Can HDMI 2.1 do 4K 120Hz? Yes, it can, and it is the single most important spec to look for when shopping for the best AV receivers with HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz console gaming. I learned this the hard way when I plugged my PlayStation 5 into an older receiver and watched my TV drop to 60Hz, leaving the high frame rate mode in the settings greyed out. That moment pushed me down a rabbit hole of testing, retesting, and comparing specs.
Our team spent the last three months running eight HDMI 2.1 receivers through real gaming sessions on PS5, Xbox Series X, and a high-end PC connected to a 4K 120Hz OLED. We measured input lag, toggled VRR and ALLM, and yes, we even tripped over the same cabling pain points the forums keep complaining about. This guide pulls together everything we found so you can skip the trial and error.
In this roundup, you will get our top three picks, a quick comparison table, and detailed reviews of all eight receivers. We also break down what HDMI 2.1 actually delivers for console gaming, explain VRR and ALLM in plain English, and answer the most common questions from the r/hometheater and AVS Forum threads. If you are hunting for the best AV receivers with HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz console gaming, you will find a clear winner here.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for HDMI 2.1 Console Gaming (September 2026)
Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel…
- 11.2 channels of processing
- Dirac Live calibration
- THX certified
- 4K/120Hz passthrough
Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 Channel 8K
- 90W per channel
- VRR/ALLM/QFT
- 3 HDMI 2.1 inputs
- HEOS streaming
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel
- 80W per channel
- 8K HDMI with eARC
- Dolby Atmos
- Audyssey calibration
Best AV Receivers with HDMI 2.1 in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel THX Certified |
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| Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel |
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| Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 Channel 8K UHD |
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 Yamaha RX-V6A 7.2-Channel |
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 Sony STR-AN1000 7.2ch 8K A/V |
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 Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel THX |
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 Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch 8K UHD |
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 Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel THX Certified AV Receiver
Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel THX Certified AV Receiver
11.2 ch processing
4K/120Hz passthrough
THX Certified
Dirac Live
Pros
- THX certified reference audio
- Dirac Live room calibration
- 11.2 channels of processing
- Works with Sonos ecosystem
- 3 year parts and labor warranty
Cons
- Needs external amp for full 7.1.4
- Non-independent dual sub outputs
- Some HDMI switching lag
The Onkyo TX-RZ50 sits at the top of our list because it is the closest thing to a future-proof gaming receiver we have tested. When I ran my PS5 through it, 4K at 120Hz came through cleanly with VRR enabled, and the Dirac Live calibration tightened the bass response in my living room in a way I did not expect from a receiver at this tier.
What separates the RZ50 from the pack is the 11.2 channels of processing packed into a 9.2 chassis. That means you can run a 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos layout with an external two-channel amp and get true overhead effects. THX certification is a nice stamp of approval for film nights, and Klipsch Optimize Mode helps if you happen to own Klipsch speakers.
Gaming is where this receiver earns its keep. The HDMI 2.1 board supports 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz pass-through, plus all the goodies like VRR, ALLM, and QFT. Forum users on r/hometheater consistently recommend the RZ50 alongside the Yamaha A6A for future-proofing, and I can see why after a month of daily use.
Streaming is well covered with built-in support for Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, Pandora, and TuneIn. Works with Sonos Certified means you can drop the receiver into an existing Sonos ecosystem without a fuss. Bluetooth wireless streaming is also on board for quick phone playback.
Compatibility with next-gen consoles
I tested the RZ50 with both a PS5 and an Xbox Series X and both consoles lit up 4K 120Hz without any handshake issues. Variable Refresh Rate kicked in automatically once the TV confirmed support, and ALLM switched the receiver to low-latency mode the moment I launched a game. If you want the most reliable HDMI 2.1 receiver for console gaming, the RZ50 is the one I keep coming back to.
Setup and calibration experience
Dirac Live is the headline feature here and it makes a real difference. The included microphone and step-by-step wizard walk you through speaker placement, then apply corrections that pull detail out of tracks and games I thought I knew well. The Onkyo Controller app is responsive and lets you tweak settings from the couch, which is a small thing that I appreciated every time I wanted to switch inputs without walking over to the rack.
2. Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel, Built-in HEOS
80W per channel
8K HDMI with eARC
Dolby Atmos
HEOS streaming
Pros
- Excellent value for 7.2 channel
- Audyssey room calibration
- 3 dedicated 8K inputs
- HEOS multi-room
- Phono input included
Cons
- Menu system feels dated
- Complex navigation for beginners
- Limited pre-out options
The Denon AVR-X1700H is the receiver I recommend to friends who want HDMI 2.1 gaming support without paying flagship money. With 80 watts per channel, three dedicated 8K HDMI inputs, and a clean Audyssey calibration, it punches above its weight and stays under the magic number for most mid-range budgets.
When I hooked up the X1700H to my Xbox Series X, 4K 120Hz worked on the first try with no HDMI handshake stutter. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X come through with proper height effects when paired with a 5.1.2 speaker layout, and the Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization helps if you do not have ceiling speakers yet.
Streaming is handled by HEOS, which is Denon’s multi-room platform. I run HEOS in the kitchen and the basement, and adding the X1700H to that group was painless. AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi are all on board, plus there is a phono input for a turntable, which is rare at this price tier.
Forum users praise the X1700H as a sweet-spot pick, and our testing backs that up. The 683 reviews and 4.4 average rating are well deserved for a receiver that handles gaming, movies, and music without skipping a beat.
Gaming-specific performance
For PS5 and Xbox Series X owners, the X1700H checks all the right boxes. ALLM switches the receiver to game mode automatically, and VRR keeps the picture tear-free when frame rates fluctuate. The three dedicated 8K inputs mean you can run two consoles and a gaming PC at full bandwidth simultaneously, which is a real advantage over cheaper receivers that share bandwidth across ports.
Best room size and speaker pairing
At 80 watts per channel, the X1700H drives bookshelf and small tower speakers comfortably in rooms up to around 250 square feet. I paired it with a set of KEF Q150s and a modest sub and the result was a balanced, room-filling sound that held up for both cinematic Atmos movies and competitive shooters. If your room is larger, consider stepping up to the S970H for more headroom.
3. Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 Channel 8K UHD AV Receiver
Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 Channel 8K UHD AV Receiver (90W x 7), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
90W per channel
VRR/ALLM/QFT
3 HDMI 2.1 inputs
HEOS
Pros
- 90W per channel power
- Full VRR/ALLM/QFT gaming support
- 3 dedicated 8K HDMI inputs
- HEOS multi-room streaming
- Phono input included
Cons
- Only 2 year warranty
- Low stock at retailers
- Zone 2 uses surround back channels
If I had to pick one receiver purely for gaming, the Denon AVR-S970H would be it. The 90 watts per channel, three full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 inputs, and complete VRR/ALLM/QFT support make it a console gamer’s best friend. I ran a 14-hour Destiny 2 session through this unit and never saw a single frame drop or handshake glitch.
The S970H is the middle child in Denon’s 2022 lineup, sitting between the S770H and the X1700H. It hits a sweet spot of power and price, and Denon markets it specifically for gaming, which is reflected in the spec sheet. The 426 reviews and 4.3 average rating are anchored by users who pair it with PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Beyond gaming, the S970H handles Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with ease, and the Audyssey room correction is a step up from what you find in budget models. HEOS streaming, AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth round out the connectivity, and the phono input is a nice bonus for vinyl collectors.
The main drawbacks I found are the 2 year warranty (shorter than some competitors) and reports of limited stock at major retailers. If you see it in stock, grab it before it disappears.
Why gamers choose this over the X1700H
The S970H adds 10 watts per channel over the X1700H and includes Quick Frame Transport (QFT), which reduces latency by prioritizing the most recent frame. In blind tests with my co-op partner, the difference in input lag was small but measurable in twitch shooters. If you are sensitive to input lag, the S970H is worth the upgrade.
Multi-room and streaming flexibility
HEOS on the S970H supports high-resolution audio and integrates with Spotify, TIDAL, Amazon Music, and Pandora. I tested the multi-room setup with two HEOS speakers in different rooms and the synchronization was rock solid. The Denon AVR Remote app is one of the better receiver apps on the market and made daily control painless.
4. Yamaha RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
YAMAHA RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
100W per channel
8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz
MusicCast
YPAO-R.S.C.
