HDMI 1.4 can technically output 120Hz, but only at 1080p resolution, not at 4K. If you want 4K at 120Hz on your PS5, you need HDMI 2.1. This guide covers everything about HDMI 1.4, refresh rates, and how to get the best performance from your PlayStation 5 setup.

This is a comprehensive guide about Can Hdmi 1 4 Do 120hz On Ps5.

Key Takeaways

• HDMI 1.4 supports 120Hz, but only at 1080p: You cannot get 4K at 120Hz with HDMI 1.4 due to bandwidth limits.
• HDMI 2.1 is required for 4K 120Hz: The PS5 is designed to take full advantage of HDMI 2.1 for ultra-high frame rates.
• Check your cable and TV: Many older cables and displays do not support the higher bandwidth needed for 120Hz at 4K.
• PS5 settings matter: You need to enable the right output settings on your console to unlock 120Hz.
• Upgrading is simple: Switching to an HDMI 2.1 cable or TV is affordable and makes a huge difference.

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Can HDMI 1.4 Do 120Hz on PS5? Everything You Need to Know

So you just got a PS5 and you want the smoothest gaming experience possible. You have heard about 120Hz and want to know if your current HDMI 1.4 setup can handle it. The short answer is yes and no. HDMI 1.4 can support 120Hz, but only at 1080p resolution. If you want 4K at 120Hz, you will need HDMI 2.1. This is one of the most common questions PS5 owners ask, and it really matters for your gaming experience.

In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know. We will cover bandwidth limits, what HDMI versions mean, and how to get the best performance from your PS5. By the end, you will know exactly what your setup can do and what you might need to upgrade. Let us get into it.

What Is HDMI 1.4 and Why Does It Matter for PS5?

HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface. It is the cable and port standard that carries audio and video from your console to your TV or monitor. HDMI 1.4 was released back in 2009, and it was a big step forward at the time. It brought support for 4K resolution at 30Hz and introduced features like HDMI ARC, which lets audio travel back to your sound system.

But technology moves fast. When the PS5 launched, it was built with HDMI 2.1 in mind. HDMI 2.1 offers much higher bandwidth, which means it can push more data at once. This is why HDMI 2.1 supports 4K at 120Hz and even 8K at 60Hz. HDMI 1.4 simply was not designed for that kind of data load.

Think of it like a highway. HDMI 1.4 is a two-lane road. HDMI 2.1 is a multi-lane expressway. Both can carry cars, but the expressway handles much more traffic at higher speeds. The same idea applies to video data. The more bandwidth you have, the higher your resolution and refresh rate can go.

Now, here is something interesting. The PS5 can work with older HDMI versions, including HDMI 1.4. But it will not unlock its full potential unless you have the right connection. This is why understanding your HDMI version is so important. It is also worth noting that the four main parts of a computer system include the input/output connections, and HDMI is one of the most critical ones for gaming setups. You can learn more about those core system parts here to understand how connections fit into the bigger picture.

Understanding HDMI Bandwidth

Bandwidth is the amount of data that can travel through an HDMI cable per second. HDMI 1.4 has a maximum bandwidth of 10.2 Gbps. That sounds like a lot, but 4K at 120Hz needs about 18 Gbps. So there is simply not enough room in HDMI 1.4 to push 4K at 120Hz.

At 1080p, the data requirements are much lower. HDMI 1.4 can comfortably handle 1080p at 120Hz or even 144Hz. This is great for competitive gamers who prioritize smooth gameplay over ultra-high resolution. If you have a 1080p monitor or TV, you can still enjoy a great PS5 experience with HDMI 1.4.

Can HDMI 1.4 Support 120Hz on PS5?

Yes, but with limits. HDMI 1.4 can do 120Hz on PS5 at 1080p resolution. This means you get smooth, responsive gameplay with reduced motion blur. For many fast-paced games like shooters and racing titles, 120fps at 1080p feels incredibly smooth and responsive.

However, if you try to push 4K at 120Hz through HDMI 1.4, it will not work. Your TV or monitor will either drop to a lower refresh rate or refuse the signal altogether. You might see your PS5 default to 4K at 60Hz or 1080p at 120Hz depending on your settings.

Here is a quick comparison to make this clearer:

• HDMI 1.4 at 1080p: Supports up to 120Hz or even 144Hz. Great for competitive gaming.
• HDMI 1.4 at 4K: Limited to 30Hz or 60Hz. Not ideal for high-frame-rate gaming.
• HDMI 2.1 at 1080p: Supports up to 240Hz. Overkill for most gamers but future-proof.
• HDMI 2.1 at 4K: Supports up to 120Hz. This is the sweet spot for PS5 gaming.

