The Short Answer: Yes, 120Hz Provides a Noticeable Improvement for PS5 Gaming
To directly answer the question – yes, playing PS5 games at 120Hz provides a tangible benefit over 60Hz displays for most gamers. The improved fluidity and responsiveness are clearly apparent, especially in fast-paced competitive multiplayer titles.
While 60Hz is adequate for many gamers, to unlock the full performance potential of the PS5‘s 120 fps support, a 120Hz display is recommended. The experience is simply better at 120Hz across game genres.
Now let‘s dive deeper into the specifics on why 120Hz delivers an advantage for PS5 gaming, and how you can access those fluid 120 fps frame rates.
Understanding Refresh Rates and Frame Rates
When choosing a display for your PlayStation 5, one of the key factors is the refresh rate – typically measured in Hz or cycles per second. This determines how many times per second the screen updates with a new image.
Some common refresh rates include:
- 60Hz – Refreshes 60 times per second
- 120Hz – Refreshes 120 times per second
- 144Hz – Refreshes 144 times per second
A higher refresh rate means the image updates more frequently, leading to smoother perceived motion and transitions between frames. It does not directly affect resolution or image quality.
Frame rate refers to how many frames per second (fps) a game renders. For example, a game running at 60 fps outputs 60 unique images each second.
Ideally you want your display‘s refresh rate to match the game‘s frame rate. If they are mismatched, you may see screen tearing or stuttering. A higher refresh rate display allows higher fps game content to run smoothly.
Do PS5 Games Actually Run at 60 fps or 120 fps?
The powerful AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 based GPU in the PS5 enable high frame rate gameplay. While many titles target 60 fps at 4K resolution, the PS5 also supports up to 120 fps gaming.
There are already several games optimized to run at 120 fps on PS5, including:
- Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War
- Destiny 2
- Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition
- Dirt 5
- Rainbow Six Siege
Other competitive multiplayer games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Warzone also provide 120 fps modes. So there is absolutely gaming content on PS5 that can take advantage of displays with higher refresh rates.
However, not all PS5 titles run at 120 fps. Cinematic single player games like Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart aim for 30 fps or 60 fps at 4K resolution with ray tracing effects enabled. The PS5 library offers a range of frame rates depending on the title and complexity of the visuals.
Is the Difference Between 60Hz and 120Hz Noticeable?
Comparing a 60Hz display side-by-side with one that refreshes at 120Hz, the boost in fluidity and responsiveness afforded by 120Hz is clearly evident to most people. Moving objects and camera pans appear visibly smoother.
The difference is less pronounced on a large TV from normal viewing distances compared to a desktop monitor seen up close. On a monitor, the jump from 60 fps to 120+ fps is very stark. On a TV several feet away, the relative change is less dramatic.
So the impact definitely depends on your visual acuity and the display size/viewing distance. While some gamers are perfectly happy with 60Hz, others clearly notice the benefits of 120Hz for fast motion clarity. This is especially true for competitive multiplayer gamers seeking quicker reactions.
Perceptual Studies on Frame Rate Differences
Scientific studies on visual perception have shown that humans can detect changes in frame rate and motion smoothness well above 60 fps:
- Researchers found sensitivity to changes in motion smoothness up to 150 Hz, with young adults discerning differences between 90 Hz and 120 Hz displays during motion tests.
- In another study, participants could reliably distinguish 120 fps video from 240 fps video during fast movement tracking tasks.
- Experts suggest the human visual system can process temporal changes up to around 100 Hz under optimal conditions.
So while the average person may not be consciously aware of 120 vs 60 Hz, quantifiable differences in motion clarity are perceptible to our vision above 60 fps.
Do Higher Frame Rates Matter More for Certain Game Genres?
Higher frame rates above 60 fps make the biggest positive impact on fast-paced, competitive gaming genres that require quick reactions and tracking of moving targets, including:
- First-person shooters
- Fighting games
- Real-time strategy
- Racing simulators
- Sports games
Slower paced, cinematic game genres are less likely to benefit. In fact, some gamers argue 60 fps or even 30 fps better fits the artistic intent and mood for more visually focused adventures and RPGs.
The value of higher refresh rates really depends on the game. Competitive gamers want the edge from 120Hz+ displays, while more laidback single player experiences still shine at 60Hz.
