Step-by-Step: How to Make MSI Monitor 144Hz PS5 for Stunning Visuals

If you’ve invested in a high-refresh-rate MSI monitor, you’re probably eager to experience the buttery-smooth gameplay it promises. But connecting your PS5 and achieving that coveted 144Hz refresh rate might seem like a daunting task. Fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you unlock the full potential of your MSI monitor and PS5.

Understanding the Basics: Refresh Rates and HDMI 2.1

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s clarify some essential concepts. Refresh rate refers to the number of times your monitor refreshes its image per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate translates to smoother visuals, especially in fast-paced games.
Your PS5 is capable of outputting a 120Hz signal via HDMI 2.1, a crucial standard for high refresh rates and other advanced features. However, not all HDMI cables and monitors support HDMI 2.1. This is where the compatibility puzzle comes into play.

Checking Compatibility: Your MSI Monitor and HDMI Cable

The first step is to ensure your MSI monitor and HDMI cable are compatible with HDMI 2.1.
Monitor Compatibility:

• Check the Monitor Specifications: Look for “HDMI 2.1” or “HDMI 2.1a” mentioned in your MSI monitor’s specifications. If it doesn’t explicitly mention HDMI 2.1, it likely doesn’t support it.
• Look for the HDMI Logo: The HDMI logo on your monitor might have a “2.1” or “2.1a” designation next to it, indicating HDMI 2.1 support.

HDMI Cable Compatibility:

• Look for “HDMI 2.1” or “Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable”: These labels signify a cable that can handle the bandwidth required for HDMI 2.1.
• Check the Cable’s Specifications: Ensure the cable supports a bandwidth of at least 48 Gbps.

Configuring Your PS5 for 144Hz Output

Once you’ve confirmed compatibility, it’s time to configure your PS5 for 144Hz output:
1. Connect Your Monitor: Use an HDMI 2.1 cable to connect your PS5 to your MSI monitor.
2. Navigate to Settings: On your PS5, go to “Settings” > “Screen and Video.”
3. Select Video Output: Choose “Video Output” and locate the “Resolution” option.
4. Set the Resolution: Select “1080p” or “1440p” depending on your monitor’s native resolution.
5. Enable 120Hz Output: Look for an option labeled “Enable 120Hz Output” or similar. Ensure it’s enabled.
6. Choose Refresh Rate: Select “120Hz” from the available refresh rate options.
Important Note: Not all games support 120Hz output, so you might need to check game-specific settings or updates.

Troubleshooting: Why 144Hz Isn’t Working

If you’ve followed the steps above and your MSI monitor isn‘t displaying at 144Hz, try these troubleshooting tips:

• Verify Cable Connection: Double-check that the HDMI cable is securely connected to both your PS5 and monitor.
• Restart Devices: Restart both your PS5 and monitor to refresh their settings.
• Update Software: Ensure your PS5 and monitor have the latest software updates installed.
• Check Monitor Settings: Access your monitor’s on-screen display (OSD) menu and verify that the refresh rate is set to 120Hz.
• Try Different HDMI Ports: If your monitor has multiple HDMI ports, try connecting to a different port.
• Contact Support: If you’ve exhausted all troubleshooting options, contact MSI or Sony support for further assistance.

Beyond 144Hz: Exploring Other PS5 Features

While 144Hz provides a significant boost in smoothness, your PS5 and MSI monitor offer even more exciting features:

• HDR Support: If your monitor supports HDR (High Dynamic Range), you can enjoy richer colors and deeper blacks for a more immersive visual experience. Enable HDR in your PS5 settings for optimal results.
• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): VRR, supported by HDMI 2.1, eliminates screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in even smoother gameplay. Check if your MSI monitor and PS5 support VRR and enable it in the settings for a more seamless experience.
• 4K Resolution: If your MSI monitor supports 4K resolution, you can enjoy stunningly detailed visuals on your PS5. However, keep in mind that 4K resolution may not always be available at 120Hz, depending on the game and your monitor’s capabilities.

Optimizing Your PS5 Experience: Beyond the Basics

You’ve unlocked the potential of your MSI monitor and PS5, but there’s more to consider for an optimal gaming experience:

• Game Settings: Explore the settings within your games to see if they offer specific options for 120Hz support or VRR.
• Monitor Settings: Experiment with your monitor’s settings, such as color profiles and response time, to fine-tune your visual preferences.
• Performance Mode vs. Fidelity Mode: Some PS5 games offer performance modes that prioritize frame rate over visual fidelity. Choose the mode that best suits your preferences and monitor’s capabilities.
• Screen Size and Viewing Distance: Consider the size of your monitor and your viewing distance to optimize the overall visual experience.

The Future of Gaming: Embracing Higher Refresh Rates

As technology continues to advance, we can expect even higher refresh rates and more immersive gaming experiences. With a 144Hz MSI monitor and a PS5, you’re well-equipped to enjoy the latest advancements in gaming technology and unlock a whole new level of immersion.

A New Era of Gaming: Your MSI Monitor and PS5

By understanding the fundamentals of refresh rates, HDMI 2.1, and compatibility, you’ve unlocked the full potential of your MSI monitor and PS5. Now, you can experience the smooth, responsive gameplay that high refresh rates offer, immersing yourself in the latest titles with stunning visuals and breathtaking performance.

What People Want to Know

Q: Is it possible to achieve 144Hz on a PS5 with a 144Hz monitor that doesn’t support HDMI 2.1?
A: No, you can’t achieve 144Hz on a PS5 with a monitor that doesn’t support HDMI 2.1. The PS5 can only output a 120Hz signal via HDMI 2.1, so a monitor without this standard will be limited to lower refresh rates.
Q: Can I use a regular HDMI cable to connect my PS5 to a 144Hz monitor?
A: While a regular HDMI cable might work, it won’t be able to handle the bandwidth required for 120Hz output. You’ll need an HDMI 2.1 cable to achieve the desired refresh rate.
Q: What is the difference between 120Hz and 144Hz?
A: 120Hz and 144Hz refer to the number of times your monitor refreshes its image per second. 144Hz offers a smoother experience than 120Hz, but the difference might not be noticeable for everyone.
Q: Do all PS5 games support 120Hz output?
A: No, not all PS5 games support 120Hz output. You’ll need to check the game’s settings or updates to see if it offers 120Hz support.
Q: Can I use a display port cable to achieve 144Hz on my PS5?
A: Currently, the PS5 does not support DisplayPort output. You can only achieve 120Hz output using an HDMI 2.1 cable.