How to Enable 120 FPS on Xbox Series S: A Comprehensive Guide
The Xbox Series S is a powerful little console that punches well above its weight class, offering a surprisingly smooth gaming experience for its affordable price point. One of its most appealing features is the ability to output games at 120 frames per second (FPS), providing a significantly more fluid and responsive visual experience compared to the standard 60 FPS. However, achieving 120 FPS on the Series S isn’t always as simple as plugging it in and playing. It requires understanding specific settings, compatible games, and the right display. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to unlock the potential of 120 FPS gaming on your Xbox Series S.
## Understanding 120 FPS: What’s the Hype?
Before diving into the how-to, let’s briefly discuss why 120 FPS is desirable. Simply put, a higher frame rate means the screen refreshes more frequently per second. This results in:
* **Smoother Motion:** Movement appears more fluid and less choppy, especially during fast-paced action.
* **Reduced Input Lag:** The delay between your button presses and the action on screen is minimized, making the game feel more responsive.
* **Improved Visual Clarity:** Fast-moving objects appear sharper and less blurred, making it easier to track targets and react quickly.
While the difference between 30 FPS and 60 FPS is very noticeable, the jump from 60 FPS to 120 FPS, while less dramatic, still provides a significant improvement in responsiveness and visual fluidity, particularly in competitive multiplayer games.
## Prerequisites: What You Need for 120 FPS on Xbox Series S
Before you can start tweaking settings, ensure you have the necessary hardware and software:
1. **Xbox Series S Console:** Obviously, you’ll need the console itself.
2. **A 120Hz Compatible Display:** This is the most crucial requirement. Your TV or monitor *must* support a 120Hz refresh rate at the resolution you intend to play at (typically 1080p or 1440p on the Series S). Simply having an HDMI 2.0 or HDMI 2.1 port isn’t enough; the display needs to actively support 120Hz. Check your display’s manual or manufacturer’s website to confirm its capabilities. Look for terms like “120Hz,” “refresh rate,” or “frame rate.” Common marketing terms like “Motion Rate 120” can be misleading and don’t necessarily guarantee a true 120Hz panel.
3. **High-Speed HDMI Cable:** While the HDMI cable included with your Xbox Series S is likely sufficient, ensure it’s a high-speed cable (HDMI 2.0 or higher) to handle the increased bandwidth required for 120 FPS at higher resolutions. If you experience visual artifacts or signal loss, try a different, certified high-speed HDMI cable.
4. **Games That Support 120 FPS:** Not all games on the Xbox Series S support 120 FPS. You’ll need to play titles that have been specifically optimized for this higher frame rate. We’ll provide a list of compatible games later.
5. **Latest Xbox System Software:** Make sure your Xbox Series S is running the latest system software. Microsoft regularly releases updates that improve performance and compatibility, so keeping your console up-to-date is essential.
## Step-by-Step Guide: Enabling 120 FPS on Your Xbox Series S
Now that you have the necessary hardware and software, follow these steps to enable 120 FPS on your Xbox Series S:
**Step 1: Verify Your Display’s 120Hz Capability**
This is the most critical step. Before changing any settings on your Xbox, confirm that your TV or monitor actually supports 120Hz at the resolution you plan to use. The easiest way to do this is to consult your display’s manual or the manufacturer’s website. Look for specifications related to refresh rate, frame rate, or supported resolutions.
* **Check the Manual:** Most manuals will clearly state the supported refresh rates at different resolutions. Look for phrases like “120Hz at 1080p” or “1440p @ 120Hz.”
* **Visit the Manufacturer’s Website:** Search for your TV or monitor model on the manufacturer’s website. The product page will typically list detailed specifications, including the supported refresh rates.
* **Use Online Resources:** Websites like DisplaySpecifications.com can be helpful in finding detailed information about various displays.
**Important Considerations:**
* **HDMI Version:** While HDMI 2.0 can support 120Hz at 1080p and 1440p, HDMI 2.1 is required for 120Hz at 4K resolution (which the Series S doesn’t natively support). Check the HDMI version of your display and the Xbox.
* **Variable Refresh Rate (VRR):** VRR technologies like AMD FreeSync or HDMI VRR can further enhance the gaming experience by dynamically adjusting the refresh rate to match the game’s frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. If your display supports VRR, enabling it is highly recommended.
