In gaming, even technical details like monitor refresh rate can shape performance and enjoyment. This guide breaks down how refresh rates work, their impact on gameplay, and the optimal choices for different gaming styles.
Refresh rate measures how many times a monitor updates its display per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). A 60Hz monitor refreshes 60 times/second; a 240Hz monitor updates 240 times/second. Higher refresh rates create smoother motion by reducing visual artifacts like:
Motion blur: Blurred moving objects from slow screen updates
Screen tearing: Split images when graphics card and monitor speeds mismatch
Input lag: Delay between controller input and on-screen action
Fast-paced games (FPS, racing) benefit most from high refresh rates. A 240Hz monitor makes rapid movements—like "Counter-Strike 2" gunfights or "Forza Horizon" races—far more fluid than 60Hz, helping you react faster to in-game events.
High refresh rate monitors (144Hz+) typically have lower input lag. This matters in competitive games, where milliseconds separate wins and losses—critical for esports players in "Valorant" or "DOTA 2".
Technologies like NVIDIA G-SYNC or AMD FreeSync sync monitor refresh rates with graphics card output. Combined with high refresh rates, they eliminate screen tearing for seamless visuals.
Genre | Recommended Refresh Rate | Key Reasoning |
FPS (e.g., "COD") | 144Hz+ (240Hz/360Hz for pros) | Ultra-smooth aiming and reaction times in fast combat |
MOBA/RTS (e.g., "LoL") | 120Hz–144Hz | Fluid unit movements and spell animations during team fights |
RPG (e.g., "Baldur’s Gate 3") | 60Hz–120Hz | Adequate for exploration; 144Hz better for action-heavy PvP |
Racing (e.g., "Gran Turismo") | 144Hz+ | Reduces motion blur at high speeds, improving track awareness |
Simulation (e.g., "Flight Simulator") | 60Hz–144Hz | 60Hz works for casual play; 144Hz enhances realism in dynamic moments |
A high refresh rate monitor needs a powerful GPU to match. A 240Hz monitor wasted if your GPU only outputs 60FPS—ensure your hardware can sustain frame rates near your monitor’s refresh rate.
60Hz monitors are cheapest; 360Hz models cost significantly more. 120Hz–144Hz strikes a balance for most gamers, offering noticeable improvements over 60Hz without premium pricing.
Games and GPUs evolve quickly. A 240Hz monitor may serve you longer than 144Hz if you plan to keep your setup for 3–5 years.
The "best" refresh rate depends on your games and needs:
Competitive gamers (FPS/racing): 240Hz+ for peak performance
Casual enthusiasts: 120Hz–144Hz balances smoothness and cost
Story-focused players (RPG/simulation): 60Hz–120Hz suffices
Prioritize a refresh rate your GPU can handle, and align it with your favorite genres—this ensures you get the most value from your monitor.
