Best Ways to Reduce TV Input Lag 2025
Have you ever noticed a slight delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the action happen on screen? Maybe your character feels sluggish, your shots don’t fire instantly, or your movements seem to lag behind your inputs. That’s TV input lag—and it can make a huge difference in your gaming experience.
What Is TV Input Lag?
TV input lag refers to the delay between your input (controller, keyboard, or mouse) and the time it takes for that action to appear on screen. While this might not be noticeable when watching movies, in gaming—especially fast-paced shooters, fighting games, or racing sims—even a small delay can impact reaction time, accuracy, and overall performance.
For gamers, TV input lag can make the difference between victory and defeat, as even a slight delay can impact reaction time in fast-paced games. Similarly, for Smart TV users, high input lag can lead to sluggish menu navigation and an overall frustrating experience
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Best Ways to Reduce TV Input Lag
At inputdelay.com, we’ve tested and found the best ways to reduce TV input lag for gaming. In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ How to enable Game Mode for the lowest latency
✅ Choosing the best TV settings for real-time responsiveness
✅ Understanding refresh rates and response times
✅ Optimizing HDMI settings and hardware for minimal delay
✅ Selecting the best gaming TVs with ultra-low input lag
If you want a smoother, more responsive gaming experience, learning how to identify and fix TV input lag is essential.
Enable Game Mode
One of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce input lag is by activating Game Mode on your TV.
- What is Game Mode?
Game Mode disables many of the TV’s image processing features, such as motion smoothing, upscaling, and noise reduction, which prioritize picture quality but add delay. - How to Enable It:
Check your TV’s settings menu (often under Picture or Display options) and toggle Game Mode on. Some TVs automatically enable Game Mode when connected to a console, so ensure this feature is enabled if your TV supports it.
Tip: On some TVs, you can customize Game Mode settings to balance speed and visual quality. Experiment with these adjustments to find what works best for you.
Lower the Resolution and Disable HDR
While 4K resolution and HDR (High Dynamic Range) deliver stunning visuals, they require significant processing power, which can increase input lag.
- Lowering Resolution:
If you’re experiencing high TV input lag, consider reducing the resolution to 1080p or 720p, especially if your gaming console or PC can handle these resolutions more efficiently. - Disabling HDR:
HDR enhances contrast and brightness but can introduce extra latency. Disabling HDR from your TV settings or gaming console can reduce processing delays.
Tip: If you’re gaming competitively, prioritize performance over visual enhancements. You can always re-enable HDR for single-player or cinematic experiences.
Use High-Quality HDMI Cables
The type of HDMI cable you use plays a crucial role in reducing TV input lag.
- Upgrade to HDMI 2.0 or HDMI 2.1:
Older HDMI cables (such as HDMI 1.4) may not handle high refresh rates or resolutions efficiently, leading to increased lag. HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1 cables are designed for higher bandwidth and support features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 4K at 120Hz, which can significantly reduce latency. - Cable Length Matters:
Keep HDMI cable lengths short when possible, as long cables can sometimes degrade signal quality and introduce latency.
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Update Your TV's Firmware
Manufacturers frequently release software updates to improve TV performance, including input lag.
- How to Update:
- Check the system or support section of your TV’s menu for updates.
- Alternatively, visit the manufacturer’s website, download the firmware, and update via USB if needed.
- Why It Matters:
Firmware updates often include bug fixes, performance optimizations, and new features like improved Game Mode functionality.
Tip: Enable automatic updates on your TV to ensure you’re always running the latest software version.
Adjust Refresh Rate Settings
If your TV supports variable refresh rate (VRR) or high refresh rates like 120Hz, enable these features for smoother and faster performance.
- Match the Refresh Rate to the Source:
Ensure your TV’s refresh rate matches the output of your gaming console or PC. For example, if your console outputs at 60Hz, set your TV to 60Hz for optimal performance. - Enable VRR:
TVs with VRR can dynamically adjust their refresh rates to match the frame rate of your game, reducing screen tearing and input lag.
Tip: Not all TVs support VRR. Check your TV’s specifications or use a compatible gaming monitor if VRR is critical for your needs.
Optimize Your Gaming Console or PC Settings
Your gaming device settings can also contribute to input lag. Here’s what to do:
- Set Output Resolution and Refresh Rate:
Ensure your console or PC is set to output a resolution and refresh rate that your TV can handle efficiently (e.g., 1080p at 60Hz). - Disable Extra Visual Features:
Features like motion blur, anti-aliasing, and V-Sync on your gaming device can add processing time. Disabling them can reduce latency. - Enable Performance Modes:
Many consoles and PCs offer performance modes that prioritize frame rate and responsiveness over graphical fidelity.
Tip: Test different settings to find the ideal balance between visuals and responsiveness.
Minimize External Devices and Signal Delays
Sometimes, external devices and configurations can add unnecessary latency.
- Connect Directly to the TV:
If possible, connect your gaming device directly to the TV instead of routing it through receivers or soundbars. Intermediate devices can introduce additional delays. - Use Low-Latency Accessories:
Some gaming controllers or peripherals can add input lag. Choose accessories designed for low latency and wired connections whenever possible.
Tip: Test your setup with minimal devices to identify if any particular component is causing lag.