Average Frame Rates by Game Genre
Game Genre | Average Frame Rate |
First-person shooters | 90-144 fps |
MOBAs | 120-165 fps |
Fighting games | 120-144 fps |
Racing sims | 90-165 fps |
RPGs | 30-60 fps |
Adventure games | 30-60 fps |
As shown by typical frame rate targets above, fast-paced competitive genres tend to demand the highest frame rates, while more cinematic games are often capped at 30 or 60 fps on console.
Does a 120Hz Display Make a Difference for Competitive Gaming?
Without question, a 120Hz display provides a tangible competitive edge compared to 60Hz screens for multiplayer gaming.
The increased frame rate translates into lower input lag and less delay between your inputs and on-screen actions. At 120Hz, frames are rendered 8.3 ms faster than at 60Hz, giving you greater opportunity to react quickly in the heat of battle.
Achieving 120+ fps also enables smoother tracking of enemy player models and game objects. At higher frame rates, the positioning and motion of targets is more accurately represented, aiding your ability to track and eliminate threats.
Various studies have demonstrated measurable improvements in target tracking performance when moving from 60 fps to 240 fps. There are clear competitive aiming and reaction benefits from displays with refresh rates of 120Hz, 165Hz, or 240Hz.
Average Input Lag by Refresh Rate
Refresh Rate | Average Input Lag |
60Hz | 20-40 ms |
120Hz | 10-25 ms |
144Hz | 7-20 ms |
240Hz | 5-15 ms |
As shown above, increasing the refresh rate lowers input lag and response times significantly, giving competitive gamers an edge.
What Display Specs are Needed for 4K 120Hz on PS5?
To properly and reliably display 4K resolution at 120Hz from a PlayStation 5, a display requires:
- Native 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels)
- HDMI 2.1 ports
- 120Hz+ refresh rate
The 48Gbps bandwidth of HDMI 2.1 is currently the only interface spec that provides enough throughput for uncompromised 4K video at 120 fps.
For 4K 60Hz, the 18Gbps bandwidth of HDMI 2.0b is sufficient. But it lacks the data pipeline necessary for 4K 120Hz signals.
Some displays advertise 4K 120Hz over HDMI 2.0b using compression, but may encounter issues like chroma subsampling artifacts. For guaranteed performance, HDMI 2.1 is strongly advised.
Is HDMI 2.1 Absolutely Necessary for 4K 120Hz on PS5?
The latest HDMI 2.1 specification delivers the features needed for 4K 120Hz and variable refresh rate (VRR) support. But some displays try to achieve 4K 120Hz over older HDMI 2.0b using Display Stream Compression (DSC).
DSC works by compressing high bandwidth signals like 4K 120Hz to fit within HDMI 2.0b‘s 18Gbps throughput. When implemented properly, this can work successfully, like on certain Samsung QLED TVs.
However, using HDMI 2.0b in this way has some potential limitations:
- Increased likelihood of compatibility issues or intermittent black screens
- Often limits chroma subsampling to 4:2:0 or 4:2:2, negatively impacting text clarity
- Lacks support for other HDMI 2.1 gaming features like VRR and ALLM
While possible via HDMI 2.0b using compression, HDMI 2.1 delivers a seamless 4K 120Hz experience and enables cutting-edge gaming features. It‘s absolutely the best option for avoiding frustrations and accessing the PS5‘s full capabilities.
4K 60Hz vs 1440p 120Hz – Which is Best for PS5 Gaming?
Since many PS5 titles max out at 60 fps, is 4K resolution at 60Hz ultimately better than 1440p at 120Hz? Or does the high refresh rate take priority?
There‘s an inherent tradeoff between maximum visual fidelity (4K 60Hz) and the smoothest possible motion (1440p 120Hz). Gamers need to decide which aspect they value more.
Those who prioritize pristine image quality will prefer 4K 60Hz to admire subtle graphical details and textures. But gamers focused on fluidity and response times will get more enjoyment from the lower latency and fluidity of 120Hz+, even at 1440p.
For slower paced single player adventures, 4K 60Hz often provides the best overall presentation. But the enhanced immediacy and reaction times from 120Hz are a huge plus for competitive multiplayer titles. So weighing your priorities is key.
