Is a 60Hz monitor good for gaming? As a gamer myself, I’ve asked this question many times when searching for the best monitor to enhance my gaming experience.
The refresh rate of a monitor is a crucial factor when it comes to gaming, and it can make a significant difference in how your games look and feel. So, is a 60Hz monitor good enough for gaming, or should you invest in a higher refresh rate?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of gaming on a 60Hz monitor, optimal scenarios where it might be suitable, and provide you with a list of the top 5 monitors on the market. So, let’s dive in and find out if a 60Hz monitor is the right choice for your gaming needs.
What is a 60Hz Monitor?
When it comes to buying a new gaming monitor, understanding the refresh rate is essential. The refresh rate is the number of times per second that a monitor can update the image on the screen.
A 60Hz monitor has a refresh rate of 60 times per second, meaning that the screen is refreshed every 16.6 milliseconds. But what does this mean for gaming performance, and how does it compare to higher refresh rate monitors?
The refresh rate is one of the most critical factors that determine the quality of your gaming experience. A higher refresh rate means that the monitor can display more frames per second, resulting in smoother and more fluid gameplay.
It also means that there is less input lag, which is the delay between the player’s input and the action appearing on the screen. This is particularly important for fast-paced games where split-second decisions can make all the difference.
How Refresh Rate Affects Gaming Performance
When playing games on a 60Hz monitor, the refresh rate limits the maximum number of frames that can be displayed per second.
This means that if your graphics card is capable of outputting more than 60 frames per second, you won’t be able to see the additional frames, and your gameplay may appear choppy or uneven.
In contrast, a higher refresh rate monitor can display up to 120 or 144 frames per second, providing a much smoother and more immersive experience.
Comparison with Higher Refresh Rate Monitors
While a 60Hz monitor may be suitable for some gamers, particularly those on a budget or who play less demanding games, there is no doubt that higher refresh rate monitors provide a more significant advantage.
For competitive gamers or those who play fast-paced games like first-person shooters or racing games, a higher refresh rate is essential.
It can provide a competitive edge by reducing input lag and providing a smoother, more responsive gameplay experience.
Understanding the refresh rate of your monitor is crucial when it comes to gaming performance. While a 60Hz monitor may be adequate for some gamers, those who want the best possible experience should consider investing in a higher refresh rate monitor.
Pros of Gaming on a 60Hz Monitor
While a higher refresh rate monitor may be the ideal choice for many gamers, there are still some benefits to gaming on a 60Hz monitor. In this section, we’ll explore some of the advantages of sticking with a 60Hz monitor.
Lower Cost Compared to Higher Refresh Rate Monitors
One of the most significant advantages of a 60Hz monitor is the lower cost compared to higher refresh rate monitors.
If you’re on a budget or simply don’t want to spend a lot of money on a new monitor, a 60Hz monitor is a great option. They are widely available and often cost significantly less than higher refresh rate models.
Adequate for Casual Gaming and Single-Player Games
For those who primarily play single-player games or more casual games, a 60Hz monitor is more than adequate. If you’re not too concerned with having the absolute best graphics or the smoothest gameplay, a 60Hz monitor will provide a perfectly acceptable experience.
In fact, some gamers prefer the slightly slower pace of a 60Hz monitor, as it can give them a more immersive experience.
Less Demanding on Hardware Requirements
Another advantage of a 60Hz monitor is that it is less demanding on hardware requirements. Since a 60Hz monitor doesn’t require as much processing power as a higher refresh rate monitor, you can get by with a less powerful graphics card. This can be a significant advantage for those on a budget or with older hardware.
While a 60Hz monitor may not be the best choice for all gamers, there are still some benefits to consider. The lower cost, adequate performance for casual and single-player games, and lower hardware requirements are all compelling reasons to choose a 60Hz monitor over a higher refresh rate model.
Cons of Gaming on a 60Hz Monitor
Gaming on a 60Hz monitor may have its advantages, but it also comes with its fair share of drawbacks. In this section, we’ll explore the cons of using a 60Hz monitor for gaming.
Limited Refresh Rate Leads to Screen Tearing and Motion Blur
The most significant disadvantage of a 60Hz monitor is its limited refresh rate. With a refresh rate of only 60Hz, the monitor can display a maximum of 60 frames per second.
