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Read This Before Buying a 4K or HDR TV
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Why 4K and HDR Matter in 2025
4K and HDR are two of the most talked-about features in gaming today. As more players buy PS5, PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch 2, they often ask the same question: Do these features really make games better, or are they just extras? Search trends show players looking up “best HDR settings for PS5 🔎,” “native 4K vs upscaled 🔎,” and “does HDR matter more than 4K 🔎.” These searches show that many gamers are trying to figure out if these upgrades are worth their time and money.
Quick Answer
- 4K makes games sharper and more detailed, especially on large screens.
- HDR brings brighter colors and deeper shadows, often making the biggest visual impact.
- Competitive players should focus on smooth frame rates first.
- Story-driven games benefit most when both 4K and HDR are combined.
What 4K and HDR Mean
4K
A resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is four times sharper than 1080p. Text and distant objects are easier to see, especially on TVs 50 inches or larger.
HDR
High Dynamic Range enhances color and lighting. Bright areas become brighter, dark areas show more detail, and colors look richer and more lifelike.
Together
4K gives you sharpness, while HDR adds realism. Many modern games allow you to switch between “Performance Mode” for smoother gameplay and “Quality Mode” for maximum visual detail.
Games That Show the Difference
These games really show off 4K and HDR:
- Open-world adventures like Horizon Forbidden West, Cyberpunk 2077, and Assassin’s Creed Mirage look stunning in full 4K.
- Horror games like Resident Evil 4 and Alan Wake 2 use HDR to make dark areas creepy but clear, while keeping bright lights vivid.
- Competitive games like Halo Infinite, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, and Apex Legends run better at high frame rates, even if the resolution drops a little.
- Colorful games like Ori and the Will of the Wisps and Journey look like moving artwork when HDR is on.
How to Set Up 4K and HDR: Step-by-Step
- Connect Using the Correct HDMI Port
- Use an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable.
- Plug your console into a TV port labeled “4K,” “HDCP 2.2,” “HDMI 2.0,” “HDMI 2.1,” or “HDR.”
- Enable 4K and HDR in TV Settings
- Turn on HDMI features like “HDMI UHD Color” (Samsung), “HDMI Ultra Deep Color” (LG), or “Enhanced Mode” (Sony).
- Samsung TVs: Go to Settings > Connection > External Device Manager > Input Signal Plus, and enable it for the correct port.
- LG TVs: Go to Home > HDMI > Settings > Advanced > Picture > HDMI Ultra Deep Color, and enable it for the port used.
- Sony TVs: Go to Home > Settings > External Inputs > HDMI Signal Format > Enhanced Mode, and enable it.
- Set an Accurate Picture Mode
- Choose “Movie,” “Cinema,” or “Calibrated” for natural colors.
- Avoid modes like “Vivid” or “Dynamic” which distort HDR visuals.
- Enable 4K and HDR on Your Console
- PS5: Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output. Set Resolution to 4K and turn on HDR, then run Adjust HDR.
- Xbox Series X/S: Settings > General > TV & Display Options. Choose 4K UHD, turn on Allow HDR and Allow 4K, then run Calibrate HDR for Games.
- Turn On Gaming Features
- Enable Game Mode and VRR on your TV to reduce lag and prevent screen tearing.
- Confirm HDR is Active
- Look for an on-screen message like “HDR” or “Dolby Vision,” or check your TV’s Info panel.
- HDR works best with next-gen consoles, Ultra HD Blu-rays, and supported streaming apps.
- Update and Test
- Update your TV firmware and console software.
- Test with an HDR-ready game or movie to confirm correct settings.
Helpful links:
PlayStation
Xbox
Nintendo
Other Helpful Links
But which is More Important, 4K or HDR?
If you must choose, HDR often has a bigger impact. Explosions, lightning, and rich colors feel more lifelike. 4K sharpness is more noticeable on large screens or when sitting close. Most HDR TVs today include 4K, so the best choice is a display with both features, low lag, and VRR. If you’re on a budget, focus on strong HDR performance first.
Tips for Different Types of Players
Story Game Fans: Use a 55-inch or larger OLED or Mini LED TV with excellent HDR. Select Quality Mode for maximum detail and cinematic visuals.
Competitive Players: A 120 Hz screen with VRR and low input lag is essential. Choose Performance Mode and a wired internet connection for the fastest response.
Budget Players: Many mid-range TVs now offer VRR and HDR10. A good 4K display with decent HDR and 120 Hz refresh rate can deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.
Common Issues and Fixes
- Not all games run in full native 4K. Many use techniques like scaling to balance speed and visuals.
- “HDR Compatible” doesn’t always mean high-quality HDR. Look for TVs with at least 600–1000 nits of brightness and local dimming or OLED technology.
- If HDR looks washed out, recalibrate settings on both your TV and console.
- Streaming 4K HDR needs fast internet, but discs and downloads do not.
- Don’t forget sound quality. Features like Dolby Atmos add depth to gaming experiences.
Quick Questions
Does HDR help gameplay?
Yes. It improves visibility in bright and dark scenes, giving you a competitive edge.
Do all games run in full 4K?
No. Many use scaling methods to keep frame rates smooth.
Do I need HDMI 2.1?
Yes, for 4K at 120 Hz. HDMI 2.0 works fine for 4K at 60 Hz.
Why does my HDR look bad?
Ensure HDR is enabled on both your TV and console. Use built-in calibration tools.
What’s more important for competition, resolution or frame rate?
Frame rate. Smooth, responsive play is better than sharper visuals for competitive gaming.
4K and HDR are more than just buzzwords; they can transform your gaming experience. With the right setup, games look sharper, colors are richer, and gameplay feels more immersive. Competitive gamers should focus on speed and responsiveness, while story-driven players will love the cinematic feel of 4K HDR.
Question for you: What will you upgrade next: your TV, your settings, or your frame rate?