4K 60Hz | 1440p 120Hz |
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Impressions From PS5 Gamers Using 60Hz and 120Hz
It‘s insightful to examine first-hand impressions from PlayStation 5 gamers who have used both 60Hz and 120Hz displays:
On Noticeability of 120Hz
Many gamers report immediately noticing the enhanced smoothness and "connectedness" to gameplay that 120Hz provides. Fast motion is clearer and more distinct.
However, some don‘t perceive a huge difference in slower paced, cinematic games. Good 4K visuals at 60 fps still impress them.
On Competitive Gaming
Gamers switching from 60Hz to 120Hz say they could "never go back" for competitive multiplayer titles after experiencing 120Hz. Tracking, reaction time, and immersion are markedly improved.
The lower latency and lag-free feel of 120Hz gives them a tangible edge against opponents still playing at 60Hz. This advantage manifests across various genres from shooters to fighting games.
On Slower Paced Games
While competitive players insist on 120Hz displays, more casual gamers are satisfied with 60Hz for single player adventures and RPGs. They care more about 4K visuals than frame rates above 60 fps.
However, many still appreciate the added smoothness during camera pans and movement at 120Hz. While not essential, it enhances enjoyment even in slower paced games.
Recommended 4K 120Hz TVs for PS5 Gaming
Here are some top-rated 4K TVs with HDMI 2.1 to maximize your PS5‘s performance:
Budget Models Under $1000
- Hisense U8H (55 to 65 inches) – Excellent picture, 4K 120Hz gaming, and Dolby Vision under $1000.
- TCL R646 (55 to 75 inches) – Mini-LED TV with impressive contrast, gaming features, and affordable pricing.
High-End Models $2000+
- LG G2 OLED Evo (55 to 83 inches) – Next-generation OLED panel with insane image quality and flawless 4K 120Hz gaming. The best overall PS5 TV.
- Samsung S95B QD-OLED (55 to 65 inches) – Revolutionary QD-OLED technology with unmatched contrast and colors. Made for fast-paced gaming.
- Sony A95K QD-OLED (55 and 65 inches) – Flagship Sony 4K 120Hz TV with their new cognitive processor optimized specifically for gaming and cutting-edge visuals.
Recommended Gaming Monitors for PS5
For players who prefer desktop monitors, here are some great options with 120Hz+ refresh rates:
Affordable Under $400
- ASUS TUF Gaming VG249Q (24 inches) – 1080p display with ultra-fast IPS panel and 165Hz refresh rate.
- AOC 24G2 (24 inches) – Budget 144Hz gaming monitor with quick response time and FreeSync support.
High-Performance $700+
- Alienware AW3423DW (34 inches) – The first QD-OLED monitor ever with sensational image quality and 175Hz refresh rate. The ultimate immersive gaming experience.
- ASUS ROG Swift PG32UQX (32 inches) – 4K 144Hz monitor with Mini-LED backlight producing phenomenal contrast and searing peak brightness. Made for next-gen gaming.
- LG UltraGear 27GP950 (27 inches) – Cutting-edge 4K 160Hz monitor with HDMI 2.1 and bleeding-edge gaming features tailor-made for PS5.
Is 60Hz Good Enough for Most PS5 Gamers?
For many casual to moderate PS5 players, a high quality 4K 60Hz television provides an excellent gaming experience. Stunning visuals at buttery smooth 60 fps will satisfy the majority of gamers.
Hardcore competitive players though will want every possible advantage afforded by 120Hz+ displays. The dramatically increased fluidity, lower latency, and lightning quick reactions are too good to pass up.
While not mandatory, upgrading to 120Hz unlocks the PS5‘s full performance potential. Casual players will still appreciate the benefits, but competitive gamers will find it utterly game-changing.
The Verdict – Is the Upgrade to 120Hz Worth It for PS5?
While a quality 60Hz screen is certainly sufficient for enjoyable PS5 gaming, choosing a 120Hz display is highly recommended to fully experience everything the console can deliver.
The sizable improvements in motion clarity, immediacy of control, and plain fun factor afforded by 120Hz are clear differentiators over 60Hz displays.
For slower paced, cinematic single player games, 60Hz provides incredible 4K visuals. But fast-paced competitive multiplayer is taken to the next level by 120Hz+, cementing its advantage for online gaming.
Overall, upgrading to a 120Hz TV or monitor represents a worthwhile investment to unlock silky smooth framerates and ultra-responsive gameplay perfectly suited to the PS5‘s capabilities. The choice is clear for discerning gamers – go with 120Hz.
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