Does 120fps look better on 60Hz?

Have you ever wondered if upgrading your monitor to a higher refresh rate, like 120Hz, would make your gaming experience significantly better? While it's a common misconception that a higher refresh rate automatically translates to a better visual experience, the truth is a bit more nuanced. In this article, we'll delve into the factors that influence how 120fps content looks on a 60Hz display and explore the benefits and drawbacks of both options.

Why Choose 120Hz?

Before we dive into the specifics, let's understand why people choose 120Hz monitors. Primarily, it's about smoother motion and reduced input lag. Higher refresh rates mean more frames are displayed per second, leading to a more fluid and responsive gaming experience. This is especially noticeable in fast-paced games where precise timing is crucial.

Types of 120Hz Content

Not all 120fps content is created equal. There are two main types:

Native 120fps Content: This is content that was originally captured or rendered at 120 frames per second. Examples include high-end gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, as well as some PC games.

Upscaled 120fps Content: This is content that was originally captured or rendered at a lower frame rate but has been artificially upscaled to 120fps. While this can improve the smoothness of motion, it may not always look as sharp or detailed as native 120fps content.

Benefits of 120Hz on 60Hz

Even if you have a 60Hz monitor, there are still benefits to consuming 120fps content:

Smoother Motion: The increased frame rate can make motion appear more fluid, especially in fast-paced scenes.

Reduced Input Lag: In some cases, using a 120Hz display with a 60Hz monitor can reduce input lag, making your actions feel more responsive.

Future-Proofing: If you plan to upgrade your monitor to a 120Hz model in the future, consuming 120fps content now can prepare you for that transition.

Steps to Experience 120fps on a 60Hz Monitor

To enjoy the benefits of 120fps content on a 60Hz monitor, you'll need to:

Obtain 120fps Content: This could involve playing games on a high-end console or PC, streaming content at 120fps, or using a video editing software to create 120fps content.

Connect Your Device: Ensure that your device (e.g., console, PC) is connected to your 60Hz monitor using a compatible cable (HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4 is recommended).

Enable 120fps Output: In your device's settings, enable the option for 120fps output.

Perform a Refresh Rate Test: A refresh rate test can be done online or with an application designed for this purpose to ensure that your monitor is receiving the 120fps signal.

Conclusion

While a 120Hz monitor can provide a more immersive gaming experience, it's not always necessary to achieve a significant improvement in visual quality. If you have a 60Hz monitor and can access 120fps content, you may still benefit from smoother motion and reduced input lag. However, the overall impact will depend on factors like the type of content, your personal preferences, and your gaming setup.

FAQs

Is 120fps worth it on a 60Hz monitor?

It can be, especially for fast-paced games or content those benefits from smoother motion.

Can I force 120fps on a 60Hz monitor?

 No, you cannot force your monitor to display content at a higher refresh rate than it is capable of.

Does 120fps look better than 60fps on any monitor?

The difference between 120fps and 60fps is more noticeable on higher-quality monitors with better pixel density.

What is the best refresh rate for gaming?

While higher refresh rates are generally better for gaming, the ideal refresh rate depends on your individual preferences and the types of games you play.