Set up a PS5 or Xbox Series X for the best picture
Checked 19 October 2026
Use an HDMI 2.1 port, turn on Game Mode, 120 Hz and VRR, calibrate HDR and switch off extra processing.
The five settings
Do them in this order.
| Setting | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Port and cable | Plug into an HDMI 2.1 port on your TV (often labelled 4K 120 Hz) with the cable that came with the console |
| 2. Game Mode | Turn it on to cut input lag; many TVs switch automatically when they detect a console (ALLM) |
| 3. 120 Hz and VRR | On PS5, look under Screen and Video; on Xbox, under TV and display options; VRR smooths out frame-rate dips |
| 4. HDR | Run the console’s HDR adjustment on PS5, or the HDR Game Calibration app on Xbox; if your TV offers HGIG tone mapping, turn it on so the console’s calibration is respected |
| 5. Extra processing | Switch off motion smoothing and noise reduction: they add lag and blur in games |
Exact menu names vary by TV brand and model, so check your TV’s manual for each setting.