The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X have transformed what's possible with console gaming, offering 4K resolution at 120 frames per second, ray tracing, and features that were previously exclusive to high-end gaming PCs. But to take full advantage of these capabilities, you need a TV that can keep up. This guide explains everything you need to know about gaming on a 65 inch TV, from HDMI specifications to input lag and Variable Refresh Rate technology.
Understanding HDMI 2.1
HDMI 2.1 is the latest version of the HDMI specification and is essential for getting the most out of current-generation gaming consoles. While older HDMI 2.0 ports are limited to 4K at 60Hz, HDMI 2.1 supports significantly higher bandwidth, enabling features that dramatically improve the gaming experience.
Key HDMI 2.1 Features
- 4K at 120Hz: Four times the frame rate of standard 4K, resulting in smoother motion and more responsive gameplay
- 8K at 60Hz: Future-proofing for next-generation content
- 48Gbps bandwidth: More than double the bandwidth of HDMI 2.0, enabling higher resolutions and refresh rates simultaneously
- eARC: Enhanced Audio Return Channel for lossless audio formats like Dolby Atmos
- VRR, ALLM, QFT: Gaming-specific features detailed below
Not all HDMI ports on a TV may support HDMI 2.1 features. Many TVs have HDMI 2.1 on only one or two ports, with the remaining ports being HDMI 2.0. Check which specific ports support gaming features before connecting your console.
Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
Variable Refresh Rate is one of the most important gaming features in modern TVs. Without VRR, if a game's frame rate drops below the TV's refresh rate, you'll experience screen tearing—a visual artifact where parts of multiple frames are displayed simultaneously, creating a jagged horizontal line across the screen.
VRR allows the TV to dynamically match its refresh rate to the game's frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and reducing stuttering. If a game is outputting 95 frames per second, the TV refreshes 95 times per second. If it drops to 80fps, the TV adjusts accordingly.
VRR Standards
- HDMI Forum VRR: Part of the HDMI 2.1 specification, supported by PS5, Xbox, and most VRR-capable TVs
- AMD FreeSync: Originally a PC standard, now widely supported by TVs and compatible with Xbox consoles
- NVIDIA G-SYNC: Premium PC standard with stricter certification, offering the best VRR experience for PC gamers
For console gaming, ensure your TV supports HDMI VRR or FreeSync. Both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S support these standards.
VRR provides the most noticeable improvement in gaming experience. If you're choosing between TVs for gaming, prioritise VRR support over other features like higher peak brightness.
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Auto Low Latency Mode is a convenience feature that automatically switches your TV to its low-latency gaming mode when a compatible source is detected. Instead of manually navigating to your TV's picture settings and enabling Game Mode each time you play, the TV does it automatically.
While ALLM doesn't improve image quality or reduce input lag beyond what Game Mode already provides, it ensures you're always getting the optimal gaming settings without extra effort. Both PS5 and Xbox Series X support ALLM.
Understanding Input Lag
Input lag is the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the corresponding action on screen. It's measured in milliseconds (ms) and is one of the most critical specifications for gaming TVs.
Why Input Lag Matters
In competitive online games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, or FIFA, even small delays can mean the difference between winning and losing. A TV with 50ms of input lag will feel noticeably sluggish compared to one with 10ms. For rhythm games, fighting games, and first-person shooters, low input lag is essential.
Target Input Lag Values
- Excellent: Under 10ms (competitive gaming suitable)
- Good: 10-20ms (great for most gamers)
- Acceptable: 20-35ms (fine for casual gaming)
- Poor: Over 35ms (noticeable delay, frustrating for action games)
Most modern TVs achieve under 15ms input lag in Game Mode. Premium models from LG, Samsung, and Sony often achieve under 10ms at 4K 120Hz.
Game Mode: Essential for Gaming
Every TV processes incoming video through various enhancement algorithms—noise reduction, motion smoothing, contrast adjustment, and more. While these improve picture quality for movies, they add processing delay that increases input lag.
Game Mode disables most of this processing, dramatically reducing input lag at the cost of some picture enhancement features. The visual difference is usually minimal, especially on quality TVs, while the responsiveness improvement is significant.
Always enable Game Mode (or let ALLM do it automatically) when gaming. The reduced input lag is worth any minor picture quality trade-off.
4K 120Hz: Is It Worth It?
The headline feature of next-gen gaming is 4K at 120 frames per second. But is it worth pursuing?
The jump from 60Hz to 120Hz is clearly visible in fast-paced games. Motion appears smoother, input feels more responsive, and the overall experience is more immersive. However, there are caveats:
- Game support varies: Not all games run at 120fps. Many prioritise visual quality over frame rate.
- Resolution trade-offs: Some games offer 120fps at lower than native 4K resolution.
- Brightness limitations: Some TVs reduce peak brightness at 4K 120Hz due to bandwidth constraints.
If you play competitive multiplayer games like Call of Duty, Fortnite, or Rocket League, 120Hz support is valuable. For story-driven single-player games, 60Hz is generally sufficient.
Check game-specific performance modes. Many PS5 and Xbox games offer a "Performance Mode" (higher frame rate, lower resolution) and "Quality Mode" (lower frame rate, better visuals). Having a 120Hz TV gives you more options.
Gaming on OLED vs LED TVs
OLED TVs have become the gold standard for gaming for several reasons:
- Near-instant response time: OLED pixels switch states in microseconds, eliminating motion blur
- Excellent input lag: Most OLED TVs achieve under 10ms in Game Mode
- Perfect blacks: Enhanced immersion in dark games and horror titles
- Wide viewing angles: Picture quality maintained for local multiplayer
The main concern with OLED for gaming is burn-in from static UI elements (health bars, mini-maps). Modern OLEDs have sophisticated burn-in prevention, and for most users playing varied content, it's not a practical concern. However, if you play one game extensively with persistent static elements, LED-based TVs eliminate this worry entirely.
Recommended Gaming TV Features
When shopping for a 65 inch gaming TV in 2026, prioritise these features:
- Must have: HDMI 2.1 on at least one port, VRR support, Game Mode with low input lag
- Highly recommended: 4K 120Hz, ALLM, HDR10 gaming support
- Nice to have: Dolby Vision gaming (Xbox), G-SYNC/FreeSync Premium certification, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro
Conclusion
Gaming on a 65 inch TV has never been better. Current-generation consoles and modern TVs work together to deliver experiences that rival or exceed PC gaming at a fraction of the cost and complexity. Focus on HDMI 2.1, VRR, and low input lag when choosing your TV, enable Game Mode whenever you play, and you'll enjoy gaming the way it was meant to be experienced.