Disable Additional TV Features
Modern TVs come with several features designed to enhance picture quality, but they often increase processing time.
- Motion Smoothing:
Turn off motion smoothing or interpolation (often called “TruMotion,” “MotionFlow,” or similar names), as it increases TV input lag by adding frames to your content. - Noise Reduction and Upscaling:
Disable noise reduction and resolution upscaling in the TV settings, as these processes require additional processing power.
Tip: Look for a “Game Optimizer” or similar preset that disables most unnecessary features automatically.
Consider Upgrading Your TV
If you’ve tried all the above tips and still experience TV high input lag, it might be time to invest in a new TV designed for low latency.
- Look for TVs with:
- Input lag below 15ms (ideal for gaming).
- Features like ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), VRR, and Game Mode.
- High refresh rates (120Hz or higher).
- Recommended Low-Lag TVs:
- LG OLED Series: Known for exceptional gaming performance. Grab yours now on Amazon* (Affiliate Link)!
- Samsung QLED Models: Offers low input lag and Game Mode Plus. Check out our top pick on Amazon* (Affiliate Link)!
- Sony Bravia XR Series: Combines low latency with excellent picture quality. Level up your game with this must-have on Amazon* (Affiliate Link)!
By following these tips, you can minimize input lag and enjoy a smoother, more responsive experience on your TV—whether you’re gaming, watching sports, or simply navigating menus.
What is a Good TV Input Lag?
| Input Lag | Gaming Performance |
|---|---|
| 1-20 ms | Excellent for almost all games, especially competitive games |
| 21-40 ms | Good for slower games but noticeable for highly competitive players |
| >40 ms | May lead to noticeable delay, especially in fast-paced games |
For gamers, input lag is a game-changer—literally. In fast-paced games such as shooters or fighting games, even a small delay can severely disrupt gameplay and affect performance. A low-latency TV ensures a smoother, more immersive experience, giving players a competitive edge.
Emerging Trends in Low-Latency TVs
As gaming technology evolves, so do display technologies. Competitive gamers and enthusiasts are now looking for more than just low TV input lag—they want higher refresh rates, adaptive sync, and cutting-edge processing to keep up with today’s fast-paced titles. Here are some of the biggest trends shaping the future of low-latency TVs:
144Hz and 120Hz Refresh Rates
High refresh rates aren’t just for monitors anymore. More TVs now support 120Hz or even 144Hz, delivering smoother motion and lower TV input lag. This is a game-changer for FPS titles like CS2, Marvel Rivals, and Rainbow Six Siege (R6), where split-second reactions determine the outcome of a match.NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync
Originally designed for PC gaming monitors, adaptive sync technologies like G-Sync and FreeSync are now making their way into TVs. These features dynamically adjust the TV’s refresh rate to match the game’s frame rate, reducing screen tearing and stuttering while improving responsiveness.Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
ALLM automatically switches your TV to its lowest latency mode when a console or gaming PC is detected. This removes the need to manually enable Game Mode, ensuring optimal performance every time you start a game.HDMI 2.1 for Next-Gen Gaming
With support for 4K at 120Hz, HDMI 2.1 has become a must-have for serious gamers. It allows for lower latency, higher bandwidth, and features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT), which help minimize TV input lag even further.OLED and Mini-LED Displays
OLED technology has gained popularity due to its near-instant response times, deep blacks, and incredible contrast. Meanwhile, Mini-LED TVs offer high brightness levels and improved local dimming while maintaining low TV input lag, making them a solid choice for both competitive and casual gamers.
These advancements are making it easier than ever to get a responsive, immersive gaming experience on a big screen. If you’re in the market for a low-latency TV, keeping an eye on these features will ensure you stay ahead of the competition.
Our Take on TV Input Lag – From the Team at inputdelay.com
If you’ve ever missed a clutch headshot in Valorant lost a gunfight in Call of Duty, or felt like your Fortnite flicks just weren’t landing, there’s a good chance input lag was working against you. At InputDelay.com, we live for smooth, responsive gameplay, and we know firsthand how frustrating even a slight delay can be.
TV Input lag isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s the difference between victory and defeat. When your display doesn’t keep up with your reactions, every millisecond counts. That’s why we’ve tested and broken down the best ways to cut down on TV input lag, from enabling Game Mode and optimizing settings to choosing the right cables and hardware. Whether you’re grinding ranked, competing at a high level, or just want the best possible experience on your next-gen console, reducing input lag is a must.
But we don’t stop at input lag. At inputdelay.com, we also review gaming gear to help you get the best performance possible. From high-refresh-rate monitors and ultra-responsive controllers to low-latency gaming headsets, we cover everything you need to stay competitive. If you’re looking for a gaming TV that delivers top-tier performance without breaking the bank, check out our in-depth review of the best budget gaming TV 2025 under $1,000—we put them to the test so you don’t have to.
We’ve seen it all—high refresh rate TVs that feel buttery smooth, settings that make a real impact, and the pitfalls that can secretly ruin your performance. If you’re serious about gaming, don’t let input lag hold you back. Dial in your setup, tweak your settings, and get the competitive edge you deserve.
Want to dive deeper? Check out our detailed guide on input lag for monitors and see how your display stacks up!
Game on,
The inputdelay.com Team