Monitor 60 hz vs 144 hz vs 200 hz, can you tell the difference? ? ?

Many PC users, and especially those who are dedicated to gaming, frequently fall at the crossroads of having to choose between performance or resolution when it comes to buying a new monitor. 60 Hz vs 144 Hz vs 200 Hz, will we notice the difference?

Index of contents

While the first group is surely more geared towards choosing a 144Hz or 200Hz refresh rate monitor, the second group is possibly more attracted to choosing a 4K monitor, but really, what do all these numbers mean and what is the best according to the use that we give to the monitor?

We will explain in detail what the refresh rate of a monitor is, what difference there is between the 60, 144 and 200 Hz rates, what advantages and disadvantages each one offers and which one you should choose according to the use you plan to give to your monitor.

Anyone who has ever had the opportunity to use a monitor with a high refresh rate (also called the refresh rate), will have noticed that there can be a big difference in terms of the fluidity and speed that such a monitor offers.

Whether playing, simply browsing or running any other software, a high refresh rate is evident when compared to a monitor with a low frequency.

Logically, a 60 or 144 Hz monitor will not be the same, there being a difference between the two. However, depending on the specifications of the monitor and the use we give it, it may happen that there is not a noticeable difference between the two and that it is not worth spending too much money.

Always taking into account, in addition, that in recent years the specifications of the monitors have evolved significantly, mainly in terms of the panels, the resolutions they offer and the inputs.

What is the refresh rate of a monitor

Simply put, the refresh rate (or refresh rate) on a monitor tells us how many times per second an image is refreshed on the screen. Clarified this, if we have a monitor with a refresh rate of 60 Hz, it means that its image is going to refresh about 60 times per second.

Of course, this feature also sets how many images per second can be viewed on the monitor. So if we have a graphics card installed with a rendering of 100 frames, the images that the refresh rate allows will be seen anyway.

This means that even if we renew the graphics card of our PC and obtain about 100 FPS, for example, we will not see any benefit in terms of fluidity if our monitor has a refresh rate of 60 hertz, with which part of the power would be wasted. of the GPU.

This would be solved if you went from a 60 hertz monitor to a 144 hertz monitor, so if you reach 100 FPS in a game, these will be complete and not limited as it would be on the 60 hertz monitor.

Although it should also be clarified that a higher refresh rate does not imply that it is better. That said, if this rate is greater than 120 hertz, it is possible that in visual terms it represents an adverse effect.

Regarding this, there are three factors that establish what the maximum refresh rate is:

• The resolution of the monitor: the lower the resolution, the higher the refresh rate, normally. The maximum refresh rate of the graphics card. The maximum refresh rate of the monitor.

Relationship between hertz and human visual capacity

A key fact to keep in mind and that many people do not know is that the capacity of the human eye reaches up to 60 Hz, dramatically weakening at higher hertz. So an obvious question appears here: then why are the 144Hz or 200Hz refresh rates better?

For a clear explanation, we must begin by clarifying that what really determines our ability to see is the brain, and not the eye. The eye is in charge of capturing and transmitting information to the brain, but it is this that is in charge of processing this information, which often loses or modifies some attributes throughout this process.

In this scenario, the retina of the eye has the ability to capture the rapid flicker that lights can emit. Although in reality, for most human beings, an alternation of 60 cycles vanishes before reaching the brain, in addition to the fact that the capture of this blinking does not occur uniformly throughout the retina.

Finally, the reticular periphery is able to follow the flashing lights at a fairly high speed, while the fovea, located in the retina, has a lower sensitivity to flickering and feels more comfortable with smaller objects. When we look askance at a 50 or 60 Hz screen, we might notice these flickers, while when viewed from the front, we don't.

Low refresh rate, flickering and blur

When a refresh rate is set at a low speed, what occurs is something like a redraw in the image reflected on the monitor, which is visible and at the same time quite annoying to the human eye. This flickering on the monitor called " flickering " is bothersome and can cause headaches and eye strain.

This flickering in the monitor usually appears when the refresh rate is set below 60 Hz, although it is also possible that it occurs with higher frequencies, which also cause a flicker that is noticeable for certain people. Therefore, it is always recommended to adjust the refresh rate in order to reduce these annoying flickering seen on the monitor. Above all, make sure that we buy or have a monitor of 60 Hz or more, as our view will appreciate it.

Among the most outstanding advantages provided by having a high refresh rate is motion resolution, a characteristic that establishes how sharp an image will be when it is moving on the screen.