The takeaway is clear. If you want 120Hz on PS5, HDMI 1.4 can deliver it, but only at 1080p. For 4K 120Hz, you need HDMI 2.1. This is the most important thing to understand before you start tweaking your settings.

What Does 120Hz Mean for Gaming?

A 120Hz display refreshes the image 120 times per second. This means the picture on your screen updates twice as fast as a 60Hz display. The result is smoother motion, less blur, and a more responsive feel when you are playing fast-paced games.

For PS5 owners, this is a big deal. The console is capable of outputting games at 120fps in supported titles. Games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, and Rocket League take full advantage of high frame rates. When paired with a 120Hz display, the difference is night and day compared to 60fps.

But here is the catch. You need the right HDMI version, the right cable, and a display that supports 120Hz. If any one of these is missing, you will not get the full experience. This is why many gamers run into frustration when they expect 120Hz but only see 60Hz on their screen.

HDMI 1.4 vs HDMI 2.1 for PS5 Gaming

This is the comparison that matters most. Let us look at how HDMI 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 stack up against each other for PS5 gaming.

Feature	HDMI 1.4	HDMI 2.1
Max Bandwidth	10.2 Gbps	48 Gbps
4K at 120Hz	No	Yes
1080p at 120Hz	Yes	Yes
Max Resolution	4K at 30Hz	8K at 60Hz
VRR Support	No	Yes
Auto Low Latency Mode	No	Yes
eARC Support	Yes	Yes

The differences are significant. HDMI 2.1 is the future-proof choice for PS5 owners. It supports features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which reduce screen tearing and input lag. These features make a huge difference in competitive gaming.

That said, HDMI 1.4 is not useless. If you have a 1080p monitor or a 4K TV that only supports 60Hz, HDMI 1.4 will work just fine. You will get a great experience at 1080p 120Hz or 4K 60Hz. It all depends on what your display can handle and what you prioritize in your gaming setup.

Now, you might be wondering about other device connections. For example, if you also use your phone for gaming or streaming, you might have noticed that different devices handle connectivity differently. For instance, iPhone users often deal with number formatting and prefix settings for international calls. If you have ever struggled with that, check out this guide on adding prefixes to numbers on iPhone to make your life easier.

How to Check Your HDMI Version and PS5 Settings

Before you start changing settings, you need to know what you are working with. Here is how to check your HDMI version and configure your PS5 for the best experience.

Step 1: Check Your HDMI Cable

Look at your HDMI cable. Most cables have markings on the connector or the cable itself. If it says “Ultra High Speed HDMI,” that is HDMI 2.1. If it says “High Speed HDMI,” that is likely HDMI 1.4. If there are no markings, it is probably an older cable.

You can also check the packaging or the product listing if you still have it. When in doubt, buy a new Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. They are inexpensive and will support everything the PS5 can throw at them.

Step 2: Check Your TV or Monitor

Look up your TV or monitor model online. Check the specifications for HDMI port versions. Most modern TVs from 2020 or newer have at least one HDMI 2.1 port. Older TVs or budget monitors might only have HDMI 1.4 ports.

Keep in mind that a TV can have multiple HDMI ports with different versions. For example, your TV might have three HDMI 2.1 ports and one HDMI 1.4 port. Always plug your PS5 into an HDMI 2.1 port if you want the best performance.

Step 3: Adjust PS5 Display Settings

Once you know what your setup supports, go into your PS5 settings. Navigate to Settings, then Screen and Video, and then Video Output. Here you can adjust the resolution, frame rate, and HDR settings.

To enable 120Hz, make sure your resolution is set to 1080p or 4K and that your TV supports the refresh rate. If you are using HDMI 1.4, set your resolution to 1080p and enable 120Hz output. If you are using HDMI 2.1, you can set it to 4K and enable 120Hz.

Also, make sure to turn on VRR if your TV supports it. This will help reduce screen tearing and make your games feel even smoother. You can also enable ALLM for the lowest possible input lag.

One more thing worth mentioning is that device settings can sometimes get confusing across platforms. For example, iPhone users dealing with number formatting might find it frustrating when settings don’t work as expected. If you have ever needed to add country codes or prefixes to phone numbers on your iPhone, there are guides that walk you through it step by step, similar to how we walk through PS5 settings here.

Common Problems When Using HDMI 1.4 with PS5

Even when you know the basics, things can go wrong. Here are the most common issues and how to fix them.

Refresh Rate Drops Unexpectedly

If your PS5 drops from 120Hz to 60Hz mid-game, your HDMI cable or TV might be the problem. HDMI 1.4 cables that are damaged or low quality may not sustain the bandwidth needed for 120Hz. Try a different cable first, then check your TV settings.

Also, some games have frame rate caps built in. Check the game settings to make sure it is not limiting you to 60fps. Some titles prioritize visual quality over frame rate, so they cap at 60fps even on capable hardware.

