Are you a gamer? If not, you might be confused with some of the settings on your Samsung TV. Samsung and many other LCD TVs offer multiple modes, including game mode. If you are not a gamer and don’t use a console or a computer with your Samsung TV, you can turn this game mode off.
If you don’t know how to do that, you’re in the right place. We’re here to explain the entire process in detail, according to the official Samsung TV support page. After that, we’ll explain the game mode concept and give you some insight.
How to Turn Game Mode On or Off on a Samsung TV
Game mode is a faster setting for your TV. It will allow the TV to render images slightly faster, reducing the input lag. This input lag, or delay, is not even noticeable when watching TV. However, if you are playing intense, competitive games, every frame matters.
There will be a more in-depth discussion about that later, but for now, let’s focus on how to turn game mode on or off on your Samsung TV. First, you should consider the year your Samsung TV was made in because the settings kept changing over the years.
In 2014 Samsung TVs getting to game mode is easy. On the Home screen of your TV, press System option. Then select General. Find Game Mode and turn it on or off, depending on your preference.
In 2015 Samsung TVs it’s nearly the same. On your Home screen, press MENU, then select System, followed by General, and here you will find Game Mode. Turn it on or off.
In 2016 Samsung TVs, the process is very different. On the Home screen of your TV, press the Settings option, then select Picture, followed by Special Viewing Mode. Finally, select Game Mode and turn this option on or off.
In 2017-2019 Samsung TVs, follow these steps to turn game mode on or off:
- Press the Home button on your remote control.
- Choose Settings (gear icon).
- Scroll down until you find the General options. Choose External Device Manager.
- Highlight the Game Mode Settings on the dropdown menu. Press Enter on your RC to turn it off or on.
Important Note
If you want to get the game mode on again, there is something you should know. Before enabling game mode on your Samsung TV, make sure to connect your gaming console or PC to the TV using the appropriate HDMI cable and port.
On your TV, you should select the appropriate Source, e.g., HDMI 1. If you are using a console, consider using the HDMI-STB port. STB is short for set-top-box. If you are using a computer, connect it to the HDMI-DVI port.
You don’t need game mode to watch TV, frankly. It is useless in that regard. You should use it for gaming because it will make the experience much smoother.
How Does Game Mode Work
As previously mentioned, game mode reduces input lag. This input lag is the delay caused by the devices’ image processing. Humans usually can’t even notice this input lag since it’s about milliseconds of delay.
Most of the time, this lag goes is entirely unnoticed if you are not gaming. On the other hand, in fast-paced action games, input lag is very important. It should be kept at a minimum if you want to play competitively.
Gaming monitors have very high refresh rates and low input lag. Console gaming on TVs is not as crisp as PC gaming, but if you have a nice and new Samsung TV, you should have a pleasant experience, even on a console.
On Samsung TVs, game mode means something. However, some TVs that have “game mode” only use this as an excuse to add another color setting, without any impact on input lag or the gameplay. For such TVs, keeping game mode on is nonsensical.
If you are not a gamer yourself, consider turning game mode off on your Samsung TV. The trade-off with this mode is reduced picture quality. If you want a sharp image and you’re only using your TV to watch movies and TV shows, you won’t have any use of the game mode.
To Game Mode or Not to Game Mode
So, if you’re not a gamer, and neither are your kids or relatives, you don’t need game mode enabled on your TV. On the other hand, if you have a gaming console and use it frequently, consider keeping this mode on.
For the best viewing experience, you should keep this mode off. It only makes sense to turn it on to reduce input lag and gain an edge in competitive games.
Are you a gamer or not? Do you use game mode on your Samsung TV? Let us know in the comments section below.
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