Grand Theft Auto VI is set to drop on November 19, 2026, and early looks suggest it will be one of the most demanding titles yet for current consoles. Even if the game runs at a capped 30 fps on the PlayStation 5, you can still fine‑tune your console to deliver smoother motion, richer colors, and a more stable experience. The changes are simple, take only a few minutes, and can be done before the game even arrives.
Key takeaways
- Enable Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and the "Apply to Unsupported Games" option for smoother frame pacing.
- Turn on 120 Hz output even if the game runs at 30 fps to improve refresh consistency.
- Set HDR to "Always On" and run the built‑in calibration for accurate brightness and color.
- Check your TV’s HDMI ports for HDMI 2.1 support to use VRR and 120 Hz.
Why these settings matter
GTA VI’s open‑world design means frame rates can fluctuate dramatically during high‑action moments such as chases or crowded streets. Without VRR, a fixed‑rate TV may display tearing or stutter when the console’s output drops. Enabling VRR lets the TV dynamically match the console’s frame output, resulting in smoother motion. The "Apply to Unsupported Games" toggle helps stabilize frame rates in titles that don’t natively support VRR.
Even if the game is locked at 30 fps, sending a 120 Hz signal to a compatible TV spreads each frame across four refresh cycles. This eliminates judder and keeps motion fluid, especially when you switch to faster‑frame‑rate titles later.
Step‑by‑step: Adjusting PS5 video settings
1. Enable Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
- Navigate to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > VRR and turn it on.
- Also enable Apply to Unsupported Games in the same menu. You can toggle it off later if you notice issues.
2. Turn on Auto Low‑Latency Mode (ALLM)
- While still in the Video Output menu, ensure ALLM is enabled. Sony says the console will automatically switch a compatible TV to its low‑latency game mode whenever VRR is active.
3. Activate 120 Hz output
- Go to Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > 120 Hz Output and set it to On.
- Make sure your PS5 is plugged into an HDMI 2.1 input; not all ports on a TV support the 120 Hz signal.
4. Configure HDR
- Set HDR to Always On (or "On When Supported" if you prefer the console to fall back to SDR for non‑HDR content).
- Run the HDR calibration: Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > Adjust HDR. Follow the on‑screen prompts in the lighting conditions you normally play in.
- If your TV offers an HGIG mode, enable it to prevent double tone‑mapping.
Practical tips for your setup
- Check your TV’s specifications: look for HDMI 2.1 support, VRR capability, and HDR10 (or Dolby Vision) compliance.
- Use a high‑speed HDMI cable rated for 48 Gbps to ensure full bandwidth.
- If you notice visual artifacts after enabling VRR, try disabling "Apply to Unsupported Games" or switching the TV’s game mode off and on.
- Keep your PS5 firmware up to date; Sony occasionally refines VRR and HDR handling in system updates.
What this means for you
By applying these settings now, you’ll maximize the visual fidelity and responsiveness of GTA VI on your PS5, regardless of the final frame‑rate cap. The adjustments also improve performance in other demanding titles, so the effort pays off beyond just the Rockstar release.
What happens next?
Once GTA VI launches, monitor community forums for any additional tweaks specific to the game’s patches. If a future PS5 Pro model or a system update adds native 60 fps support, you’ll already have a TV and cable setup ready to take advantage of the higher frame rate.
Key takeaways (re‑summary)
- Enable VRR and "Apply to Unsupported Games" for smoother frame pacing.
- Set 120 Hz output to keep motion fluid even at 30 fps.
- Turn HDR on permanently and run the calibration.
- Verify HDMI 2.1 connections and keep firmware current.
Frequently asked questions
How do I enable VRR on my PS5?
Go to Settings → Screen and Video → Video Output, turn on VRR and also enable "Apply to Unsupported Games".
Will turning on 120 Hz make GTA VI run faster?
No, it doesn’t increase the game’s frame rate, but it spreads each frame over more refresh cycles for smoother motion.
Do I need a TV with HDMI 2.1 for these settings?
Yes, HDMI 2.1 is required to use VRR and 120 Hz output reliably.
Should I keep HDR set to "Always On"?
Yes, it forces HDR output for all games and apps, preventing you from having to toggle it for each title.
What if I notice screen tearing after enabling VRR?
Try disabling "Apply to Unsupported Games" or ensure your TV’s game mode and VRR are both active.
