Why Your TV Doesn’t Show 120Hz (Common Causes Explained)

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Modern gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are capable of outputting games at up to 120 frames per second. However, many gamers connect their console expecting smoother gameplay, only to find that their TV remains stuck at 60Hz.

If your TV doesn’t show 120Hz, the issue is rarely caused by a single factor. In most cases, it comes down to settings, hardware limitations, or compatibility misunderstandings.

This guide explains why your TV doesn’t show 120Hz, breaks down the most common causes, and helps you understand how to unlock high refresh rate gaming properly.

Why Your TV Doesn’t Show 120Hz: The Most Common Reasons

There are several technical requirements that must align for 120Hz gaming to work.

Even if one element is missing, the TV may default back to 60Hz.

HDMI Port Limitations

Not all HDMI ports on a TV are created equal.

Many TVs include only one or two HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K at 120Hz. The remaining ports often support only HDMI 2.0, which is limited to 4K at 60Hz.

If your console is plugged into the wrong port, the TV will not display 120Hz.

Always check the TV’s labeling or manual to identify which ports support HDMI 2.1 features.

Using the Wrong HDMI Cable

High refresh rate gaming requires sufficient bandwidth.

Older HDMI cables may not support the data rates needed for 4K 120Hz output.

To ensure compatibility:

• Use the HDMI cable included with your PS5 or Xbox Series X

• Or use a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable

  
  

Without proper cabling, the signal may fall back to 60Hz automatically.

TV Settings Not Enabled for High Refresh Rates

Many TVs ship with advanced gaming features disabled by default.

Common settings that must be enabled include:

• Game Mode or Low Latency Mode

• HDMI Enhanced Format or similar high-bandwidth options

• 120Hz or high refresh rate settings within the TV menu

Some brands require manually enabling these features per HDMI port.

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Why Your TV Doesn’t Show 120Hz Even with HDMI 2.1

Having HDMI 2.1 does not guarantee automatic 120Hz output.

Several additional factors may still block high refresh rate gaming.

The Game Does Not Support 120Hz

Not all console games run at 120fps.

Many titles remain locked at 60fps or lower.

Some games offer 120Hz only in performance modes that must be enabled in the game’s settings menu.

Always check the game’s video options to confirm high frame rate support.

Console Settings Are Not Configured Correctly

Both PS5 and Xbox Series X require specific display settings to be enabled.

Common adjustments include:

• Setting the resolution to automatic or 4K

• Enabling 120Hz output in video settings

• Allowing VRR and performance modes where available

If these settings are restricted, the console may default to 60Hz.

TV Panel Limitations

Some TVs advertise HDMI 2.1 features but use panels that cannot truly display 120Hz at full resolution.

Lower-end models may:

• Support 120Hz only at lower resolutions

• Use internal processing tricks rather than native refresh rates

Checking the TV’s native panel specifications is important.

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How VRR and 120Hz Work Together

Variable Refresh Rate often operates alongside 120Hz gaming.

VRR allows the TV to match its refresh rate dynamically to the console’s frame output.

However:

• VRR does not replace 120Hz

• It complements it

Some TVs require 120Hz mode to be enabled before VRR becomes available.

Why Your TV Doesn’t Show 120Hz in HDR Mode

In certain cases, HDR and 120Hz cannot run simultaneously on older or limited hardware.

This may occur if:

• The HDMI port lacks full bandwidth

• The TV restricts high refresh rates when HDR is active

  
  

Modern HDMI 2.1 TVs usually support both at the same time, but older models may not.

Troubleshooting Checklist for 120Hz Gaming

If your TV doesn’t show 120Hz, go through the following:

1. Plug the console into an HDMI 2.1 port

2. Use a certified high-speed HDMI cable

3. Enable enhanced HDMI or gaming modes on the TV

4. Check console video output settings

5. Confirm the game supports 120Hz

6. Update TV firmware if available

Most issues are resolved by adjusting one of these factors.

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Common Myths About 120Hz Gaming

Any HDMI 2.1 TV automatically runs games at 120Hz

False. Proper settings, ports, and supported games are still required.

120Hz only matters for competitive gaming

While competitive gamers benefit most, smoother motion improves many types of gameplay.

120Hz always doubles performance

120Hz improves motion smoothness, but visual quality may be reduced in performance modes to maintain high frame rates.

Final Thoughts

High refresh rate gaming can significantly improve motion smoothness and overall responsiveness, but achieving 120Hz output requires proper hardware, settings, and game support.

If your TV doesn’t show 120Hz, the cause is usually related to HDMI limitations, disabled features, incorrect settings, or unsupported games rather than a faulty display.

Understanding how HDMI 2.1, cables, console settings, and TV panels interact allows you to unlock the full performance potential of modern consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X.

With the right configuration, 120Hz gaming can transform the smoothness of your gaming experience.

Why Your TV Doesn’t Show 120Hz: Frequently Asked Questions

Do all PS5 and Xbox Series X games support 120Hz?

No. Only specific games offer 120Hz modes, usually in performance settings. Many titles remain capped at 60fps.

Do you need HDMI 2.1 to get 120Hz gaming?

For 4K at 120Hz, yes. HDMI 2.1 is required. Some TVs can support 120Hz at lower resolutions using HDMI 2.0.

Can HDR and 120Hz work at the same time?

On modern HDMI 2.1 TVs, yes. Older or limited models may restrict HDR when running at high refresh rates.

Why does my TV show 120Hz in menus but not in games?

Some TVs display maximum refresh rate capability, while actual in-game output depends on game support and console settings.

Does using VRR affect 120Hz output?

VRR works alongside 120Hz but does not replace it. Both features can usually run together on compatible TVs.

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