**Step 2: Configure Your Xbox Series S Display Settings**
Once you’ve confirmed your display’s 120Hz capability, you need to configure your Xbox Series S settings to enable it.
1. **Open the Settings Menu:** Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide menu. Navigate to “Profile & system” > “Settings.”
2. **Go to General > TV & display options:** This is where you’ll find the settings related to your display.
3. **Select Resolution:** Choose the resolution you want to use. The Xbox Series S primarily targets 1080p and 1440p resolutions. While it can output at 4K, most games are upscaled from a lower resolution. For 120 FPS, 1080p or 1440p are generally recommended.
4. **Select Refresh Rate:** This is the crucial setting. In the “Refresh rate” dropdown menu, select “120 Hz.” If you don’t see this option, it likely means your display isn’t being recognized as a 120Hz display, or there may be a compatibility issue.
5. **Check Video Modes:** In the “Video modes” section, ensure the following options are checked:
* **Allow 50Hz:** This is primarily for video content, but it’s generally a good idea to leave it enabled.
* **Allow 24Hz:** Similar to 50Hz, this is for video content.
* **Allow HDR:** If your display supports High Dynamic Range (HDR), enable this option to enhance the color and contrast of compatible games and videos. Note that HDR can sometimes impact performance, so you may need to disable it if you experience issues.
* **Allow variable refresh rate (VRR):** If your display supports VRR (AMD FreeSync or HDMI VRR), make sure this option is enabled. This will allow the refresh rate of your display to dynamically adjust to the frame rate of the game, reducing screen tearing and stuttering.
* **Allow auto low latency mode (ALLM):** ALLM automatically switches your TV to its lowest latency mode when gaming, reducing input lag. If your display supports ALLM, enable this option.
**Troubleshooting if 120Hz Isn’t Showing Up:**
* **Double-Check Your HDMI Connection:** Ensure the HDMI cable is securely plugged into both your Xbox Series S and your display. Try using a different HDMI port on your display. Some TVs only support 120Hz on specific HDMI ports.
* **Verify Your Display’s Settings:** Some TVs require you to manually enable 120Hz mode or a specific “game mode” in their settings. Consult your TV’s manual for instructions.
* **Update Your Display’s Firmware:** Check the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates for your TV or monitor. Outdated firmware can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
* **Try a Different HDMI Cable:** Although the included HDMI cable should work, try using a different, certified high-speed HDMI cable to rule out a cable issue.
* **Restart Your Xbox and Display:** Sometimes a simple restart can resolve compatibility issues.
**Step 3: Verify 120 FPS is Enabled in Game Settings (If Applicable)**
Even if you’ve enabled 120Hz in your Xbox system settings, some games may require you to manually enable 120 FPS in their in-game settings menus. This is often found in the graphics or video settings.
* **Check the Game’s Options:** Look for options like “120 FPS Mode,” “High Frame Rate Mode,” or similar settings. Enable the option if available.
* **Performance vs. Quality Modes:** Some games offer a choice between performance and quality modes. Choose the performance mode to prioritize frame rate over graphical fidelity.
**Step 4: Test and Confirm 120 FPS**
After configuring your settings, it’s time to test if 120 FPS is actually working. The easiest way to do this is to use the Xbox’s built-in frame rate counter:
1. **Enable the Frame Rate Counter:** Go back to “Settings” > “General” > “TV & display options” > “Video modes” > “Advanced video settings” > “Refresh rate override.” Set the refresh rate override to “Application chooses.” This will allow you to see the refresh rate the application is using.
2. **Launch a 120 FPS Compatible Game:** Start a game that supports 120 FPS.
3. **Monitor the Refresh Rate:** While playing the game, the refresh rate displayed should show 120Hz. If it shows 60Hz or another value, it means 120 FPS is not being enabled.
**Alternative Methods for Verifying 120 FPS:**
* **Use Your Display’s Built-in Frame Rate Counter:** Some TVs and monitors have a built-in frame rate counter that you can enable in their settings. This will display the current refresh rate on the screen.
* **Visually Assess the Smoothness:** Pay close attention to the smoothness of the gameplay. If you’re used to 60 FPS, you should notice a significant improvement in fluidity when running at 120 FPS.