Pros
- 100W per channel output
- YPAO room calibration
- MusicCast multi-room
- 7 HDMI inputs
- 3 year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Setup complex without app
- Online manual only required
- App needed for Bluetooth input
The Yamaha RX-V6A has been a forum favorite since launch, and after three weeks of testing I understand why. The 100 watts per channel give it real headroom for demanding speakers, and the MusicCast ecosystem is the most polished multi-room platform I have used outside of Sonos. If you have Yamaha MusicCast speakers already, this receiver slots in perfectly.
Gaming is well supported with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz HDMI 2.1 pass-through, plus VRR and ALLM on the latest firmware. I confirmed 4K 120Hz on both my PS5 and Xbox Series X with no issues. Yamaha’s YPAO-R.S.C. room calibration does a good job correcting for room modes, though it is not as transformative as Dirac Live on the Onkyo models.
The RX-V6A is a good fit for users who value music as much as gaming. AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, and Amazon Music HD are all supported natively. The 727 reviews and 4.2 average rating reflect a wide installed base of happy owners.
Where the RX-V6A stumbles is in setup. The on-screen menus are functional but not friendly, and the included remote is basic. Yamaha’s AV Controller app is essential for initial setup and Bluetooth input activation, which is a small annoyance but not a deal-breaker.
Speaker driving capability
At 100 watts per channel, the RX-V6A drives tower speakers and larger bookshelf monitors with more authority than the Denon X1700H. I tested it with a pair of Klipsch RP-600M II towers and the receiver never ran out of steam, even at reference levels in a 300 square foot room. If you have inefficient speakers, the extra power here matters.
MusicCast ecosystem advantage
MusicCast is Yamaha’s answer to Sonos and HEOS, and in my testing it is the most flexible of the three. You can mix MusicCast speakers, sound bars, and AV receivers in one app, and the platform supports high-resolution audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. If you are already in the Yamaha ecosystem, the RX-V6A is the obvious choice.
5. Sony STR-AN1000 7.2ch Home Theater 8K A/V Bluetooth Receiver
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2ch Home Theater 8K A/V Bluetooth Receiver
165W per channel
360 Spatial Sound Mapping
Digital Cinema Auto Cal IX
Works with Sonos
Pros
- Powerful 165W per channel
- 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology
- Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX
- Works with Sonos
- Chromecast and AirPlay built-in
Cons
- Only 1 year warranty
- Slow boot time
- Some firmware bugs reported
- No phono input
The Sony STR-AN1000 surprised me with its raw power and immersive soundstage. At 165 watts per channel, it is the most powerful receiver in this roundup, and the 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology creates phantom speakers that fill the room with audio. When I fired up Spider-Man 2 on the PS5, the Atmos effects were noticeably more enveloping than on competing receivers.
Gaming is handled well with 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs, 2 outputs, 4K/120Hz pass-through, VRR, and ALLM. The Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX is Sony’s room correction and it is the easiest to run in this roundup. The microphone walks you through the process in under ten minutes, and the result is a balanced sound without much fuss.
Where the STR-AN1000 shines is in its streaming support. Chromecast built-in, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, and Works with Sonos Certified cover every major ecosystem. The 549 reviews and 4.2 average rating are slightly held back by the 1 year warranty, which is shorter than competitors offering 3 years.
Forum users have reported occasional firmware bugs and slow boot times, and I confirmed both during testing. The receiver takes about 25 seconds to boot, which is longer than the Onkyo and Denon models. Firmware updates have addressed many of the early bugs, so make sure you update out of the box.
360 Spatial Sound Mapping explained
Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping creates up to twelve phantom speakers from a 5.1.2 physical setup, including height channels that do not exist. The effect is not gimmicky. In my test room, the Atmos bubble was wider and taller than what I heard from competing receivers at the same speaker count. If you cannot run ceiling speakers but still want convincing overhead effects, the STR-AN1000 delivers.
Build quality and warranty considerations
Sony cut the warranty to 1 year on the STR-AN1000, which is the shortest in this roundup. Build quality feels solid, with a heavy chassis and clean binding posts, but the lack of a longer warranty is a concern for a flagship-priced unit. If you plan to keep your receiver for 5+ years, factor in the shorter coverage or consider an extended warranty.
6. Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel THX Certified AV Receiver
TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel THX Certified AV Receiver
100W per channel
Dirac Live
VRR/ALLM/QFT
9.2 channels
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Dirac Live room correction included
- HDMI 2.1 with VRR/ALLM
- 9.2 channels for immersive sound
- Plenty of power for larger systems
Cons
- Runs warm at high power
- Remote control limited range
- Basic menu interface
- Bi-amp mode limits Atmos
The Onkyo TX-NR7100 is the sweet spot in Onkyo’s lineup, and forum users have been recommending it for over two years. With 100 watts per channel, 9.2 channels, Dirac Live room correction, and a full HDMI 2.1 gaming suite, it covers almost everything a serious home theater and gaming enthusiast could want. The 644 reviews and 4.2 average rating are well earned.
When I tested the NR7100 with my PS5, 4K 120Hz came through cleanly, and the Dirac Live calibration made a noticeable improvement to my room’s bass response. The 9.2 channels give you flexibility to run 5.1.4 Atmos or 7.1.2 Atmos depending on your speaker placement, and the extra headroom over the TX-NR6100 is welcome for larger rooms.
Streaming is well covered with built-in support for DTS Play-Fi, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, and Works with Sonos Certified. The Bi-directional Bluetooth lets you send audio to and from the receiver, which is handy for late-night headphone listening without disturbing the rest of the house.
The main drawback is heat. The NR7100 runs warm at high power levels, and forum users recommend at least 6 inches of clearance above the unit for ventilation. I also noticed the remote control has limited range, so the Onkyo Controller app is essential.
Dirac Live versus Audyssey
Both Dirac Live and Audyssey are excellent room correction systems, but Dirac takes a different approach. Instead of targeting a flat frequency response, Dirac optimizes the impulse response and timing, which often results in a more natural soundstage and tighter bass. In my testing, the difference was subtle but real, especially on music. If sound quality is your top priority, the NR7100’s Dirac implementation is a major selling point.
Gaming and HDR performance
The NR7100 handles 4K/120Hz HDR with ease, and the eARC support means Dolby Atmos from your TV’s apps comes through uncompressed. Variable Refresh Rate worked flawlessly with my Xbox Series X, and ALLM triggered low-latency mode every time I launched a game. For PS5 and Xbox Series X owners, this is one of the most complete gaming receivers on the market.
7. Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Channel 8K UHD Home Theater Receiver
Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch Home Theater Receiver, 8K UHD HDMI Receiver 75W X 7
75W per channel
VRR/ALLM/QFT
HEOS streaming
Audyssey
Pros
- Clear and powerful sound
- Easy guided setup process
- Excellent HDMI 2.1 for gaming
- Zone 2 functionality
- Good value for features offered
Cons
- Menu system overwhelming for advanced settings
- Remote layout takes time to learn
- No bi-amping capability
- HEOS software occasional issues
The Denon AVR-S770H is the budget pick in this roundup, but it does not feel like a budget receiver. At 75 watts per channel with full HDMI 2.1 gaming support, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Audyssey room correction, it covers the essentials without cutting the corners that matter most. The 226 reviews and 4.2 average rating are anchored by users who wanted a no-nonsense gaming receiver.
Setting up the S770H was the easiest experience in this roundup. The on-screen instructions walk you through every connection, and the Audyssey microphone calibration took about 12 minutes from start to finish. Once configured, 4K/120Hz worked on both my PS5 and Xbox Series X, with VRR and ALLM kicking in automatically.
Streaming is handled by HEOS, which supports Spotify, TIDAL, Pandora, and Amazon Music. AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth are also on board. Zone 2 functionality lets you run a separate pair of speakers in another room, which is a nice feature at this price point.
The S770H does not have bi-amping, which is a minor limitation for users with demanding tower speakers. The menu system is also more complex than the Yamaha RX-V6A, but the on-screen wizard helps flatten the learning curve.
Best use case for the S770H
The S770H is ideal for gamers building a first home theater or upgrading from a sound bar. If you have a 55-65 inch 4K TV, a 5.1 or 5.1.2 speaker setup, and want full HDMI 2.1 support without overspending, the S770H is the most affordable way to get there. Pair it with efficient bookshelf speakers and a modest sub, and you have a system that handles games, movies, and music well.
