Low latency can be the difference between winning and losing, especially in competitive online games. Even though the Xbox Series X is one of the most powerful consoles ever made, you won’t get the best performance unless it’s properly optimized. If you play FPS games, sports titles, racing games, or competitive multiplayer, reducing input lag and network latency is critical. In this guide, you’ll learn step by step how to optimize Xbox Series X for low latency gaming, covering console settings, TV or monitor setup, controller tweaks, and network optimization.
What Is Input Lag and Latency on Xbox Series X?
Before changing settings, it’s important to understand what “latency” actually means.
Input Lag
Input lag refers to the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the action appear on screen. Even small delays can affect aiming, timing, and reaction speed.
Network Latency (Ping)
This is the delay between your console and the game server. High ping causes lag, rubber-banding, and delayed hit registration in online games.
Display Latency
Your TV or monitor also adds delay due to image processing, motion smoothing, and post-processing effects.
For the best experience, all three types of latency must be minimized.
Best Xbox Series X System Settings for Low Latency
Enable Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Auto Low Latency Mode allows your TV to automatically switch to Game Mode when you turn on your Xbox.
How to enable it:
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Go to Settings
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Select General
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Open TV & Display Options
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Choose Video Modes
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Enable Allow Auto Low Latency Mode
This instantly reduces display input lag on supported TVs.
Use 120Hz Refresh Rate (If Supported)
A higher refresh rate results in smoother motion and lower input latency.
Steps to enable 120Hz:
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Go to Settings → TV & Display Options
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Set Refresh Rate to 120Hz
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Set Resolution to 1080p or 1440p if your TV doesn’t support 4K at 120Hz
Note: Your TV or monitor must support 120Hz over HDMI.
Turn Off Unnecessary Visual Features
Visual effects can increase processing time and input delay.
Whenever possible:
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Disable motion blur
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Turn off film grain
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Reduce shadow quality
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Choose Performance Mode instead of Quality Mode in games
This improves responsiveness without hurting gameplay.
Optimize Your TV or Monitor for Gaming
Enable Game Mode on Your TV
Game Mode disables image post-processing that adds delay.
Why it matters:
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Reduces input lag by up to 50%
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Improves response time
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Essential for competitive gaming
This setting is available on most TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, TCL, and Hisense.
Use HDMI 2.1 or a High-Speed HDMI Cable
To fully unlock Xbox Series X performance:
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Use HDMI 2.1 if available
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Plug into the TV’s gaming HDMI port
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Avoid cheap or damaged cables
HDMI quality directly affects refresh rate, latency, and stability.
Disable TV Post-Processing Features
Turn off these settings on your TV:
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Motion smoothing
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Noise reduction
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Dynamic contrast
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Sharpness enhancements
These features enhance the visual quality of movies, but they introduce a delay to games.
Controller Settings to Reduce Input Lag
Use a Wired Controller Connection
While Xbox wireless is excellent, wired controllers still offer the lowest latency.
For competitive play:
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Connect your controller via USB cable
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Especially recommended for FPS and fighting games
Update Xbox Controller Firmware
Firmware updates often improve responsiveness and fix latency issues.
How to update:
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Go to Settings
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Select Devices & Connections
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Open Accessories
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Update controller firmware
Always keep your controller updated.
Adjust In-Game Controller Sensitivity
Sensitivity affects how fast your input translates into movement.
Recommended tips:
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Avoid extremely low sensitivity
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Gradually increase until aiming feels responsive
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Use training modes to fine-tune settings
Balanced sensitivity = faster reaction + better control.
Network Optimization for Online Low-Latency Gaming
Use Ethernet Instead of Wi-Fi
A wired connection is the biggest upgrade you can make.
Benefits:
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Lower ping
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Stable connection
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Reduced packet loss
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No wireless interference
If possible, always use Ethernet for competitive gaming.
Configure DNS for Faster Response
Changing DNS can improve connection stability.
Recommended DNS options:
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Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 / 8.8.4.4
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Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 / 1.0.0.1
These are fast, reliable, and easy to set up.
Enable QoS (Quality of Service) on Your Router
QoS prioritizes gaming traffic over other devices.
This is especially helpful if:
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Multiple people use the same internet
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Streaming and gaming happen simultaneously
Set your Xbox as a high-priority device in router settings.
Best In-Game Settings for Competitive Gaming
Most modern games offer performance options.
Always choose:
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Performance Mode
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High frame rate settings
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Low latency presets (if available)
Popular competitive games like Warzone, Fortnite, Apex Legends, FIFA, and Rocket League benefit massively from performance-focused settings.
Common Mistakes That Increase Xbox Series X Latency
Avoid these mistakes:
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Playing without Game Mode enabled
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Using old or low-quality HDMI cables
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Relying on crowded Wi-Fi networks
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Ignoring controller or system updates
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Prioritizing visuals over performance
Fixing just one of these can noticeably reduce lag.
Quick Low Latency Checklist
1. Auto Low Latency Mode enabled
2. Game Mode turned on
3. 120Hz refresh rate active
4. Ethernet connection used
5. Controller firmware updated
6. Performance Mode is enabled in games
Final Thoughts
Yes, when optimized correctly, the Xbox Series X delivers outstanding low-latency performance. By enabling ALLM, using Game Mode, choosing performance settings, and optimizing your network, you can achieve a fast, responsive, and competitive gaming experience.
Apply these settings once, and you’ll immediately feel the difference in every match.
FAQs
Does Xbox Series X have low latency mode?
Yes, Xbox Series X supports Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which works with compatible TVs.
Is 120Hz better than 60Hz for latency?
Yes. 120Hz reduces motion delay and improves responsiveness compared to 60Hz.
Wired or wireless controller – what’s faster?
Wired controllers offer slightly lower latency, especially for competitive gaming.
Does Game Mode really reduce lag?
Absolutely. Game Mode disables processing that adds input delay.
How much input lag is normal on Xbox Series X?
With proper settings, input lag can be as low as 5-10 milliseconds on gaming monitors.