PS5 HDMI Handshake Issues Fixed (Step-by-Step Guide for PS5 & PS4)

Introduction:

Picture this: you power on your PS5, ready for action. Instead of gameplay, you see a black screen. Sometimes, the display flickers, and other times, the resolution suddenly drops.

This frustrating problem is called an HDMI handshake issue. It happens when your console and TV fail to sync correctly.

And it’s not just the PS5. Many PS4 users also face the same trouble. That’s why learning to fix PS5 HDMI handshake issues on PS4 is helpful for both consoles.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

Why handshake failures happen.

Whether PS5 HDMI cable problems or ports are to blame.

Special issues like the LG G4 and PS5 issues.

Step-by-step fixes anyone can follow.

What Is an HDMI Handshake?

An HDMI handshake is a quick process. Your console sends video and audio data, and your TV confirms it can read the signal. If they agree, you get a picture. If not, problems appear.

Common symptoms:

Black screen even though the console is on.

Flickering or short signal drops.

Lower resolution than expected.

Important: a bad cable is not always the cause. Many times, it’s settings, port damage, or firmware issues.

Common Causes of HDMI Handshake Issues

Several things can break the handshake:

Loose or faulty HDMI cable → Cheap or damaged cables often trigger PS5 HDMI cable problems.

Damaged HDMI port → Many ask: Why are PS5 HDMI ports so bad? Thin soldering and repeated stress make them fragile.

Outdated TV firmware → Without updates, features like HDR or 120Hz may fail.

Soundbars, receivers, HDMI switches → Extra devices can block the handshake.

TV quirks → VRR or HDR mismatches sometimes confuse the signal.

Step-by-Step Fixes

Disable HDMI Link (CEC)

The HDMI device link can confuse the handshake.

On PS5: Settings → System → HDMI → turn off “Enable HDMI Device Link.”

On TV: Turn off CEC in system settings.

Check the Cable

Inspect for bent pins or wear.

Use a certified HDMI 2.1 Ultra High-Speed cable.

Try another HDMI port on your TV.

Adjust PS5 Video Output

Go to Settings → Screen and Video → Video Output.

Set resolution manually (1080p or 4K).

Turn off HDR.

Change HDCP to 1.4 only.

Adjust 4K Transfer Rate to -1 or -2.

If the screen stays black, boot into Safe Mode and reset the video output.

Power Cycle Devices

Turn off the PS5 and the TV.

Unplug both for 2–3 minutes.

Plug back in and restart.

Test Direct Connection

Remove soundbars, receivers, or switches.

Connect the PS5 directly to the TV.

Advanced Fixes

Update PS5 Firmware

Sony often releases updates to fix bugs.

Go to Settings → System → System Software → Update.

Follow Sony’s official PS5 update guide.

Update TV Firmware

Each brand has its own method:

LG → Settings → All Settings → Support → Software Update.

Samsung → Settings → Support → Software Update.

Sony Bravia → Settings → Device Preferences → About → System Update.

Reset TV Settings

If updates fail, reset your TV to factory defaults.

Rebuild Database (Safe Mode)

Turn off the PS5.

Hold power until two beeps.

Plug the controller via USB.

Select “Rebuild Database.”

PS5 HDMI Port Problems

One major issue is the fragile HDMI port.

Why ports fail:

Thin soldering points loosen over time.

Repeated plugging strains the connection.

Heavy cables pull on the port.

Sudden tugs bend pins inside.

Symptoms of damage:

“No signal” despite working cable.

The picture returns only when wiggling the cable.

Flickers with the slightest touch.

Replacement needed if:

Pins look bent or broken.

Port feels loose.

Repair options:

Under warranty → PlayStation Support.

Out of warranty → trusted repair shops. Avoid DIY unless skilled at soldering.

LG G4 + PS5 Specific Issues

The LG G4 PS5 issues are well-known.

Common glitches:

HDMI handshake errors → black screens.

VRR conflicts → frame skips or brightness problems.

Deep Colour setting → causes signal drops.

Input recognition → PS5 not appropriately detected.

Fixes:

Toggle HDMI Deep Colour (Settings → Picture).

Turn VRR on/off to test.

Set input to “Game Console” mode.

Update both PS5 and LG firmware.

Preventing Future Handshake Issues

Use only certified HDMI 2.1 cables.

Keep cables straight—don’t bend or twist.

Update console and TV firmware often.

Power on devices in order: TV first, then PS5.

When to Seek Professional Repair

Sometimes, only a repair can fix the problem.

Signs port is beyond repair:

The picture appears only when the cable is held at an angle.

Pins are visibly bent.

Port feels loose or broken.

Best steps:

If under warranty → contact Sony.

If out of warranty → choose a local repair shop with good reviews.

Avoid shady shops that use cheap replacement parts.

Conclusion

Most handshake issues with the PS5 or PS4 can be fixed at home. From disabling HDMI Link to adjusting video output, these simple steps often restore the signal.

When problems go deeper, updates, resets, or port repairs may be needed.

To avoid repeat failures:

Always use certified cables.

Update firmware.

Handle ports with care.

And if nothing works? Reach out to PlayStation Support or a trusted repair shop. That way, you’ll get back to gaming without lengthy interruptions.