Unpacking the PS5 HDMI Cable: Features and Benefits

The HDMI cable is an essential component of your PlayStation5 gaming setup. It is responsible for transmitting audio and video data from your console to your TV or display. In this post, we’ll explore in greater detail the features of the HDMI cable that comes with the PS5 by answering some of the most asked questions about it.

Is the PS5 HDMI Cable 2.1?

You’re probably wondering whether the cable that comes with the PS5 is truly a Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cable. It’s understandable to have some doubts because it isn’t labelled as one. You’ll be pleased to know that it is indeed an Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cable. If you don’t believe us, here’s a video of the cable being tested:

The PS5 HDMI 2.1 cable has a standard Type-A connector. If you have an older TV or display, no need to worry, because the HDMI 2.1 connector is backward compatible with older HDMI ports, as long as it is a type-A port.

Does the PS5 HDMI Cable Support 120Hz?

Yes, the HDMI cable that comes with the PS5 supports 4K resolution @ 120Hz, as well as 8K resolution @ 60Hz. You must remember that to get 4K 120 Hz, both your cable and TV / display need to be able to support it. Your output will be limited by the weakest link in the chain.

Does the PS5 HDMI Cable Support HDR?

Yes, being a HDMI 2.1 cable, it supports HDR (High Dynamic Range). HDR enhances the contrast and color range of the image. It makes for more intensive images, like darker and more detailed shadows as well as brighter daylight and highlight representation. All of which leads to a more realistic and immersive gaming experience.

Is the PS5 HDMI Cable the Same as the PS4?

No, the HDMI cable that comes with the PS5 is a HDMI 2.1 cable while the HDMI cable that comes with the PS4 is a HDMI 2.0 cable. A HDMI 2.1 cable can support 4K resolution at 120 Hz and 8K resolution at 60 Hz. On the other hand, a HDMI 2.0 cable can only support 4K resolution at 60Hz. The following table sums up the differences between the HDMI cables that come with the two consoles:

	PS5 Cable	PS4 Cable
HDMI version	2.1	2.0
Resolution and refresh rate	4K 120Hz	4K 60Hz
Resolution and refresh rate	8K 60Hz	–

You can use the HDMI cable that comes with the PS5 and it would work on your PS4 as well since HDMI 2.1 cables are designed to be backwards compatible.

Can I Use Any HDMI Cable for the PS5?

Technically, you could use any HDMI cable that has a standard type-A connector with the PS5. Older version cables won’t be able to support some the full range of features offered by the PS5, such as 4K resolution at 120Hz, 8K resolution at 60Hz, and HDR. In our opinion, a HDMI 2.0 cable is the minimum and a HDMI 2.1 cable would be recommended.

How long is the PS5 HDMI Cable?

The PS5 HDMI cable is approximately 2 meters (6.5 feet) long. This is long enough for most setups, but if you need a longer cable, you can always buy 2.5 meters (8 feet) or 3 meters (10 feet) certified cables.

Make sure that you go for an Ultra High Speed one that has been certified by the HDMI licensing administrator. You can identify the legitimate cables as these have the hologram and label. They’ve undergone stricter quality control so you can be rest assured that they will be able to carry the full 48 Gbps.

Final thoughts

The HDMI cable is an important part of your gaming setup. As we mentioned, your video resolution and refresh rate are limited by the weakest link in your chain. The one that comes with your PS5 is an Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cable. It can support 4K 120Hz as well as 8K 60Hz output. If you need a replacement HDMI cable, remember to only buy Ultra High Speed cables that have been certified by the HDMI licensing authority, to ensure a high quality gaming experience.

Now that you’ve taken care of your display setup, improve your online gaming experience by switching from Wi-Fi to a direct Ethernet connection. Learn more about the right type of Ethernet cable to buy in the linked article.