High frame rates have revolutionized the gaming experience, offering a level of smoothness and responsiveness that was once only a dream. 120 FPS (frames per second) is a sweet spot for many gamers, providing a significant visual upgrade over the standard 60 FPS without requiring the absolute top-tier hardware needed for even higher rates. But how do you actually enable 120 FPS? It’s not always a simple toggle, and it depends heavily on your hardware, the game you’re playing, and the display you’re using. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to achieve that buttery-smooth 120 FPS gaming experience.
Understanding the Requirements for 120 FPS
Before diving into specific settings, it’s crucial to understand the fundamental requirements for achieving 120 FPS. You’ll need a capable display, a powerful enough device (PC, console, or mobile), the right cables, and a game that supports high frame rates. Overlooking even one of these components can prevent you from reaching your desired frame rate.
The Display: Refresh Rate Matters
The most obvious requirement is a display with a 120Hz refresh rate or higher. Refresh rate refers to how many times per second your monitor updates the image on the screen. If your monitor is only 60Hz, it can only display a maximum of 60 frames per second, regardless of how high your game’s frame rate is. Look for monitors specifically marketed as 120Hz, 144Hz, or even higher (like 240Hz or 360Hz). These numbers indicate the maximum refresh rate they can support.
It’s important to note that some TVs advertise “effective” refresh rates or use terms like “Motion Rate” or “Clear Motion Rate” which are often marketing terms and don’t accurately represent the true refresh rate of the panel. Always check the specifications carefully and look for the actual refresh rate (in Hz) of the panel itself.
The Device: Processing Power is Key
Your device needs to be powerful enough to render games at 120 FPS at your desired resolution. This means having a capable CPU (Central Processing Unit) and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) in your PC, or a console that supports 120 FPS output.
For PC gaming, the required hardware will vary significantly depending on the game and the resolution you’re targeting. Demanding AAA titles at 1080p or 1440p resolution will require a mid-to-high-end graphics card and a modern CPU. Less demanding esports titles like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive or Valorant will be much easier to run at 120 FPS, even on less powerful hardware.
Consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S are capable of 120 FPS in select titles. However, not all games on these consoles support this frame rate, and some may require lowering the resolution to achieve it. Check the specific game’s settings or online resources to confirm if 120 FPS is supported.
Mobile devices are increasingly capable of high refresh rate gaming, with many modern smartphones and tablets featuring 120Hz displays. However, the availability of 120 FPS support in mobile games is still limited.
The Cable: Ensuring Proper Bandwidth
The cable connecting your device to your display also needs to support the bandwidth required for 120 FPS at your desired resolution. HDMI and DisplayPort are the two most common connection types.
For HDMI, you’ll need HDMI 2.0 or higher to support 120 FPS at 1080p or 1440p. For 4K resolution at 120 FPS, you’ll need HDMI 2.1. DisplayPort 1.4 is generally sufficient for 1440p at 120 FPS, while DisplayPort 2.0 offers even greater bandwidth for higher resolutions and refresh rates.
Using an older cable version, such as HDMI 1.4, may limit you to lower refresh rates or resolutions, even if your display and device are capable of more. Make sure to check the specifications of your cable and use a high-quality cable to ensure a stable connection.
Game Support: Not All Games are Created Equal
Not all games support 120 FPS. Some games are capped at 30 FPS or 60 FPS due to engine limitations, artistic choices, or console hardware restrictions. Before attempting to enable 120 FPS, check if the game you’re playing actually supports it. Game developers often publish lists of supported frame rates for different platforms. Search online for “[game name] 120 FPS support” to find this information.
Even if a game supports 120 FPS, it may not be enabled by default. You may need to adjust the in-game settings to unlock the higher frame rate.
Enabling 120 FPS on Different Platforms
The process of enabling 120 FPS varies depending on the platform you’re using. Below are instructions for PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and mobile devices.
