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Use the HDMI cable in the PS5 box first. Sony’s setup instructions tell you to connect that cable from the console’s HDMI OUT port to your TV or monitor’s HDMI input, and Sony also lists it as a troubleshooting option for 4K/120Hz problems. You normally need a replacement only if the cable is missing, damaged, too short, or unreliable in your particular signal path.
If you do replace it for a demanding setup, choose a product carrying the official Ultra High Speed HDMI Certification Label. “HDMI 2.1,” “8K,” and “gaming cable” are retail descriptions, not substitutes for certification.
Does every PS5 box include an HDMI cable?
Retail PS5 setup documentation includes an HDMI cable and directs owners to use it for the initial connection. The exact printing, packaging, length, and certification markings can vary by console revision, bundle, region, or production run, so do not assume that every cable will visibly say “HDMI 2.1” or “Ultra High Speed.”
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- Top Technology--8K@60HZ: This 8K Ultra-High Speed 2.1 HDMI Cable uses the most cutting-edge technology, which is compatible with 8K@60HZ,4K@240HZ and 4K@120HZ clearly displays every particle, and accurately processes every signal source.
- Upgrade Revolution: Highwings Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 8K supports 48Gbps (6GB/s) which can will no longer be stuck or dropped frames when watching video. It is also backward compatible with HDMI 2.0b/2.0a/1.4/1.3/1.2/1.1 versions.
- For Game Enthusiasts: This 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 2.1 can achieve a super smooth picture of 4K@120HZ. Its latest game mode supports variable refresh rate, maximizes the value of the graphics card and CPU to obtain a smoother and more detailed picture.
- Reinforced high-quality materials: This 8K HDMI Cord uses Highwings' most popular classic style. The tail's anti-bending design has been upgraded to make it more durable. The military grade tensile nylon material also greatly extends its life.
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Keep the HDMI cable separate from the power lead and USB charging cable. The HDMI lead is the one with identical HDMI-shaped plugs at both ends.
Is the included cable good enough for 4K at 120Hz?
It can be. Sony says the PS5 supports HDMI 2.1 and 4K output at up to 120Hz, and its 4K troubleshooting guide tells users to try either the included cable or an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable rated for 4K/120Hz.
That does not mean every game will render at 120 frames per second. The display, the TV input, the game, PS5 settings, firmware, and every device between the console and screen must support the mode.
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- Reliable high-performance Ultra High-Speed HDMI Cable
- 10-foot (3 meter) length and included cable tie for ultimate setup flexibility
- Uninterrupted speed and maximum visual performance
- Transmits 4K resolution at 120 Hz and 8k resolution at 60 Hz as specified in HDMI 2.1
- Supports up to 48 Gbps bandwidth
Do you need an HDMI 2.1 cable?
No—not for every PS5 setup. A working older cable may be sufficient for 1080p, 1440p, and many 4K/60Hz configurations. For 4K/120Hz, VRR, or another high-bandwidth combination, an Ultra High Speed cable is the safest replacement category.
| Situation | Buy another cable? |
|---|---|
| The included cable works and reaches | No |
| The cable is lost or visibly damaged | Yes |
| Your display is 1080p only | Usually not an Ultra High Speed cable |
| 4K/60Hz works reliably | No urgent reason |
| 4K/120Hz, VRR, or HDR is unstable | Check the entire path, then consider certified Ultra High Speed |
| A receiver, soundbar, switch, or wall plate is involved | Verify that every component supports the required signal |
A cable does not add detail or make a game run faster. It only carries a signal the console, game, and display can already produce.