This blur can be reduced by means of a high refresh rate, since this provides the human brain with more data to work with, thus obtaining sharper images.

What is flickering and how to prevent it from appearing

Graphics card holder

This point can not be disconnected or ignored, especially if you are thinking of purchasing a 144 Hz monitor, and even more so, if you want a 200 Hz monitor . The reason to be careful when choosing a graphics card is that if This does not offer an acceptable level of frames per second, so you will not be taking full advantage of the quality of these monitors. The problem is the other way around, your monitor performs better than your GPU.

For this reason, a benchmark and subsequent analysis of the GPU performance is recommended above all in those specific games where you are looking for a higher frame rate.

Some games include their own built-in benchmarks, although if you don't want to use these and have a more objective analysis of performance, you can make use of various online tools, such as 3D Mark, VRMark or similar.

It is very important that to benchmark a game, we disable vertical sync. What this parameter does is synchronize or rather, limit the frames per second of the game or GPU to the maximum of the monitor, so we would not be seeing a real performance of the game. Understand that with this parameter disabled, the program measures the actual Hz or FPS (it's the same) of the game even with a slower monitor.

Port bandwidth

To the question of the GPU we add the bandwidth of the video ports, both the monitor and our graphics card. Bandwidth means the amount of data that the cable and its interface is capable of carrying.

In this area we must differentiate between the DisplayPort and HDMI ports, the two main ones that are currently used. We will ignore and omit the previous DVI and VGA since very few monitors have them now. They are ports that work with a digital signal, which may or may not be compressed to save bandwidth, but they always have limitations depending on their version. These limitations have to do with color depth, refresh rate, and resolution. The following tables show the capacity of each port and version:

Monitors of 144 or more than 200 Hz

When we look for a good experience in audiovisual content such as movies and series, and especially gaming, these monitors are perfect for this purpose, although they are especially recommended for games.

This is because they offer an excellent refresh rate and number of pixels, characteristics with which games and graphics cards can reach their maximum level in terms of graphics power. What will be highly appreciated by a gamer user.

All this always bearing in mind that it is necessary to have a powerful computer to accompany the performance of the monitor. Otherwise, it will not do much good to have a monitor of this quality, obtaining in this case a poor quality in the graphics of the games.

Gamer users know this relationship between monitor and hardware very well, so if they have a fluid team working together with a 144 Hz monitor, they will have the best gaming experience.

We must know that currently Nvidia or AMD graphics cards of medium and high range are capable of delivering more than 100 Hz in Full HD resolution with medium or high graphics, from an AMD RX 5500 or an Nvidia GTX 1660. In 2K resolution it's more complicated, needing an Nvidia RTX 2060 onwards or an AMD RX 5600 onwards. Finally in 4K resolution exceeding 60 Hz is complicated and only the high-end can do it, for example the Nvidia RTX 2070 or the AMD RX 5700.

Some models of the manufacturer ViewSonic classified by Hz, at least the ones that we find most interesting:

• 60Hz: ViewSonic VP2785-2K 27-inch 100Hz: ViewSonic XG350R-C ELITE 35-inch 144Hz: ViewSonic XG2405 24-inch 165Hz: ViewSonic XG270QG ELITE 27-inch 240Hz: ViewSonic XG270 ELITE 27-inch

This is an example from one of multiple monitor manufacturers

Another important element is ghosting, which has to do with the refresh rate and especially with the response time of the monitor. Ghosting means ghost image or burned image, and is an effect that occurs when the color change of the pixels becomes too slow or when a residual color remains in them after displaying the same image too long. The higher the frequency and response, the less chance this phenomenon will appear.

Ghosting or ghost effect: what it is and why it seems on monitors

Refresh rate for common users

Although a high update rate is something elementary for those who are dedicated to gaming, it does not represent a feature to consider for ordinary users who only use their monitor to browse the Internet and use some software such as Office.

This type of user will not pay attention to frame rate and screen tear. Instead, it will only look for the monitor to have a good resolution, for which it is advised that you purchase a monitor with an IPS panel. And as we have commented before, with 60 Hz or more if we are going to be many hours in front of it.

However, it cannot be ignored that a monitor with a high refresh rate will make the daily basic tasks more fluid, offering a better user experience, even if they have not sought it.

Choosing the right monitor

In addition to the refresh rate, the monitors include other specifications that are always good to analyze when we are about to buy a new one. This is related to the fact that although the monitor offers a good refresh rate, there may be other points that do not suit us, either due to its quality or the budget we have to pay. As a general rule monitors with more Hz are the most expensive, and this comparison is key 60 Hz vs 144 Hz vs 200 Hz.

