Witcher 3 PS5 Pro Performance Modes & Resolution FAQ

The Witcher 3 on PS5 Pro offers two main performance modes: Performance Mode (targeting 60 FPS at a dynamic 1440p upscaled to 4K) and Ray Tracing Mode (targeting 30 FPS at dynamic 4K with ray-traced effects). The PS5 Pro update adds a new Performance Ray Tracing Mode that combines ray-traced lighting with a 60 FPS target, a feature not available on the base PS5.

Background: What the PS5 Pro Update Changes

The PS5 Pro launched in November 2024 with a more powerful GPU and custom machine-learning upscaling (PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, or PSSR). CD Projekt Red released a free update for The Witcher 3 specifically for PS5 Pro, which adds a third graphics mode and improves existing modes. The base PS5 version already had Performance (60 FPS) and Ray Tracing (30 FPS) modes, but the Pro hardware allows for a hybrid mode that was previously impossible.

How the Modes Work

Each mode balances resolution, frame rate, and visual effects differently:

• Performance Mode: Targets 60 FPS with a dynamic resolution that typically sits around 1440p, upscaled to 4K. It uses standard lighting and shadows (no ray tracing). This is the smoothest experience.
• Ray Tracing Mode: Targets 30 FPS with a dynamic 4K resolution. It enables ray-traced ambient occlusion and shadows, which make lighting more realistic but halve the frame rate.
• Performance Ray Tracing Mode (PS5 Pro only): Targets 60 FPS while keeping ray-traced ambient occlusion and shadows. Resolution is dynamic, often dipping below 1440p in heavy scenes, but PSSR upscales it to 4K. This is the headline feature of the Pro update.

How to Choose the Right Mode

Your choice depends on your display and preference:

1. If you have a 120Hz VRR display: Choose Performance Ray Tracing Mode. The 60 FPS target feels fluid, and VRR smooths out minor dips.
2. If you prioritize smoothness over visuals: Pick Performance Mode. It holds 60 FPS almost perfectly, even in dense cities like Novigrad.
3. If you want maximum graphical fidelity and don’t mind 30 FPS: Ray Tracing Mode offers the highest resolution and most consistent ray-traced effects, but the frame rate can feel sluggish after playing at 60.

Most players will find Performance Ray Tracing Mode the best balance on PS5 Pro, but if you are sensitive to frame rate drops, stick with standard Performance.

Common Problems and Fixes

Some players report issues after the update:

• Flickering or shimmering in Performance RT Mode: This is often caused by PSSR upscaling interacting with fine details like hair or foliage. Try lowering the in-game sharpening to 0 or switching to Performance Mode temporarily.
• Ray Tracing Mode feels stuttery: Ensure your TV is in Game Mode and that VRR is enabled (if supported). Also, check that the game’s frame rate cap is set to 30 in the in-game video settings.
• No option for Performance RT Mode: Make sure the game is fully updated to version 4.04 or later and that you are running the PS5 version (not the PS4 version via backward compatibility).

Comparison: PS5 Pro vs Base PS5

The PS5 Pro’s main advantage is the new Performance RT Mode. On a base PS5, you must choose between 60 FPS without ray tracing or 30 FPS with it. The Pro also uses PSSR instead of the simpler checkerboard upscaling, which generally produces sharper images at the same resolution. In standard Performance Mode, the Pro holds 60 FPS more consistently, with fewer drops in busy areas.

In Ray Tracing Mode, the Pro runs at a higher dynamic resolution (often near full 4K) compared to the base PS5, which might drop to 1440p in demanding scenes. The visual difference is subtle but noticeable on large screens.

Cost and Value Considerations

The PS5 Pro itself costs significantly more than a standard PS5, and the Witcher 3 update is free if you already own the game. If you are buying a PS5 Pro mainly for this game, the Performance RT Mode is a compelling reason, but it is not a night-and-day upgrade. The base PS5’s Performance Mode already delivers a great experience. The Pro is best for players with 4K displays who want higher fidelity without sacrificing frame rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the PS5 Pro version run at native 4K?

No. All modes use dynamic resolution scaling. Performance RT Mode often runs below 1440p internally and upscales to 4K using PSSR. Ray Tracing Mode can hit near-native 4K, but it drops in heavy scenes. There is no true native 4K mode.

Is the 60 FPS in Performance RT Mode stable?

Mostly, but not perfectly. In the most demanding areas (e.g., Novigrad at night with many lights), the frame rate can dip to the mid-50s. If you have a VRR display, this is largely imperceptible; on a fixed 60Hz display, you may notice slight stutter.

Can I use the PS4 version on PS5 Pro to get better performance?

No. The PS4 version runs in backward compatibility mode with no Pro enhancements. You get the same 60 FPS as on a base PS5, but without any resolution or ray tracing improvements. Always use the PS5 version.

Does the update add any new content?

No. The PS5 Pro update is purely technical. It does not add new quests, items, or story content. It only improves performance and adds the new graphics mode.

Which mode is best for a 1080p TV?

On a 1080p display, the resolution differences are less visible. Performance Mode or Performance RT Mode both look sharp, and the higher frame rate is more beneficial. Ray Tracing Mode at 30 FPS is not worth it on a 1080p screen.

Does the game support 120Hz output?

No. The Witcher 3 is capped at 60 FPS on PS5 Pro. Even with a 120Hz display, you will not see more than 60 frames per second. However, a 120Hz VRR display helps reduce screen tearing and smooths frame rate fluctuations.

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sel mode | Mode | Performance=1, Ray Tracing=2, Performance RT=3
in res | Resolution (native) | p | 1440 | 720
out fps | Target FPS | FPS | 60 | 0
out upscale | Upscaled Output | - | 2160 | 0