Yes, you absolutely can connect your PS5 to a gaming monitor, and it’s a fantastic way to play. This is a common question for gamers looking to upgrade their setup, and the process is usually very simple.
Many gamers prefer monitors for their fast response times and high refresh rates. This can give you a real edge in competitive games. The setup is not much harder than connecting to a TV.
You just need the right cables and to check a few settings on your monitor. Most modern monitors have the ports you need. Let’s break down everything you need to know to get started.
Can I Connect My PS5 to a Gaming Monitor? The Simple Answer
So, can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor? The answer is a clear yes. This is one of the best ways to enjoy your console.
Gaming monitors are built for speed and clarity. They often have features that TVs lack. This makes them perfect for fast-paced PS5 games.
The main thing you need is an HDMI port. Every PS5 comes with a high-speed HDMI cable. If your monitor has an HDMI port, you are already halfway there.
You might ask, can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor for the best performance? For many players, the answer is yes. The lower input lag feels amazing.
Just plug the HDMI cable from your PS5 into the monitor. Then turn both devices on. You should see your PS5 home screen right away.
If you see a picture, you did it right. If not, don’t worry. We will cover troubleshooting steps later in this guide.
What You Need to Connect Your PS5 to a Monitor
Before you start, gather a few simple items. You likely have most of them already. This makes the setup process smooth and easy.
First, you need the PS5 console itself. You also need the power cable and the controller. These are the basics for any setup.
Next, you need a gaming monitor with an HDMI port. The port version matters for the best picture. Look for HDMI 2.1 if you can, but HDMI 2.0 works well too.
You also need the HDMI cable that came with your PS5. It is a high-speed cable that supports 4K. If you lost it, any good HDMI 2.1 cable will do the job.
Think about sound. Most monitors have weak speakers or none at all. You will need a way to hear your game.
You can use a gaming headset plugged into the PS5 controller. You can also use external PC speakers plugged into the monitor’s audio-out port. Planning for sound is a key step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Connect Your PS5
Let’s walk through the actual connection process. It only takes a few minutes. Follow these steps to get gaming fast.
First, turn off your PS5 and your gaming monitor. It’s best to plug in cables when devices are off. This prevents any possible short circuits.
Take the HDMI cable and plug one end into the back of your PS5. The port is labeled “HDMI OUT”. Make sure it’s plugged in all the way.
Now, plug the other end of the cable into your gaming monitor’s HDMI port. Use the best port if your monitor has more than one. It might be labeled “HDMI 2.1” or “4K”.
Next, connect your PS5 to power and turn it on. Turn on your gaming monitor as well. Use the monitor’s buttons to select the correct HDMI input source.
You should now see the PS5 screen. The system might ask you to adjust some display settings. Just follow the on-screen prompts.
Finally, set up your audio. Plug your headset into the controller or connect speakers to the monitor. Test the sound in a game to make sure it works.
Optimizing Your PS5 Settings for a Monitor
After you connect, you should tweak some settings. This gets you the best picture and performance. It only takes a minute in the PS5 menu.
Go to “Settings” on your PS5 home screen. Then, go to “Screen and Video”. This is where you control how the picture looks.
Look for “Video Output Information”. This tells you what your monitor can do. It shows the resolution and refresh rate it supports.
Set the resolution to match your monitor. If you have a 4K monitor, pick “2160p”. For a 1440p monitor, you can now select that option on the PS5.
Find the “HDR” setting. Turn it to “On When Supported” if your monitor has HDR. This makes colors pop and look more real.
Also, find the “120Hz Output” setting. Set this to “Automatic”. If your monitor has a high refresh rate, your games can run smoother.
Benefits of Using a Monitor vs. a TV
Why would you want to connect your PS5 to a monitor? There are some big benefits. Gamers love monitors for good reasons.
The first benefit is input lag. This is the delay between your button press and the action on screen. Monitors have much lower lag than most TVs.
This means your controls feel instant. In a fast shooter or fighting game, this can help you win. Every millisecond counts.
The second benefit is refresh rate. Many gaming monitors have 120Hz, 144Hz, or even higher. The PS5 supports 120Hz in some games.
A higher refresh rate makes motion look super smooth. Games feel more fluid and responsive. It’s a game-changer once you try it.
Monitors are also smaller and fit on a desk. This is great for smaller rooms or if you want a dedicated gaming corner. You sit closer to the action.