PC Gaming: Tweaking Settings for Optimal Performance
Enabling 120 FPS on PC involves a combination of hardware setup, driver configuration, and in-game settings.
First, ensure your monitor is properly configured in Windows. Go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced display settings. Make sure the refresh rate is set to the highest available option (ideally 120Hz or higher). If you don’t see the correct refresh rate, your monitor driver might not be installed correctly. Visit your monitor manufacturer’s website to download and install the latest driver.
Next, update your graphics card drivers. NVIDIA and AMD regularly release driver updates that can improve performance and fix bugs. Download the latest drivers from the NVIDIA or AMD websites and install them.
Within your graphics card control panel (NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Software), you can further customize your display settings. Look for options like “Variable Refresh Rate” or “Adaptive Sync” and enable them. These technologies (G-Sync for NVIDIA and FreeSync for AMD) synchronize your monitor’s refresh rate with your graphics card’s output, reducing screen tearing and stuttering.
Finally, adjust the in-game settings. Go to the game’s graphics settings and look for options related to frame rate. Disable any frame rate caps or V-Sync (Vertical Sync) if you want to achieve the highest possible frame rate. You may also need to lower the graphics settings (resolution, texture quality, shadows, etc.) to achieve a stable 120 FPS, especially in demanding games. Experiment with different settings to find a balance between visual quality and performance.
Monitor your frame rate using in-game overlays (many games have built-in frame rate counters) or third-party software like MSI Afterburner. This will help you identify any bottlenecks and fine-tune your settings for optimal performance.
PlayStation 5: High Frame Rate Options
The PlayStation 5 supports 120 FPS in select games. To enable it, you’ll need to adjust the system settings and the in-game settings (if available).
First, ensure your TV or monitor supports HDMI 2.1 and 120Hz refresh rate at your desired resolution. Connect your PS5 to your display using an HDMI 2.1 cable.
On your PS5, go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Make sure “Enable 120 Hz Output” is set to “Automatic.” If your display doesn’t support 120Hz, this option may be grayed out.
Some games may require you to enable “Performance Mode” in the game’s settings to prioritize frame rate over visual fidelity. This option is usually found in the graphics settings menu.
Keep in mind that not all PS5 games support 120 FPS. Check the game’s packaging or online resources to confirm if it’s supported. Also, some games may only support 120 FPS at lower resolutions like 1080p or 1440p.
Xbox Series X/S: Optimizing for High Refresh Rates
The Xbox Series X and Series S also support 120 FPS in select games. The process for enabling it is similar to the PS5.
First, ensure your TV or monitor supports HDMI 2.1 and 120Hz refresh rate at your desired resolution. Connect your Xbox Series X/S to your display using an HDMI 2.1 cable.
On your Xbox, go to Settings > General > TV & display options > Video modes. Check the boxes for “Allow 4K,” “Allow HDR,” and “Allow variable refresh rate (VRR).”
Then, go to Settings > General > TV & display options > Resolution and select your desired resolution (e.g., 4K UHD, 1440p, or 1080p).
Next, go to Settings > General > TV & display options > Refresh rate and select “120 Hz.” If your display doesn’t support 120Hz at your selected resolution, this option may be grayed out.
Similar to the PS5, some games may require you to enable a “Performance Mode” or prioritize frame rate in the in-game settings. Check the game’s graphics settings for these options.
Confirm that the game you are playing supports 120 FPS on Xbox Series X/S.
Mobile Devices: Gaming on the Go
Many modern smartphones and tablets feature 120Hz displays, but enabling 120 FPS in mobile games can be a bit more complicated.
First, ensure your device’s display is set to 120Hz. The setting is usually found in the display settings menu of your device’s operating system. The exact location may vary depending on the device manufacturer and Android version. Look for options like “Smooth display,” “High refresh rate,” or “Adaptive refresh rate.”
Not all mobile games support 120 FPS. Check the game’s settings to see if there’s an option to enable it. Even if the game doesn’t explicitly state “120 FPS,” look for options like “High frame rate” or “Ultra frame rate.”