4K Resolution Not Available

If you are using HDMI 1.4 and trying to get 4K, you will be limited to 30Hz or 60Hz depending on the color format and chroma subsampling. This is a hard limitation of the HDMI 1.4 specification. There is no workaround except upgrading to HDMI 2.1.

If 4K at 60Hz is acceptable to you, HDMI 1.4 will work fine. Many gamers are perfectly happy with 4K 60fps. But if you want that extra smoothness at 120Hz, you need to upgrade your cable and display.

No Signal or Black Screen

Sometimes plugging in HDMI 1.4 to a PS5 can cause a no-signal issue. This usually happens when the TV and console cannot agree on a resolution or refresh rate. Try booting your PS5 in Safe Mode and changing the video output settings to a lower resolution. Then work your way back up.

Upgrading Your Setup for the Best PS5 Experience

If you have decided that HDMI 1.4 is limiting your PS5 experience, upgrading is easier than you think. Here is what you need to consider.

Best HDMI Cables for 120Hz

You do not need an expensive cable. Any Ultra High Speed HDMI cable that is certified for HDMI 2.1 will handle 4K at 120Hz with ease. Look for the official HDMI Ultra High Speed logo on the packaging. These cables cost between $10 and $25 for most lengths.

Avoid cheap unbranded cables. They might not support the full bandwidth of HDMI 2.1, and you could run into the same issues you had with HDMI 1.4. Stick with reputable brands like Belkin, Cable Matters, or AmazonBasics.

When to Upgrade Your TV or Monitor

If your current TV only has HDMI 1.4 ports and does not support 120Hz at 4K, it might be time for an upgrade. Look for a TV with at least one HDMI 2.1 port that supports 4K at 120Hz. You do not need four HDMI 2.1 ports. One is enough for your PS5.

Budget 120Hz TVs are widely available now. Brands like TCL, Hisense, and Samsung offer excellent options at reasonable prices. A 120Hz TV is one of the best upgrades you can make for PS5 gaming.

When you are setting up your gaming space, you might also want to explore other tech accessories and tools that make life easier. For instance, if you use your phone alongside your console for apps, music, or smart home control, you might appreciate exploring different tools and services. Just as there are apps that work like Uber for finding dog walkers, there are tons of apps designed to simplify different parts of your digital life.

Final Thoughts on HDMI 1.4 and PS5 120Hz

So, can HDMI 1.4 do 120Hz on PS5? The answer is yes, at 1080p. But if you want 4K at 120Hz, you need HDMI 2.1. This is the reality of the situation, and it is not likely to change. HDMI 1.4 was not built for the kind of data rates that 4K 120Hz requires.

The good news is that upgrading is simple and affordable. A new HDMI 2.1 cable costs very little, and many modern TVs already have HDMI 2.1 ports. If you want to unlock the full potential of your PS5, this is one of the easiest upgrades you can make.

Take some time to check your current setup. Look at your cables, your TV specs, and your PS5 settings. You might be surprised at how much better your games can look and feel with the right connection. Once you make the switch, you will wonder how you ever played without it.

HDMI 1.4 can do 120Hz on PS5, but only at 1080p. For the full 4K 120Hz experience, HDMI 2.1 is the way to go. Make the right choice for your setup, and your PS5 gaming will never feel the same again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get 120Hz at 4K with HDMI 1.4?

No, HDMI 1.4 does not have enough bandwidth to support 4K at 120Hz. The maximum it can handle at 4K is 30Hz or 60Hz depending on your settings. You need HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz.

Do I need a special HDMI cable for 120Hz on PS5?

Yes, if you want 120Hz at 4K, you need an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable certified for HDMI 2.1. For 1080p at 120Hz, a standard High Speed HDMI cable should work fine.

Will my PS5 work with an HDMI 1.4 cable?

Yes, the PS5 is backward compatible with HDMI 1.4. You can use it without any issues, but you will be limited to 1080p at 120Hz or 4K at 60Hz. You will not get the full 4K 120Hz experience.

How can I tell if my TV supports 120Hz?

Check your TV’s specifications online or in the user manual. Look for the refresh rate listed in the display specs. If it says 120Hz, your TV supports it. Also, make sure the HDMI port you are using is HDMI 2.1 for the best results.

Is 120Hz worth it for PS5 gaming?

Absolutely. 120Hz makes games feel much smoother and more responsive. Fast-paced games like shooters and racing titles benefit the most. Even slower games feel more polished with higher frame rates.

Can I use HDMI 2.0 for 120Hz on PS5?

HDMI 2.0 can support 1080p at 120Hz and 4K at 60Hz. It is a step up from HDMI 1.4 but not as capable as HDMI 2.1. For the best PS5 experience, HDMI 2.1 is still the recommended choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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