What is ALLM? Auto Low Latency Mode explained

Many modern TVs include ALLM for gaming - but what is it? We explain what Auto Low Latency Mode does and how it helps make things more simple.

By Rik Henderson

14 May 2023

a man playing a video game — Image credit: jeshoots.com / Unsplash

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You may have noticed that TV manufacturers have been putting more stock into gaming recently – ensuring their latest sets have top level features for PlayStation, Xbox and PC gamers to enjoy.

This can more often be found in recent, higher-end TVs, although many further down the line are starting to include gaming-specific tech too.

One of those badges you’ll now likely see on many TV boxes is ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), but what does it do? And how does it improve your gaming life? We explain all.

ALLM: everything you need to know

Auto Low Latency Mode is a simple, little feature that enables TVs to automatically switch into a gaming-specific picture mode when it detects gameplay. That’s about it, although it provides great benefits to the end user.

You only have to switch on your ALLM compatible console and the TV will do the rest. It will strip out a lot of picture processing shenanigans that would otherwise introduce unwanted latency, and engage any screen refresh technologies that will help reduce lag further.

You can find ALLM on all-manner of LCD, LED, and OLED TVs, from the likes of Samsung, Philips, LG, Panasonic and Sony. They just need to have at least one HDMI 2.1 port, as it is part of the connectivity standard. You often don’t even have to turn on the mode in your TV settings – it is a default feature in the vast majority of cases.

What consoles support ALLM?

ALLM is available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S consoles, plus (as added last year) the PlayStation 5.

You do need to switch on ALLM on the PS5 – it can be found in Settings > Screen and Video > Video Output > ALLM. You have the ability to switch it into “Automatic” mode in order to engage when matched with a compatible TV or to turn it off entirely.

If you own an Xbox console, you may need to check if it is switched on. Head to Settings > General > TV & display options > Video modes and tick the check box next to “Allow auto low-latency mode” if it isn’t already.