Key Takeaways
- A TV's refresh rate is the number of times the screen refreshes itself every second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
- The two most common refresh rates for contemporary TVs are 60Hz and 120Hz.
- Refresh rate is different from frames per second (fps), which defines how many frames the video source displays every second.
Understanding TV Refresh Rate
Have you ever wondered how a television screen displays moving images so smoothly? The answer lies in its refresh rate, which determines how many times the screen refreshes itself every second. This measurement is known as Hertz (Hz).
Let's dive deeper into this fascinating aspect of television technology.
What is Refresh Rate?
The refresh rate of a TV refers to the frequency at which the image on the screen is updated or refreshed. It is measured in Hertz (Hz), which indicates the number of times the screen refreshes itself per second.
A higher refresh rate results in smoother motion and reduces motion blur.
Common Refresh Rates
In the world of contemporary TVs, the two most common refresh rates are 60Hz and 120Hz. A 60Hz refresh rate means that the screen refreshes itself 60 times every second, while a 120Hz refresh rate means it refreshes itself 120 times every second.
The higher the refresh rate, the smoother the on-screen motion appears to our eyes.
Advancements in Refresh Rate
As technology continues to advance, so does the refresh rate of televisions. In 2022, TCL and Samsung made headlines by announcing TVs with a native refresh rate of 144Hz. This means that the screen refreshes itself a staggering 144 times every second, resulting in incredibly smooth and fluid motion.
Choosing the Right Refresh Rate
When it comes to choosing the right refresh rate for your TV, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the content you watch. While higher refresh rates offer smoother motion, they may not be necessary for all types of content.
For example, movies and TV shows typically have a standard frame rate of 24 frames per second (fps), so a 60Hz refresh rate is more than sufficient to enjoy them without any noticeable motion blur.
On the other hand, if you're an avid gamer or enjoy watching fast-paced sports, a higher refresh rate like 120Hz or even 144Hz can greatly enhance your viewing experience. These higher refresh rates ensure that the fast-moving action on the screen remains sharp and clear, without any motion artifacts.
Frames per Second (fps) versus Refresh Rate
It is fundamental to note that refresh rate is different from frames per second (fps). While refresh rate refers to how many times the screen refreshes itself, frames per second refers to the number of frames the video source displays every second.
For example, a movie typically has a frame rate of 24fps, meaning that 24 individual frames are displayed every second. However, if you're watching this movie on a TV with a 60Hz refresh rate, the TV will have to repeat certain frames to match its refresh rate.
This can result in a phenomenon known as judder, where the motion appears slightly stuttered or uneven.
On the other hand, if you're watching a video with a higher frame rate, such as 60fps or 120fps, a TV with a higher refresh rate can display each frame more accurately and smoothly. This is why gamers and sports enthusiasts often prefer TVs with higher refresh rates, as they can fully appreciate the fluidity of fast-paced action.
The refresh rate of a TV plays a crucial role in determining the smoothness and clarity of on-screen motion. While 60Hz and 120Hz are the most common refresh rates for contemporary TVs, advancements in technology have led to TVs with even higher refresh rates, such as 144Hz.
When choosing the right refresh rate for your TV, consider your viewing preferences and the type of content you enjoy.
Whether you're a movie lover or a gaming enthusiast, finding the perfect refresh rate can greatly enhance your overall viewing experience.
Links and references
- PCMag
- CNET
- RTINGS.com
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