Brightness and HDR
Most games show a brightness check the first time you start them: a symbol you adjust until it is barely visible. Take a moment to do it properly. A screen that is too dark hides things you need to see, and one that is too bright washes out the image. HDR (high dynamic range) shows brighter highlights and deeper shadows on screens that support it. If the picture looks dull or gray with HDR on, check that HDR is enabled on the TV or monitor as well as on the device, then run the system's HDR calibration if it has one.
Quality and performance modes
Many console games offer a choice between a quality mode, which raises the resolution and detail, and a performance mode, which raises the frame rate. Frame rate is how many images per second the game draws. A higher frame rate, such as 60 instead of 30, makes movement look smoother and controls feel more responsive. Fast games such as shooters and racing games usually feel better in performance mode. Slower games can look better in quality mode. Try both and keep the one you like.
PC graphics settings
PC games usually have presets such as low, medium, high and ultra. Start with the preset the game picks for you. If the game stutters, lower the preset or the resolution scale. If it runs smoothly, you can raise them. A few terms you will see:
| Setting | What it does |
|---|---|
| Resolution | The number of pixels drawn. Match your monitor's native resolution for the sharpest picture. |
| V-sync | Lines up frames with the screen's refresh to stop tearing, at the cost of a little input delay. |
| Frame rate limit | Caps how many frames are drawn, which can reduce heat, fan noise and power use. |
| Upscaling | Draws a lower resolution and sharpens it up, trading a little detail for smoother play. |
| Shadows and effects | Often the most demanding settings. Lowering them first usually helps the most. |
Field of view and camera effects
Field of view (FOV) sets how wide the view is. A wider view shows more of the world around you and can reduce motion sickness, though things in the middle look smaller. Motion blur, camera shake, film grain and depth of field are visual effects you can usually switch off. Many players turn them off for a clearer picture. See the accessibility guide for more comfort options.
Audio settings
- Volume sliders. Turn music down a little and voices up if you struggle to follow dialogue.
- Dynamic range or night mode. A narrow range evens out loud and quiet sounds, which helps when others are asleep or the room is noisy.
- Output type. Choose headphones, TV speakers or a sound system so the game mixes the sound correctly.
- Subtitles. They sit in the audio or language menu in some games, and in accessibility in others.
Keep headphone volume moderate. Hearing health groups advise keeping the volume low enough that you can still hear someone talking nearby, and taking listening breaks. If you notice ringing in your ears after playing, turn it down and see a doctor if it continues.
TV settings
Many TVs have a game mode that switches off picture processing to cut input lag, which is the delay between pressing a button and seeing the result. Some switch to it automatically when a console is connected. Look in the TV's picture settings or its manual.
Settings questions
Do I need to change any of this?
No. Defaults are designed to work for most people. Change a setting when something bothers you, such as a dark image, quiet voices or a jerky picture.