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We recently received PowerA’s new HDMI 2.1 cable for review and thought that it was important as we’re in this transitionary period into the next-gen that we discuss how important HDMI cables actually are in terms of ensuring you’re getting the most out of your new PS5 and PS5 Digital consoles and how this PowerA product may be able to help.
So as we’re now well over a year into next-gen gaming with a bit of luck some of you have hopefully managed to get your hands on a PS5. One overlooked accessory when it comes to gaming consoles is actually your HDMI cable, especially now we’ve moved into the world of HDMI 2.1. HDMI 2.1 cables are a large upgrade when it comes to output on your display because they can support 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second (FPS). This is a stark contrast compared to some of the HDMI cables of the past that only supported 4k 30FPS. Higher frame rates lead to smoother image quality and an overall better gaming experience.
Keep in mind your PS5 does come with a HDMI 2.1 cable which is perfectly fine for your console but if you’re after a replacement or just a more premium product that is officially licensed then the PowerA HDMI 2.1 cable for PS5 may be just what you’re after.
One other thing that is important to mention is that unless your TV display supports 4K 120Hz with HDMI 2.1 you are not going to see these visual improvements. However, these cables are backwards compatible so would still work on displays without these features but a cheaper option may make more sense. So with that out of the way lets get into the review.
As a PlayStation 5 licensed product, there are definitely standards that are being met here. The cable is tough and well put together and looks like it is built to last. There are all-white plastic housings on either end where the HDMI 2.1 connectors are with a Playstation and PowerA logo on them.
The connection pins are gold plated which will lead to better connection and prevention of corrosion. The 3m/10ft length of the wire is one of the large advantages over the in-box HDMI 2.1 cable that comes with the PS5 as this could definitely be needed for some set-ups.
There is however a lack of information in terms of the internals of the cable but based on its certifications from HDMI and PlayStation licensing we’d assume these are up to scratch. However, this information is not available in the box/product descriptions.
We tested the cable on a LG C1 OLED which is a 4K 120Hz compatible TV and as expected the performance of the cable was very good. The reasons this came as no surprise to us is mainly due to the fact that the cable is HDMI certified for ultra high speed and this is front and centre on the box.
Whilst hooked up to the PS5 we tested Spider-Man Miles Morales and Ghost of Tsushima both games looked great but it’s important to note that these games are not going to hit the highs of 120hz at 4K. There was no tearing and the image quality was very good. This is all as expected to be honest as a result of the HDMI 2.1 platform.
To test the 120Hz I hooked up my gaming PC to the LG C1 via the cable and used some FPS tests and the 120Hz was working as expected.
All in all this product works entirely as intended and is of high quality. The main advantages over the in-box HDMI 2.1 cable is the length and general build of the cable being much tougher. If you’re using an old HDMI cable from a drawer you’ve had for years then this could be worth picking up because you could be shooting yourself in the foot. It will also be somewhat future-proof as you upgrade your TV. However, it is a bit on the expensive side and ultimately the in-box HDMI 2.1 cable that came with your PS5 may be already doing the job.
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