How To Enable 120hz On Your Xbox Series X Monitor?

Welcome to the speed-driven world of gaming, where every millisecond counts and smooth visuals can make all the difference. As you immerse yourself in the thrilling adventures on your Xbox Series X, it’s time to crank up those display settings and unleash the true potential of your gaming experience.

In this guide, we’ll navigate through the steps to enable 120Hz on your Xbox Series X monitor, elevating your gameplay to buttery-smooth levels that will have you wondering how you ever played without it. Fasten your seatbelts, dear gamers; we’re about to take off into a realm of unmatched responsiveness and fluidity!

What is 120Hz Refresh Rate and Why Enable It

The 120Hz refresh rate refers to the number of times per second that a display updates the image on the screen. A higher refresh rate, such as 120Hz, means that the screen is capable of displaying 120 frames per second (fps). This results in smoother and more fluid visuals compared to lower refresh rates like 60Hz, which displays only 60 fps.

Enabling a 120Hz refresh rate on your Xbox Series X monitor can significantly improve your gaming experience. The increased frame rate allows for better motion clarity and reduced input lag, meaning your actions are registered faster on-screen and you can react more quickly during gameplay. This can be particularly beneficial in fast-paced games like first-person shooters or racing titles where split-second decisions are crucial for success.

In addition to providing a smoother gaming experience, enabling a 120Hz refresh rate can also reduce eye strain when playing for extended periods. Since the visuals are more fluid and less prone to screen tearing or stuttering, it’s easier for your eyes to track movement across the screen without strain.

Benefits of Gaming at 120Hz

Gaming at 120Hz offers a significant improvement in the overall gaming experience compared to the standard 60Hz refresh rate. There are several key benefits to consider when enabling this feature on your Xbox Series X:

1. Smoother gameplay: A higher refresh rate means that your monitor can display more frames per second (FPS), resulting in smoother motion and animation during gameplay. This is especially beneficial in fast-paced games where quick reflexes and precise movements are crucial.
2. Reduced motion blur: With more frames being displayed per second, there is less time between each frame, which helps reduce the appearance of motion blur. This allows for clearer visuals and easier tracking of moving objects on screen.
3. Decreased input lag: Input lag refers to the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the corresponding action on screen. A higher refresh rate can help minimize this delay, providing a more responsive gaming experience.
4. Increased immersion: The enhanced smoothness and clarity provided by 120Hz gaming can lead to a more immersive experience, making it easier for players to become fully engaged with the game world.
5. Competitive advantage: In competitive gaming scenarios, having a higher refresh rate can provide an edge over opponents who may be playing at lower refresh rates. The improved responsiveness and reduced motion blur can make it easier to react quickly and accurately during intense gameplay sessions.

In summary, enabling 120Hz on your Xbox Series X monitor provides numerous benefits that enhance your gaming experience, including smoother gameplay, reduced motion blur, decreased input lag, increased immersion, and potential competitive advantages.

Checking Your Monitor’s Compatibility

Before enabling 120Hz on your Xbox Series X, it’s crucial to ensure that your monitor is compatible with this refresh rate. To achieve the smoothest gaming experience, follow these steps to verify compatibility:

Identifying HDMI 2.1 Support

The HDMI 2.1 standard is required for a 120Hz refresh rate at higher resolutions like 4K. Check your monitor’s specifications or user manual to confirm if it supports HDMI 2.1. If you’re unsure, look for the HDMI logo on the back of the monitor or search for its model number online.

Verifying the Display’s Refresh Rate

Next, determine whether your display can support a 120Hz refresh rate. This information can also be found in the monitor’s specifications or user manual. Some monitors may only support a high refresh rate at lower resolutions (e.g., 1080p), so make sure to check if it’s capable of handling 120Hz at your desired resolution.

Keep in mind that not all displays are created equal; some might have limitations on specific input ports or require additional settings adjustments to enable higher refresh rates. Refer to your display’s documentation for any specific requirements.

By confirming that your monitor supports both HDMI 2.1 and a 120Hz refresh rate, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying smoother gameplay on your Xbox Series X console.

Identifying HDMI 2.1 Support

To determine if your monitor supports HDMI 2.1, you’ll need to check its specifications. HDMI 2.1 is a crucial requirement for enabling 120Hz on your Xbox Series X, as it offers the necessary bandwidth and features to handle higher refresh rates at resolutions such as 4K.

