In this guide
Yes, you can connect a PS5 to a monitor using an HDMI cable, as long as the monitor has an HDMI input port.
- Monitor has an HDMI input (HDMI 2.1 preferred for best features)
- You connect PS5’s HDMI port to the monitor with a standard HDMI cable
- You select the correct input source on the monitor
- Monitor only has DisplayPort and no HDMI input
- Your HDMI cable or port lacks bandwidth for your chosen resolution
- The monitor cannot detect a signal after connection
What You Need
The PS5 has a single HDMI 2.1 output port. All you need is an HDMI cable running from that port to an HDMI input on your monitor. The cable that ships with the PS5 is HDMI 2.1, so you can use it straight out of the box.
If your monitor only has DisplayPort, you will need an active HDMI-to-DisplayPort adapter. Passive adapters will not work, and even active adapters may not pass features like 4K@120Hz or VRR reliably. Check our guide on whether USB-C can connect to HDMI if you are also considering an alternate port path.
Which HDMI Version Do You Need?
| Setup | Works? | Need | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1080p@60Hz | Yes | HDMI 1.4+ | Any modern monitor works |
| 1440p@60Hz | Yes | HDMI 2.0+ | PS5 added 1440p support via update |
| 4K@60Hz | Yes | HDMI 2.0+ | No VRR at this spec |
| 4K@120Hz + VRR | Yes | HDMI 2.1 | Monitor and cable must both be 2.1 |
How to Set It Up
- Plug the HDMI cable into the PS5’s HDMI port and the monitor’s HDMI input.
- Power on both devices.
- Select the correct HDMI input source on your monitor using its menu button.
- If there is no signal, go to PS5 Settings → Screen and Video → Video Output and check resolution and HDMI device info.
Audio Considerations
Most monitors do not have built-in speakers. The PS5 sends audio over HDMI, so if your monitor has no speakers or headphone jack, you will need to plug headphones into the DualSense controller or use a separate audio solution. This is the most common surprise for users switching from a TV to a monitor.
Getting the Most from a Gaming Monitor
For the full PS5 experience, look for a monitor with HDMI 2.1 that supports 4K@120Hz, VRR, and HDR. RTINGS maintains a tested list of monitors with console compatibility scores that is worth checking before you buy. Features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) are also worth confirming if response time matters to you.
If you are using a laptop monitor or a portable display with only USB-C, read our article on whether USB-C supports video output to understand your options before buying an adapter.
Bottom line: Connecting a PS5 to a monitor is straightforward with an HDMI cable. For everyday gaming, any monitor with an HDMI port works fine. For 4K@120Hz and VRR, make sure both your monitor and cable are HDMI 2.1, and plan for audio separately if your monitor has no speakers.