When it comes to choosing a new television, there are a lot of options to consider. One important decision is whether to choose a 60Hz or 120Hz TV. Both have pros and cons, so it’s important to understand their differences before purchasing.
60Hz vs. 120Hz: Which is better?
The main difference between 60Hz and 120Hz is the refresh rate. A higher refresh rate means that the image on the screen will be refreshed more times per second, which can result in a smoother image. A 60Hz TV has a refresh rate of 60 times per second, while a 120Hz TV has a refresh rate of 120 times per second.
The debate between 60Hz and 120Hz TVs has been around for a while. Here’s a look at some of the key differences between the two.
- 60Hz TVs are better for watching movies and shows filmed in 24fps. This is because the refresh rate is synchronized with the frame rate, resulting in a smoother picture.
- 120Hz TVs are better for video games and other fast-moving content—the higher refresh rate results in less motion blur and a more responsive gaming experience.
- 60Hz and 120Hz TVs can display content at 60fps, but 120Hz TVs will do so with less input lag. The higher refresh rate means the image will be drawn more quickly onto the screen.
- 60Hz TVs are generally cheaper than 120Hz TVs. This is because the technology is less complex and, therefore, less expensive.
Whatever is better for you ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. A 60Hz TV is better if you watch many movies and shows. However, if you’re a gamer or want the most responsive and immersive experience possible, then a 120Hz TV is the way to go.
What Is The Refresh Rate?
The refresh rate is the number of times a display is illuminated per second. The refresh rate is important because it determines how smooth an image looks on a display. A higher refresh rate results in a smoother image. LCD monitors have a refresh rate of 60 Hz, which means they are refreshed 60 times per second.
Regarding displays, the refresh rate is an important factor to consider. This is especially true for gamers, as a high refresh rate can result in a much better gaming experience. If you take gaming seriously, you should invest in a monitor with a high refresh rate. Not only will it improve your performance in-game, but you’ll also have an overall smoother experience.
Displaying 30 or 60-FPS Content
The frame rate of movies and games is typically either 30 or 60fps. For many years, our TV screens have had a refresh rate of 60Hz, meaning they can display a maximum of 60 frames per second. However, more and more TV manufacturers are now offering models with a 120Hz refresh rate. So, what is the difference, and which should you choose?
When displaying 30 or 60fps content, there is no difference between a 60Hz and 120Hz TV. The content is displayed at the frame rate at it was filmed or created. So, if you’re watching a movie filmed at 30fps, it will look the same on a 60Hz and 120Hz TV.
The difference comes when you start watching content that was filmed or created at a higher frame rate, such as 120 or even 240fps. When this content is played back on a 60Hz TV, it will look choppy and uneven because it can only display 60 frames per second. However, on a 120Hz TV, the content will look smooth because it can display it at its native frame rate.
So, if you want to watch high frame-rate content, choose a 120Hz TV. However, if you’re only ever going to watch movies and TV shows that were filmed at 30 or 60fps, then a 60Hz TV will suffice.
Displaying 24 FPS Content
To take advantage of the extra refresh cycles, you need content that’s been recorded or rendered at a high enough frame rate to match. On a 120Hz display, every frame is displayed for 8.33 milliseconds. This means that even if your GPU can render and output frames at a rate higher than 24FPS, they’ll still be displayed at 24FPS on a 120Hz display.
24FPS has been the standard for film and video content since the early days of cinema. One of the primary advantages of film over earlier video technologies was that film could be displayed at a consistent 24FPS. Digital cinema technologies now share this advantage.
The decided-upon standard for the film is 24FPS because it’s the lowest frame rate at which the human brain can perceive smooth motion. Higher frame rates can look unnatural and be fatiguing to watch for extended periods.
However, there are some exceptions where a higher frame rate can be advantageous. Live sporting events are often broadcast at 60 or even 120FPS to allow viewers to see all the action as it happens. And video games are frequently rendered at much higher frame rates than 24FPS, especially When displayed on a 120Hz display; content recorded or rendered at a higher frame rate will appear smoother than on a 60Hz display. But for most content, a 60Hz display is just fine – and in some cases, it may even be preferable.
Displaying 120 FPS Content
When displaying 120 frames-per-second content on your 120hz monitor, there are a few things to consider. The most important factor is that your computer is powerful enough to display the content at 120fps. Most current computers can handle this fine, but if you’re on an older model, you might need to upgrade your graphics card. Secondly, you’ll need a 120hz monitor. These are becoming increasingly common, but if you don’t have one, you’ll need one.
Once you have the required hardware, you must ensure your content runs at 120fps. This is usually the case if you’re playing a video game designed for 120hz; some older games may need help to reach those high frame rates. You can also try using a video player that supports 120fps playback, but finding 120fps content can be difficult.
If you have the right hardware and content, displaying 120fps on your monitor is simple. Make sure everything is set up properly, and you should be ready to go.
Different Refresh Rate From Different Sources
It’s interesting to note the different refresh rates from different sources. While most people are accustomed to the standard 24 frames per second typically used for movies, several other sources use different refresh rates. For example, Netflix and Amazon Video offer 24 fps to 60 fps, while Blu-ray movies are typically 24 fps. YouTube also offers 30 or 60 fps, while cable/broadcast TV typically uses 30 or 60 fps (NTSC) or 25 or 50 fps (PAL).
This difference in refresh rates can significantly impact the viewing experience. For example, a higher refresh rate can provide a smoother image, while a lower refresh rate can provide a more realistic image. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference regarding which refresh rate is right for you.
Remember a few things when deciding which refresh rate is right for you.
