Technology
What is Screen Refresh Rate?
Ever wondered what Hertz (Hz) means for your screen? Discover what refresh rate is, why it's a key feature in modern gadgets, and how it impacts your viewing.
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What is it?
Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), is the number of times per second a display updates the image on the screen. For example, a 60Hz display refreshes its image 60 times every second, while a 120Hz display does it 120 times. A higher number means the image is updated more frequently, creating a more fluid and up-to-date picture. This is a fundamental specification for any screen, from your smartphone and TV to a dedicated computer monitor, and it works in tandem with the frame rate (FPS) generated by your device's processor to produce the final image.
Why is it trending?
High refresh rates have become a major selling point, especially in the gaming community and premium smartphone market. Gamers seek out monitors with 144Hz, 240Hz, or even higher refresh rates because they offer a significant competitive advantage with smoother visuals and quicker on-screen reactions. This trend has crossed over to consumer gadgets like smartphones and tablets, where a higher refresh rate (e.g., 90Hz or 120Hz) makes everyday actions like scrolling through social media or navigating the user interface feel noticeably snappier and more fluid than standard 60Hz screens.
How does it affect people?
The impact of refresh rate is most visible in motion. A higher refresh rate significantly reduces motion blur, making fast-paced scenes in games or movies appear clearer and sharper. For users, this translates into a more responsive and immersive experience. In competitive gaming, it can mean seeing an opponent a fraction of a second sooner. For general use, it provides a premium, smooth feel that can also help reduce eye strain for some individuals during prolonged use. Conversely, a low refresh rate can make motion appear choppy or stuttered.