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Xbox Performance vs Quality Mode: How to Choose

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Xbox Performance vs Quality Mode: How to Choose

This guide explains the difference between Performance and Quality modes on Xbox Series X|S and helps you decide which one to use for your games. You’ll learn what each mode does, how to switch between them, and which factors matter most depending on your TV, your preferences, and the type of game you’re playing.

What You’ll Need

  • An Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S console
  • A game that supports Performance or Quality modes (most modern titles offer them)
  • A TV or monitor that supports the refresh rate you want (120Hz for 120fps modes, or at least 60Hz for standard modes)
  • An HDMI cable that supports the bandwidth (the cable included with your console is fine)

Step-by-Step

  1. Understand the difference. Performance mode prioritizes frame rate (how many frames per second the game renders), usually targeting 60 or 120 fps. Quality mode prioritizes visual fidelity—higher resolution, better textures, and more detailed effects—often at 30 or 60 fps. Some games call these modes “Fidelity” and “Performance” or “Resolution” and “Frame Rate.”
  2. Check your TV’s capabilities. If you want to use a 120 fps Performance mode, your TV must support 120Hz refresh rate and have HDMI 2.1 (or sometimes HDMI 2.0 with reduced resolution). You can check this in your TV’s settings or manual. If your TV only does 60Hz, you’ll still get 60 fps in Performance mode, but not 120.
  3. Enable 120Hz on your Xbox (if applicable). Go to Settings > General > TV & display options > Refresh rate. Choose 120 Hz if your TV supports it. If you don’t see 120 Hz, your TV doesn’t support it, and you’ll be limited to 60 Hz.
  4. Open the game you want to play. Performance/Quality modes are usually selected in the game’s settings menu, not in the Xbox dashboard. Look for a “Video,” “Graphics,” or “Display” section.
  5. Find the mode selector. In the game’s settings, look for options like “Performance Mode,” “Quality Mode,” “Resolution Mode,” or “Fidelity Mode.” Some games also have a “Balanced” or “120Hz” option.
  6. Select Performance or Quality. Choose the one that matches your priority. If you’re not sure, start with Performance—it usually provides a smoother experience that most players prefer.
  7. Apply the setting and test. After changing the mode, the game may restart or reload. Play for a few minutes and notice the difference. If the game feels choppy or looks blurry, try the other mode.
  8. Adjust other display settings (optional). On Xbox, you can also enable Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) under Settings > General > TV & display options > Video modes. VRR helps reduce screen tearing when frame rates fluctuate.
  9. Consider the game type. For fast-paced shooters or racing games, Performance mode is usually better. For story-driven, slow-paced games, Quality mode may be more immersive. Some games even let you choose a 120fps Performance mode that lowers resolution further.

Common Mistakes

  • Not enabling 120Hz on the console. Even if your TV supports 120Hz, the Xbox may be set to 60Hz. You must change this in the Xbox settings for 120fps modes to appear.
  • Choosing Quality mode on a 60Hz TV. Many Quality modes target 30fps, which can feel sluggish on a 60Hz display. If you’re not sensitive to graphics, Performance mode will feel much smoother.
  • Assuming all games have both modes. Some games only offer one mode, or they auto-select based on your console (e.g., Series X gets Quality, Series S gets Performance). Check the game’s settings or online documentation.
  • Confusing Performance with 120fps. Performance mode often means 60fps, not 120fps. Some games have a separate “120Hz” mode that sacrifices even more visual quality to hit 120fps.
  • Forgetting to check HDMI cable. If you’re using an older HDMI cable that doesn’t support HDMI 2.1, you may not get 120Hz even if your TV supports it. The cable that came with your Xbox Series X|S is correct.

Tips

  • Use Performance mode for competitive multiplayer. A higher frame rate reduces input lag and makes aiming feel more responsive.
  • Use Quality mode for single-player story games. When you’re not competing, the improved visuals can enhance immersion.
  • Try both modes. Many games let you switch anytime, so test each mode in the same area to see which you prefer.
  • Enable VRR if your TV supports it. VRR smooths out frame rate dips, making Performance mode feel even better.
  • Check your TV’s game mode. Most TVs have a “Game Mode” that reduces input lag. Enable it for the HDMI port your Xbox is connected to.
  • Know your console’s limits. The Xbox Series S is less powerful than the Series X, so its Performance mode may target 1080p/60fps, while Quality mode targets 1440p/30fps. Adjust your expectations accordingly.

Troubleshooting

I don’t see a Performance/Quality option in the game.

Not all games have this option. If the game doesn’t offer it, it likely runs at a fixed resolution and frame rate. Check the game’s official documentation or online forums. Some games automatically choose the mode based on your console model.

I selected Performance mode but the game still feels laggy.

First, ensure your TV is set to Game Mode. Then check if the game is actually running at 60fps—some games have a frame rate counter in their settings. If it’s still laggy, your TV might not be displaying 60Hz. Go to Xbox Settings > TV & display options and confirm the refresh rate is 60Hz or 120Hz.

I changed the mode but the game looks blurry.

Performance mode often lowers resolution, so blurriness is expected. If it’s too blurry, switch back to Quality mode. Also, make sure your TV’s sharpness settings aren’t causing artifacts.

120Hz option is greyed out in Xbox settings.

Your TV likely doesn’t support 120Hz, or the HDMI port you’re using doesn’t support HDMI 2.1. Try a different HDMI port (usually labeled “HDMI 2.1” or “Game”). Also, ensure your TV’s HDMI mode is set to Enhanced or 2.1 in the TV’s settings.

I enabled 120Hz but games still run at 60fps.

Make sure the game itself has a 120fps mode enabled. Some games require you to select a “120Hz” or “Performance 120” option within the game. Also, note that some games only run at 120fps in certain areas or modes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Performance mode always mean 120fps?

A: No. Performance mode usually targets 60fps, while some games offer a separate 120fps mode that further reduces resolution.

Q: Will Quality mode damage my console?

A: No, Quality mode is safe. It may push the GPU harder, but the console is designed to handle it. Ensure proper ventilation.

Q: Can I switch modes mid-game?

A: Yes, in most games you can change the mode anytime from the settings menu. The game may briefly reload.

Q: Which mode is better for a 4K TV?

A: If your TV is 4K, Quality mode will likely use the full 4K resolution. Performance mode may drop to 1440p or 1080p. If you prefer smoothness, Performance; if you prefer sharpness, Quality.

Q: Does the Xbox Series S have the same modes as the Series X?

A: Not exactly. The Series S is less powerful, so its Performance mode may target 1080p/60fps, and Quality mode 1440p/30fps. Some games offer similar modes but at lower resolutions.

Q: Why do some games not have a mode selector?

A: The developer may have decided to optimize for one mode only. This is common in older or less demanding games.

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