## Games That Support 120 FPS on Xbox Series S (Example List)
Keep in mind that the list of games that support 120 FPS is constantly growing. Always check the game’s documentation or the developer’s website to confirm compatibility.
Here are some examples of games that support 120 FPS on the Xbox Series S (as of late 2023/early 2024):
* **Gears 5 (Multiplayer):** A fast-paced cover-based shooter that benefits greatly from the increased responsiveness of 120 FPS.
* **Halo Infinite (Multiplayer):** Another competitive shooter that offers a significant advantage at 120 FPS.
* **Call of Duty: Warzone (Certain Modes):** Popular battle royale game with support for 120 FPS in specific modes.
* **Fortnite:** A visually vibrant battle royale game that looks and feels even better at 120 FPS.
* **Ori and the Will of the Wisps:** A beautiful and fluid platformer that shines at 120 FPS.
* **Rainbow Six Siege:** Tactical shooter with support for 120 FPS, allowing for faster reactions and more precise aiming.
* **Rocket League:** Fast-paced car soccer game that is incredibly responsive at 120 FPS.
* **Doom Eternal:** Visceral and intense first-person shooter that runs incredibly smoothly at 120 FPS.
* **Quake:** A classic FPS, remastered and running at 120FPS.
* **Psychonauts 2:** A quirky and imaginative platformer that looks great at 120 FPS.
**Important Notes:**
* **Resolution:** Some games may only support 120 FPS at a lower resolution (e.g., 1080p instead of 1440p). You may need to adjust your Xbox’s resolution settings accordingly.
* **Game Updates:** Ensure your games are updated to the latest version to take advantage of any 120 FPS optimizations.
## Optimizing Your Gaming Experience: Additional Tips
Beyond enabling 120 FPS, here are some additional tips to optimize your gaming experience on the Xbox Series S:
* **Enable Variable Refresh Rate (VRR):** If your display supports VRR (AMD FreeSync or HDMI VRR), enabling it will synchronize the refresh rate of your display with the frame rate of the game, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering. This is particularly beneficial for games that don’t consistently maintain a stable 120 FPS.
* **Use Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM):** ALLM automatically switches your TV to its lowest latency mode when gaming, reducing input lag. Ensure this option is enabled in both your Xbox settings and your display’s settings.
* **Adjust Picture Settings:** Experiment with your TV’s picture settings to find the optimal balance between image quality and performance. Some settings, like motion smoothing, can introduce input lag. Disable these settings for a more responsive gaming experience.
* **Manage Storage:** The Xbox Series S has a relatively small internal storage drive. Manage your storage carefully to ensure you have enough space for the games you want to play. Consider using an external hard drive to store games that you don’t play as frequently.
* **Use a Gaming Headset:** A good gaming headset can significantly enhance your immersion and provide a competitive advantage by allowing you to hear subtle audio cues.
## Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Even after following all the steps above, you may still encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
* **120Hz Not Showing Up in Settings:**
* **Solution:** Double-check your HDMI connection, verify your display’s settings, update your display’s firmware, and try a different HDMI cable.
* **Game Doesn’t Run at 120 FPS:**
* **Solution:** Ensure the game actually supports 120 FPS on the Xbox Series S. Check the game’s settings for a 120 FPS mode or performance mode. Make sure your Xbox’s resolution is set to a resolution that the game supports at 120 FPS (e.g., 1080p).
* **Screen Tearing or Stuttering:**
* **Solution:** Enable VRR (AMD FreeSync or HDMI VRR) in your Xbox settings and your display’s settings.
* **Input Lag:**
* **Solution:** Enable ALLM in your Xbox settings and your display’s settings. Disable any motion smoothing or other image processing features on your TV.
* **Visual Artifacts or Signal Loss:**
* **Solution:** Try a different, certified high-speed HDMI cable.
## Conclusion
Enabling 120 FPS on your Xbox Series S can significantly enhance your gaming experience, providing smoother motion, reduced input lag, and improved visual clarity. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can unlock the full potential of your console and enjoy a more immersive and responsive gaming experience. Remember to verify your display’s 120Hz capability, configure your Xbox settings correctly, and choose games that support 120 FPS. With a little bit of effort, you can transform your Xbox Series S into a high-performance gaming machine.
Enjoy gaming at 120FPS!