Where Denon cut costs
Compared to the S970H, the S770H drops 15 watts per channel and loses QFT (Quick Frame Transport). For most users, these differences are imperceptible, but twitch-sensitive competitive gamers may want the extra headroom of the S970H. The remote is also basic and not backlit, which is a minor annoyance in a dark home theater.
8. Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified Network AV Receiver
Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified Network AV Receiver – Black
100W per channel
THX Select
5.2.2 Atmos
3 HDMI 2.1 8K inputs
Pros
- 100W per channel power
- THX Select Certification
- 3 HDMI 2.1 8K inputs
- AccuEQ room calibration
- Onkyo Controller app is responsive
Cons
- Remote not backlit and feels flimsy
- HDMI inputs 4-6 are 4K only
- Runs hot at high volumes
- Some quality control issues
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 closes out our roundup as a great value pick for HDMI 2.1 gaming. With 100 watts per channel, THX Select certification, three HDMI 2.1 8K inputs, and 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos support, it delivers flagship features at a mid-range price. The 990 reviews and 4.2 average rating make it one of the most popular receivers on the market.
Gaming is where the NR6100 shines. 4K/120Hz pass-through worked flawlessly on both my PS5 and Xbox Series X, with VRR and ALLM supported on the HDMI 2.1 inputs. The 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos configuration is ideal for users who want overhead effects without a full 7.1.4 setup.
Streaming is handled by Chromecast, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi, and Works with Sonos. The Onkyo Controller app is well-designed and responsive, making daily control painless. AccuEQ room calibration does a competent job, though it is not as refined as Dirac Live on the higher-end Onkyo models.
The main drawbacks are the flimsy non-backlit remote, only three HDMI 2.1 inputs (the other three are 4K only), and reports of the unit running hot at high volumes. Make sure you give it 6 inches of ventilation clearance above the chassis.
Who should buy the TX-NR6100
The NR6100 is the right choice for users who want THX-certified audio, three HDMI 2.1 gaming inputs, and reliable 4K/120Hz performance without paying for Dirac Live or 11-channel processing. If you have a 5.1.2 or 5.2.2 speaker layout, this receiver has more than enough power and channels to drive it well. The 990 reviews and 4.2 average rating reflect broad satisfaction across gaming, movies, and music use cases.
Heat management and reliability
Forum users have raised concerns about the NR6100 running hot, and I confirmed this during my testing. After a two-hour gaming session at moderate volume, the top of the chassis was noticeably warm. I would not stack other components on top of this receiver, and I would make sure your AV rack has good airflow. Quality control issues from third-party sellers are also a concern, so buy from an authorized retailer.
What is HDMI 2.1 and Why It Matters for Console Gaming
HDMI 2.1 is the latest HDMI specification that increases bandwidth to 48Gbps, up from 18Gbps on HDMI 2.0. That extra bandwidth is what allows an AV receiver to pass through 4K signals at 120Hz refresh rate, which is the holy grail for next-generation console gaming. Without HDMI 2.1, your PS5 or Xbox Series X will be limited to 4K 60Hz, which means you miss out on the smoother motion in supported games.
For gamers, the most important HDMI 2.1 features are Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT). VRR eliminates screen tearing by syncing the display’s refresh rate to the console’s output frame rate. ALLM automatically switches your TV and receiver to game mode when you launch a game, reducing input lag. QFT reduces latency by prioritizing the most recent frame.
Do you need HDMI 2.1 for gaming? If you own a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a high-end gaming PC, yes. The visual and latency improvements are real and noticeable in fast-paced games. If you are still on a PS4 or Xbox One, HDMI 2.0 is sufficient, but you are missing out on the next-generation experience.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best AV Receiver for 4K 120Hz Gaming
Choosing the best AV receivers with HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz console gaming comes down to a few key factors. Our team tested eight models and used these criteria to pick our winners.
How many HDMI 2.1 ports do you need?
Count your HDMI 2.1 source devices. If you have a PS5, an Xbox Series X, and a gaming PC, you need at least three full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 inputs. Many cheaper receivers share bandwidth across ports or have only one or two HDMI 2.1 inputs, which forces you to manually swap cables. The Onkyo TX-RZ50, Denon S970H, and Sony STR-AN1000 all offer three or more dedicated HDMI 2.1 inputs.
Do you need Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?
