game and display.
VRR Whether the model supports VRR and any stated compatibility limits Variable Refresh Rate synchronizes the display’s refresh rate with game output on a compatible TV. It can reduce tearing and frame-pacing issues, but results depend on the TV, game, and selected mode. See Sony’s VRR guidance and its VRR feature explanation.
ALLM Whether the exact model supports Auto Low Latency Mode ALLM can switch a compatible TV to a low-latency mode for gameplay. Sony says not all HDMI 2.1 TVs include ALLM, so verify it in the TV manual.
Picture and room fit Screen size, viewing distance, room brightness, and price These affect whether a TV suits your room and budget; the cited Sony sources do not rank models or provide comparative picture measurements.

“HDMI 2.1” alone is not a complete feature checklist. Check each desired capability against the manufacturer’s exact-model specifications and manual rather than assuming every port or every HDMI 2.1-labelled set offers the same features.

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How to check a TV before buying

  1. Find the full model number, including its regional variant, and open the manufacturer’s specifications and manual.
  2. Confirm 4K resolution and 120Hz input support, then identify the specific HDMI port that accepts that signal.
  3. Look for VRR support and its stated limits. Check ALLM separately; its presence cannot be inferred from HDMI 2.1 branding.
  4. Compare size, viewing distance, room brightness, and price against your own needs. The specifications above establish compatibility features, not which TV has the best picture or value.

Does PS5 need a new HDMI cable for 4K/120Hz or ALLM?

Not automatically. Sony recommends starting with the HDMI cable included with the PS5. If you need a replacement or are troubleshooting, use an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 4K/120Hz. Sony’s PS5 FAQ gives that general cable guidance; its current setup instructions are in the support guide. The cable does not add features the TV’s input lacks.

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How to set up and confirm the signal

  1. Update the TV’s firmware, then connect the PS5 directly to the TV’s HDMI input that supports 4K/120Hz. Avoid adding another device in the signal path while checking compatibility.
  2. If the TV has a setting for its high-bandwidth HDMI input, enable it as directed by the TV manual. Use the PS5 cable first.
  3. On PS5, open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Sony says the console detects TV capabilities and selects the best available resolution automatically; resolution can also be set manually.
  4. Review the connected HDMI device’s reported resolution, VRR, and HDR capabilities on that screen. A feature appearing in the TV’s marketing does not by itself confirm the current connection is using it.

What to do if 4K/120Hz is missing or the screen goes blank

If 4K/120Hz produces a blank picture or the output falls back to 1080p/120Hz, Sony recommends checking the full connection and settings chain:

  • Confirm the TV model supports 4K/120Hz and that the PS5 is connected to the correct HDMI input.
  • Update the TV firmware and enable any required high-bandwidth input setting.
  • Use a cable rated for 4K/120Hz; the included PS5 cable is Sony’s recommended starting point.
  • Connect the console directly to the TV while troubleshooting.
  • On PS5, set Resolution to Auto or 2160p and Video Transfer Rate to Auto.

Sony notes that lowering Video Transfer Rate can limit 4K/120Hz output. Treat reducing it as a troubleshooting trade-off, not the preferred setting when 120Hz is the goal. The current checks and options are detailed in Sony’s support guide.

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