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WHICH HDMI CABLE FOR PS5, XBOX SERIES X AND 4K AT 120HZ?

For PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and 4K at 120Hz, an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is the safe choice: it is designed for 48 gigabits per second. Here is what to look for and what else you need.

Last updated: November 2026

KabelDirekt 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cable in black with blue rings, two gold-plated HDMI plugs in close-up

The short answer

When you buy, look for the words “Ultra High Speed”, not just “HDMI 2.1”. A length of 2 to 3 metres suits most living rooms. Our 8K Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cable is officially licensed and comes in lengths from 1 to 5 metres.

Why the cable class matters more than the version number

“HDMI 2.1” on its own tells you little, because the standard also covers older cable classes. The class of the cable is what counts:

Cable classDesigned forWhat it means for you
High Speed10.2 Gbit/s4K at 30Hz. 4K at 120Hz is not covered by the specification.
Premium High Speed18 Gbit/s4K at 60Hz with HDR. 4K at 120Hz is not covered by the specification.
Ultra High Speed48 Gbit/s4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz, plus features such as VRR, ALLM and eARC.

Some High Speed cables do more than their class requires. In our EU shop, our 4K High Speed HDMI cable exceeds the specification and carries 4K at 120Hz at lengths of up to 3 metres. If you need a longer run or want the full package with a certificate, choose Ultra High Speed.

How to recognise a certified cable

Only cables certified by the HDMI consortium may carry the name “Ultra High Speed”. You can check the certificate on the packaging with an app. That way you can see for yourself that the cable meets the requirements.

What you need besides the cable for 120Hz

  • The console: PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X can output games at up to 120Hz.
  • The TV or monitor: It needs an HDMI 2.1 port that accepts 4K at 120Hz. Plug the cable into exactly that port.
  • The game: Not every game supports 120Hz. Check the details for each game.

Resolution and frame rate always depend on all the devices involved. The cable makes them possible, but does not create them on its own.

What HDMI 2.1 gives you when gaming

  • VRR (Variable Refresh Rate): The screen adapts to the game's frame rate, so the picture runs more smoothly.
  • ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode): The TV switches to game mode automatically, which reduces lag.
  • eARC: High-quality sound such as Dolby Atmos travels from the TV to your soundbar or amplifier.

Which length is right?

Measure the distance between the ports and allow a little slack. For runs over 5 metres, our optical Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1 cable comes in lengths from 5 to 20 metres. It is only 4.5 millimetres thick and easy to route.

Frequently asked questions

Does an Ultra High Speed cable work with an older TV?

Yes. Our cable is compatible with HDMI 2.1, 2.0 and 1.4. You then get what the older device can do.

Does the cable also suit the Xbox Series S?

Yes, the cable is suitable for Xbox Series X and S.

Where can I buy it in the UK or US?

Our online shop delivers to private customers within the EU. In the UK and US, KabelDirekt cables are sold on Amazon.

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