What is refresh rate?

Refresh rates, an often talked about and frequently considered factor when buying a laptop, desktop, TV, or even a smartphone, is a term used in reference to the display of a given electronic device. Wondering just what it means? Read on.

What does refresh rate mean and what is its significance?

The refresh rate of a device refers to the number of times per second that a display’s image is redrawn. Simply put, it basically means the number of times per second a display is able to draw a new image. Refresh rates are measured in Hertz (Hz). A higher refresh rate generally results in a much smoother image as well as a smoother display of motion, with less flicker. 

 The three most common refresh rates for any display are 60Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz. Some really expensive and high-end displays can support refresh rates up to 240Hz or even higher. But such displays are few and far in between.  

 Refresh rates are an important factor of consideration for any user, whose primary purpose is to engage with fast-paced content such as while gaming. Higher refresh rates reduce motion blur and provide a more crisp and clear image during fast-paced scenes. This is the reason why a high refresh rate such as 120Hz, is becoming more and more common across many devices.