Calculate frame times, compare refresh rates, and optimize your gaming monitor setup. Find the perfect Hz for competitive advantage.
Compare your current monitor with upgrade options. Higher refresh rates reduce frame times and improve motion clarity.
Understanding the differences between common refresh rates
| Refresh Rate | Frame Time | Best For | Gaming Level | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60Hz | 16.67ms | Standard office/casual | Basic | $ |
| 75Hz | 13.33ms | Entry gaming | Casual | $ |
| 120Hz | 8.33ms | Console gaming | Good | $$ |
| 144Hz | 6.94ms | PC gaming standard | Excellent | $$ |
| 165Hz | 6.06ms | High-end gaming | Excellent | $$$ |
| 240Hz | 4.17ms | Competitive esports | Professional | $$$ |
| 360Hz | 2.78ms | Pro esports | Ultimate | $$$$ |
Different games benefit from different refresh rates
Fast reaction times critical
Smooth camera movement important
Motion clarity at high speeds
Visual quality over speed
Low motion requirements
Competitive advantage needed
Expert tips to get the most from your high refresh rate monitor
Everything you need to know about monitor refresh rates
Monitor refresh rate is one of the most critical specifications for gaming performance. Measured in Hertz, the refresh rate indicates how many times per second your monitor updates the displayed image. A higher refresh rate means smoother motion, reduced input lag, and a more responsive gaming experience.
The difference between 60Hz and 144Hz is immediately noticeable to most gamers. At 60Hz, each frame is displayed for 16.67 milliseconds, while at 144Hz, each frame only lasts 6.94ms. This reduction in frame time means you see new information from the game engine faster, giving you a competitive advantage in fast-paced games like first-person shooters, battle royales, and fighting games.
To fully benefit from a high refresh rate monitor, your PC must be capable of generating frames at or above the monitor's refresh rate. For example, a 240Hz monitor requires your GPU to maintain at least 240 FPS in games. This is why many competitive gamers lower graphics settings - they prioritize frame rate over visual fidelity to maximize their refresh rate utilization.
Modern gaming monitors come in various refresh rate tiers. Entry-level gaming monitors typically offer 75Hz or 120Hz, mainstream gaming monitors feature 144Hz or 165Hz, and high-end esports monitors reach 240Hz, 280Hz, 360Hz, or even 500Hz. The choice depends on your budget, game preferences, and competitive aspirations.