Price

We can affirm that we have made a good purchase if, in addition to the update frequency, we obtained a monitor at a good price. But always trying to avoid those prices that are too affordable or from unknown brands, since there are great possibilities that these monitors do not offer the quality that we expect.

Nobody likes to waste money, which is why it will always be the main objective to try to find a monitor that has a balance between price and quality. For this, it is always recommended to find out prices in various stores and closely follow the different offers. And of course see our reviews and our guide to monitors.

Brand

In the market we can find several brands that manufacture monitors of very good quality and that are a guarantee of trust, both for their reputation and for the materials they use in their products as well as the technical support they offer.

Among these brands we can cite ViewS onic, Acer, BenQ, Dell, MSI, Asus and AORUS prestigious brands that manufacture monitors of 60Hz, 144Hz, 165Hz, 240Hz and some are even making the leap to much more Hz. They are always among the Most recommended options, although like any purchase, it will always be a good idea to previously do an internet search to find out the ratings of users who have already purchased those monitors.

Resolution

Just as it is an important feature to have a monitor with a refresh rate of 144 Hz to be used for games, its resolution is also an important factor.

In the gaming world, the resolution that is most used is 1080p because it is easy to obtain a high frame rate, so it is ideal to have a high refresh rate. This resolution will be especially recommended for online players and first person shooting, since we have a rate of up to 240 Hz on the market, they are neither ghosting nor flickering.

But not everything ends here, since if we think long-term, it is best to aim for a gaming monitor with a resolution of 1440p. These monitors are recommended with about 120 to 165 Hz, in order to enjoy a good graphics experience as well as fluidity if we have a mid / high range GPU.

The third main resolution is 4K or UHD, although in this case it will be normal to have a 60 Hz or 144 Hz monitor if we have a big budget. Except for personal enjoyment for multimedia content and solo campaigns, they are not good monitors to compete online, since very few GPUs can give more than 60 FPS in it.

Panel type and response time

As well as the resolution, when choosing a monitor you will also have to take into account the type of panel it uses. The IPS panel is one of the most widely used in monitors today, as it offers great color quality, good angles and a high refresh rate with up to 240 Hz in 1080p.

Previously, it was more common to use TN panels because they offer a better response time, but considerably less color quality. Response time measures the time it takes for pixels to respond to a color change signal, which means having a sharper image without blur or ghosting. But today the IPS has been optimized in such a way that it offers 1 ms response rates.

Types of PC monitor panels: TN, IPS, VA, PLS, IGZO, WLED

Refresh rate

In addition to what we have already discussed above, the refresh rate of a monitor has an important influence on the input delay (not to be confused with response time). If we take an example of a 60 Hz screen, we will never get an input delay that is less than 16.67 milliseconds, because it is the amount of time it consumes between one update to the next.

In contrast, a 144 Hz monitor has a delay of up to 8.33 milliseconds, while a 200 Hz screen decreases all this time to only 4.16 milliseconds. That's why this article on 60 Hz vs 144 Hz vs 200 Hz is key.

To this lag inherent in soft drinks, we must add the appearance of the blur and flicker effect. We will always reduce these effects with a good quality panel and a manufacturer of guarantees.

Do you really need a 144 Hz or 200 Hz monitor?

Although the improvement in fluidity is important in a 144 or 200 Hz television, its benefit is usually somewhat complex to notice due to the limitation of our perception. By using image processors, televisions further improve the quality of movement by changing the input sent to them. Some models of televisions can add frames, which are often called overscan, effectively increasing the frame rate of the video.

The monitors, on the other hand, do not have a processor, so the image that is sent is the one that the GPU processes. This decreases the benefit of the panel when viewing audiovisual content. An improved refresh rate also does not ensure the disappearance of " ghosting ", an effect common to LCD monitors that causes moving objects to leave one or more faint traces behind them. Therefore, more than the refresh rate, we must look at the quality of the panel and also the response speed.

So, for day to day and to work we do not need a 144 Hz monitor or more refreshment, since that extra fluidity that we gain is being wasted. Perhaps a 60 or 75 Hz monitor with 2K or 4K IPS resolution would be very useful, to have a large desk and at the same time take care of your eyes.

But if we are gamers, especially those who play online or competitive games, it is necessary to get an advantage. More FPS means more fluidity and better response of our senses. It also means less flickering and less ghosting if we have a good panel response. From 144 to 240 Hz there is no great improvement for our eyes, so a 144 or 165 Hz IPS with Full HD or 2K resolution will be a great purchase.