Keep in mind that running games at 120 FPS can drain your device’s battery faster. You may also experience performance issues if your device’s hardware isn’t powerful enough to handle the higher frame rate.
Some mobile games may automatically adjust the frame rate based on your device’s capabilities. If you’re not seeing 120 FPS, try lowering the graphics settings or closing other apps running in the background.
Troubleshooting Common 120 FPS Issues
Even after following the steps above, you may encounter issues when trying to enable 120 FPS. Here are some common problems and their solutions.
Display Not Recognized as 120Hz Capable
If your display isn’t being recognized as 120Hz capable, start by checking your cable connection. Make sure you’re using a high-quality HDMI 2.0/2.1 or DisplayPort cable and that it’s securely plugged into both your device and your display.
Next, update your display drivers. Visit your monitor manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers for your specific model.
In Windows, go to Settings > System > Display > Advanced display settings and click on “Display adapter properties.” Go to the “Monitor” tab and make sure the “Screen refresh rate” is set to the highest available option (ideally 120Hz or higher).
If you’re using a TV, make sure it’s set to “Game Mode” or a similar setting that disables post-processing effects that can introduce input lag and limit refresh rates.
Game Doesn’t Offer 120 FPS Option
If a game doesn’t offer a 120 FPS option in its settings, it may not support it. Check the game’s documentation or online resources to confirm if 120 FPS is supported on your platform.
Some games may have hidden settings or configuration files that allow you to unlock higher frame rates. Search online for “[game name] unlock 120 FPS” to see if there are any community-created solutions.
Performance Issues at 120 FPS
If you’re experiencing performance issues (e.g., stuttering, frame drops) while running a game at 120 FPS, your hardware may not be powerful enough to handle the higher frame rate.
Try lowering the graphics settings (resolution, texture quality, shadows, etc.) to improve performance. Close any unnecessary applications running in the background.
Consider upgrading your CPU or GPU if you consistently struggle to maintain 120 FPS in your favorite games.
Screen Tearing
Screen tearing occurs when your graphics card’s output doesn’t synchronize with your monitor’s refresh rate, resulting in a horizontal line appearing on the screen.
Enable V-Sync (Vertical Sync) in the game’s settings or in your graphics card control panel to synchronize your graphics card’s output with your monitor’s refresh rate. However, V-Sync can introduce input lag.
Alternatively, use variable refresh rate technology (G-Sync for NVIDIA or FreeSync for AMD) to eliminate screen tearing without adding significant input lag. Make sure your monitor and graphics card both support the same technology.
Enabling 120 FPS gaming can significantly enhance your overall gaming experience. By understanding the necessary requirements, properly configuring your devices, and troubleshooting common issues, you can unlock the benefits of smoother, more responsive gameplay.
What exactly is 120 FPS and why is it desirable for gaming?
120 FPS stands for 120 Frames Per Second. It refers to the number of individual images your display shows every second. A higher frame rate, like 120 FPS, results in a smoother and more responsive gaming experience compared to lower frame rates like 30 or 60 FPS. This increased fluidity translates to less motion blur and a clearer visual representation of fast-paced action, making it easier to track targets and react quickly.
The benefits of 120 FPS extend beyond just aesthetics. The reduced input lag, stemming from the faster refresh rate, allows for quicker reaction times. This can be a significant advantage in competitive games where milliseconds matter. Furthermore, a higher frame rate often reduces visual fatigue during extended gaming sessions, contributing to a more comfortable and enjoyable experience overall.
What hardware do I need to achieve 120 FPS gaming?
To reliably achieve 120 FPS in games, you’ll need a capable gaming PC or console. On the PC side, this typically requires a powerful graphics card (GPU) like an RTX 3070 or higher (or AMD equivalent), a fast CPU, and sufficient RAM (at least 16GB is recommended). Your components must be able to render the game at the desired resolution (usually 1080p or 1440p) while maintaining a consistent frame rate above 120.
