The refresh rate is the number of times per second images get updated on a screen. The speed of these updates affects image quality on all types of viewing devices, from TVs and monitors to smaller screens on smartphones and tablets. A higher refresh rate should lead to higher image quality in theory. However, other factors can also affect the visual performance of a device. For instance, a higher refresh rate may only offer negligible image improvement while using device memory at a much higher rate. What refresh rate is ideal can be difficult to determine, especially for companies who need to purchase many devices for business operations. Devices with higher refresh rates are often more expensive, but they could be necessary for productivity. Here is a closer look at the concept of refresh rate and how it affects device choices.
What is refresh rate?
As we have already pointed out, the refresh rate is the number of times an image gets rendered on the screen per second. The figure is measured in hertz (Hz), which is the unit of measurement for cycles per second. The most common refresh rate for electronic displays is 60Hz. However, faster refresh rates of 90Hz, 120Hz, or higher are available in many consumer and commercial devices. It is important to note that a higher refresh rate may not provide a noticeably smoother image unless paired with content, devices and connections that can take advantage of the faster rendering speed. In many cases, content made for standard 60 Hz screens may look unnatural on screens with 120Hz rates.
60Hz vs. 90Hz vs. 120Hz refresh rates: What's the difference?
Many consumer devices offer refresh rates of 60, 90 or 120Hz. If you are considering purchasing a device based on refresh rate, it is important to understand the use cases for each refresh rate.
60Hz refresh rate: The old standard
60Hz has long been the standard for all types of screens. The rate is sufficient for most movie content and videos. For instance, Hollywood movies use cameras that record 24 frames per second (FPS). 60Hz refresh rates can display these pictures smoothly. Another reason 60Hz has long been the standard is because of its compatibility. Developers and content creators often make media for 60Hz refresh rates because users can view it without special high-performance devices. Today, most entry-level smartphones have 60Hz refresh rates.
90Hz refresh rate: Boosting performance
In addition to better visuals, 90Hz screens offer other benefits, including better touch response, reduced motion blur and compatibility with AR and VR applications. Though earlier high refresh rate models had poorer battery life, newer models now have more efficient displays. Most 90Hz phones are in the mid-price range, but 120Hz displays are becoming ever more common in today's smartphones.
120Hz refresh rate: The new ideal?
Games, videos and live streams can look clearer and less choppy with a 120Hz refresh rate. Also, touch screens often seem more responsive, with the faster rendering creating a smoother experience as you control video game characters or scroll through menus. Unfortunately, the trade-off is shorter battery life because a phone needs more power to refresh the screen 120 times per second. Most content is not made for 120Hz screens. The exception may be video games or high-quality visuals. However, opting for a 120Hz screen can enable you to future-proof your device. You will still be able to use your smartphone when 120Hz becomes the norm for apps and video content.
Understanding the 120Hz variable refresh rate
Many of today's devices offer variable refresh rates or adaptive refresh rates. The goal of this technology is to maintain efficient power use while also providing the best refresh rate for the given content. The main reason to make these adjustments is power efficiency. A 10Hz display will not drain the battery much at all. You can view the content at the necessary quality without having to sacrifice battery life. Other device manufacturers, including Google and Samsung, also have variable refresh rate features.
Do you need devices with the highest refresh rate?
When making purchases for your business, you must evaluate what you need for devices with high refresh rates. If employees can benefit from devices with faster screens, then high-performance devices could provide a return on the investment. However, you may not want to buy more expensive devices if 90Hz or 60Hz models are sufficient. The first step is to understand the advantages and drawbacks of high refresh rates. Pros of devices with the highest refresh rates:
- Smooth user experience and responsive performance;
- Reduced blur on video and graphics;
- Enhanced performance for gaming;
- Compatibility with applications requiring high-speed displays. Cons of devices with the highest refresh rates:
- Higher initial cost;
- Not necessary for most applications;
- Potential compatibility issues with some applications. Companies will need to trade-off between device cost and performance before choosing to invest in high refresh rates.
Business uses for high refresh rate screens
60Hz is sufficient for most business activities with mobile devices. However, in some device types or categories, devices with higher refresh rates may be necessary. The following jobs may require high-speed screens:
- Videography: Videographers need detailed playback, seamlessvideo content within video games and the ability to match rates with the recording speed of the video. A high refresh rate can also ensure proper composition, reducing motion blur, and focus in preview mode.
- AR content creation: AR content creators need to reduce latency and smooth motion to anchor their virtual elements to real-world imagery. You won't be able to ensure the two visual layers match without a high-speed rendering rate.
- Game and app development: Developers need to test apps on devices with different capabilities. This is especially important to test performance on gaming-specific devices and today's high-end phones with 120Hz displays. Other industries requiring faster responsiveness or highly detailed visuals might benefit from devices with 90 or 120Hz refresh rates.
Other device specifications to consider
The refresh rate is important for image quality and responsiveness. However, it is not the only factor you need to consider for display and overall device performance. Here are other considerations.
- Display resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed within a specific dimension. It is usually measured in width times height (W x H) with the units in pixels.
- CPU and GPU performance are essential for overall speed. High-speed processors are necessary for fast load times and fast rendering.
- Color accuracy and brightness are essential for image quality, as well. These factors are especially important for content creation and image editing when such details can affect overall quality.
- Random access memory (RAM) is also important for device performance, especially if your business requires the use of multiple apps at the same time. High-speed rendering also requires more data, so data transfer speed is also important for displaying content in full quality. Your company can benefit from high refresh rates by running a fast and secure IoT network that can accommodate and secure all your necessary devices. With careful consideration, you can decide what type of refresh rate your business needs to complete necessary processes and then invest in devices that provide that level of performance.