Start by looking up the model number of your monitor or TV in the user manual or on the manufacturer’s website. Once you have this information, search for the product’s specifications page, which should list all supported inputs and their respective versions.

If you’re unable to find this information online, another option is to check the physical ports on your display device. Some manufacturers label their HDMI ports with version numbers, making it easy to identify HDMI 2.1 support.

Keep in mind that just because a monitor has an HDMI 2.1 port does not guarantee that it can support a 120Hz refresh rate at higher resolutions like 4K. You will also need to verify the display’s maximum refresh rate in its specifications, which is covered in the next subheading: “Verifying the Display’s Refresh Rate.”

Verifying the Display’s Refresh Rate

Before attempting to enable 120Hz on your Xbox Series X, it’s crucial to verify that your display supports a 120Hz refresh rate. Some monitors and TVs may not have the necessary hardware to support this feature. To check your display’s compatibility, follow these steps:

1. Refer to the user manual: Consult the documentation provided with your monitor or TV to find its supported refresh rates. You can also search for the product specifications online if you don’t have access to a physical manual.
2. Access the on-screen display (OSD) menu: Most modern monitors and TVs come equipped with an on-screen menu that allows users to adjust various settings, including refresh rates. Navigate through this menu by using buttons or controls located on your display device.
3. Check for available refresh rate options: Once you’ve accessed the OSD menu, look for settings related to the refresh rate or screen frequency. These settings are typically found under “Display” or “Advanced Settings.” If you see an option for 120Hz, it means your monitor is compatible with this higher refresh rate.
4. Confirm compatibility through manufacturer websites: If you’re still unsure about your display’s capabilities, visit the manufacturer’s website and search for detailed information about your specific model number.
5. Look for third-party resources: Websites such as DisplaySpecifications.com and RTINGS.com provide comprehensive lists of monitor and TV specifications, including supported refresh rates.

By verifying that your display supports a 120Hz refresh rate, you can ensure a smoother gaming experience when enabling this feature on your Xbox Series X console.

Enabling 120Hz on Your Xbox Series X

To enable 120Hz on your Xbox Series X, you will need to follow a series of steps that involve updating your console’s firmware, navigating to the appropriate video settings, and selecting the desired refresh rate options. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Updating Console Firmware

Before attempting to enable 120Hz, ensure that your Xbox Series X is running the latest firmware. This is crucial as updates may include improvements or fixes related to video output settings.

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide.
2. Navigate to Profile & system > Settings > System > Updates & downloads.
3. If an update is available, select Update console and wait for the process to complete.

Navigating to the Video Settings

Once your console is up-to-date, you can access the video settings where you’ll find options for adjusting resolution and refresh rate.

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller and open the guide.
2. Go to Profile & system > Settings > General > TV & display options.

Selecting the Refresh Rate Options

After accessing the TV & display options menu, you can now choose between different resolutions and refresh rates compatible with your monitor.

1. Under “Resolution,” select either 1080p or 1440p depending on your monitor’s native resolution (4K monitors should be set at 1440p for 120Hz support).
2. Scroll down to “Refresh rate” and choose 120Hz, if available.

If 120Hz is not listed as an option in this menu, double-check that both your monitor and HDMI cable are compatible with HDMI 2.1 standards and support high refresh rates.

After completing these steps, you should have successfully enabled 120Hz on your Xbox Series X. Keep in mind that not all games are designed to run at 120Hz, so you may not notice a difference in every title. However, for those that do support this feature, you’ll enjoy smoother gameplay and reduced input lag.

Updating Console Firmware

To ensure a smooth experience when enabling 120Hz on your Xbox Series X, it is essential to update the console’s firmware. This will guarantee that you have the latest features and improvements, including support for higher refresh rates.

Follow these steps to update your Xbox Series X firmware:

1. Turn on your Xbox Series X and make sure it is connected to the internet.
2. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide menu.
3. Navigate to the Profile & system tab (the one with your profile picture) and select Settings.
4. In the Settings menu, go to System > Updates & downloads.
5. If an update is available, you will see an option called Console update available. Select this option and follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the update.

Please note that updates are usually downloaded automatically when your console is connected to the internet and turned off or in standby mode. However, manually checking for updates ensures that you have the most recent firmware version before attempting to enable 120Hz.

Once you have updated your console’s firmware, proceed with navigating to video settings and selecting refresh rate options as described in subsequent subheadings of this article.