This limitation leads to screen tearing and motion blur, especially in fast-paced games, where the frames per second (FPS) rate can drop below the refresh rate.
Not Suitable for Competitive Gaming and Fast-Paced Games
Another disadvantage of gaming on a 60Hz monitor is that it’s not suitable for competitive gaming and fast-paced games.
In such games, every millisecond counts, and a 60Hz monitor’s limited refresh rate can lead to lag and delay, which can ultimately affect your gameplay and performance.
Restricted Field of View and Reaction Time
Lastly, gaming on a 60Hz monitor can lead to a restricted field of view and reaction time. When playing games, especially first-person shooter (FPS) games, you need to have a wider field of view and quick reaction time to spot and react to enemies or obstacles quickly.
However, with a 60Hz monitor, your field of view and reaction time can be limited, leading to a less immersive and less enjoyable gaming experience.
Optimal Scenarios for Gaming on a 60Hz Monitor
If you are a gamer on a budget, an entry-level gamer, or play specific genres that do not require high refresh rates, a 60Hz monitor can be a great choice for you. We’ll explore the different scenarios where gaming on a 60Hz monitor can be optimal.
Budget constraints and entry-level gaming
For gamers who are just starting and don’t have the budget to invest in higher refresh rate monitors, a 60Hz monitor is a great choice. These monitors are generally more affordable and offer a good gaming experience without breaking the bank.
Console gaming and TV connectivity
Console gaming is another scenario where a 60Hz monitor can be optimal. Most consoles are designed to run at 60Hz, and connecting them to a 60Hz monitor ensures that you’re not overspending on a higher refresh rate monitor that won’t add any value to your gaming experience.
Additionally, 60Hz monitors can be connected to your TV, which makes for a more immersive gaming experience on a bigger screen.
Specific genres and game styles that do not require high refresh rates
Certain genres of games, such as turn-based strategy games, simulation games, and story-driven games, do not require high refresh rates as they are not as fast-paced as other games.
In these scenarios, a 60Hz monitor is more than sufficient and can provide a great gaming experience. However, if you’re into competitive gaming or fast-paced games like first-person shooters, investing in a higher refresh rate monitor is highly recommended.
Top 5 60Hz Monitors on the Market
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for gaming monitors, a 60Hz monitor could be a great choice. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 60Hz monitors currently available in the market.
These monitors come from trusted brands such as Dell, Acer, ASUS, BenQ, and HP and offer a range of features and specifications that are suitable for gaming. Let’s take a closer look at each of them.
1. Dell S2419HGF Gaming Monitor:
The Dell S2419HGF Gaming Monitor is a 24-inch monitor that boasts a 1080p resolution and a 1ms response time. It has a 144Hz refresh rate, which may not be relevant for 60Hz gaming, but it does come with AMD FreeSync technology for a smoother gaming experience.
Other features include a fully adjustable stand, three preset gaming modes, and customizable RGB lighting. However, it does have a slightly higher price tag compared to other 60Hz monitors.
2. Acer R240HY Gaming Monitor:
The Acer R240HY Gaming Monitor is a 23.8-inch monitor that has a slim and sleek design. It features a 1080p resolution, a 4ms response time, and an IPS panel that provides great color accuracy and viewing angles.
Its stand is not adjustable, but it does come with VESA mounting capabilities. It’s a great option for those who want a high-quality monitor for gaming without breaking the bank.
3. ASUS VG245H Gaming Monitor:
The ASUS VG245H Gaming Monitor is a 24-inch monitor that has a 1080p resolution and a 1ms response time. It also has a 75Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology for a smoother gaming experience.
Other features include ASUS Eye Care technology to reduce eye strain and fatigue during long gaming sessions and customizable GameVisual and GamePlus modes. The monitor’s stand is fully adjustable, and it also comes with VESA mounting capabilities.
4. BenQ GW2270HM Gaming Monitor:
The BenQ GW2270HM Gaming Monitor is a 21.5-inch monitor that features a 1080p resolution, a 5ms response time, and an IPS panel for great color accuracy and viewing angles. It also has BenQ’s proprietary Eye Care technology to reduce eye strain and fatigue during long gaming sessions.
Its stand is not adjustable, but it does come with VESA mounting capabilities. This monitor is a great option for those who want a high-quality gaming monitor that’s affordable and easy on the eyes.
