DriversRecommendedOutdated drivers can make a good PC feel brokenScan driver issues before chasing fixes manually.Scan NowHalloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix Now×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › 120 Hz

How to Make PS5 Open-World Games Run and Look Their Best

By Freedom251 Team · · 11 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The best PS5 setup starts with a choice: use Performance Mode for smoother motion or Resolution Mode for higher graphic quality. Then check the individual game’s graphics menu, leave console resolution on Automatic, and enable VRR, 120 Hz, HDR, or 1440p only when both the game and your display support them. No single setting is optimal for every open-world title or television.

Start with the motion-versus-detail decision

Open-world games constantly move the camera across large environments, so the difference between a smoother presentation and a more detailed one is easy to notice. Sony describes the two PS5 game presets this way: Performance Mode makes motion smoother, while Resolution Mode provides higher graphic quality. Those labels describe the priority, not a universal frame-rate or resolution guarantee.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Choose Performance Mode when camera movement, driving, combat tracking, or general responsiveness matters most to you.
  • Choose Resolution Mode when sharper detail and the game’s highest visual-quality option matter more than motion smoothness.
  • Compare the game’s own options before assuming what either preset does. A particular title may offer additional modes or visual switches, and support varies by game.

Because no particular open-world game is specified here, there is no responsible universal claim about frame rate, native resolution, ray tracing, or the exact name of each game’s modes. Use the console preset as a starting default, then verify the result in the title’s current graphics or display menu.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Set the PS5 game preset

The system preset controls the default preference for PS5 games that support Performance Mode and Resolution Mode. It does not add a mode to a game that lacks one, and it does not override every title-specific graphics menu.

#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter | 4Pack Type C Female to A Male Cable Converter for Apple Duo 17 16 15 14 Plus,iWatch Watch 12 11 10,iPad 9 8 Air,Airpods 5 4
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
  1. From the PS5 home screen, open Settings.
  2. Select Saved Data and Game/App Settings.
  3. Open Game Presets.
  4. Choose Performance Mode or Resolution Mode.
  5. Launch the open-world game and inspect its own display or graphics settings.

Use Performance Mode as the sensible first test if motion feels uneven or camera pans look distracting. Use Resolution Mode if the game already moves comfortably for you and you want its higher-quality presentation. If the title offers a separate in-game selector, treat that menu as the authoritative list of what the game actually supports.

Check the game’s own graphics menu

A PS5 preset is a preference, not a promise that every game will look or run identically. In the game, look for labels such as graphics, display, video, visual mode, or rendering mode. Read the description attached to each choice rather than assuming that “quality,” “balanced,” or “performance” means the same thing across titles.

When comparing two modes, use the same location and activity for each test. Move the camera slowly across distant scenery, rotate quickly during play, travel through a busy area, and inspect fine detail such as foliage, signs, or distant buildings. This gives you a practical comparison without assigning unsupported numerical targets to an unnamed game.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Record which option you selected before changing other variables. If you alter the television’s picture mode, HDR, resolution, VRR, and the game preset simultaneously, you will not know which change produced the improvement or introduced a problem.

Leave console resolution on Automatic first

On PS5, Automatic resolution lets the console detect the connected television or monitor and select the highest resolution that device reports as supported. It is the best baseline for most setups because it avoids forcing an output that your HDMI chain cannot accept.

Rank #2
Sale
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter | USB C Dongle with 90W Max Power Delivery, 3×5Gbps USB A Data Ports, for MacBook, Dell, and More (Charger Not Included)
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
  1. Open Settings on the PS5.
  2. Go to Screen and Video.
  3. Select Video Output.
  4. Set Resolution to Automatic.
  5. Review the same screen to see the HDMI device’s reported capabilities.

If you are troubleshooting, the reported capabilities are more useful than the label on a television box. They show what the PS5 currently detects through the connected port, cable, receiver, or switch. A device may support a feature in theory but fail to report it through a particular HDMI path.

Changing output resolution does not turn a game into a higher-resolution render. The game’s own rendering mode and the display’s scaling determine the final image. Treat a manual resolution selection as a troubleshooting or display-specific experiment, not an automatic quality upgrade.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Use VRR when the whole setup supports it

Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) synchronizes the display’s refresh behavior with the console’s graphical output. Sony supports PS5 VRR on HDMI 2.1 VRR-compatible televisions and monitors. When supported correctly, VRR can reduce or eliminate visible problems such as tearing and uneven frame pacing, but it does not guarantee a fixed frame rate or make every game smoother.