Understanding HDMI cable categories
Use HDMI Licensing’s official category names rather than relying on vague product titles:
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- 4K HDMI Cable: Male to Male HDMI Cable Supports 4K Video @ 60Hz, 2K, 1080P, 48 bit/px HDR color depth, TrueHD 7.1, Audio Return Channel (ARC) & Ethernet
- Premium Quality HDMI Cable: This HDMI cable has 30WG copper wire, triple tin shielded in a double braided premium nylon with gold plated corrosion resistant connectors for guaranteed top tier image & sound
- Full Compatibility: High speed 4K HDMI cable supports 18Gbps transfer and is backwards compatible with earlier versions of HDMI cable (1.3/1.4/2.0/2.0a) NOT for 8K
- Universal HDMI Cable: Works with all of your HDMI devices. Compatible with Blu-ray players, Fire TV, Apple TV, PS5, PS4, XBox One, Nintendo Switch, computer, laptop, monitor, projector and more. An essential HDMI cable for all of your home & office devices
- 10 Feet 1 Pack: One 10 ft HDMI cables (3 meters) thickness 0.24 inches (6 mm)
| Category | Official positioning | Typical PS5 use |
|---|---|---|
| High Speed HDMI | Up to 10.2Gbps | 1080p and lower-bandwidth modes |
| Premium High Speed HDMI | Certified up to 18Gbps | Many 4K/60Hz HDR setups |
| Ultra High Speed HDMI | High-bandwidth HDMI 2.1-era category, up to 48Gbps | Best replacement choice for 4K/120Hz and maximum compatibility |
See the HDMI cable guide, Premium High Speed specification, and Ultra High Speed overview. Certification means the product has passed the relevant program’s testing; look for the official label on the package, as explained by HDMI Licensing.
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Connect the PS5 correctly
- Turn off the PS5 and display before changing connections.
- Plug one end into the console’s rear HDMI OUT port.
- Plug the other end into the TV or monitor’s HDMI IN port.
- Select that HDMI input on the display.
- For 4K/120Hz, use the input labeled 4K/120Hz, 8K, HDMI 2.1, or the manufacturer’s enhanced format. Some TVs require enhanced mode to be enabled in their settings.
Sony’s setup guide confirms the HDMI OUT-to-HDMI IN path. When troubleshooting, connect the PS5 directly to the TV first; add a receiver or soundbar after the direct connection works. Sony’s TV guidance also explains that enhanced input names vary by manufacturer.
PS5 settings for 4K, 120Hz, HDR, and VRR
Open Settings → Screen and Video → Video Output. Menu wording can vary slightly with system software and language.
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- Born for Game Enthusiasts: Perfectly tailored for PS5, Xbos Series X/S, Switch2, and gaming PCs. Supports 4K@120Hz refresh rates, VRR, and ALLM to eliminate screen tearing and input lag for a flawlessly smooth experience
- Certified HDMI 2.1 Cable: Silkland HDMI 2.1 cable is officially certified, delivering the full 48Gbps bandwidth for flawless 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz video. It's the ideal choice for high-end gaming and home theater setups, ensuring zero loss in signal quality
- Minimalist & Durable Design: With a slim 17.5x8.5mm profile, a one-piece ABS body and an ultra-dense braided exterior, it saves port space behind your TV or media cabinet while offering durable, sleek construction. The triple shielding and 30AWG copper core eliminate interference for less screen flickering, or white dots, more flawless videos
- Immersive Audio & Visuals: Transmits stunning 8K HDR and dynamic HDR (Dolby Vision, HDR10+) video. Its eARC feature sends lossless audio like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X from TV to soundbar or AV receiver via a single cable, delivering a cinematic, immersive experience at home
- Universal Compatibility: Fully backward compatible with HDMI 2.0, 1.4, and older versions. Plug-and-play seamlessly with new TVs, Apple TV, soundbars, laptops, monitor or other devices with hdmi port for entertainment, work, or desktop expansion
- Resolution: Use Automatic, or 2160p for a 4K display.
- 120 Hz Output: Enable it for a compatible display and game.
- VRR: Enable it on both the PS5 and a compatible HDMI 2.1 display.
- ALLM: Leave Automatic when the TV supports automatic low-latency mode.
- Video Transfer Rate: Start with Automatic. If the image flickers or drops out, try -1 or -2. Sony warns that lower values can limit some 4K/120Hz and 4K/50–60Hz RGB or YUV444 formats.
- Current Video Output Signal: Check the connected display’s reported resolution, HDR, and VRR capability.
- Test 1440p Output: Use this for a compatible 1440p monitor or TV.
The signal-information screen confirms what the PS5 and display negotiate; it does not prove that every game is rendering at a particular frame rate.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshoot common HDMI problems
No signal or a black screen
- Power off both devices and reseat both HDMI ends.