Navigating to the Video Settings

To access the video settings on your Xbox Series X, follow these simple steps:

1. Power on your Xbox Series X console and sign in to your account.
2. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide menu.
3. Navigate to the Profile & system tab, which is represented by an icon with your profile picture.
4. Select Settings from the dropdown menu that appears.
5. In the Settings menu, choose the General tab and then select TV & display options.

You will now be in the TV & display options menu, where you can adjust various video settings for your Xbox Series X, including enabling 120Hz refresh rate.

Selecting the Refresh Rate Options

To select the refresh rate options on your Xbox Series X, follow these steps:

1. Turn on your Xbox Series X console and sign in to your profile.
2. Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide menu.
3. Navigate to the Profile & system tab by using the RB (right bumper) button or left thumbstick, and then select Settings.
4. In the Settings menu, choose General, followed by TV & display options.
5. Under TV & display options, you will find a section called Refresh rate. By default, it is usually set to 60Hz.
6. Click on the Refresh rate option, and a drop-down menu will appear with available refresh rates for your monitor or TV.
7. If your display supports 120Hz and you have properly connected it using an HDMI 2.1 cable, you should see an option for 120Hz in this menu.
8. Select 120Hz from the list of available refresh rates.

Once you have selected 120Hz as your preferred refresh rate, your Xbox Series X console will apply this setting and adjust its output accordingly. Keep in mind that not all games support 120Hz gameplay; however, those that do will benefit from smoother visuals and improved responsiveness during gameplay.

It’s essential to ensure that both your monitor or TV can support 120Hz at the desired resolution (e.g., 1080p or 4K) before attempting to enable this feature on your Xbox Series X console. If you experience any issues after selecting 120Hz as your preferred refresh rate, refer to the troubleshooting section of this article for guidance on resolving common problems related to enabling higher refresh rates on compatible displays.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with 120Hz Setup

Troubleshooting Common Issues with 120Hz Setup can be crucial to ensure a smooth gaming experience on your Xbox Series X. Some common problems might arise when trying to enable 120Hz, so let’s discuss how to resolve them effectively.

Resolving Incompatible Display Port Cables: One of the most common issues gamers face is using an incompatible cable between their Xbox Series X and monitor. To support 120Hz, you need a high-speed HDMI cable that can handle the bandwidth required for this refresh rate. The HDMI 2.1 standard is recommended for optimal performance, but in some cases, a good quality HDMI 2.0 cable may also work. If you’re unsure about your current cable, try replacing it with one that explicitly supports HDMI 2.1 or higher.

Adjusting Game Mode and Other TV Settings: Another issue that could prevent you from enabling 120Hz is improper settings on your TV or monitor. First, make sure your display has a dedicated Game Mode, as this mode typically optimizes the screen for gaming by reducing input lag and enabling higher refresh rates. If your display doesn’t have Game Mode, look for other settings like “Motion Smoothing” or “Motion Interpolation,” which should be disabled to prevent artificially increasing the refresh rate at the cost of input lag.

If you’ve checked these settings and still cannot enable 120Hz on your Xbox Series X, consider reaching out to your display manufacturer’s customer support for further assistance or consult the user manual provided with your device.

By resolving these common issues related to setting up a 120Hz gaming experience on Xbox Series X, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying smoother gameplay with reduced motion blur and increased responsiveness.

Resolving Incompatible Display Port Cables

Incompatible Display Port cables can be a common issue when trying to enable 120Hz on your Xbox Series X. It is crucial to ensure that you are using the correct cable to achieve the desired refresh rate. The following steps will guide you through identifying and resolving this issue:

1. Check the cable type: The Xbox Series X requires an HDMI 2.1 cable to support 120Hz at higher resolutions such as 4K. If you are using an older HDMI cable, such as HDMI 2.0 or lower, it may not support the necessary bandwidth for 120Hz gaming.
2. Inspect for damage: Examine your HDMI cable for any visible signs of wear or damage. A damaged cable can impede the signal transmission and prevent your console from achieving the desired refresh rate.
3. Test with another cable: If you have access to another HDMI 2.1 cable, try swapping it out and see if it resolves the issue. This will help determine if the problem lies with your current cable or other factors.
4. Ensure proper connection: Make sure that both ends of the HDMI cable are securely connected to your Xbox Series X and monitor or TV respectively. A loose connection can lead to signal degradation and impact performance.
5. Verify manufacturer specifications: Some third-party cables may not meet the required standards for HDMI 2.1 compatibility despite being labeled as such. Check online reviews and manufacturer information before purchasing a new cable to ensure it supports the necessary features.
6. Consider upgrading: If you continue experiencing issues after trying these steps, consider investing in a high-quality, certified HDMI 2.1 cable from a reputable brand like Belkin or Monoprice.