Enable and test VRR

  1. Confirm that the television or monitor supports VRR and that the PS5 detects the capability under Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
  2. Open the VRR controls on that screen and enable VRR when the option is available.
  3. Launch a game that explicitly supports VRR and select the visual mode you intend to use.
  4. Play the same demanding scene with VRR on, then compare it with VRR off if you are diagnosing motion or display behavior.

Results depend on the display, the game, and the selected visual mode. If enabling VRR for games that do not support it produces unexpected behavior, turn the option off as Sony advises. VRR is therefore a compatibility feature to test, not a setting that should be enabled blindly on every combination.

Understand what the 120 Hz option does

The PS5’s 120 Hz output setting enables 120 Hz video output for a compatible display and games that support a 120 Hz frame rate. It does not make every game render at 120 frames per second. An open-world title can remain at its own supported output even when the console setting is enabled.

Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter | 85W Max PD, 2 USB 3.0 & 1 USBC Data Ports, SD/TF Card Reader, for Laptops/Mac and Other Type C Devices (Charger Not Included)
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
  1. Connect the PS5 to a display that supports 120 Hz input.
  2. Open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
  3. Enable the 120 Hz output option.
  4. Check the game’s own documentation or display menu for 120 Hz support.
  5. Play normally and watch for image, signal, or compatibility problems.

If the output develops problems, disable 120 Hz output. Do not leave it enabled solely because the number sounds better; the game and display must both support the mode, and the setting cannot add a 120 Hz option that the software does not provide.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Configure HDR without using a universal number

HDR can expand the range between dark and bright parts of supported scenes, but the correct calibration depends on the display, its picture mode, room lighting, and the game. Sony provides an On When Supported option so non-HDR games and apps remain in SDR instead of being forced through HDR processing.

  1. Use an HDR-capable television or monitor.
  2. Open the PS5’s Screen and Video settings and set HDR to On When Supported.
  3. Run Adjust HDR and follow the on-screen brightness-adjustment steps.
  4. Use the display maker’s recommended HDR picture mode and disable any television processing that visibly clips highlights or crushes shadow detail.
  5. Check the game’s own HDR controls, if it has them, after the console calibration is complete.

There is no single brightness value that is correct for every display or room. If bright details disappear, dark areas become a flat black mass, or the image looks washed out, rerun Adjust HDR and review the television’s HDR picture settings rather than copying a number from another setup.

Decide whether 1440p makes sense for your monitor

The PS5 can output 1440p to compatible displays. Sony notes that a game with a higher native resolution, such as 4K, may benefit from improved anti-aliasing when the console outputs 1440p through supersampling. That is a possible benefit, not a guarantee that 1440p will look better on every monitor or television.

  1. Open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
  2. Use the option to test 1440p output on a compatible display.
  3. Run the display’s 1440p test if offered and confirm that the signal remains stable.
  4. Compare distant edges, foliage, text, and camera movement with your previous output.
  5. Keep 1440p only if the result is visibly preferable on your particular screen.

Display scaling, panel size, viewing distance, and the game’s own render resolution all affect the result. A 1440p setting is therefore a display-specific choice rather than a general replacement for Automatic or 4K output.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray | Data transfer & Fast charging for MacBook, iPhone 17/16/15, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Apple Watch
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

A reliable order for tuning an open-world game

Changing settings in a controlled order makes it easier to identify the cause of an improvement or fault. Use this sequence whenever you set up a new game or replace a display.

  1. Reset to a known baseline. Set Resolution to Automatic and leave optional 120 Hz and VRR features off while you confirm that the basic picture and signal are stable.
  2. Select your priority. Choose Performance Mode or Resolution Mode under Game Presets, then launch the title.
  3. Inspect the title’s menu. Note every supported graphics, display, HDR, and refresh option before changing the console output.
  4. Calibrate HDR if applicable. Use On When Supported and Adjust HDR on an HDR display.
  5. Test VRR. Enable it only when both the display and the game support it, and compare the same scene with the chosen visual mode.
  6. Test 120 Hz separately. Enable the output only for compatible hardware and software; disable it if the signal becomes unreliable.
  7. Test 1440p only on a suitable display. Keep it when your monitor’s image and compatibility are better for your use.
  8. Save one final configuration. Write down the game mode and console output settings so you can restore them after troubleshooting.

