The Difference Between Gaming on 60Hz and 120Hz – Which is Better?

The Difference Between Gaming on 60Hz and 120Hz – Which is Better?

If you’re an avid gamer, you’ve probably spent some time considering the best setup for your gaming experience. When it comes to monitors, you may have heard conflicting opinions on whether a refresh rate of 60Hz or 120Hz is better. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the two and help you decide which one is right for you.

Introduction: Understanding Refresh Rate

Before we dive into the specifics of 60Hz and 120Hz, let’s talk about refresh rate in general. The refresh rate of a monitor refers to how many times per second the screen refreshes, or updates, its image. This is measured in hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate means that images on the screen will appear smoother and more fluid. This is particularly important in fast-paced games where split-second reactions can make a big difference.

Body: The Pros and Cons of 60Hz and 120Hz

Now, let’s look at the benefits and drawbacks of gaming on a 60Hz monitor versus a 120Hz monitor.

60Hz:

Pros:
– More affordable: 60Hz monitors tend to be less expensive than those with higher refresh rates.
– Suitable for casual gamers: If you primarily play slower-paced games like turn-based strategy or simulation games, 60Hz should suffice.
– Lower system requirements: Running games at 60 frames per second (fps) requires less computing power than running them at 120fps.

Cons:
– Motion blur: Lower refresh rates can result in more motion blur, which can make images appear less sharp.
– Stuttering: In fast-paced games, you may experience stuttering or lag as your monitor struggles to keep up with the action.
– Limitations on FPS: Running games at 60fps means that your monitor can only display up to 60fps, even if your graphics card and CPU are capable of running the game at a higher frame rate.

120Hz:

Pros:
– Smoother gameplay: With a higher refresh rate, images on the screen will appear noticeably smoother and more fluid.
– Less motion blur: A higher refresh rate reduces the amount of motion blur, making images appear sharper.
– Ideal for fast-paced games: If you primarily play first-person shooters, racing games, or other fast-paced genres, 120Hz is the way to go.

Cons:
– More expensive: Monitors with higher refresh rates tend to be pricier than those with lower rates.
– Requires more system power: Running games at 120fps requires a more powerful graphics card and CPU than running them at 60fps.
– Overkill for some gamers: If you primarily play slower-paced games, you may not notice a significant difference between 60Hz and 120Hz.

Conclusion: Which is Better for You?

So, which refresh rate is right for you? The answer largely depends on the type of games you play and your budget. If you’re a casual gamer who primarily plays simulation or turn-based strategy games, a 60Hz monitor should suffice. If you’re a hardcore gamer who demands the smoothest, most fluid gameplay possible, and you have the budget to invest in a higher-end monitor and hardware, opt for 120Hz.

Ultimately, the refresh rate of a monitor is just one factor in creating a great gaming experience. Other factors like resolution, response time, and input lag also play a key role. When researching and selecting a monitor, be sure to consider all of these factors in conjunction with the refresh rate.