Console Gamer
Bandwidth for console gamers: HDMI 2.1 vs DisplayPort for PS5 and Xbox
Buy a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for 4K 120Hz on your PS5 or Xbox. HDMI 2.1 is required for that 4K mode, while lower-resolution 120Hz modes can work over lower-bandwidth connections. Check the console, display, port, cable, VRR, and ALLM support as a complete chain.
Console gamers on PS5 and Xbox Series X need HDMI 2.1 to hit 4K 120Hz, the signature mode both consoles advertise. That mode needs about 40 Gbps of bandwidth, right at HDMI 2.1's 48 Gbps ceiling. DisplayPort isn't an option on consoles, so HDMI 2.1 is the only path.
Last updated 2026-06-24
Why this matters for you
The PS5 and Xbox Series X both output HDMI 2.1 with FRL signaling. A certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is required for 4K 120Hz, not just any HDMI cable. 4K 60Hz works fine on HDMI 2.0, and PS5 supports 1440p at 60 or 120Hz on a compatible display. 1080p at 120Hz can also fit within lower-bandwidth links. VRR and ALLM support depends on the console, display, resolution, and port, so HDMI 2.1 is required for 4K 120Hz but not every 120Hz console mode.
Verdict
Buy a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable for 4K 120Hz on your PS5 or Xbox. HDMI 2.1 is required for that 4K mode, while lower-resolution 120Hz modes can work over lower-bandwidth connections. Check the console, display, port, cable, VRR, and ALLM support as a complete chain.
Display Bandwidth Calculator
Required Bandwidth
Uncompressed
32.27 Gbps
With DSC (Display Stream Compression)
8.61 Gbps
CVT-RB v2 timing: 3920 x 2287 with blanking, 1075.804 MHz pixel clock.