Use a decision framework instead of chasing every toggle

Priority or feature What it is intended to change When to choose it Important limit
Performance Mode Smoother game motion You notice judder or prefer fluid camera movement Available only in games that support the mode; the universal frame rate is not established
Resolution Mode Higher graphic quality You value image detail more than maximum smoothness Visual results vary by title; no universal resolution is guaranteed
Resolution: Automatic Chooses the highest resolution reported by the connected HDMI device You want a safe default It cannot change the game’s internal render resolution
VRR Synchronizes display refresh with console output The display and game both support VRR Results vary by display, game, and visual mode
120 Hz output Allows 120 Hz video output where supported The display and game support 120 Hz It does not make every game render at 120 frames per second
HDR: On When Supported Keeps unsupported content in SDR while enabling HDR content You have an HDR-capable display Calibration remains display- and room-dependent
1440p output Outputs 1440p to a compatible display and may improve anti-aliasing through supersampling Your monitor accepts 1440p and looks better with it It is not guaranteed to improve every setup
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Troubleshoot by symptom

The game looks sharp but motion bothers you

Switch the game preset to Performance Mode, then check the title’s own graphics menu for a corresponding option. If the display and game support VRR, test VRR with that mode. Do not infer a specific frame rate without a statement from the game’s developer.

The image is smooth enough but distant detail looks softer

Try Resolution Mode and compare the same scene. Leave console resolution on Automatic while you test. If you use a 1440p monitor, compare 1440p output as a separate experiment; the supersampling benefit depends on the display and the game.

VRR causes an unexpected picture or signal issue

Confirm that the display reports VRR support, verify the game supports VRR, and test with the selected visual mode. If unsupported-game behavior remains problematic, turn VRR off.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Enabling 120 Hz creates output problems

Turn 120 Hz output off and restore the stable baseline. Re-enable it only after confirming that the display and the specific game support 120 Hz.

Best Value
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display | 85W Max PD, 1 Powered USB-C 5Gbps & 2 Powered USB-A 3.0 5Gbps Data Ports, for MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell and More (Black)
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

HDR looks too dark, too bright, or washed out

Run Adjust HDR again, check the television’s HDR picture mode, and keep HDR set to On When Supported. Avoid copying calibration numbers from another display because the sources provide no universal values.

The PS5 does not show an expected capability

Open Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output and review what the connected HDMI device reports. The detected capability is the relevant starting point for troubleshooting, even if the display’s marketing specification lists a feature.

When a display upgrade is actually relevant

You do not need to buy anything to change the game preset, resolution behavior, HDR setting, or other supported console options. A new display becomes relevant only when your current one lacks a feature you specifically want to use.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
  • For VRR: look for an HDMI 2.1 VRR-compatible television or monitor, then verify that the PS5 detects the feature.
  • For 120 Hz: both the display and the game must support a 120 Hz frame rate; a display alone cannot add that mode to software.
  • For HDR: choose a display that supports HDR, then calibrate it with Adjust HDR rather than assuming factory settings are ideal.
  • For 1440p: use a monitor that accepts 1440p and judge the result on that specific panel.

Check your existing television or monitor, the game’s current options, and the PS5’s detected HDMI capabilities before spending money. Sony’s guidance emphasizes that VRR and related results vary by display, game, and selected visual mode, so an upgrade should solve a known limitation rather than promise a universal improvement.

Keep expectations tied to the individual game

Console settings can establish preferences and compatibility, but they cannot rewrite a game’s renderer. An open-world title may support only one visual mode, may implement VRR differently from another title, or may expose its own HDR and display controls. Patches can also change the available menu or behavior.

For a named game, consult its current in-game options and official patch information before making claims about frame rate, resolution, ray tracing, or 120 Hz support. For an unnamed collection of games, the dependable approach is to set your priority, verify the game menu, confirm the display capabilities, and compare the result in the same demanding scenes.

Quick setup checklist

  • Choose Performance Mode for smoother motion or Resolution Mode for higher graphic quality.
  • Open the game’s own graphics or display menu and use the options it actually provides.
  • Set Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > Resolution to Automatic as the baseline.
  • Enable VRR only when the display and game support it; turn it off if unsupported games behave unexpectedly.
  • Enable 120 Hz output only for compatible displays and games; disable it if output problems appear.
  • Use HDR On When Supported on an HDR display and run Adjust HDR.
  • Test 1440p only on a compatible display and keep it only when it looks better in your setup.
  • Change one setting at a time and compare the same scene before deciding.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

120 Hz1440pGaming SettingsHDRopen-world gamesPlayStation 5PS5VRR

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.