Recommended models from 60 Hz vs 144 Hz vs 200 Hz and more

There are many options, but we are going to focus on one brand, ViewSonic, and thus show you the great variety of models that they have available to purchase.

ViewSonic VG2448 23.8 "Full HD IPS Monitor (1920 x 1080, 16: 9, 250 nits, 178/178, 5ms, VGA / HDMI / DisplayPort, ergonomic, multimedia) black.

• Screen Quality: To show big data up to beautiful presentations, this monitor offers Full HD (1920x1080) viewing for any task Productivity and comfort: advanced ergonomics with 40 degree tilt, Flicker-Free technology, blue light filter and more Helps increase productivity with comfort all day long Incredible at any angle: A slim bezel IPS panel ensures stunning, uninterrupted views no matter what your point of view Smart packaging: Easy-to-open, eco-friendly case streamlines unpacking for instant monitor setup ready to use Low energy consumption: designed with energy efficiency in mind. With Energy Star and EPEAT certification, VG2448's eco mode consumes less energy, resulting in a lower carbon footprint and lower overall office costs

152.05 EUR Buy on Amazon

Viewsonic X Series XG350R-C PC Screen 88.9 cm (35 ") 3D UltraWide Quad HD WVA Curve Matte Black - Monitor (88.9 cm (35"), 3440 x 1440 Pixels, UltraWide Quad HD, 3D, 3ms, Black)

• Ultra-wide QHD resolution Elite RGB alliance Adaptive sync and AMD FreeSync technology Clear motion backlight technology

965.17 EUR Buy on Amazon

Viewsonic XG2405 - Gaming Monitor (60.5 cm / 24 ", Full HD, IPS Panel, 1 ms, 144 Hz, FreeSync, Low Input, Height Adjustable), Color Black

• 144 hz ips panel for faster, sharper and richer images Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels (full hd) Amd freesync and 144 hz technology for trouble-free gaming Built-in speakers, hdmi inputs and displayport Shipping content: xg2405 monitor, hdmi, cable food, instructions (Spanish language not guaranteed)

199.00 EUR Buy on Amazon

ViewSonic Elite XG270QG Gaming QHD Nano IPS 27 "Monitor with G-Sync for Esports (165HZ, 1ms, 1440p, 98% DCI-P3, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB Type-B, 3X USB Type-A, 2X 2W Speakers), Black

• Make the difference: the qhd 1440p resolution, ultra-fast 1ms response time, and amazing 165hz refresh rate give you the edge on all your gaming missions - Nvidia g-sync - no artifacts, in-game screen tear, or lag input (input lag); True nvidia g-sync technology syncs the refresh rate of your monitor with your graphics card, delivering a seamless and immersive gaming experience ips nano color technology - this technology brings your games to life with 98% dci-p3 color coverage and a 10-bit color depth Elite Design Enhancements (EDE): Our enhancements were created to enhance immersion and elevate your gaming experience; Including RGB ambient light, two built-in bungees, reinforced headphone holder, side shields, and a brushed metal base Advanced ergonomics: A fully adjustable ergonomic stand and blue light filter give you the comfort you need for long gaming sessions

749.00 EUR Buy on Amazon ViewSonic XG270 27 inch 240 hz and 1ms

Conclusion about 60 Hz vs 144 Hz vs 200 Hz

Focusing on what has already been mentioned, the best suggestion would be to opt for a 144 Hz monitor instead of a 60 or 200 Hz monitor, an option that suits most PC users.

On the one hand we have the advantage of the relation between price and quality, since in this range there are monitors at a good price, while on the other hand, optimum performance can be obtained more easily.

Probably what stands out the most is that although there are differences between the different refresh rate values, the improvements are more evident when you go from one of 60 Hz to 144 Hz than if you go from 144 to 200 Hz.

As for the 200 Hz monitors, they are recommended for computers with powerful hardware and competitive gaming. They are also a little more expensive than the others, and currently choosing a TN does not have as many advantages over IPS when it comes to speed.

Logically, the 144 Hz and 200 Hz monitors are more expensive than the 60 Hz monitors, which is why they are worth it if the user really is able to take advantage of it and see the improvements on the screen compared to the 60 Hz ones.

We recommend some tutorials and guides:

What monitor do you plan to buy? Which do you prefer 60Hz vs 144Hz vs 200Hz? Do you bet on speed and refresh rate or resolution?