To get 4K 120Hz on your Samsung TV, particularly for high-performance gaming, you need to ensure compatibility, use the correct connections, and update your TV's software.
Achieving 4K 120Hz on Your Samsung TV
Achieving a smooth 4K 120Hz experience, most commonly desired for modern gaming, requires specific hardware and proper setup. This high refresh rate at 4K resolution significantly enhances the fluidity and responsiveness of compatible content, providing a more immersive and competitive edge in games.
Essential Requirements
Before attempting to enable 4K 120Hz, ensure you have the following in place:
- Compatible Samsung TV Model: Not all Samsung TVs support 4K 120Hz. Generally, this feature is available on newer models from 2020 onwards, particularly high-end QLED and Neo QLED series.
- Compatible Gaming Console or PC: Your source device must be capable of outputting 4K at 120Hz. This includes consoles like the PlayStation 5 (PS5) and Xbox Series X, or a high-end PC equipped with a suitable graphics card (GPU).
- Suitable HDMI Cable: You must use a certified HDMI 2.1 cable (also known as an Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable). Older HDMI cables (like HDMI 2.0) do not have the bandwidth required for 4K 120Hz.
- Latest TV Software: Ensure your Samsung TV's firmware is up to date.
Here's a summary of the key components:
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Samsung TV | A model that supports 4K 120Hz (e.g., specific QLED or Neo QLED models from 2020 onwards). |
| Gaming Console/PC | A device capable of 4K 120Hz output (e.g., PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or a PC with a compatible GPU). |
| HDMI Port | Usually HDMI 4, often labeled with a gamepad icon, supporting HDMI 2.1. |
| HDMI Cable | A certified HDMI 2.1 cable (also known as Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable). |
| TV Software | The latest software version installed on your Samsung TV. |
Connection and Setup Steps
Follow these steps to configure your Samsung TV for 4K 120Hz:
-
Connect to the Correct HDMI Port:
- Connect your gaming console or PC to the correct HDMI port on your TV. This is crucial as only specific ports on your Samsung TV are HDMI 2.1 enabled and can handle 4K 120Hz.
- This is usually HDMI 4 on Samsung TVs and on 2020 models, it is often shown by the label of a game pad icon next to the HDMI port. Refer to your TV's manual or the labels near the ports to identify the designated 4K 120Hz capable port.
-
Use a High-Quality HDMI 2.1 Cable:
- As mentioned, ensure you are using a certified HDMI 2.1 (Ultra High Speed) cable. A poor-quality or incorrect cable can prevent 4K 120Hz from working or lead to signal issues.
-
Update Your TV Software:
- Update your TV to the latest software version. Samsung frequently releases software updates that improve performance, add features, and fix bugs, which can be critical for new technologies like 4K 120Hz.
- To update, go to
Settings>Support>Software Update>Update Now.
-
Configure TV Settings (if necessary):
- Enable Input Signal Plus / Enhanced HDMI: For the specific HDMI port you are using, you may need to enable a setting like "Input Signal Plus" or "Enhanced HDMI." This setting tells the TV to accept the full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. You can usually find this under
Settings>General>External Device Manager>Input Signal Plus. - Activate Game Mode: While often automatic when a console is detected, ensure
Game Modeis enabled on your TV. This reduces input lag and optimizes picture settings for gaming. Access this viaSettings>General>External Device Manager>Game Mode Settings.
- Enable Input Signal Plus / Enhanced HDMI: For the specific HDMI port you are using, you may need to enable a setting like "Input Signal Plus" or "Enhanced HDMI." This setting tells the TV to accept the full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth. You can usually find this under
-
Configure Console/PC Display Settings:
- Finally, ensure your gaming console or PC is set to output 4K resolution at 120Hz.
- On PS5: Go to
Settings>Screen and Video>Video Output>Resolution. Select "Automatic" or "2160p" and ensure "120 Hz Output" is set to "Automatic." - On Xbox Series X: Go to
Settings>General>TV & display options. UnderDisplay, select4K UHDfor resolution and120Hzfor refresh rate. - On PC: Right-click on your desktop, go to
Display settings, scroll down toAdvanced display settings, and set theRefresh rateto 120Hz with 4K resolution.
Optimizing Your Experience
- Verify Resolution and Refresh Rate: After setup, check your TV's information display (often accessible via a remote button or TV settings) to confirm it is receiving a 4K 120Hz signal. Your console or PC's display settings should also confirm this output.
- Troubleshoot: If you encounter issues, try restarting both your TV and the connected device. Ensure no other devices are daisy-chained through the HDMI connection, and try a different HDMI 2.1 cable if problems persist.
For more detailed information, you can refer to Samsung's official support pages, such as 4K 120Hz Game Mode.
