The Xbox One S, a mid-generation refresh of the Xbox One, brought several significant upgrades to the table, including enhanced performance and support for 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps). However, one of the most exciting features that got gamers excited was the possibility of playing games at an incredible 120fps. But, unfortunately, it’s not as simple as just flipping a switch – you need to know the right settings, games, and TV requirements to unlock this beast mode. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of high-frame-rate gaming on the Xbox One S and provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to get 120fps on your console.
Understanding 120fps on Xbox One S
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, it’s essential to understand what 120fps means and how it differs from the standard 60fps or 30fps. Frames per second (fps) is a measure of how many individual frames are rendered on your screen per second. A higher frame rate provides a smoother, more responsive gaming experience, especially in fast-paced games.
The Xbox One S is capable of rendering games at 120fps, but it’s not a straightforward process. Microsoft has introduced a feature called “Variable Refresh Rate” (VRR), which allows the console to dynamically adjust the frame rate to match the display’s capabilities. This means that if you have a TV or monitor that supports 120Hz, the Xbox One S can take advantage of it and render games at higher frame rates.
System Requirements for 120fps on Xbox One S
To get 120fps on your Xbox One S, you’ll need to ensure that your system meets the following requirements:
- An Xbox One S console with the latest software update
- A TV or monitor that supports 120Hz refresh rate at a resolution of 1080p or 1440p
- A game that is optimized for 120fps
TV and Monitor Requirements
Not all TVs and monitors are created equal when it comes to supporting 120Hz refresh rates. You’ll need a display that has the following features:
- HDMI 2.0 port
- Support for 120Hz refresh rate at 1080p or 1440p resolution
- HDR10 or HDR10+ support (optional but recommended)
Some popular TVs and monitors that support 120Hz include:
- Samsung QLED and SUHD TVs
- LG OLED and NanoCell TVs
- ASUS VG278Q and VG258Q monitors
- Acer Predator XB273K and XB253Q monitors
Games that Support 120fps on Xbox One S
While the Xbox One S is capable of rendering games at 120fps, not all games are optimized to take advantage of this feature. Currently, there are only a handful of games that support 120fps, and they require specific settings and configurations to unlock this mode.
Some popular games that support 120fps on Xbox One S include:
- Fortnite
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
- Overwatch
- Rainbow Six Siege
- Apex Legends
Enabling 120fps in Games
Enabling 120fps in games requires specific settings and configurations. Here’s a general overview of how to enable 120fps in some popular games:
- Fortnite: Go to Settings > Video > Graphics Quality and set the “Frame Rate” option to “Unlimited”.
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare: Go to Options > Graphics > Display and set the “Refresh Rate” option to “120Hz”.
- Overwatch: Go to Options > Video > Advanced and set the “Frame Rate” option to “Uncapped”.
Keep in mind that these settings may vary depending on the game and its updates.
Configuring Your Xbox One S for 120fps
Now that you have the right TV, game, and system requirements, it’s time to configure your Xbox One S for 120fps.
Enable 120Hz Output
To enable 120Hz output on your Xbox One S, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > Display & sound > Video output
- Select “120Hz” as the refresh rate
- Select the resolution that matches your TV or monitor’s capabilities (1080p or 1440p)
Enable Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
To enable VRR, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > Display & sound > Video output
- Select “Variable refresh rate” as the refresh rate mode
Adjusting Graphics Settings
To optimize graphics settings for 120fps, you may need to adjust the following settings in your game:
- Resolution: Lowering the resolution to 1080p or 1440p can help improve frame rates
- Graphics quality: Lowering the graphics quality can also improve frame rates
- Anti-aliasing: Disabling anti-aliasing or using a lower-quality setting can improve performance
Keep in mind that these settings may vary depending on the game and its performance on your Xbox One S.
Troubleshooting 120fps Issues on Xbox One S
If you’re experiencing issues with 120fps on your Xbox One S, here are some common troubleshooting steps to try:
- Ensure that your TV or monitor supports 120Hz refresh rate
- Check that your game is optimized for 120fps
- Adjust your graphics settings to optimize performance
- Try resetting your Xbox One S to its default settings
- Check for software updates for your Xbox One S and TV or monitor
Conclusion
Getting 120fps on your Xbox One S requires a combination of the right hardware, software, and game optimizations. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can unlock the full potential of your Xbox One S and experience gaming at an incredible 120 frames per second. Remember to stay tuned for updates and optimization patches for your favorite games, as they may improve performance and unlock new features. Happy gaming!
