Are you having problems with your PS4 screen flickering? You’re not alone! Many gamers have experienced this frustrating issue and it can be difficult to get a handle on. But don’t worry! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps of troubleshooting and fixing a PS4 screen flickering issue.
1. Troubleshoot the TV and HDMI Cable
Before troubleshooting the TV and HDMI cable, first check if there is a damaged PS4 HDMI cable. To do this, unplug both ends of the HDMI cable, and force a reset of the HDCP. If the problem persists, go into the PS4’s Sound and Screen settings and look for any display settings that may be incorrect for your monitor. It might also help to clean the HDMI port and cables with a small paintbrush and some isopropyl alcohol. If you are still experiencing flickering issues, there is a possibility that your HDCP setting may be switched on. You can also try changing your colour format from RGB to YUV in the PS4 Pro’s settings. Lastly, another possible cause could be an older HDMI cable which may cause intermittent blackouts or flickering on the display. To fix this, try reseating all cables and connections to the television from your devices.
2. Check the PS4 Settings
After troubleshooting the TV and HDMI cable, it is time to check the PS4 settings. If the issue is with the PS4, then it is likely that the display settings on the console are not set up correctly. To check this, go to the ‘Sound and Screen’ settings and make sure that Deep Colour Output and HDR Output are turned on. If this doesn’t solve the problem, then you can also check out the HDCP setting within the Display options.
3. Switch the HDMI Lead Out for a New One
After checking the PS4 settings, the next step to take is to switch out the HDMI lead for a new one. If you have access to a different HDMI cable, try connecting your PS4 to the TV with it. This will help you determine if the original HDMI cable was causing the flickering issue. If the new cable works, then you know that replacing your old one was the solution.
4. Check the Display Options
After making sure that the HDMI cable is working properly and the TV settings have been checked, the next step is to check the Display Options. In the PS4 Pro’s Sound and Screen settings, you may want to turn off the Deep Color option to see if that resolves the flickering issue. Additionally, you can check out the HDCP setting as this can cause issues with some displays.
5. Unplug the HDMI Cable from the Back of Your PS4 Pro and TV
If the previously mentioned steps don’t seem to work, it may be time to unplug the HDMI cable from the back of your PS4 Pro and TV. Unplugging both ends of the HDMI cable can help reset the HDCP and eliminate any interference that could be causing this issue. Once you’ve unplugged both ends of the cable, make sure to check that all ports are clean and inspect the wires for any breaks or other abnormalities. If everything looks in order, plug it back in and see if the issue is resolved.
6. Look at Accessibility Settings
After you have tried troubleshooting the TV and HDMI cable, checked the PS4 settings, switched the HDMI lead out for a new one, and checked the display options, you should also look at the Accessibility Settings. To configure accessibility settings, go to Settings > Accessibility where you can find options such as controller settings, zoom, display and text settings, text to speech, closed captions and more. This could help you determine if the problem is related to the accessibility settings or not.
7. Figure Out if it’s the PS4 or Not
If you have tried all the steps above and the PS4 screen is still flickering, it’s time to figure out if it’s the PS4 or not. Check the power supply: touch the power button on the front of the PS4 for at least seven seconds, or until the system beeps twice and powers off. If you are able to get to the video screen but are unable to see the menu due to the flashing, put your PS4 into safe mode to change the resolution. It’s also worth checking whether or not that HDMI port you are using is working with other systems; if it isn’t working, then it may be your TV. If it is working, then your PS4 may have a bad APU or bad connections between the APU and motherboard. I’ve seen similar problems with many different systems, so it’s worth trying out a different HDMI lead out for a new one.
8. Hook Up to Another TV with a Different Cable
7. Figure Out if it’s the PS4 or Not
After you’ve tested the TV and cable, it’s time to move on to the PS4 itself. To figure out if the issue is with the console, try connecting it to another TV with a different HDMI cable. If you don’t have an extra TV or cable, you may want to borrow one from a friend or family member. Doing so will help you narrow down whether or not the issue is with the PS4 itself.
9. Check for Software Updates
It is important to ensure that your PlayStation®4 software is up-to-date. Sony periodically releases new software for the PS4 that fixes bugs and performance issues, so making sure you have the latest version installed is key to avoiding any screen flickering or other problems. To update your software, follow the guidelines below: Load up the relevant software application and use the “update driver” wizard to complete the process. Additionally, you can check for any updates in the Notifications section of your PS4. If possible, update your PS4 using a wired internet connection.
10. Reset the System
Resetting the system is the last option to try if all else fails. To do this, make sure that all cables are connected properly, then press and hold the PS button on your controller until the system light turns off. Once you’ve done this, unplug the HDMI cable from the back of your PS4 Pro and TV, then reconnect it and check for any software updates. If nothing else resolves the issue, you may need to take your console in for service.
