When looking for a new TV, the factors that you consider most important will change depending on what you need the TV for. If you’re planning to use your TV for the latest films and shows, you’ll want a TV that favours fidelity and resolution. If you want to enjoy live sports, you’ll want a responsive and smooth-looking TV.

The most important factors in a gaming TV are vastly different from the factors for other TV types. One factor that is commonly cited as important for gaming is the refresh rate of the TV. But why does a refresh rate matter for gaming? What does a refresh rate refer to? And how can it help gamers to master the online leaderboards?

If you’ve found yourself confused as to the importance of a refresh rate, then this is the article for you. Start reading below to get the answers you seek!

Why Does Refresh Rate Matter When Gaming?

Refresh rates matter for gaming because of how they improve the visuals of the game, and how it controls.

The refresh rate of a TV refers to how many times the screen can refresh its image within a single second. Refresh rates are measured in Hertz (Hz), and these can help you find a TV with the right refresh rate. To explain even further, a TV with a refresh rate of 120Hz is able to refresh the screen 120 times per second. This is double the rate of a 60Hz TV.

A TV with a higher refresh rate causes footage to appear incredibly smooth and dynamic. Thus they are perfect for gaming. Many pros and even casual gamers prefer to enjoy their favourite titles at frame rates higher than 60 frames per second. A game moving at 60 frames per second appears much smoother. In order to facilitate a higher frame rate, gamers will need access to a TV with a comparable frame rate. If you want to enjoy 60 fps gaming, you’ll need a TV with 60Hz!

TVs with higher refresh rates will allow games to be rendered at higher frame rates. This can be great for online games where snap decisions are crucial for achieving victory!

Higher refresh rates not only make games look better. They also help to make them much more intuitive to control. When motion appears smooth, gamers will be able to make quick decisions during even the most heated of moments. This can help gamers to beat the competition and conquer their favourite online games.

What Is The Best Refresh Rate For Gaming?

The optimal refresh rate for gaming will actually depend on what kind of gamer you are. If you are a casual gamer looking to play some of the biggest triple-A titles, then a 60Hz refresh rate may be more than suitable. At 60Hz, you can play games at a smooth 60 frames per second. 60Hz TVs are also much easier to find and tend to be much more affordable. Making them an even more perfect option for casual players.

If you are closer to a pro gamer, and you cherish control and accuracy above all else, then a TV with a 120Hz refresh rate may be more suitable. A 120Hz TV can render games at 120 frames per second, while also being able to render at 60 frames per second. 120 frames per second allows gamers a slight competitive edge that can help them to really up their game.

How Does A Variable Refresh Rate Help With Gaming?

If you’re looking for a gaming TV with a high refresh rate, it’s highly recommended to look for a model with a variable refresh rate. A variable refresh rate is a specialised technology that allows a TV to dynamically adjust its refresh rate for different content. This helps to improve the visual fidelity of certain games and helps to prevent issues such as screen tearing.

TVs with variable refresh rates are perfect for gamers. TVs with this technology are able to adjust their refresh rates as needed in an instant. This prevents screen tearing and enhances performance.

Variable refresh rates are particularly important for pro gamers who want 120Hz TVs. Screen tearing occurs when there is a disparity between the frame rate of a game and the refresh rate of a TV. Playing a 60 frames-per-second game on a 120Hz TV could lead to screen tearing.

TVs with variable refresh rates may cost a little bit more than other TVs, but every penny of that investment is more than worth it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Does Refresh Rate Matter For Gaming?

Refresh rates matter to gamers because they determine how smooth a gamer will look. As well as this, refresh rates also determine how a game will feel. A TV with a high refresh rate will be able to present gameplay that looks smooth. Smoother gameplay is much easier and more intuitive to control.

Is 60Hz To 144Hz Noticeable?

If you’re a casual gamer looking to simply play the hottest blockbuster titles, then the difference between 60Hz and 144Hz may not be noticeable. However, to a trained eye, the difference between 60 and 144Hz will be immediately clear. If you want your games to look truly smooth, it’s best to aim for 144Hz from your TV!

Is 240Hz Overkill?

For a casual gamer, a 240Hz TV may well be overkill. However, pro gamers may benefit strongly from this refresh rate. 240Hz is so fast and smooth that it makes even the most intense of games appear totally silky. However, it’s important to keep in mind that a 240Hz TV may cost a little more!

Why Is A Higher Refresh Rate Better?

Higher refresh rates allow your TV screen to change its image more times per second. The more images your TV can fit into a single second, the smoother motion on the screen will appear. TVs with higher refresh rates are great for gamers, or live sports fans who want to enjoy every single movement on screen.