The PS5 is arguably the video game industry’s most cutting-edge console, and it deserves a monitor that can match its superb hardware. For many avid gamers in 2024, that means an ultrawide display. But does the PS5 support ultrawide monitors? Here we’ll break the whole topic down and explain what’s on the horizon for Sony’s popular console.
PS5 and Ultrawide Monitors, Explained
Officially, the PS5 does not support ultrawide monitors. Sony’s gaming console operates on a standard 16:9 aspect ratio with four different resolution settings: 720p, 1080i, 1080p, and 2160p. These settings do not accommodate the 21:9 aspect ratio of ultrawide monitors.
Nevertheless, this does not mean that PS5 games cannot be played on ultrawide monitors.
Despite the lack of official support, the PS5 exhibits the capability to intelligently upscale the image to fit an ultrawide screen. This smart upscaling feature essentially takes a 1080p image and expands it to fill the broader screen of an ultrawide monitor. While the result may not be perfect, it is generally considered satisfactory by most gamers.
That all being said, while the PS5 can upscale images to fit an ultrawide screen, the console does not provide anything extra compared to a standard 16:9 screen. The upscaling process may result in a slightly stretched image, which may not deliver the full benefits of an ultrawide monitor.
However, the experience is subjective and depends on personal preference. Some gamers may find the upscaled image quality acceptable, while others may feel it falls short of their expectations.
Optimizing the Ultrawide Experience with PS5
For those looking to optimize their ultrawide experience with a PS5, experimenting with resolution settings can be beneficial. Gamers can choose to upscale from 1080p or downscale from 2160p. The impact of these choices on image quality will depend on individual monitor specifications and personal preferences.
Many gamers speculate about the possibility of Sony introducing ultrawide support for the PS5 in the future. While no official announcements have been made, it isn’t unlikely, given the growing popularity of ultrawide monitors among gamers.
The lack of ultrawide support is not exclusive to the PS5. Xbox Series X, another leading gaming console, also falls short in this aspect. On the other hand, Personal Computers (PCs) are more accommodating of ultrawide monitors, with many AAA titles offering ultrawide support. For prospective PS5 buyers who are also considering purchasing a new gaming monitor, the lack of ultrawide support may influence their decision. HDMI 2.1 monitors could be a more compatible choice for PS5 gaming.
However, if you already possess an ultrawide monitor or are determined to buy one, the PS5 can still deliver a satisfactory gaming experience.
Future Ultrawide Support for PS5
While the PS5 may not officially support ultrawide monitors, its smart upscaling feature offers a workaround for gamers who prefer a more immersive gaming experience. The future might even bring official ultrawide support, but until then, gamers can make the most out of their ultrawide monitors with the PS5. It’s worth noting that if you have a laptop then you can use that for your PS5 display.