Game Mode was introduced to TVs and monitors in the early 2010s, coinciding with the rise of smart TVs equipped with operating systems and advanced image processing features. As TVs began applying additional video enhancements, Game Mode became a standard feature, allowing users to reduce response time when connecting gaming consoles like PlayStation™ and Xbox™ or using the TV as a monitor.
When Game Mode is activated, the TV disables additional processing and displays video as it is, minimizing delay and ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
How Game Mode Works on Your TV
When a gaming console is connected to a TV via HDMI, the image follows a specific processing path before being displayed on the screen. At each stage, a delay is introduced:
- Signal Transmission: The console sends the video signal to the HDMI output port, converting it into an HDMI data stream. This step adds about 5-10ms of delay.
- TV Signal Processing: The signal reaches the TV’s HDMI input, where it is converted into a format suitable for processing. This step introduces another 5-10ms of delay.
- Image Processing: The TV’s processor applies various image-enhancing features, adding 20 to 100ms of additional delay.
As a result, the total input lag—the time between when the console sends the image and when it appears on screen—can range from 30 to 120ms, which is noticeable and can negatively impact gameplay.
How Game Mode Reduces Input Lag
Game Mode disables all non-essential processing to speed up the signal path and minimize latency. The main contributor to input lag is the TV’s processor, which applies enhancements such as:
- Samsung TVs: Digital Clean View, Ultra Black, Auto Motion Plus
- LG TVs: TruMotion, Noise Reduction
While these features improve picture quality, they also increase processing time, delaying image output. Game Mode disables them, reducing latency to around 20-30ms, making gameplay much more responsive.
Additional Features in Modern TVs
As gaming has become a core function of smart TVs, manufacturers have introduced advanced gaming features beyond basic Game Mode:
- Higher Refresh Rates: New TVs with HDMI 2.1 ports support 144Hz refresh rates at 4K resolution. While this feature is mostly a marketing point rather than a groundbreaking improvement, it does allow for smoother visuals in supported games.
- Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): The TV automatically adjusts its refresh rate to match the console’s frame rate, eliminating screen tearing and reducing stuttering without additional processing overhead.
- Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Automatically switches the TV to Game Mode when a console is detected, without requiring manual adjustments.
Game Mode and User Experience Enhancements
With more TVs being used as gaming monitors, OS developers have also introduced dedicated gaming menus for easier access to settings:
- Game Bar (Samsung): An on-screen menu that displays real-time game stats, frame rate, and input lag, along with quick access to settings without needing to open the full TV menu.
By enabling Game Mode and utilizing these modern gaming features, players can achieve faster response times, smoother visuals, and a significantly improved gaming experience.
