What is vrr ps5

Last updated: April 1, 2026

Quick Answer: VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) is a technology on PS5 that synchronizes the console's frame output with your display's refresh rate, eliminating screen tearing and reducing input lag for smoother gameplay.

Key Facts

What is VRR on PS5?

VRR stands for Variable Refresh Rate, a display technology that has become increasingly important in modern gaming. On the PlayStation 5, VRR allows the console to send frames to your display at a variable rate rather than a fixed frequency. Instead of the display waiting for a complete frame to arrive before refreshing, VRR enables the display to refresh only when a new frame is ready.

How VRR Works

Traditional displays refresh at a fixed rate, typically 60Hz or 120Hz. When a game's frame rate doesn't match the display's refresh rate, screen tearing occurs—a visual artifact where different portions of the screen display frames from different times. VRR solves this problem by allowing the display's refresh rate to vary between a minimum and maximum frequency, staying in sync with the PS5's output.

Benefits of VRR

The primary benefits of VRR include:

VRR vs Other Sync Technologies

VRR differs from other synchronization methods like V-Sync. While V-Sync locks frame rates to display refresh rates (sometimes causing stuttering), VRR adapts the display to match the console's variable output. This makes VRR more flexible and generally provides a better gaming experience.

Requirements and Limitations

To use VRR on PS5, you need a compatible display that supports HDMI 2.1 with VRR capability, typically labeled as FreeSync or G-Sync. Additionally, not all PS5 games have been optimized for VRR support. Developers must enable VRR support in their games for the feature to work.

Related Questions

Does PS5 support 120fps gaming?

Yes, the PS5 can output games at 120fps when connected to a compatible 120Hz display via HDMI 2.1. Some games like Call of Duty and Destiny 2 offer 120fps modes, though many developers prioritize 60fps for higher visual quality.

What is the difference between VRR and V-Sync?

V-Sync locks the game's frame rate to the display's refresh rate, sometimes causing stuttering. VRR allows the display to adapt its refresh rate to match the game's variable frame output, providing smoother gameplay without the downsides of V-Sync.

Do all PS5 games support VRR?

No, VRR support must be specifically implemented by developers. While major titles like Fortnite, Destiny 2, and Call of Duty support VRR, many older and smaller games do not have VRR enabled.

Sources

  1. PlayStation - PS5 Variable Refresh Rate Support PlayStation Official Documentation
  2. Wikipedia - Variable Refresh Rate CC-BY-SA-4.0