Refresh rate

Every screen redraws its image many times a second. The refresh rate is how often, measured in hertz (Hz). A 60 Hz display refreshes 60 times a second, a 120 Hz display 120 times, and so on. Many standard TVs and monitors are 60 Hz; gaming monitors and many newer TVs offer 120 Hz or more.

Refresh rate and frame rate

These two numbers work together. Frame rate is how many images the game produces each second; refresh rate is how many the screen can show. A game running at 120 fps on a 60 Hz screen can only display 60 of those frames each second. To benefit from a higher frame rate, you need a screen with a matching refresh rate. When the two are out of step, problems like screen tearing can appear.

Is a higher refresh rate worth it?

Higher refresh rates make motion look smoother and can reduce perceived delay, which many players find especially noticeable in fast games. For slower-paced games, the difference matters less. The benefit only appears if the game, the device and the settings all support it. On consoles, 120 Hz output usually needs to be enabled in the system settings and is only available in games that offer it.

Things to check on your setup

• A TV’s 120 Hz mode may only work on certain HDMI ports; the TV’s manual or settings menu usually explains which.
• A suitable HDMI cable is needed for higher refresh rates at high resolutions; the cable supplied with a recent console is usually appropriate.
• On PC, check the display settings in the operating system: monitors sometimes default to 60 Hz even when they support more.

When buying a screen

If games are a main use, look at refresh rate alongside resolution and input lag, not just screen size. For younger children or casual play, a standard 60 Hz screen is perfectly adequate.