How to set up 120Hz on Xbox Series X

⚡Fast fix

• Check your connection. You'll need an HDMI 2.1 cable and port for 120 frames-per-second (fps) gameplay.
• Make sure your display can handle smooth gameplay. Check that your TV or monitor supports 120Hz input.
• Adjust your Xbox's®display settings. Your Xbox won't automatically play games at 120Hz, so you'll need to switch the refresh rate in the console settings.
• It's game time. Choose a title that supports 120fps gameplay and watch your character respond in an instant.

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When you're in the middle of a battle or racing for the gold, laggy gameplay is the last thing you want to deal with. Even small performance delays can make the difference between winning and shutting off your console in defeat. The good news is the Xbox Series X™ supports refresh rates up to 120Hz for silky-smooth gaming.

Asurion Experts understand how much you care about your playtime, and we help people get more out of their consoles every day. Here's how to set up Xbox Series X for 120Hz gaming and exactly what you need for lag-free play.

What you need before you turn on 120Hz

120Hz means your screen can refresh up to 120 times per second while you're playing a game. That can make a huge difference when you need split-second responses, such as during a race or a competitive shooter game.

This option only appears if you have three components:

• An HDMI 2.1 cable: This cord transmits audio and video data at high speeds, so it can handle the bandwidth necessary for a higher frame rate.
• A compatible 120Hz TV or monitor: These screens can refresh 120 times per second for smooth gameplay. Some TVs and monitors support a variable refresh rate (VRR), which means they can automatically adjust to match your game's frame rate.
• A supported game: There are dozens of Xbox Series X 120fps games, including popular titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Star Wars Battlefront. For the sharpest images, try enabling 4K resolution on your console.

If one of these pieces doesn't support 120Hz, the faster signal can't make it through the entire chain from your Xbox to your screen. You might also notice screen tearing if the game's frame rate and the display's refresh rate don't match.

Start by making sure your TV is connected correctly. Plug one end of the HDMI cable into your Xbox console and the other into the TV's high-refresh port, which is often labeled as HDMI port 3 or 4.

Turn on 120Hz on your Xbox Series X

Here's how to enable 120Hz on Xbox Series X:

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller.
2. Click Profile & System > Settings> General.
3. Select TV & display options.
4. Choose Resolution and select 4K UHD.
5. Under the refresh rate settings, select 120Hz.

Of course, not all TVs or monitors support Xbox Series X 4K 120Hz gaming. Series X 1440p 120Hz is another option that still lets you enjoy speedy gameplay.

If you want to improve your display even more, check out our guide for getting the most out of HDR picture quality.

Confirm your game is actually running at 120Hz

It's not always easy to tell if your frame rate has changed, especially when you're in game mode.

Some games have an in-game frame rate counter in the Settings menu. Look for an option like Display Performance Stats or Graphics.

You can also check your display rate for the console itself by clicking Settings > General > TV & display options. Not all games support 120fps, even if the console and TV do.

Fix common 120Hz setup problems

A few issues often pop up when gamers try to set up 120Hz for an Xbox Series X 1TB or another model. Here's how to troubleshoot them:

• The 120Hz option doesn't appear. Double-check that you're using the right HDMI cable and that you have a compatible TV or monitor. Many older devices have a lower refresh rate.
• You don't know which HDMI port to use. Look for a port labeled HDMI 3 or 4, or check with the manufacturer.
• Your HDMI cable isn't compatible. Only an HDMI 2.1 cable will support 120Hz.

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FAQ

Can the Xbox Series X handle 120Hz?

Yes. Ever since the Xbox Series X release date in 2020, the console has supported refresh rates of up to 120Hz. However, you'll also need a compatible TV or monitor.

Do I need HDMI 2.1 for 120Hz?

Yes. An HDMI 2.1 cable has more bandwidth than regular HDMI cables, which allows it to support higher resolutions and faster refresh rates.

Is 60Hz or 120Hz better for Xbox Series X?

120Hz has less input lag than 60Hz, so it's better for fine-tuning your console's overall gaming performance