What is 120fps and why is it important for gaming?
Getting 120fps on Xbox One S means that your console is capable of rendering 120 frames per second, which can significantly enhance your gaming experience. This is especially important for fast-paced games that require quick reflexes, such as first-person shooters or racing games.
A higher frame rate can provide a smoother and more responsive gaming experience, reducing screen tearing and motion blur. This can give you a competitive edge in online multiplayer games and make playing games more enjoyable overall. Additionally, a higher frame rate can also improve the overall visual fidelity of games, making them look more realistic and immersive.
What are the system requirements to get 120fps on Xbox One S?
To get 120fps on Xbox One S, you’ll need to meet certain system requirements. First, you’ll need to make sure your Xbox One S is updated to the latest firmware version, which supports 120Hz output. You’ll also need a TV or monitor that supports 120Hz refresh rates, as well as an HDMI 2.0 cable that can handle the increased bandwidth.
In addition to these requirements, you’ll also need games that are optimized to run at 120fps. Not all games support this frame rate, so you’ll need to check the game’s settings or developer website to see if it’s compatible. You may also need to adjust your game settings to prioritize frame rate over other graphical features.
How do I enable 120fps on my Xbox One S?
To enable 120fps on your Xbox One S, you’ll need to go to your console’s display settings and select the “120Hz” option. This will allow your console to output at 120Hz, but you’ll also need to make sure your TV or monitor is set to receive this signal. You may need to adjust your TV’s settings to enable 120Hz input, and you may also need to adjust your game settings to prioritize frame rate.
Once you’ve enabled 120Hz output on your Xbox One S, you should be able to see the increased frame rate in games that support it. You may need to restart your console or games to apply the changes, and you may also need to adjust your game settings to get the best performance.
Which games are optimized for 120fps on Xbox One S?
Not all games are optimized to run at 120fps on Xbox One S, but some popular titles do support this feature. These include games like Fortnite, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, and Rainbow Six Siege. You can check the game’s settings or developer website to see if it supports 120fps, and you may also be able to adjust the game’s graphics settings to prioritize frame rate over other features.
Keep in mind that even if a game is optimized for 120fps, it may not always run at this frame rate. The game’s performance can be affected by a variety of factors, including your TV or monitor’s capabilities, your internet connection, and your Xbox One S’s processing power.
Will I need a 4K TV to get 120fps on Xbox One S?
You don’t necessarily need a 4K TV to get 120fps on Xbox One S, but you will need a TV or monitor that supports 120Hz refresh rates. Some TVs may only support 120Hz at lower resolutions, such as 1080p or 1440p, so you’ll need to check your TV’s specifications to see what it’s capable of.
Keep in mind that 120fps is a feature that’s typically associated with high-end TVs and monitors, so you may need to invest in a higher-end display to take full advantage of this feature. However, some budget-friendly options may also support 120Hz, so it’s worth shopping around to find a TV or monitor that meets your needs.
Can I get 120fps on other Xbox consoles?
The Xbox One S is the only Xbox console that supports 120fps output, so you won’t be able to get this feature on other consoles like the Xbox One or Xbox One X. However, the Xbox Series X and Series S consoles do support 120fps and higher frame rates, so if you’re looking for a console that can handle high frame rates, you may want to consider upgrading to one of these newer models.
Keep in mind that even if you have a newer Xbox console, you’ll still need a TV or monitor that supports 120Hz refresh rates to take advantage of this feature. You’ll also need games that are optimized to run at high frame rates, so be sure to check the game’s settings and system requirements before purchasing.
Will 120fps make a big difference in my gaming experience?
Getting 120fps on Xbox One S can make a significant difference in your gaming experience, especially if you’re playing fast-paced games that require quick reflexes. A higher frame rate can reduce screen tearing and motion blur, making it easier to track moving objects and react to changes on the screen.
However, the difference may not be as noticeable in slower-paced games or games that don’t prioritize frame rate. Additionally, some TVs or monitors may not be able to take full advantage of 120Hz output, so the benefits may vary depending on your specific setup. Nevertheless, 120fps can be a valuable feature for gamers who want the best possible performance and a competitive edge in online multiplayer games.