If PS5 Pro graphics look blurry, flicker, shimmer, or show artifacts after you enable upscaling, compare the same scene with Enhance PSSR Image Quality turned off first. If the problem is flickering rather than softness, test the PS5’s Video Transfer Rate at -1 and then -2. Change one setting at a time: game reconstruction can cause softness, while flicker may also come from the HDMI signal path or display compatibility.
Start by testing the PSSR setting that changed
On PS5 Pro, open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > Enhance PSSR Image Quality. Sony says this option is enabled by default for supported PSSR games and recommends turning it off if gameplay behaves unexpectedly. Compare the same scene with the option on and off, keeping the display picture mode and other console settings unchanged. Sony’s PS5 resolution guide documents the control.
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If the image becomes clearer with the option off, leave it off for that game or session. This setting applies only to compatible games, and the comparison does not establish that every blur or artifact comes from PSSR.
For flickering, limit the video transfer rate
Sony’s flicker-specific troubleshooting step is to reduce the console’s output transfer rate. Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > Video Transfer Rate, test -1, then try -2 if needed. Sony says limiting the 4K transfer rate may improve picture quality when flickering occurs. See Sony’s resolution and video-output guidance.
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These settings restrict some output combinations, including 4K at 120 Hz and certain 4K color formats; -2 imposes further limits. If the image does not improve or you need the restricted mode, return the setting to Auto.
Check the active resolution and signal
Open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output and inspect the connected HDMI device information and current signal. The console selects a supported resolution automatically, though you can also choose one manually. The resolution available depends on the display and the rest of the connection setup. Sony explains how to check and change PS5 resolution.
For a useful comparison, note the current resolution and refresh rate before changing anything. If you change resolution, compare the same game scene and avoid changing PSSR, HDR, or VRR at the same time.
Isolate VRR and 120 Hz
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 120 Hz output require compatible displays, and game support also matters. If the problem appears only with one of these modes active, test with that feature disabled. Sony specifically advises turning off 120 Hz output if video-output problems occur on a monitor or display; VRR can also be tested off when symptoms coincide with VRR output. Check Sony’s output guidance for supported modes and settings.
Rule out the HDMI signal path
A cable or device between the console and screen can cause signal problems, but replacing a cable will not correct softness created by a game’s rendering or reconstruction. To isolate the connection, simplify it temporarily:
- Connect the PS5 directly to the display, bypassing a receiver, soundbar, capture device, or other intermediary.
- Confirm the display is on the HDMI input connected to the console.
- Try another HDMI port and a known-good cable. A certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is a reasonable test if the existing cable is suspect; Sony recommends the supplied HDMI 2.1 cable for high-performance features.
- Check whether the display has a firmware update and install it if appropriate.
Sony’s PS5 troubleshooting page and picture and sound troubleshooting guide cover these signal-chain checks. If a direct connection and alternate cable remove flicker, reconnect devices one at a time to identify the affected link.
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- Ray Tracing - Immerse yourself in worlds with a new level of realism as rays of light are individually simulated, creating true-to-life shadows and reflections in supported PS5 games.
- Faster Loading - Fast-travel across the map and get back into the game almost instantly with the PlayStation 5 console’s ultra-high-speed SSD and fast load times.
- Stunning Visuals - Experience the vast world in stunning 4K and HDR at 120 FPS (with a 4K and HDR compatible TV or display)
- Breathtaking Immersion - Discover a deeper gaming experience with support for haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and 3D Audio technology.
- Backwards Compatibility - Play over 4,000 PS4 games on PS5. Enjoy faster and smoother frame rates in some of the PS4 console's greatest games.
Keep HDR consistent while comparing
HDR is separate from upscaling. Under Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > HDR, On When Supported leaves unsupported games and apps in SDR, while Always On converts non-HDR content to HDR output as well. Keep the HDR mode unchanged during image comparisons, and use Adjust HDR if you need to calibrate it. Sony’s HDR guide describes the options.
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Use a one-variable comparison
To keep the symptom’s trigger identifiable, compare the same scene and display picture mode while changing only one item per test:
- Enhance PSSR Image Quality: on versus off.
- Video Transfer Rate: Auto, -1, or -2.
- Resolution and refresh rate.
- VRR: on versus off.
- Direct HDMI connection versus an intermediary device.
- HDR mode.
Write down the setting and result before moving to the next test. This is a practical way to isolate a cause, not a guarantee that one console setting will fix every game-specific image issue.
Account for game-specific PSSR updates
PSSR behavior and support vary by title. On March 16, 2026, PlayStation announced upgraded PSSR support rolling out to a set of games, including Silent Hill f, Monster Hunter Wilds, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Crimson Desert. The announcement describes improved image stability and fine-detail clarity in supported titles; it does not mean every PS5 Pro game uses the upgraded version. Check the game’s current support and updates rather than assuming the same behavior across titles. Read PlayStation’s announcement.
When to get further help
If the problem persists after testing the reversible video settings and connecting the console directly to the display, contact PlayStation Support or Repairs or the display manufacturer. A persistent issue limited to one game may be game-specific; an issue that remains across games and input modes may warrant checking the display or console.
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