By addressing potential issues with your display port cables, you can ensure a smooth gaming experience at 120Hz on your Xbox Series X console.

Adjusting Game Mode and Other TV Settings

To ensure the best gaming experience with 120Hz on your Xbox Series X, it’s essential to adjust game mode and other TV settings. These adjustments can help minimize input lag and optimize display performance for high-refresh-rate gaming.

Game Mode: Most modern TVs come with a built-in game mode that optimizes the display settings for gaming. This mode reduces input latency and enhances the overall responsiveness of your gaming experience. To enable game mode, navigate to your TV’s settings menu, look for an option labeled “Game Mode” or similar, and toggle it on.

Disable Motion Smoothing: Motion smoothing is a feature that interpolates additional frames between the original ones to create a smoother appearance in fast-moving scenes. While this may be useful for watching movies or sports broadcasts, it can introduce unwanted artifacts and input lag during gaming. To disable motion smoothing, go to your TV’s picture settings menu and turn off any options related to motion interpolation, such as “TruMotion,” “MotionFlow,” or “Auto Motion Plus.”

Adjust Backlight Settings: Adjusting the backlight settings can improve the visibility of dark areas in games without affecting overall image quality. In your TV’s picture settings menu, find the backlight control option (sometimes labeled as “Brightness” or “Backlight Level”) and increase it until dark areas are more visible without washing out colors.

Enable HDR: High Dynamic Range (HDR) provides better color accuracy and contrast by allowing the display to show a wider range of colors and brightness levels. To enable HDR on your Xbox Series X, make sure that both your console and TV support HDR10 or Dolby Vision standards. Then, navigate to your console’s video output settings and select “Allow HDR.” Finally, configure HDR settings on your TV according to its user manual.

Remember that every TV model has different menus and setting names; consult your TV’s user manual for specific instructions on adjusting these settings. By fine-tuning game mode and other TV settings, you can optimize your display for 120Hz gaming on Xbox Series X and enjoy a more immersive and responsive experience.

List of Games That Support 120Hz on Xbox Series X

As a gamer, you might be interested in knowing which games currently support 120Hz on the Xbox Series X. This higher refresh rate offers smoother gameplay and enhanced visuals, providing an immersive gaming experience. Here is a list of some popular games that support 120Hz on Xbox Series X:

1. Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War: This first-person shooter game from the popular Call of Duty franchise offers both multiplayer and single-player modes with 120Hz support.
2. Dirt 5: A thrilling racing game that takes advantage of the high refresh rate to deliver smooth and responsive gameplay.
3. Halo Infinite: The highly anticipated addition to the Halo series will feature 120Hz support in its multiplayer mode, ensuring fast-paced action and fluid movement.
4. Ori and the Will of the Wisps: This visually stunning platformer runs at 120Hz, providing incredibly smooth animations and responsive controls.
5. Rainbow Six Siege: Ubisoft’s tactical first-person shooter supports 120Hz on Xbox Series X, allowing for more precise aiming and quicker reactions during intense firefights.

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive, as developers continue to release new games with 120Hz support or update existing titles to take advantage of this feature on Xbox Series X. To stay up-to-date with the latest information regarding games supporting higher refresh rates, it’s advisable to follow official announcements from game developers or consult dedicated gaming forums and news websites.

Additionally, note that some games may require you to enable specific settings within their options menus or adjust your console’s video settings to fully benefit from 120Hz gameplay. Always check in-game settings for any display-related options when playing a title that supports higher refresh rates.

Conclusion

In conclusion, enabling 120Hz on your Xbox Series X monitor can significantly enhance your gaming experience by providing smoother visuals and better overall performance. To take advantage of this feature, it’s essential first to ensure that your monitor is compatible with the necessary HDMI 2.1 support and can handle a 120Hz refresh rate. Once verified, updating your console firmware and adjusting video settings within the Xbox Series X will enable the desired refresh rate.

However, some common issues may arise during the setup process, such as incompatible display port cables or improperly adjusted TV settings. Being aware of these potential problems and understanding how to troubleshoot them will ensure a seamless transition to 120Hz gaming. Lastly, keep in mind that not all games currently support this higher refresh rate; therefore, staying informed about which titles are optimized for 120Hz will help you make the most of this impressive feature on your Xbox Series X.