So, can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor for these benefits? Yes, and it will likely improve your gaming experience a lot.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Sometimes, things don’t work right away. Don’t panic. Most problems are easy to fix with a simple check.
Problem: No signal on the monitor. First, check that both devices are on. Then, make sure the monitor is set to the correct HDMI input.
Try unplugging the HDMI cable and plugging it back in. Try a different HDMI port on the monitor if it has one. Also, try a different HDMI cable if you have a spare.
Problem: The picture looks wrong or fuzzy. Go to your PS5’s video output settings. Make sure the resolution matches your monitor’s best resolution.
Sometimes, turning off HDR can fix a weird picture. You can turn it back on later after you get a stable image. Check your monitor’s own settings too.
Problem: No sound. Remember, monitor speakers are often bad or not there. You need to route the audio yourself.
Plug a headset into your DualSense controller. Or, connect external speakers to your monitor’s audio-out jack. The PlayStation website has more audio help.
If you have a black screen, try starting the PS5 in Safe Mode. Hold the power button until you hear two beeps. Then connect a controller with USB and pick “Change Video Output”.
Choosing the Right Gaming Monitor for Your PS5
Not all monitors are equal for the PS5. Picking the right one makes a big difference. Here is what to look for.
The most important feature is HDMI 2.1. This port supports 4K resolution at 120Hz. It unlocks the full power of your PS5.
If HDMI 2.1 monitors are too pricey, look for HDMI 2.0. It still supports 4K at 60Hz, which is great for most games. It’s a good cheaper option.
Resolution is key. A 4K monitor looks amazing with PS5 games. But a 1440p monitor is also a great choice, especially for high frame rate games.
Look for a high refresh rate. 120Hz or 144Hz is perfect. This lets you use the PS5’s 120fps mode in supported games for super smooth play.
Check if the monitor has HDR support. Real HDR makes games look stunning. The RTINGS website tests monitors and is a great resource.
Think about size. A 27-inch monitor is a sweet spot for many desk setups. It’s big enough to be immersive but small enough for low input lag.
Audio Solutions for Monitor Gaming
Since monitors lack good sound, you need a plan. Good audio is half the experience. You have several great options.
The easiest fix is a gaming headset. Plug it into the 3.5mm jack on your PS5 controller. This gives you private, high-quality sound and a microphone for chat.
Many wireless headsets made for PS5 work great too. They connect via a USB dongle. This keeps your setup clean with no wires.
You can also use external computer speakers. Many plug into a monitor’s audio-out port. This gives you room-filling sound without needing a TV.
Some monitors have built-in speakers, but they are often weak. They work in a pinch, but don’t expect great quality. It’s better to use another method.
For the best audio experience, consider a soundbar. Some small soundbars can connect via HDMI-ARC or optical audio. The CNET website has good soundbar guides.
When you connect your PS5 to a gaming monitor, planning for audio is a must. Don’t forget this important part of the setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor with only HDMI?
Yes, HDMI is the main way to connect. The cable that comes with the PS5 is all you need for video. You will just need a separate solution for audio.
Can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor that has no speakers?
Absolutely. Many gamers do this. You just need to use a headset plugged into the controller or connect external speakers to get game sound.
Do I need a special monitor to use 120Hz on PS5?
You need a monitor that supports 120Hz over HDMI. Also, using an HDMI 2.1 cable is best for 4K 120Hz. Check your monitor’s specs to be sure.
Can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor and a PC at the same time?
Yes, if your monitor has multiple HDMI ports. You can connect the PS5 to one and your PC to another. Just switch the input source on the monitor.
Why is my PS5 screen black on my new monitor?
This is common. Start your PS5 in Safe Mode by holding the power button. Then choose “Change Video Output” to reset the display signal.
Can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor for competitive play?
Yes, this is a top choice for competitive gamers. The low input lag and high refresh rates of monitors can provide a real advantage in fast games.
Conclusion
So, can I connect my PS5 to a gaming monitor? You sure can, and it’s a great idea. The setup is simple and the benefits for gaming are huge.
You get faster response times, smoother motion, and a more focused play area. Just remember to plan for audio, as most monitors don’t have good speakers.
With the right cable and a few setting tweaks, you’ll be ready to game. For more on healthy gaming habits, the Healthy Children website has good tips. Now go enjoy your enhanced PS5 experience.