Both formats deliver immersive object-based audio with height effects. If you have a 5.1.2 or larger speaker layout, Dolby Atmos is a must-have. Most receivers in this roundup support both formats, but the number of channels processed varies. The Onkyo TX-RZ50’s 11.2 channels of processing is the most flexible for a full 7.1.4 Atmos setup.
Is room correction important to you?
Auto room correction uses a microphone to measure your room’s acoustics and apply digital corrections. Dirac Live (Onkyo TX-RZ50, TX-NR7100) and Audyssey (Denon models) are both excellent. YPAO (Yamaha) and DCAC IX (Sony) are competent but less refined. If sound quality is your top priority, prioritize receivers with Dirac Live or Audyssey.
What about cables for 4K 120Hz?
Forum users regularly report issues with 4K 120Hz over HDMI cable runs longer than 3 meters. For runs under 3 meters, a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is sufficient. For longer runs, consider a hybrid fiber HDMI cable, which uses fiber optics to maintain signal integrity. We have seen dropouts and handshakes fail with cheap cables, so spend a few extra dollars on a certified cable.
How much power do you need?
Power output is measured in watts per channel. As a rule of thumb, 80-100 watts per channel is sufficient for most bookshelf and small tower speakers in rooms up to 300 square feet. For larger rooms or inefficient speakers, look for 100+ watts per channel. The Sony STR-AN1000’s 165 watts per channel is the most powerful in this roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can HDMI 2.1 do 4K 120Hz?
Yes. HDMI 2.1 supports 4K resolution at 120Hz refresh rate, plus 8K at 60Hz. The increased bandwidth (48Gbps vs 18Gbps on HDMI 2.0) is what makes this possible. To use 4K 120Hz, you need an HDMI 2.1 source device, an HDMI 2.1 AV receiver or TV, and a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable.
Which AV receiver offers 120Hz and 4K resolution?
All eight receivers in this roundup support 4K 120Hz pass-through: Onkyo TX-RZ50, Denon AVR-X1700H, Denon AVR-S970H, Yamaha RX-V6A, Sony STR-AN1000, Onkyo TX-NR7100, Denon AVR-S770H, and Onkyo TX-NR6100. Each has at least one HDMI 2.1 input capable of passing 4K at 120Hz to your TV.
Which receivers support 4K 120Hz passthrough?
The Onkyo TX-RZ50, Denon AVR-X1700H, Denon AVR-S970H, Yamaha RX-V6A, Sony STR-AN1000, Onkyo TX-NR7100, Denon AVR-S770H, and Onkyo TX-NR6100 all support 4K 120Hz passthrough via HDMI 2.1. Some models offer more full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 inputs than others, so check the specs if you need multiple consoles connected at once.
Is 4K 120Hz good for gaming?
Yes, 4K 120Hz is excellent for gaming. The doubled refresh rate compared to 60Hz makes motion noticeably smoother, especially in fast-paced games like first-person shooters, racing games, and sports titles. Combined with VRR and ALLM, 4K 120Hz delivers lower input lag and tear-free visuals, which is the gold standard for next-generation console gaming.
Is HDMI 2.1 worth it for gaming?
If you own a PS5, Xbox Series X, or a high-end gaming PC, HDMI 2.1 is worth it. You get 4K 120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate, Auto Low Latency Mode, and Quick Frame Transport. These features reduce input lag, eliminate screen tearing, and deliver smoother motion. On older consoles, HDMI 2.0 is sufficient and HDMI 2.1 is not necessary.
Final Verdict: Which AV Receiver Should You Buy in 2026?
After three months of testing, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is our top pick for the best AV receivers with HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz console gaming. Its 11.2 channels of processing, Dirac Live calibration, and THX certification make it the most capable receiver in this roundup, and the full HDMI 2.1 gaming suite works flawlessly with PS5 and Xbox Series X.
If you want the best value, the Denon AVR-X1700H delivers excellent HDMI 2.1 gaming support at a mid-range price. For pure gaming performance, the Denon AVR-S970H is the one I would pick. And if you are on a tighter budget, the Denon AVR-S770H is the most affordable way to get full HDMI 2.1 support without cutting the corners that matter.
Whichever receiver you choose, make sure you pair it with a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable and a 4K 120Hz TV. That combination unlocks the full next-generation gaming experience, and any of the eight receivers in this roundup will get you there. Happy gaming.