- Confirm the TV is on the matching input and that the cable is in HDMI OUT on the PS5.
- Bypass the receiver, soundbar, switch, splitter, extender, and wall plate.
- Try the included cable, then a certified Ultra High Speed cable if the original is damaged or suspect.
- Check the TV’s enhanced/high-bandwidth HDMI setting and update its firmware.
4K works, but 120Hz does not appear
Confirm that the display actually supports 4K/120Hz, the PS5 is connected to the correct high-bandwidth input, enhanced mode is enabled, 120 Hz Output is on, and the game offers a 120Hz mode. An intermediary device may support 4K but not 4K/120Hz, HDR, or VRR passthrough.
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Flickering or intermittent dropouts
Start with a direct PS5-to-TV connection and the included cable. If the problem remains, power-cycle both devices, verify the input, update firmware, and set Video Transfer Rate to Automatic; try -1 or -2 if necessary. Re-enable 120Hz, HDR, and VRR one at a time to identify which part of the signal path triggers the failure.
Best Value
- Certified HDMI Cable: The package has an official HDMI certification label. HDMI Officially Certified Fully compliant with the HDMI Forum’s strict requirements as specified in HDMI
- It supports the latest features: 0.01ms, low EMI, SBTM, 48Gbps Bandwidth, ALLM, VRR, QMS, QFT, Dynamic HDR, HDR10+, CEC, HDCP 2.2 & 2.3, VESA DSC 1.2a
- Resolution & Deep Color: 10k@60Hz 12-bit, 8K@60Hz 4:4:4 12-bit, 5k@144Hz 120Hz 90Hz 4:4:4 12-bit, 4K@240Hz 120Hz 144Hz 12-bit, 2k@360H 240Hz 165Hz,1080p@360Hz, 720p, 480p
- Digital Audio Video Format Support: The latest high-bitrate audio formats are supported including eARC, ARC, DTS Master, DTS:X, Dol-by TrueHD, Dol-by Vision, Dol-by Atmos and more
- Wide Compatibility: Gaming PC, FreeSync, G-SYNC, All GeForce RTX 40&30 series, Soundbar, PS5 PS4 PS3, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, All Apple TV+, All OLED TV, All Mac-book, laptop, Projector, Monitor, Netflix, Fi-re TV, Ro-ku TV, SHIELD TV
HDR or VRR is missing
Check the display’s supported HDMI input, enable HDR/VRR in the TV and PS5, and test without a receiver or soundbar. VRR is not guaranteed on every FreeSync monitor; the monitor must implement a PS5-compatible HDMI mode.
Audio fails through a receiver or soundbar
Test the PS5 directly on the TV. If video and audio work there, inspect the intermediary device’s support for the required resolution, refresh rate, HDR, VRR, eARC, and HDCP combination. The cable may be fine while the receiver or soundbar is the bottleneck.
How to choose a replacement
- Certification: For maximum-bandwidth use, look for the official Ultra High Speed label.
- Length: Buy the shortest cable that reaches. Long passive runs are more installation-sensitive.
- Fit: Check connector clearance behind a wall-mounted PS5 or TV.
- Flexibility: Slim or flexible construction can help in tight cable channels.
- Returns: A return policy is valuable because compatibility depends on the whole installation.
Category-based examples include certified Ultra High Speed lines from Cable Matters and Monoprice, a licensed PlayStation option from PowerA, and braided or standard certified options from Belkin. Availability, lengths, and prices change, so verify the exact product before ordering.
What about the PS5 Pro?
Do not assume that every PS5 Pro bundle has identical cable labeling or contents to the original PS5, Slim, or Digital Edition. Check the documentation and contents for the exact regional model. The same connection and troubleshooting principles apply, but package-specific claims should be verified rather than generalized.
The Bottom Line
Bottom line: Start with the HDMI cable supplied with your PS5. Replace it only for a concrete reason—loss, damage, insufficient length, or a verified high-bandwidth problem. For a replacement aimed at 4K/120Hz or VRR, choose a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable, then check the TV input and intermediary devices before blaming the cable.
Quick Recap
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