VRR effectively replaces V-sync in modern-day consoles by eliminating tear and reducing input lag by matching the monitor’s frame rate with the console’s. However, VRR on the PS5 is failing to function as intended.
A new Digital Foundry report confirms user complaints about stuttering caused by VRR on the PS5 consoles. That is now confirmed to be a console issue across the base PS5 and the PS5 pro consoles.
Why it matters: With modern consoles supporting more than 60 FPS in video games, VRR is essential to ensure smooth gameplay. However, stutters caused by VRR on the PS5 consoles defeat the entire purpose of the technology.
Digital Foundry tested the VRR issue using multiple 120Hz-supported games, including The Last of Us titles, Diablo 4, and Kingdom Come Deliverance 2. The problem became noticeable after about 20 minutes of gameplay, with stuttering occurring every 8 seconds.
Currently, it is unclear which games are most affected, as there is no consistent link between them. However, testing suggests the problem is tied to frame rate fluctuations. In games where the console maintains a stable frame rate, VRR does not appear to cause stuttering.
Meanwhile, Xbox consoles do not exhibit the same problem, functioning properly with VRR enabled on titles where the PS5 struggles. The only temporary workaround is to switch inputs or restart the game, which resets the stutter timer. However, this is not a practical solution.
With US TVs following NTSC standards, 120Hz displays actually run at 119.88Hz. This slight mismatch may cause stutters every 8 seconds, likely due to a console-end misconfiguration assuming a true 120Hz.
For now, disabling VRR might be the best option until Sony officially addresses the issue with a fix or a detailed report.
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[News Reporter]
Shaheer is currently pursuing a Business degree while also working as a part-time Content Writer. With his deep passion for both writing and video games, he has seamlessly transitioned into a role as a Journalist. Over the past two years, Shaheer has contributed as a freelancer to various websites and landed positions on acclaimed platforms like Gamerant. Currently, his role at Tech4gamers is as a Features Writer, but he also covers News occasionally. Shaheer’s favorite gaming franchises are Assassin’s Creed and the God of War series.
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