how to use curved gaming monitor with ps5

So you picked up a curved gaming monitor and want to pair it with your PS5. That's a great move for desk gaming. But here's the thing: not every curved monitor plays nice with a console right out of the box.

You need to match the monitor's HDMI version and resolution support to what the PS5 actually outputs.

The keyword here is "how to use curved gaming monitor with ps5." The short version is that PS5 supports 4K at 120Hz over HDMI 2.1, 1440p at 120Hz over HDMI 2.0 (with a firmware update from Sony), and 1080p at 120Hz on any HDMI 1.4 monitor. As of 2026, most curved monitors under $300 stick to HDMI 2.0, which limits you to 4K at 60Hz. Knowing your monitor's exact specs is what saves you from a black screen or wasted money.

Why It’s Not Just “Plug and Play”

Curved monitors were built for PC gaming first. They often prioritize DisplayPort over HDMI. That's fine for a desktop.

But the PS5 only outputs through HDMI. So if your curved monitor has an older HDMI version, you lose access to high refresh rates and VRR.

Another hidden issue is resolution scaling. Many curved monitors are 1440p native. The PS5 can output 1440p, but only after you manually enable it in the settings.

If the monitor doesn't support 1440p over HDMI at the right refresh rate, the PS5 defaults to 1080p. That's not a disaster, but it means you're not getting the full benefit of the curved panel.

The curvature itself matters for viewing distance. A 1500R curve works best at around 2.5 to 3 feet. If you sit farther away, the curve distorts the edges.

Most desk setups put you at the right distance. But if you're using a monitor arm or a deep desk, you might need to adjust.

Quick Answer: What You Actually Need to Check First

Check your monitor's HDMI port version. Look in the manual or online specs. HDMI 2.1 gives you 4K at 120Hz.

HDMI 2.0 gives you 1440p at 120Hz or 4K at 60Hz. HDMI 1.4 gives you 1080p at 60Hz.

Match the PS5 video output to what the monitor supports. Go to Settings, Screen and Video, Video Output. Set resolution to Automatic.

Enable 120Hz Output. Turn on VRR if the monitor supports it.

If you get a black screen, lower the resolution manually. Most curved monitors work best at 1080p or 1440p for high refresh rates.

How Curved Monitors Work with PS5 – The Real Compatibility Picture

The PS5 is a 16:9 console. It doesn't support ultra-wide resolutions like 21:9. So if your curved monitor is a 34-inch ultra-wide, you'll see black bars on the sides.

That's not a failure. It's just not optimized.

What works well is a 27-inch or 32-inch curved monitor with a 16:9 aspect ratio. These are the most common sizes for console gaming. The curve helps with immersion because the edges of the screen curve toward your peripheral vision.

That effect is subtle but noticeable in fast-paced games like Call of Duty or Fortnite.

The PS5's Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) feature works with HDMI 2.1 monitors. If your curved monitor only has HDMI 2.0, VRR might still work if the monitor supports HDMI Forum VRR. But many budget curved monitors don't.

Check the monitor's VRR compatibility list before relying on it.

Step 1 – Identify Your Monitor’s HDMI Version and Max Specs

Before you plug anything in, find the model number of your curved monitor. It's usually on a sticker on the back or in the box. Then look up the official spec sheet.

You need three numbers:

• HDMI version (1.4, 2.0, or 2.1)
• Native resolution (1080p, 1440p, or 4K)
• Maximum refresh rate (60Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz, or higher)

Most curved monitors list these specs on the manufacturer's website. If you can't find them, check the monitor's on-screen display (OSD). Go to the Information or System menu.

It often shows the current input signal and supported modes.

Here's a quick reference table to match your monitor's HDMI version to what the PS5 can deliver:

If your monitor supports 1440p at 120Hz over HDMI 2.0, you're in a sweet spot. Many curved monitors in the $250 to $400 range do exactly that.

Decision Tree: Which Setup Path Fits Your Monitor?

This is where the decision tree comes in. Based on your monitor's specs, you'll follow one of three setup paths. Pick the one that matches your hardware.

Path A: HDMI 2.1 Monitor (4K @ 120Hz + VRR)

You have the best setup. Connect the PS5 to the monitor using the included HDMI cable. Go to Settings, Screen and Video, Video Output.

Set Resolution to Automatic. Enable 120Hz Output. Turn on VRR.

The monitor should automatically switch to 4K at 120Hz. If it doesn't, verify the monitor's OSD is set to its highest refresh rate. You're done.

Enjoy silky smooth gameplay.

Path B: HDMI 2.0 Monitor (1440p @ 120Hz or 4K @ 60Hz)

This is the most common scenario. Two sub-options exist. If your monitor supports 1440p at 120Hz, set the PS5 resolution to 1440p.

In PS5 Settings, go to Screen and Video, then set Resolution to 1440p. Enable 120Hz Output. The PS5 will output 1440p at 120Hz for games that support it.

For 4K games, it will downscale to 1440p at 60Hz. That's fine.

If your monitor only supports 4K at 60Hz, set the PS5 resolution to 2160p (4K). You'll get crisp visuals but no 120Hz. Most single-player games don't need 120Hz anyway.

Path C: HDMI 1.4 Monitor (1080p @ 60Hz Only)

You're limited to 1080p at 60Hz. That's still playable. Set the PS5 resolution to 1080p.

If your monitor supports 120Hz at 1080p (some HDMI 1.4 monitors do), try enabling 120Hz Output in the PS5 settings. If you get a black screen, disable it and stick with 60Hz. For competitive games like Rocket League or Overwatch, 60Hz is fine.

For cinematic games, the lower resolution is noticeable but not a dealbreaker.

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Image source: Bing (Web (fair-use with source credit))