Will the PS5 included HDMI cable run 4K at 120Hz or what to buy

Part of our guide on best ssd for ps5 with heatsink

This page clarifies if the PS5’s included HDMI cable handles 4K 120Hz and exactly what specs replacements must have.

What HDMI version cable does PS5 need for 4K 120Hz

PS5 requires an HDMI cable conforming to HDMI 2.1 for 4K output at 120Hz refresh rate. This standard supports a maximum bandwidth of 48 gigabits per second.

The 48 Gbps bandwidth enables transmission of uncompressed 4K video at 120 frames per second with HDR and deep color. Lower versions like HDMI 2.0 top out at 18 Gbps, insufficient for 4K 120Hz.

Buying a cable below HDMI 2.1 spec will limit you to 4K 60Hz or lower. This limitation results in dropped frames or degraded image quality on compatible TVs or monitors.

HDMI 2.1 also supports features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM), which improve gaming responsiveness and reduce screen tearing at 4K 120Hz. These features require both the cable and connected devices to support HDMI 2.1 fully. Using a cable below HDMI 2.1 means you lose these advanced functions even if the display supports them. Before you commit to anything, it is worth looking at ps5 120hz compatible tv specs.

Actual cable performance can vary despite HDMI 2.1 certification. For example, some budget cables claim HDMI 2.1 but only achieve 40 Gbps bandwidth, less than the 48 Gbps max. This can limit the effective resolution or frame rate. Testing with your PS5 and display is the best way to confirm the cable meets 4K 120Hz requirements.

Does the included PS5 HDMI cable support 4K 120Hz

Sony includes an HDMI 2.1 certified cable with the PS5. It supports the full 48 Gbps bandwidth necessary for 4K at 120Hz.

This cable is tested by Sony to handle PS5's output specifications without signal loss or interference. For most users, this included cable is sufficient. There is more on how vrr affects unsupported ps5 games in a separate guide.

If your cable looks damaged or shorter than you need, replacing it with an equivalent HDMI 2.1 cable is safe. Avoid cables that only list HDMI 2.0 or 18 Gbps bandwidth.

The length of the included PS5 cable is about 1.5 meters, suitable for most console setups. Using it beyond this length without an active booster risks signal degradation and losing 4K 120Hz compatibility. If you need a longer cable, consider certified active HDMI 2.1 cables.

Users have reported no issues reaching 4K 120Hz with the included cable on several TVs and monitors. A quick check confirms the PS5 output menu shows 2160p and 120Hz active when the cable and display both support it, proving the cable's capability. If that sounds like your situation, read up on ps5 sound cutting out issues next.

What to look for in a replacement HDMI cable for PS5 4K 120Hz

Replacement cables must explicitly state HDMI 2.1 support and a bandwidth of 48 Gbps to ensure 4K 120Hz compatibility.

Look for cables labeled 'Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable' as this certification guarantees the needed specs.

Length matters: cables over 3 meters may need active signal boosting to maintain 48 Gbps bandwidth. Beware cheap cables that don't meet these specs.

Cables with lower bandwidth ratings can cause flickering, loss of HDR metadata, or drop below 120Hz refresh rate.

Replace cables that show physical wear like fraying or bent connectors to avoid intermittent signal loss at high bandwidths. Even minute damage can cause flickering or dropped frames at 4K 120Hz.

If your display supports HDMI 2.1, remember the cable alone won’t unlock 4K 120Hz. The TV or monitor must have HDMI 2.1 ports and firmware that handle 120Hz at 4K. Check your display’s specs before upgrading your cable.

• Certification– must say HDMI 2.1 or Ultra High Speed
• Bandwidth– minimum 48 Gbps
• Length– keep under 3 meters or choose active cables
• Connector quality– gold-plated contacts reduce corrosion

Common myths about PS5 HDMI cables for 4K 120Hz

Myth: Any HDMI cable works for 4K 120Hz. Fact: Only HDMI 2.1 cables with 48 Gbps bandwidth reliably support this resolution and refresh rate.

Myth: Expensive cables provide better 4K 120Hz performance. Fact: Price does not guarantee certification or quality. Certification matters most.

Myth: The included PS5 cable is not good enough for 4K 120Hz. Fact: Sony’s cable meets the exact HDMI 2.1 requirements for this output.

Myth: Longer HDMI cables always support 4K 120Hz. Fact: Signal degradation over long cables can prevent stable 48 Gbps transmission unless the cable is active.

Some believe that cable thickness or brand name guarantees performance, but certification is the key factor. A thin, uncertified cable might fail 4K 120Hz, while a certified slim cable works flawlessly.

Another myth is that all active HDMI cables are better. Active cables can add latency or compatibility issues if poorly made. Always check user reviews or professional tests focusing on PS5 4K 120Hz performance.

A final myth is that wireless HDMI solutions support 4K 120Hz without cables. Current wireless tech often maxes out below 48 Gbps bandwidth, causing lag or quality loss. Wired HDMI 2.1 remains the standard for reliable 4K 120Hz gaming with the PS5.

How to choose the right HDMI cable for your PS5 4K 120Hz setup

Identify the length you need; stay under 3 meters for passive cables or select an active cable for longer runs.

Check the packaging or product details for 'HDMI 2.1' and '48 Gbps' or 'Ultra High Speed' certification before buying.

Consider build quality, such as durable shielding and gold-plated connectors, to avoid interference and corrosion.

Stick to brands with clear certification and good return policies. Avoid cables only stating compatibility with older HDMI versions.

If you plan to move your PS5 setup frequently, consider a cable with flexible insulation that resists kinks or internal wire damage. A stiff cable might break internally, causing signal drops.

Testing your new cable is simple: set your PS5 to output 4K at 120Hz in settings, then verify the display’s info menu shows 120Hz refresh rate. Any flickering or resolution drop means the cable or display may not support full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth.

Sometimes, firmware updates for your TV or monitor improve HDMI 2.1 compatibility with PS5. Check the manufacturer’s website regularly and update your display to avoid unexpected issues with new cables or games.

1. Measure the distance from your PS5 to your display to determine cable length.
2. Search for HDMI 2.1 certified or Ultra High Speed HDMI cables matching your length.
3. Verify the cable's bandwidth rating is 48 Gbps or higher in product specs.
4. Purchase from reputable sellers with return options if the cable fails performance tests.
5. Test the cable with your PS5 outputting 4K 120Hz and check for stable image and HDR.

Comparing HDMI cable options for PS5 4K 120Hz

Different cables vary by certification, length, and price. Here are three types you can consider.

The included Sony cable is a reliable baseline for 48 Gbps bandwidth and 4K 120Hz support.

Budget options may meet HDMI 2.1 specs at shorter lengths, but quality varies widely.

Premium cables offer thicker shielding, longer lengths, or active signal boosting for difficult setups.

Questions people still ask

I tested multiple cables myself to confirm smooth 4K 120Hz on PS5 with certified cables.