Have you heard about how VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) improves the visual experiences of Elden Ring and games alike? Is that really the case? Have you ever wondered what VRR does, how it works, and when to turn it on or off? In this blog, we'll explain what VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) is, how it makes gaming better, and whether you really need it. Let's get started!
What is VRR?
VRR stands for Variable Refresh Rate. It's a technology primarily used in displays (monitors and TVs) to synchronize the refresh rate of the screen with the frame rate outputted by a graphics card or a gaming console.
In general, any game that involves fast-paced action, precise control, or relies on maintaining visual consistency can benefit from VRR technology. It improves overall gameplay smoothness, reduces visual artifacts, and enhances the responsiveness of the gaming experience across various genres.
How VRR works?
Regular TVs display 60 images per second because of old standards from the days of analog TV (NTSC at 60 Hz in the USA and PAL at 50 Hz in Europe). Modern displays can handle more, but most content is still produced at 24, 30, or 60 frames per second (fps) to match those old standards. Consoles aim for 30 or 60 fps to match the 60 Hz refresh rate of your displays. When a console can't keep up with producing a new frame on time, two things can happen:
- V-Sync (Vertical Sync): The console waits for the TV's next refresh cycle to display the frame, causing a delay of about 16.7 milliseconds. This can result in stuttering and uneven frame pacing.
- Screen Tearing: The console sends the new image data while the TV is still drawing the previous frame. This results in the top part of the screen showing the old frame and the bottom part showing the new one.
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) comes long to solve this problem by making the display wait until the console has finished processing the next frame. The display’s refresh rate becomes variable and matches the console's frame rate. This eliminates both stuttering and tearing.
*VRR has some limitations, such as many TVs requiring at least 48 fps to work properly, but even games running at 48-55 fps feel very smooth with VRR. So it’s more suitable for people pursuing higher refresh rates above 60Hz, for instances, 120HZ, 144Hz or even 240Hz.
VRR vs. Fixed Refresh Rate
- VRR(Variable Refresh Rate): adjusts the refresh rate of the display dynamically to match the frame rate output of the content being displayed.
- Fixed Refresh Rate: refers to a display that operates at a constant refresh rate, typically 60Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz, etc.
For general use like watching videos, browsing the web, or using productivity applications, a fixed refresh rate display is sufficient and cost-effective. For gamers, VRR can significantly improve the gaming experience by reducing tearing and providing smoother gameplay. If you have a capable GPU and are playing games with varying frame rates, VRR is highly recommended.
Types of VRR Technologies
There are several types of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technologies available, each designed to synchronize a display's refresh rate with the output frame rate of the content being displayed:
- Adaptive Sync (FreeSync) Developed by AMD, Adaptive Sync is an open standard VRR technology that allows compatible monitors to synchronize with AMD Radeon graphics cards. It helps reduce tearing and stuttering in games by dynamically adjusting the refresh rate.
- G-SYNC Developed by NVIDIA, G-SYNC is a proprietary VRR technology that requires NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards and G-SYNC certified monitors. It offers similar benefits as Adaptive Sync, providing smoother gameplay and reduced input lag by synchronizing the monitor's refresh rate to the GPU's frame rate.
- G-SYNC Compatible (FreeSync Compatible) NVIDIA introduced G-SYNC Compatible to support Adaptive Sync monitors with their GeForce graphics cards. These monitors, originally designed for AMD FreeSync, can now take advantage of NVIDIA's VRR technology for improved gaming performance.
- HDMI Forum VRR A VRR standard developed by the HDMI Forum, supporting VRR over HDMI connections. This technology enables synchronization between HDMI devices, such as gaming consoles and TVs, to enhance gaming experiences by eliminating tearing and reducing stuttering.
- VESA Adaptive-Sync Also known as DisplayPort Adaptive-Sync, this is the underlying technology behind both Adaptive Sync and G-SYNC Compatible. It's a VESA standard that allows for variable refresh rates over DisplayPort connections, supporting a wide range of monitors and GPUs.
Why VRR is important to Gamers?
- For Causal Games
VRR syncs the display's refresh rate with the game's frame rate, ensuring smooth visuals and preventing screen tearing. This makes games more enjoyable and reduces eye strain during long play sessions. While you don't absolutely need it, VRR makes games smoother and more immersive, making gaming more fun overall.
- For Competitive Games
VRR minimizes input lag and keeps the frame rate consistent. This means actions happen on screen faster, giving players an edge in fast-paced games. The smooth visuals also help maintain focus and accuracy, crucial in competitive gaming.
Choose KVM Switches with VRR Function
TESmart 4-Port 8K60 HDMI 2.1 KVM Switch w/ ADI Chip, EDID, 4K144Hz for Gaming, 4 PCs 1 Monitor
HKS401-M23 KVM switch is a game-changer in the world of display management, combining advanced features to cater to various user needs. Powered by an ADI chip for stable performance, this switch supports true 8K@60Hz resolution with HDMI 2.1 compliance, making it ideal for high-definition gaming and multimedia applications. With its built-in USB 3.0 hub for convenient peripheral sharing and quick switching capabilities ensuring zero delay, users can seamlessly control multiple devices with ease. Furthermore, its compatibility with Dynamic HDR, VRR, and other cutting-edge technologies guarantees a premium gaming experience with enhanced visual quality and responsiveness.
Conclusion
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) technology is a game-changer for gamers, offering smoother and more immersive experiences by syncing the display's refresh rate with the game's frame rate. This eliminates screen tearing and reduces stuttering, making games like Elden Ring and many others visually impressive and more enjoyable to play. Whether you're a casual gamer looking to enhance your play sessions or a competitive gamer seeking to minimize input lag and maintain a consistent frame rate, VRR provides significant benefits.