Beyond the internal components, you’ll also need a display that supports a 120Hz (or higher) refresh rate. The refresh rate of your monitor or TV determines how many times per second it can update the image on the screen. If your display only supports 60Hz, you won’t be able to see the benefits of 120 FPS, even if your hardware is capable of rendering it. Make sure your HDMI or DisplayPort cables are also capable of supporting the bandwidth required for 120Hz at your chosen resolution.
How do I enable 120 FPS on my PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S?
Enabling 120 FPS on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S requires enabling the feature within the console’s system settings. Navigate to the display settings on either console and look for an option to enable 120Hz output. Ensure your TV or monitor is connected via HDMI 2.1, which is generally required to output 120Hz at 4K resolution.
Even with the system settings enabled, you’ll need to verify that the specific game you’re playing supports a 120 FPS mode. Not all games are optimized to run at this frame rate. In some cases, the game may have its own separate setting to enable or prioritize performance for 120 FPS gaming. Look within the game’s graphics options to confirm that 120 FPS is active.
What game settings should I adjust to improve my chances of achieving 120 FPS?
Lowering graphics settings is crucial for reaching and maintaining 120 FPS, especially if your hardware is struggling. Start by reducing the resolution of the game. Playing at 1080p instead of 1440p or 4K significantly reduces the load on your GPU. Next, decrease texture quality, shadow detail, and anti-aliasing settings. These have a substantial impact on performance.
Disable demanding effects like ambient occlusion, volumetric lighting, and depth of field, as these can be performance hogs. Consider adjusting or disabling post-processing effects like motion blur or bloom. Experiment with different combinations of settings to find a balance between visual fidelity and frame rate. Use the game’s built-in performance monitoring tools, if available, or third-party software like MSI Afterburner to track your FPS and identify which settings have the biggest impact.
What role does Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) play in 120 FPS gaming?
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technologies like AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth gaming experience, especially when targeting 120 FPS. VRR dynamically adjusts the refresh rate of your monitor to match the frame rate output by your GPU. This eliminates screen tearing, a visual artifact that occurs when the frame rate and refresh rate are out of sync.
VRR also minimizes stuttering, which can happen when the frame rate fluctuates below the refresh rate. By synchronizing the two, VRR delivers a more consistent and responsive gaming experience, even if you can’t consistently maintain a perfect 120 FPS. To take advantage of VRR, you need a compatible monitor and graphics card, and you must enable the feature in both your display settings and your GPU driver software.
How can I monitor my FPS to ensure I’m actually getting 120 FPS?
Several tools are available to monitor your FPS in-game. Many games have built-in FPS counters that can be enabled in the settings menu. Look for options labeled “Show FPS,” “Performance Overlay,” or similar terms. Enabling this will display your current FPS directly on the screen while you play.
Third-party software options, such as MSI Afterburner with RivaTuner Statistics Server (RTSS), are popular for their comprehensive monitoring capabilities. These programs can display FPS, GPU usage, CPU usage, and other performance metrics in an on-screen overlay. NVIDIA GeForce Experience also provides an FPS counter and performance monitoring tools. Choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences to keep track of your performance.
Are there any specific games where 120 FPS makes a noticeable difference?
Competitive first-person shooters (FPS) like Valorant, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), and Apex Legends benefit significantly from 120 FPS (or higher). The increased smoothness and responsiveness provide a crucial edge in fast-paced gunfights, allowing for quicker reaction times and more precise aiming. Fast-paced racing games like Forza Motorsport and Gran Turismo also benefit from the increased fluidity, improving control and immersion.
Games with fast camera movements or intense visual effects, such as action RPGs like Diablo IV or fighting games like Street Fighter 6, can also feel significantly smoother and more responsive at 120 FPS. The visual clarity and reduced motion blur make it easier to track the action and react to opponent movements. Ultimately, the perceived benefit of 120 FPS will vary depending on the individual gamer and the specific game being played.