Consoles
Finding the right TV mode for console gaming
Find the gaming preset on the input you use, then check how it behaves with HDR and automatic switching.
19 GUIDES
Consoles
Displays, storage, accounts and shared play.
Consoles
Checking the whole chain for 120 Hz play
A game, console, HDMI path and display must all support the mode you are trying to use.
Consoles
Understanding variable refresh rate on consoles
VRR can make fluctuating frame delivery less distracting, but it operates within the limits of the console and display.
Consoles
Setting up HDR without crushing dark detail
Calibrate for your screen and room, and separate HDR controls from settings that change the overall picture style.
Consoles
Choosing an HDMI cable for a console setup
Match the cable’s certified capability to the signal you need, then keep the connection simple.
Photo: Pradeep717 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Consoles
Giving a console room to ventilate
Give the console’s intake and exhaust paths space, including the air outside the cabinet.
Photo: Osh33m · CC BY-SA 4.0
Consoles
Checking an internal SSD upgrade for compatibility
Identify the console’s supported expansion method before comparing drive capacity or advertised speed.
Consoles
What console external storage can and cannot do
Check whether a drive will launch your games or only store them between transfers.
Consoles
Checking console cloud-save behaviour
Confirm that the right account and the latest progress have synchronised before changing consoles or deleting local data.
Consoles
Protecting a gaming account and recovery options
Protect the sign-in route and the recovery route together, especially before replacing a phone or selling a console.
Consoles
Setting up gaming accounts for a shared family console
Separate player profiles, purchases and communication permissions before the console becomes part of the daily routine.
Consoles
Preparing a home network for remote play
Establish a working local session before troubleshooting play from another network.
Consoles
Pairing a controller with the intended device
Check the controller model, connection method and previously paired device before resetting anything.
Photo: Alex Cochrane · CC BY-SA 4.0
Consoles
Checking a headset against your console
Check how game sound and microphone audio travel, not just whether the headset plug fits.
Photo: Dinopkk · CC BY-SA 3.0
Consoles
Planning storage and settings for game clips
Choose clip length and format around what you want to keep, then verify exported copies before clearing space.
Consoles
Preparing to move to another console
Separate installed games, account access and saved progress before retiring the old machine.
Consoles
Comparing disc and digital game purchases
Compare the licence, storage needs and future access as well as the price on the box.
Consoles
Checking what a local co-op session needs
Check the player count, input devices and joining process before everyone arrives.
Consoles
Packing a console for a trip
Protect the machine, separate loose accessories and confirm the destination connections.