- Consider the type of content you’re trying to watch. A higher refresh rate can be beneficial if you watch a lot of fast-paced action. On the other hand, if you’re watching something more subdued, a lower refresh rate is fine.
- Keep in mind that not all devices support all refresh rates. So, you’ll need to ensure that your device is compatible with the refresh rate you’re trying to use.
- Remember that you may need to adjust your settings to get the best results. For example, you may need to change your resolution or use a different player.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which refresh rate is right for you. There is no wrong answer, so experimentation is key. Try out different refresh rates and see which one you prefer.
Gaming Devices
Here’s a look at the refresh rates of some popular gaming devices and how they compare.
- Xbox One S/X: 24Hz to 120Hz
- Xbox Series X: 24Hz to 120Hz
- PS4/PS4 Pro: 24Hz to 60Hz
- PS5: 24Hz to 120Hz
- Blu-ray players: 24Hz to 60Hz
- PC: Up to 240Hz
- Chromecast: 60Hz
- Apple TV: 24Hz to 60Hz
As you can see, various refresh rates are available from different sources. If you’re looking for a smooth image, you’ll want to choose a device with a higher refresh rate.
As you can see, the Xbox One S/X and the Xbox Series X have the same refresh rate. The PS4/PS4 Pro have a lower refresh rate than the Xbox One S/X and the Xbox Series X. The PS5 has a higher refresh rate than the Xbox One S/X and the Xbox Series X.
- The Blu-ray players have a lower refresh rate than the Xbox One S/X and the Xbox Series X.
- The PC has a higher refresh rate than the Xbox One S/X and the Xbox Series X.
- The Chromecast has a lower refresh rate than the Xbox One S/X and the Xbox Series X.
- The Apple TV has a lower refresh rate than the Xbox One S/X and the Xbox Series X.
Variable refresh rate
Variable refresh rate (VRR) is a display technology that synchronizes a display’s refresh rate with a video source’s frame rate. VRR can dynamically change a display’s refresh rate to match the frame rate of a video source, which can reduce or eliminate screen tearing, stuttering, and other artefacts associated with video playback on displays that use a fixed refresh rate.
In addition, VRR can reduce power consumption by lowering the refresh rate of a display when the frame rate of a video source is lower.
Fake refresh rate
While many gamers know about some gaming monitors’ fake refresh rate, few know what it is or does.
A refresh rate is how often an image is displayed on a screen in a second and is measured in Hertz. Most monitors have a 60 Hertz refresh rate, meaning they can display up to 60 images per second. Some gaming monitors boast refresh rates of 144 Hertz or even 240 Hertz, but these are usually fake.
To understand why these fake refresh rates exist, we need to understand a little bit about how monitors work. A monitor’s refresh rate is determined by the number of times the monitor’s image sensor refreshes per second. This is different from the frames per second (FPS) displayed in games, which is determined by the number of times the game’s engine renders per second.
Fake refresh rates exist because most monitors can only display as many images per second as their image sensor can refresh. So, even if a monitor has a refresh rate of 144 Hertz, if its image sensor can only refresh 60 times per second, it will only be able to display 60 FPS.
There are a few ways that manufacturers get around this issue. One way is by using a process called “frame doubling.” The image sensor only refreshes every other frame, but the monitor displays each frame for two refresh cycles. So, even though the image sensor can only refresh at 60 Hz, the monitor can still display 120 FPS.
Another way manufacturers get around this issue is by using a process called “display doubling.” The image sensor refreshes twice for each frame, but the monitor only displays the frame once. So, even though the image sensor can only refresh at 60 Hz, the monitor can still display 120 FPS.
The problem with both methods is that they introduce a lot of visual artefacts, which can distract gamers. Many gamers prefer to stick with monitors with a true refresh rate of 60 Hz.
Flicker frequency
60Hz has been the standard flicker frequency for televisions and monitors. Recently, however, 120Hz has become increasingly popular. Although both frequencies have benefits, 120Hz may be the better option for many people.
One of the key benefits of 120Hz is that it reduces eye strain. This is because the higher frequency means that the images on the screen are refreshed more often. This can be a big advantage for people who spend much time staring at screens.
In addition, 120Hz can provide a smoother viewing experience. This is especially noticeable when watching fast-paced content, such as action movies or sports. The increased refresh rate can make it easier to follow the action on the screen.
Finally, 120Hz can improve the overall quality of the image. The higher refresh rate can eliminate artefacts, such as screen tearing. This can result in a more enjoyable viewing experience, whether watching a movie or playing a video game.
So, if you’re looking for a better viewing experience, consider upgrading to a 120Hz display.
One of the main differences between a 60Hz and 120Hz television is the flicker frequency. The higher the flicker frequency, the less noticeable the flicker is. A 60Hz television produces a flicker at a frequency of 60Hz, while a 120Hz television produces a flicker at a frequency of 120Hz.
The refresh rate is the number of times per second the image on the screen is refreshed. The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the image appears. A 60Hz refresh rate means the image is refreshed 60 times per second, while a 120Hz refresh rate means the image is refreshed 120 times per second.
Conclusion
A few key things to consider when choosing a television are size, price, and features. However, one of the most important factors is the refresh rate. The refresh rate is the number of times the image on the screen is refreshed per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate means a smoother image, and a lower refresh rate means a choppier image. Most TVs have a refresh rate of 60Hz, but some higher-end TVs have a refresh rate of 120Hz.
When it comes to refreshing rates, bigger is only sometimes better. A higher refresh rate is great for action movies or video games, but it is not worth the extra money for someone who mainly watches TV shows or movies. It is important to figure out what you watch most and how important a smooth image is to you before making a decision.