5. HP Pavilion 22CWA Gaming Monitor:
The HP Pavilion 22CWA Gaming Monitor is a 21.5-inch monitor that features a 1080p resolution and a 7ms response time. It has an IPS panel that provides great color accuracy and viewing angles. It also has HP’s Low Blue Light technology to reduce eye strain during long gaming sessions.
Its stand is not adjustable, but it does come with VESA mounting capabilities. This monitor is a great option for those who want a budget-friendly gaming monitor that’s also easy on the eyes.
A 60Hz monitor may not be the best option for competitive gaming or fast-paced games, but it can be a great choice for casual gaming or for those on a budget.
The top 5 monitors we’ve listed here offer a range of features and specifications that are suitable for gaming and come from trusted brands in the market. When choosing a monitor, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences to find the right one for you.
How to Improve Gaming Experience on a 60Hz Monitor
Gaming on a 60Hz monitor may not provide the same level of smoothness and clarity as higher refresh rate monitors. However, there are ways to enhance the gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor. In this section, we will explore some tips and tricks that can help improve your gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor.
Monitor settings and calibration:
One of the most straightforward ways to enhance your gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor is by adjusting the monitor settings and calibration. Proper calibration of the monitor can significantly improve the image quality and reduce eye strain.
Brightness, contrast, and color settings should be appropriately adjusted to achieve optimal image quality. In addition, using the “Game” or “Gaming” preset mode can help reduce input lag and enhance gaming performance.
Enabling vertical sync and adaptive sync:
Vertical sync (V-Sync) is a feature that synchronizes the refresh rate of the monitor with the frame rate of the game. This feature can help eliminate screen tearing, which is a common problem in games played on 60Hz monitors.
Adaptive Sync, such as AMD FreeSync or Nvidia G-Sync, is another feature that can enhance the gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor. This feature matches the monitor’s refresh rate to the game’s frame rate, resulting in a smoother and more stable image.
Upgrading other hardware components:
Upgrading other hardware components such as the CPU and GPU can also significantly improve the gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor. A more powerful CPU and GPU can handle games at higher frame rates, which in turn can help reduce input lag and enhance gaming performance.
Upgrading to an SSD can also reduce load times, which can significantly enhance the overall gaming experience.
While a 60Hz monitor may not provide the same level of smoothness and clarity as higher refresh rate monitors, there are ways to enhance the gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor.
Adjusting monitor settings and calibration, enabling V-Sync and Adaptive Sync, and upgrading other hardware components can all significantly improve gaming performance and overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play competitive games on a 60Hz monitor?
While it’s not ideal, it’s possible to play competitive games on a 60Hz monitor. However, you may experience motion blur and screen tearing, which can negatively impact your performance.
Can a 60Hz monitor be used for console gaming?
Yes, a 60Hz monitor can be used for console gaming, and it’s a popular choice among console players. The lower refresh rate won’t impact your gaming experience significantly, and it’s a cost-effective alternative to high-end gaming monitors.
How can I improve my gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor?
You can improve your gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor by calibrating your monitor settings, enabling vertical sync and adaptive sync, and upgrading other hardware components such as your graphics card and processor.
Is a 60Hz monitor suitable for playing single-player games?
Yes, a 60Hz monitor is more than adequate for playing single-player games. These games are less demanding on hardware requirements and don’t require high refresh rates to enjoy the gameplay.
Do I need to upgrade to a higher refresh rate monitor for casual gaming?
No, if you’re a casual gamer and mainly play games that don’t require high refresh rates, a 60Hz monitor is a good choice for you. It’s also a cost-effective alternative to high-end gaming monitors, so you can save money without sacrificing your gaming experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether a 60Hz monitor is good for gaming or not depends on individual preferences and requirements. While it may not be the best choice for competitive gaming or fast-paced games, it can still provide a decent gaming experience for casual gamers and those on a budget.
Additionally, with the right settings and hardware upgrades, it’s possible to improve the gaming experience on a 60Hz monitor.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider the pros and cons, as well as personal gaming needs and budget, when deciding whether a 60Hz monitor is the right choice for you. So, if you’re a casual gamer or on a tight budget, a 60Hz monitor may be a viable option for your gaming needs.