PS Portal Keeps Getting Better
Published Mar 22, 2026 • Duration: 04:29
The PlayStation Portal just got a significant boost in value with its latest software update. While cloud gaming was already a gamechanger, Sony has now introduced a 1080p High Quality mode that increases bitrates for a sharper, more high-fidelity experience.
However, "Max Resolution" doesn't always mean a better experience in every scenario. In this video, we break down exactly what the update does, how to enable it, and why you might want to switch back to "Standard" depending on how you're playing.
What’s New in the Update?
Sony has officially added a 1080p High Quality mode for both Remote Play and Cloud Streaming. This mode allows for a higher bitrate than the default standard, resulting in:
Sharper Visuals: Noticeable improvements in clarity and crispness.
High Fidelity: A more "native" feel for supported titles.
UX Refinements: Smoother menu interactions and better onboarding.
How to Enable 1080p High Quality Mode
You must have a game session active to change this setting:
Open the Quick Menu on the side of your Portal.
Navigate to Resolution (or Max Resolution).
Select 1080p High Quality.
Apply the setting (the game session will restart to apply the change).
The Performance Test: Remote Play vs. Cloud
Testing this update with two very different games—Ghost of Yōtei and the newly released Grind Survivors—revealed some interesting trade-offs:
Remote Play (Local Network): This is where the update shines. If your PS5 is hardwired and you're on the same Wi-Fi, the latency is virtually non-existent, and the image looks incredibly sharp.
Cloud Streaming: Your mileage may vary. In demanding titles like Ghost of Yōtei, the "Max Resolution" setting caused noticeable frame rate instability and added latency.
Recommendation: For cloud gaming or playing away from home, the 1080p Standard mode often provides a more stable, reliable experience.
Game Recommendation: Grind Survivors
If you’re looking for a new "survivors-like" fix (think Vampire Survivors or Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor), you need to check out Grind Survivors. It’s less demanding on your network and feels perfect for the Portal’s handheld experience.
Welcome to Reforge Gaming, your daily destination for gamers talking gaming. We go beyond the headlines to give you details and opinions not just the hate or hype.
🤝 Support & Partnerships
You help power the show! Check out our great sponsors and affiliates:
Reforge Roast (Our Coffee Company!) COFFEE - https://reforgeroast.com/
SPRECHER - https://sprecherbrewery.com/?ref=LONO
GLASSES - Code LONO - https://gameradvantage.com/
INTO THE AM - Code LONO - https://intotheam.com/LONO
80STEES - Code LONO - https://www.80stees.com
AMAZON AFFILIATE - https://amzn.to/2YUOXR7
🎲 Reforge Gaming Community
The Reforge Gaming Community is built on unmatched audience interaction. Join our daily Live Video Game Podcast where we break down the biggest news, deliver expert analysis, and discuss your questions in real-time. Drop in, hang out, and drive the conversation!
MEMBERSHIP - https://www.youtube.com/ReforgeGaming/join
DISCORD - https://discord.gg/ReforgeTV
TWITTER - Https://twitter.com/ReforgeGaming
AUDIO - https://open.spotify.com/show/0FFSZQVL0dTcatnQKKOCNL
#PlayStationPortal #ps5 #playstation #gaming #reforgegaming
However, "Max Resolution" doesn't always mean a better experience in every scenario. In this video, we break down exactly what the update does, how to enable it, and why you might want to switch back to "Standard" depending on how you're playing.
What’s New in the Update?
Sony has officially added a 1080p High Quality mode for both Remote Play and Cloud Streaming. This mode allows for a higher bitrate than the default standard, resulting in:
Sharper Visuals: Noticeable improvements in clarity and crispness.
High Fidelity: A more "native" feel for supported titles.
UX Refinements: Smoother menu interactions and better onboarding.
How to Enable 1080p High Quality Mode
You must have a game session active to change this setting:
Open the Quick Menu on the side of your Portal.
Navigate to Resolution (or Max Resolution).
Select 1080p High Quality.
Apply the setting (the game session will restart to apply the change).
The Performance Test: Remote Play vs. Cloud
Testing this update with two very different games—Ghost of Yōtei and the newly released Grind Survivors—revealed some interesting trade-offs:
Remote Play (Local Network): This is where the update shines. If your PS5 is hardwired and you're on the same Wi-Fi, the latency is virtually non-existent, and the image looks incredibly sharp.
Cloud Streaming: Your mileage may vary. In demanding titles like Ghost of Yōtei, the "Max Resolution" setting caused noticeable frame rate instability and added latency.
Recommendation: For cloud gaming or playing away from home, the 1080p Standard mode often provides a more stable, reliable experience.
Game Recommendation: Grind Survivors
If you’re looking for a new "survivors-like" fix (think Vampire Survivors or Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor), you need to check out Grind Survivors. It’s less demanding on your network and feels perfect for the Portal’s handheld experience.
Welcome to Reforge Gaming, your daily destination for gamers talking gaming. We go beyond the headlines to give you details and opinions not just the hate or hype.
🤝 Support & Partnerships
You help power the show! Check out our great sponsors and affiliates:
Reforge Roast (Our Coffee Company!) COFFEE - https://reforgeroast.com/
SPRECHER - https://sprecherbrewery.com/?ref=LONO
GLASSES - Code LONO - https://gameradvantage.com/
INTO THE AM - Code LONO - https://intotheam.com/LONO
80STEES - Code LONO - https://www.80stees.com
AMAZON AFFILIATE - https://amzn.to/2YUOXR7
🎲 Reforge Gaming Community
The Reforge Gaming Community is built on unmatched audience interaction. Join our daily Live Video Game Podcast where we break down the biggest news, deliver expert analysis, and discuss your questions in real-time. Drop in, hang out, and drive the conversation!
MEMBERSHIP - https://www.youtube.com/ReforgeGaming/join
DISCORD - https://discord.gg/ReforgeTV
TWITTER - Https://twitter.com/ReforgeGaming
AUDIO - https://open.spotify.com/show/0FFSZQVL0dTcatnQKKOCNL
#PlayStationPortal #ps5 #playstation #gaming #reforgegaming