The PlayStation 5 (PS5) packs powerful gaming hardware to let you enjoy the latest games. And for that, it offers two distinct modes: Performance Mode and Resolution Mode. This choice can shape gaming experience on a supporting TV or a monitor. Before you jump the gun, it’s crucial to understand the differences between the two modes, including their benefits and drawbacks. We will provide all the necessary information to help you make the right choice. So, let’s get right to it.
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What’s the Difference Between Performance Mode and Resolution Mode
The PS5’s Performance mode prioritizes higher FPS (Frames per second) in games, resulting in smoother gameplay and a fluid experience. If you have a TV or monitor that supports 120Hz, choose the Performance mode on your PS5. This will allow you to experience 120 FPS in supporting games, include popular titles like Fortnite, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, God of War Ragnarök, and others.
Performance mode lowers the display resolution to 1440p (2K) to achieve this higher frame rate. Also, features like Ray Tracing, which provide realistic lighting effects, are typically disabled to maintain the higher frame rate.
Advantages of Using Performance Mode
- Higher FPS
- Smooth gameplay and fluid motion
- Reduced input lag
Disadvantages of Using Performance Mode
- Less detailed visuals
- Effects like Ray Tracing may not work
Resolution mode prioritizes visuals by rendering your games at 4K resolution. This mode brings out sharp details and life-like environments on a compatible monitors or TVs. It also enables features like Ray Tracing with realistic lighting effects in supporting games.
All that comes at the cost of the frame rate limit of 30 FPS. So while your games may look amazing, it is relatively less responsive than performance mode. Also, the difference in visual performance varies across games, depending on the optimization and design decisions implemented by the developers for each specific title.
Advantages of Using Resolution Mode
- Games appear in 4K resolution
- Offers stunning visuals and gameplay
- Supports Ray Tracing
Disadvantages of Using Resolution Mode
- Relatively lower frame rates
- Not so great with first-person shooters and fast-paced action games
Best Modes for Different Games: Performance vs Resolution Mode
Performance mode is ideal for PS5 games that demand quick reflexes and split-second decisions in games such as Call of Duty, DOOM Eternal, Mortal Combat, Apex Legends, and others.
Enabling Resolution mode can enhance the experience of action-adventure or cinematic games like Red Dead Redemption 2, God of War, Horizon Zero Dawn, The Last of Us, and others.
How to Enable Performance Mode or Resolution Mode on Your PS5
Switching to Performance or Resolution mode on your PS5 is quick and simple. Here are the steps you can follow.
1. On your PS5 home screen, select the gear-shaped Settings icon at the top-right corner.
2. Scroll down to select Saved Data and Game/App Settings.
3. Switch to the Game Presets tab. Then, use the drop-down for Performance Mode or Resolution Mode to choose your preferred option.
After that, the PS5 will run all your games as per your chosen option.
FAQs
1. Do all PS5 games support Performance and Resolution modes?
No, not every PS5 game supports Performance and Resolution modes. For example, Gotham Knights on PS5 is capped at 30 frames per second and does not support Performance mode.
2. Does my monitor or TV’s resolution and refresh rate impact the PS5’s capability to run games in performance or resolution mode?
Yes. The resolution and refresh capabilities of your monitor or TV can affect the actual performance and visual experience of PS5 games. If you select the Resolution mode, your display (monitor or TV) needs to support 4K to take full advantage of the change. Likewise, pick Performance mode makes your monitor or TV’s refresh rate essential.
Choose What’s Best for You
Ultimately, it’s best to choose a mode to match the game. The choice of the best mode depends on the type of game you play and the capabilities of your TV or monitor. The best way to determine your preference is to try both modes and choose the one that provides you with the most comfort and visual appeal.
