How VRR Works on PS5 and Xbox Series X Explained

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Variable Refresh Rate, commonly known as VRR, is one of the most important gaming display technologies introduced with modern consoles. While many TVs now advertise VRR support, a large number of gamers are still unsure what it actually does and why it improves gameplay.

On PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, VRR helps smooth out performance drops, eliminate screen tearing, and deliver a more consistent gaming experience.

This guide explains VRR for gaming in depth, how it works on PS5 and Xbox Series X, and when it truly makes a noticeable difference.

VRR for Gaming Explained: What Variable Refresh Rate Actually Does

In traditional displays, the screen refreshes at a fixed rate, typically 60Hz or 120Hz. This means the TV updates the image a set number of times per second regardless of how many frames the console is producing.

When a console’s frame rate fluctuates, which often happens in demanding games, the fixed refresh rate can cause visual issues such as:

• Screen tearing

• Stuttering

• Frame pacing inconsistencies

VRR solves this by allowing the TV to dynamically adjust its refresh rate in real time to match the console’s frame output.

Instead of forcing frames into a rigid refresh cycle, VRR synchronizes the display with the game’s performance. The result is smoother motion and fewer visual artifacts.

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How VRR Works on PS5 and Xbox Series X

Both PS5 and Xbox Series X support VRR through HDMI 2.1, but their implementations differ slightly.

Xbox Series X VRR Support

Xbox Series X was designed with VRR as a core feature from launch. It supports:

• HDMI Forum VRR

• AMD FreeSync compatibility on many TVs and monitors

• Wide VRR operating ranges

Most games automatically benefit from VRR without requiring special developer support.

PlayStation 5 VRR Support

PS5 introduced VRR later through firmware updates.

It also uses HDMI Forum VRR but typically applies VRR only to games that are officially supported or updated for VRR functionality.

Sony has gradually expanded compatibility, but VRR behavior on PS5 can still be more selective compared to Xbox.

VRR for Gaming Explained in Real-World Scenarios

VRR becomes most noticeable in games where frame rates fluctuate rather than remain perfectly locked.

Examples include:

• Open-world games with heavy graphics loads

• Large multiplayer environments

• Games with dynamic weather and lighting

Instead of sudden stutters when performance dips, VRR smooths out these transitions, making gameplay feel more consistent and responsive.

In games that maintain a perfectly locked 60fps or 120fps, VRR offers little visible benefit.

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The Relationship Between VRR and HDMI 2.1

VRR on modern TVs is primarily delivered through HDMI 2.1.

HDMI 2.1 provides:

• The bandwidth required for high refresh rates

• Standardized VRR communication between console and display

Some TVs also support VRR over HDMI 2.0, but HDMI 2.1 ensures broader compatibility and better performance at 4K resolutions.

Does VRR Affect Input Lag?

VRR itself does not directly reduce input lag.

However, most TVs enable VRR within Game Mode, which already minimizes processing and lowers input lag.

In practice, VRR-equipped gaming TVs often deliver both smooth visuals and fast responsiveness together.

Common VRR Limitations and Issues

While VRR greatly improves smoothness, it is not perfect.

Some limitations include:

• Flickering in very dark scenes on certain displays

• Limited VRR ranges on lower-end TVs

• Inconsistent behavior across different brands

These issues vary by TV model and firmware quality. High-end gaming TVs tend to handle VRR far better than budget models.

VRR vs Fixed Refresh Rate Gaming

Without VRR, displays rely on fixed refresh cycles.

When frame rates drop below the refresh rate, players may experience:

• Sudden stutters

• Screen tearing

• Uneven motion

With VRR enabled, refresh rates adjust smoothly, preventing these visual disruptions.

This results in gameplay that feels more fluid, even when performance is not perfectly stable.

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Is VRR Necessary for Console Gaming?

VRR is not required to enjoy modern games, but it is a significant quality-of-life improvement.

For competitive and performance-focused gamers, VRR can make gameplay feel noticeably smoother.

For cinematic single-player games with stable frame rates, the benefit may be less dramatic.

That said, VRR offers excellent future-proofing as games become more demanding.

How VRR Works with HDR and High Refresh Rates

VRR can operate simultaneously with HDR and high refresh rates such as 120Hz.

Modern gaming TVs can deliver:

• HDR visuals

• VRR smoothing

• 120Hz motion

  
  

All at the same time when supported by HDMI 2.1. This combination creates the smoothest and most visually impressive console gaming experience available today.

Common VRR Myths

VRR automatically improves graphics quality

VRR only affects motion smoothness, not resolution, textures, or visual fidelity.

VRR only matters for competitive gaming

While competitive players benefit most, VRR also improves smoothness in demanding single-player games.

All VRR implementations are the same

Different TVs handle VRR differently, with varying stability and visual quality.

Final Thoughts

VRR is one of the most valuable gaming display features available on modern consoles.

By dynamically matching the TV’s refresh rate to the console’s frame output, VRR eliminates tearing and reduces stutter, delivering smoother and more consistent gameplay.

Xbox Series X offers broader VRR usage across games, while PS5 continues to expand VRR support through updates.

Although VRR is not mandatory for great gaming, it significantly enhances performance consistency, especially in demanding titles.

Understanding VRR for gaming and how it works on PS5 and Xbox Series X helps players make smarter choices when selecting a gaming TV or monitor.

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If you're looking for the best gaming TVs, or the best gaming monitors for PS5 and PS5 Pro and monitors for Xbox Series X, check our full buyer’s guides.

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How VRR Works on PS5 and Xbox Series X: Frequently Asked Questions

What does VRR do for gaming?

VRR synchronizes the TV’s refresh rate with the console’s frame output, eliminating screen tearing and reducing stutter for smoother gameplay.

Does PS5 support VRR in all games?

PS5 supports VRR through HDMI 2.1, but compatibility depends on game updates and system software. Some titles benefit more than others.

Is VRR better on Xbox Series X than PS5?

Xbox Series X generally applies VRR more broadly across games, while PS5 uses VRR in a more selective manner depending on developer support.

Do you need HDMI 2.1 for VRR?

Most modern TVs use HDMI 2.1 to support VRR at 4K resolutions. Some displays offer limited VRR over HDMI 2.0, but HDMI 2.1 ensures full compatibility.

Does VRR increase input lag?

No. VRR itself does not increase input lag and is typically enabled alongside low-latency Game Mode on TVs.

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