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Connect your 1440p monitor and then run “Test 1440p Output” mode using the Display & Video menu in your console’s settings. You’ll lose VRR support while gaming in 1440p mode, but the higher image quality might be worth the tradeoff.
The PlayStation 5 launched with both 4K and 1080p output modes, but the ability to output 1440p has since been added via a firmware update. This output bridges the gap between HD and 4K displays, but there’s a catch you should be aware of.
What does 1440p mean?
In display terms, 1440p refers to a resolution of 2560×1440. It is a happy medium between the higher resolution UHD or 4K (3840 × 2160) and HD or 1080p (1920 × 1080). It’s commonly used in computer monitors, where you may hear it referred to as QHD, or 2K. Some of the best gaming monitors have a 1440p resolution.
A lower resolution is better suited to less powerful mid-range gaming PCs, as 4K can be very taxing on the GPU, but many gamers are already past the 1080p point. 1440p monitors are often considered a “sweet spot” with higher refresh rates at more competitive prices, which can mean smoother movement during gaming and work.
In 1440p mode, the PS5 will output a native 1440p image (in supported games) or downscale a “super-sampled” 4K image to fit a 1440p display. It’s always been possible to connect a 1440p monitor to your PlayStation 5, but previously this relied on a lower 1080p image being upscaled by the monitor.
This mode is primarily aimed at PC gamers (or those with a compatible monitor) who want to take full advantage of their display’s full capabilities. If the monitor is capable of gaming at a high refresh rate at 120Hz or higher, the PS5 can take advantage of that in this display mode as well.
How to put your PS5 in 1440p mode
You can put your PS5 in 1440p mode by visiting Settings > Display & Video Select “Test 1440p output” and run some tests on your monitor to see if your monitor is capable of outputting the full range of supported refresh rates.
Once you’ve run the test, you can force “1440p” in the “Resolution” menu or leave it at “Auto” (your console should already be in 1440p mode if it passed all the tests).
Note: 1440p mode was added via a software update that arrived in September 2022. If you don’t see the option available, make sure you’re running the latest PS5 firmware by selecting the “Update system software” option in Settings > System > System software > System software update and configuration.
1440p mode lacks support for VRR
Unfortunately, at the time of writing, the PS5 does not support Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) when running in 1440p mode. VRR adapts your display’s refresh rate to the console’s frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and making for a smoother gaming experience. It runs between 48Hz and 120Hz, meaning games running at lower frame rates won’t necessarily see the benefit.
At higher refresh rates (up to 120Hz), gameplay will still feel smoother, so the lack of VRR may not actually negatively affect your experience. It’s not until the frame rate starts to drop on titles that are locked to 60fps that VRR shines. Even then, some games lack VRR support entirely.
For better image quality, losing VRR and increasing the pixel count at 1440p resolution will likely be worth it for many gamers. You should try this for yourself and consider adjusting it per game. Sony may add VRR support in 1440p mode to the PS5 in a future firmware update, as VRR support in other modes was similarly added.
Get the most out of your PlayStation 5
Check out our top tips for getting the most out of your PS5, our recommendations for increasing internal storage, and master the basics of backing up PS5 games, taking screenshots and videos, and downloading PS5 games with your smartphone. .
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