Fallout 4 Performance vs Quality mode explained
Highlights
- Performance and Quality modes affect your in-game resolution and frame rate
- The Quality mode may currently be bugged
Following the success of the Fallout TV show, Bethesda has released a new update for Fallout 4. This update introduces new Performance and Quality modes for Fallout 4 on console with increased FPS and resolution.
If you're not sure what each mode is and what the differences are in the game, I've got you covered. This guide will explain what changes between Performance and Quality mode, as well as how a bug might currently affect Quality mode on Xbox.
What's the difference between Performance and Quality modes?
Click to enlargePerformance mode is a setting that prioritises the game running well over having enhanced visual fidelity. The game will run at 60fps and generally feel smoother to play, but won't have the better resolution of Quality mode.
Quality mode targets 4K/30fps with Ultra settings while Performance mode runs at a max of 1440p but with 60fps.
If you want the best possible resolution, play on Quality mode. If you want the higher frame rate and don't care for the extra visual quality, Performance mode is the way to go.
It's worth noting that, if you have a 120Hz TV with VRR enabled, choosing the Quality mode will run the game at 40 fps. This will likely feel like the smoothest option during gameplay, as the frame rate will match the 120Hz of your TV due to frame doubling. However, this is currently only on PS5, as a bug on Xbox Series X is currently affecting players.
Quality mode might not be working as intended
Strangely, it seems that Quality mode on Xbox Series X is currently bugged. Digital Foundry's Thomas Morgan discovered that Quality mode doesn't seem to make a difference, so if you're on Xbox Series X you might need to wait a little for a Quality mode fix if that's how you want to play.
Performance mode should still work, but if you disable it you'll still just get the same 60fps and lower resolution in Quality mode. This issue doesn't seem to be a thing on PlayStation 5 at the moment.
As for the rest of the update, you can expect to get a few new quests as well as new Creation Club content like the Enclave Remnants.
For more Fallout 4, check out our homepage. We've also got a list of some of the best mods to install for Fallout 4, as well as some tips to get you started if you're new to the game.
