PS5 Performance: Simple Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Console

If you own a PlayStation 5, you already know it can deliver stunning visuals and lightning‑fast load times. But many owners still feel their games could run smoother or look sharper. The good news? You don’t need to buy a new TV or replace the SSD to see a difference. A few easy tweaks and some smart habits can unlock hidden performance on your PS5.

Quick Settings You Can Change Right Now

First, head into Settings → Screen and Video → Video Output. Make sure the resolution matches your TV’s native size – most modern 4K TVs work best at 3840 × 2160. If you’re using a 1080p display, set the console to “Performance Mode” (or “Graphics Mode” for the opposite). Performance Mode caps the frame rate at 60 fps and may lower visual fidelity a bit, but the result feels a lot smoother, especially in fast‑paced shooters.

Next, enable HDR if your TV supports it. HDR adds brighter whites and deeper blacks, which makes the image pop without taxing the GPU. Just toggle HDR on, then run the calibration tool – it takes under a minute and gives you a balanced picture.

Keep Your System Clean and Updated

A cluttered SSD can slow down load times. Go to Settings → Storage and delete old game demos, screenshots, or media files you don’t need. The PS5’s custom SSD is fast, but it still benefits from free space. Aim for at least 20 % of the drive empty.

Don’t skip system updates either. Sony pushes performance patches for many titles – sometimes a game that lagged at launch runs flawlessly after a firmware update. Set your console to automatically download updates so you’re always on the latest build.

Game‑Specific Optimizations

Many new releases include a built‑in performance toggle. In titles like Spider‑Man: Miles Morales or Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, you can switch between “Fidelity” and “Performance” modes from the pause menu. Pick “Performance” if you prefer a steady 60 fps, or go for “Fidelity” if you don’t mind a slight dip in frame rate for richer textures.

For games that support “Resolution Scaling,” lower the internal resolution a notch. The PS5 will then upscale the image, which often looks fine on a TV while reducing GPU load. This is a sweet spot for titles that run at 30 fps by default – you can push them to 60 fps without a massive visual sacrifice.

Hardware Tweaks That Matter

If you use an external hard drive for older PS4 games, keep it plugged into a USB 3.0 port. The PS5 can’t stream directly from USB‑C, but a fast external SSD can still load PS4 titles faster than a traditional HDD.

Consider a cooling stand or an extra fan if you notice the console getting hot during long sessions. Overheating can cause temporary throttling, which lowers frame rates. A simple vertical stand with a built‑in fan is inexpensive and keeps the PS5’s internal temps in check.

What to Expect From Future Updates

Sony regularly rolls out firmware that improves system stability and adds new features like variable refresh rate (VRR) support for compatible TVs. Once VRR is active, the console can match the TV’s refresh cycle, reducing screen tearing and delivering smoother motion. Keep an eye on release notes – they’ll tell you if a game you love has gained a performance boost.

Finally, don’t forget to calibrate your controller’s trigger dead zones. Some shooters feel sluggish because the triggers register too much travel before firing. A quick tweak in the game’s controller settings can make aiming feel snappier.

By adjusting a handful of settings, cleaning up storage, and staying on top of updates, you’ll notice faster load times, steadier framerates, and crisper visuals on your PS5. It's all about squeezing the most out of the hardware you already have, so you can spend more time playing and less time waiting.