Getting 4K120Hz or VRR working between your PS5 and LG C2/C3 can feel like solving a puzzle, with one wrong setting dropping you back to 4K60 or causing blackouts. Most issues stem from HDMI bandwidth limitations, incompatible cables, or incorrect port settings that prevent the console and TV from negotiating the higher refresh rates properly.
Quick answer
• Use HDMI 3 or 4 — these are the only full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports on LG C2/C3 • Enable "4K 120Hz" mode for your HDMI input in TV settings • Use Ultra High Speed HDMI cable — regular cables can't handle 4K120 bandwidth • Update firmware on both PS5 and TV before troubleshooting • Test 4K60 stability first before enabling 120Hz or VRR
Symptoms
• PS5 reports that 4K120Hz or VRR are "not supported" despite TV advertising them • Screen goes black when enabling 120Hz mode in PS5 settings • Picture drops to 1080p or lower resolution unexpectedly • VRR causes flickering or unstable image quality • Console shows bandwidth warnings in video output tests
Quick checks
• Confirm you're using HDMI 3 or 4 — other ports on LG C2/C3 don't support full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth • Check your HDMI cable — if it's not labeled "Ultra High Speed," it likely can't handle 4K120 • Update both devices — install any pending firmware updates on PS5 and TV • Test direct connection — bypass any HDMI switches or receivers temporarily
Step-by-step fix
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Connect PS5 to HDMI 3 or 4 on your LG TV using an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable
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Enable enhanced HDMI mode on TV: • Press Settings on remote → All Settings → General → Devices → HDMI Settings • Select the HDMI port your PS5 uses • Set HDMI Deep Color to "4K 120Hz" or "Enhanced"
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Configure PS5 for stable 4K60 first: • Go to Settings → Screen and Video → Video Output • Set Resolution to "4K - 2160p" • Set Refresh Rate to "60 Hz" • Enable HDR if desired • Test for stability
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Enable 120Hz mode: • In PS5 Video Output settings, change Refresh Rate to "120 Hz" • If screen goes black, wait 15 seconds for auto-revert, then try a different cable
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Enable VRR (if 120Hz works): • Go to Settings → Screen and Video → Video Output → VRR • Set to "Automatic" • Test with supported games
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Optimize TV picture settings: • Press Home → Picture Mode Settings • Select "Game" picture mode for lowest input lag • Turn off motion smoothing and noise reduction
If it still isn't working
If using an HDMI receiver: Connect PS5 directly to TV first to verify 4K120 works, then check if your receiver supports HDMI 2.1 passthrough. Many older receivers can't handle 4K120 bandwidth.
If 4K120 fails but 4K60 + VRR works: This combination often provides better stability with minimal performance impact. Consider staying with this setup.
Persistent blackouts: Try disabling ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) in both PS5 and TV settings. Some units have compatibility issues with this feature.
Contact support: If your specific HDMI port and cable are confirmed working but 4K120 still fails, document your settings with screenshots for LG or Sony support.
FAQ
Q: Do I need HDMI 3 or 4 specifically? A: Yes, HDMI 1 and 2 on LG C2/C3 are limited bandwidth ports that can't support 4K120Hz or full VRR functionality.
Q: Will any HDMI cable work for 4K120? A: No, you need an "Ultra High Speed HDMI" cable rated for 48Gbps. Regular "High Speed" cables will cause blackouts or force lower resolutions.
Q: Should I use VRR and 120Hz together? A: Test them separately first. Enable 120Hz, confirm stability, then add VRR. Some games perform better with one or the other.
Q: Why does my receiver block 4K120? A: Older receivers often lack HDMI 2.1 chips needed for 4K120 passthrough. Check if your model supports "8K Enhanced" or similar high-bandwidth modes.