Troubleshooting 120fps Xbox Series S: Why the Refresh Rate Option Isn't Showing Up

Are you trying to enjoy a seamless gaming experience with your Xbox Series S at 120fps, but finding that the refresh rate option doesn't appear on your TV despite your device's capabilities? Here are some steps to help you troubleshoot the issue and potentially resolve it.

Check TV Settings

Enabling Game Mode on your TV is crucial for reducing input lag and ensuring optimal performance. Game Mode can be found in your TV's settings menu. Additionally, ensure that the HDMI port you are using on your TV supports 120Hz. Some TVs have specific ports that are optimized for higher refresh rates, so it's important to use the correct port.

Use a Quality HDMI Cable

An HDMI 2.1 cable is necessary to achieve 120fps at higher resolutions. If you don't have an HDMI 2.1 cable, a high-speed HDMI cable may still work, but the performance might vary. Make sure to use a cable that supports HDMI 2.0 at least, to ensure compatibility.

Xbox Settings

First, navigate to the Xbox settings on your console:

Press the Xbox button on your controller Go to 'Profile System' Scroll down to 'Settings' Tap on 'TV Display Options'

In the display options, set the resolution to either 1080p or 1440p. 4K resolutions can sometimes limit refresh rates. Try different resolutions to see if the refresh rate option becomes available.

Game Compatibility

Not all games on the Xbox Series S support 120fps. Check the game's settings or documentation to confirm that it supports this feature. Some games may have options to increase the refresh rate, while others might not. If the game you're playing doesn't support 120fps, you won't see the option in the settings.

Firmware Updates

Ensure that both your Xbox Series S and your TV are running the latest firmware updates:

In the Xbox settings, navigate to 'System' and 'Updates' to check for firmware updates on your console. Check the TV's settings for available firmware updates. Updated firmware can sometimes improve compatibility and performance.

Restart Your Devices

This step might seem simple, but it can help resolve detection issues. Restart both your Xbox Series S and your TV. Rebooting can often bring the refresh rate option to the surface.

Try a Different Game

If you've tried all of the above steps and the refresh rate option still doesn't show up, consider launching a different game that is known to support 120fps. If the option appears in a different game, it might indicate an issue with the specific game you're trying to play. If it still doesn't work, consult your TV's user manual or contact the manufacturer's support for further assistance.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify and potentially resolve the issue with the refresh rate option not showing up on your Xbox Series S. Happy gaming!