How to set up PS5 for HDR gaming the right way
💡 Need to know
- Check your TV first: It must support HDR10—or nothing else matters.
- Cable matters: Use a certified high-speed HDMI cable (cheap ones can break HDR).
- Turn HDR on: Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
- Dial it in: Run Adjust HDR to fix brightness and avoid washed-out visuals.
If you've enjoyed PS5® games on a standard definition TV, upgrading to an HDR TV with better picture quality can make a world of difference. Can't wait to power up your console and play Ghost of Tsushima with all of its stunning backdrops but aren't sure how to set up PS5 for HDR gaming?
Fortunately, it only requires some quick steps. At Asurion, we're plugged into every aspect of tech to give you easy solutions. Whether you're looking for the best PS5 accessories or need to troubleshoot a PS5 HDMI port that isn't working, you can count on us. Here's how to set up HDR gaming on PS5.
Confirm HDR settings on your PS5
Should you use HDR for gaming on a PS5? Using HDR can level up the gaming experience with improved color, contrast, and brightness. It makes a noticeable difference in games with impressive visuals and scenery. While some older games may not support HDR, you can easily adjust your settings to accommodate them.
To start, connect your PS5 to a TV with a compatible, certified high-speed HDMI cable. After attaching the cable, adjust your PS5 settings for HDR.
- Navigate to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output.
- Select HDR.
- Choose Always On if you want to convert incompatible games to HDR format.
- Choose On When Supported to play supported games in HDR. Non-supported games will play in SDR.
- Select Video Output > Adjust HDR. Follow the on-screen prompts to set the brightness.
- Select Automatic for Resolution and an RGB range that matches your TV.
If you have a mix of HDR-supported and unsupported games, choosing the On When Supported option provides a better user experience. It displays visuals as the developer intended them to look. But if you're curious to see how an unsupported game looks when converted to HDR, choose the Always On setting.
Settings aren't permanent. You can turn HDR on or off when gaming on PS5 anytime.
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Optimize HDR settings on your TV
To prepare your 4K HDR gaming monitor for PS5, adjust your TV's settings. Exact steps vary by TV manufacturer and model, but these general tips can get you started.
Enable HDMI Enhanced / UHD mode
HDR TVs include picture settings where you can enable an enhanced HDMI or UHD mode. To adjust them, use your remote to view the settings options.
- Navigate to Settings. Select Picture.
- Select Expert Settings > HDMI UHD Color.
- Select the HDMI port your PS5 is connected to.
- Select On.
- Restart your TV to save your settings.
Turn on HGIG and disable Dynamic Tone Mapping
HDR Gaming Interest Group (HGIG) is a standard used on HDR TVs that optimizes TV colors based on the game developer's settings. Enabling it will automatically disable Dynamic Tone Mapping, which adjusts brightness and contrast in real time. Use your TV remote to locate and turn on HGIG.
- Navigate to Settings.
- Select General > Game Optimizer.
- Select HGIG.
Activate Game Mode to reduce input lag
Game Mode limits the processing time for graphics and audio. That's a good thing—you want games to respond immediately to your inputs. On some TVs, Game Mode automatically turns on when the device detects a gaming console. But you can check your TV settings to see if there's an option for Game Mode to turn on.
- Navigate to Settings.
- Select Connection > Game Mode Settings.
- Switch on Game Mode.
Use the correct HDMI port
Make sure to plug the HDMI cable into a port that can handle 4K HDR. Ports labeled as HDMI 2.0 or HDMI 2.1 support 4K HDR gaming content.
Fix common HDR setup problems
After connecting your PS5 and HDR TV, try playing an HDR-supported game. This allows you to test your setup and verify that it's working properly. If problems pop up, use these tips to address them.
FAQ
How do I turn on HDR on PS5?
Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output, then set HDR to On When Supported or Always On.
Why does HDR look washed out on my PS5?
This usually means HDR isn’t calibrated correctly. Run Adjust HDR in settings and check your TV’s picture mode.
Do I need a special HDMI cable for HDR on PS5?
Yes—you need a certified high-speed HDMI cable (HDMI 2.0 or 2.1) to properly support HDR signals.
Should HDR be always on for PS5?
“On When Supported” is usually best—it keeps visuals accurate while avoiding issues with older, non-HDR games.
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