The PS5 is known for delivering powerful gaming experiences, but HDMI handshake issues can disrupt your setup. Whether you’re seeing a black screen, no signal, or flickering, these problems often stem from communication errors between the PS5 and your display. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical and permanent solutions using the latest techniques and tools available in 2025.
To fix PS5 HDMI handshake issues, restart your console in Safe Mode, use a high-speed HDMI 2.1 cable, disable HDCP, and update your TV firmware. These steps help restore signal communication between the PS5 and the display, solving black screen, flickering, or “No Signal” problems effectively.
Table of Contents
Understanding HDMI Handshake and Why It Fails
An HDMI handshake is the digital agreement between your PS5 and TV to display video/audio content. When this handshake fails, your screen may go black or display “No Signal.” This is typically caused by communication errors, faulty cables, or compatibility settings.
In most cases, the issue isn’t your PS5 or TV—it’s how they communicate. HDMI version mismatches, outdated firmware, or incorrect resolutions can all break the handshake process, especially on 4K or 8K displays.
To diagnose the root cause, start with basic steps. Try swapping HDMI cables, changing ports, and restarting both devices. If that doesn’t help, move to software-level fixes like resetting video output or updating firmware.
How to Fix PS5 HDMI Handshake Issues Effectively
If you’re wondering how to fix PS5 HDMI handshake issues, follow these step-by-step solutions. They address both hardware and software conflicts and apply to most brands of TVs and monitors.
First, power off your PS5 and TV completely. Disconnect the HDMI cable and hold the power button on your PS5 for 7 seconds until you hear a second beep. This will boot your console in Safe Mode, allowing you to reset video settings.
Second, replace or use a high-speed certified HDMI 2.1 cable. Poor-quality cables often fail to handle PS5’s high bandwidth, resulting in handshake failures.
Also, try the following:
- Plug the PS5 into a different HDMI port
- Turn off HDCP in PS5 settings
- Update your TV’s firmware
Check for Compatibility Between Devices
One major reason for HDMI handshake issues is incompatibility between the TV and console settings. PS5’s advanced features like 4K120Hz, HDR, or Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) require proper TV support.
If your TV doesn’t support HDMI 2.1 or has older firmware, the PS5 may not display anything. Lowering the resolution to 1080p or disabling HDR can restore compatibility, allowing you to at least see the interface and make further changes.
Make sure your TV’s HDMI input mode is set to “Enhanced” or “Game Mode.” Some TVs use default modes that limit signal compatibility, especially on older models. Consult your TV manual or manufacturer’s website for optimal HDMI settings.
Also, don’t ignore firmware updates. Most HDMI handshake bugs are fixed via updates from TV brands like LG, Sony, and Samsung. Keeping both devices up to date ensures smooth communication.
Use These Advanced Troubleshooting Tips
If the basic solutions didn’t help, it’s time for advanced methods. These steps are more technical but have a high success rate for persistent HDMI handshake issues.
Start by disabling HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) on your PS5:
- Go to Settings > System > HDMI
- Turn off Enable HDCP
- Restart the console
Try connecting your PS5 to a different display (another TV or monitor). If it works, the issue likely lies with your original TV’s HDMI ports or software settings.
You can also change the RGB Range from “Automatic” to “Limited” or “Full” depending on your TV. This small tweak often helps displays recognize the PS5 signal correctly.
Comparison Table: PS5 HDMI Fixes and Their Effectiveness
Here’s a quick reference table showing common fixes, their effectiveness, and difficulty level:
| Solution | Effectiveness | Difficulty | Notes |
| Replacing HDMI Cable | High | Easy | Useful when the screen is completely black |
| Resetting Video Settings (Safe Mode) | High | Medium | Useful when screen is completely black |
| Disabling HDCP | Medium | Easy | Helps with capture cards & old TVs |
| Updating TV Firmware | High | Medium | Needed for 4K/8K TVs |
| Using a Different HDMI Port | Medium | Easy | Fixes port-specific issues |
| Reducing Resolution to 1080p | Medium | Easy | Useful for older displays |
This table can help you choose the right solution based on your situation.
If you’re facing PS5 HDMI handshake issues like a black screen or “No Signal,” the problem is usually due to communication errors between your console and display. This guide explains how to reset video settings, use the right HDMI cable, change TV modes, and fix compatibility issues to restore your display connection.
Final Thoughts
Fixing HDMI handshake problems on the PS5 doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with simple hardware checks, then move on to software and settings adjustments. Most issues are reversible and require just a few changes. By following this 2025-tested guide, you’ll be back to gaming in no time.
Need more help? Let us know which fix worked for you!