If you’ve ever wondered, “How many Hz is 60 FPS?”, you’re not alone. FPS (frames per second) and Hz (refresh rate) are often confused by gamers, especially when choosing a monitor or optimizing a PC.
Knowing how FPS and refresh rate interact is essential for smooth gameplay, minimizing input lag, and avoiding visual issues like screen tearing. This guide explains how 60 FPS relates to monitor refresh rates, what Hz you need for 60 FPS, and tips to optimize your gaming experience.
What is FPS and What is Hz?
FPS (Frames Per Second)
- FPS is the number of frames your GPU renders each second.
- Example: 60 FPS means the GPU creates 60 frames per second.
Hz (Hertz)
- Hz is the number of times your monitor refreshes its display per second.
- Example: A 60Hz monitor updates the screen 60 times per second.
Key point: FPS is GPU output; Hz is monitor output. They are related but not identical.
How Many Hz Do You Need for 60 FPS?
60 FPS = 60 Hz
- To display 60 FPS perfectly, you need a 60Hz monitor or higher.
- A 60Hz monitor will show each frame exactly once, resulting in smooth motion.
Using a Higher Refresh Rate Monitor
- 120Hz or 144Hz monitors can also display 60 FPS.
- Each frame will be shown multiple times (e.g., 60 FPS on a 120Hz monitor → each frame displayed twice).
- Motion remains smooth, but you don’t gain extra visual frames unless FPS increases.
Can 60 FPS Feel Smooth on Higher Hz Monitors?
Yes. Running 60 FPS on a 120Hz or 144Hz monitor still looks smooth. However, a Bottleneck Calculator can help you understand why performance may be limited:
- Input latency is slightly higher than when FPS matches the monitor’s refresh rate.
- Motion may not appear as fluid compared to running 120 FPS on 120Hz or 144Hz monitors.
This is why competitive gamers use a Bottleneck Calculator and aim for FPS that matches or exceeds their monitor’s Hz to avoid hardware limitations and achieve the smoothest gameplay.
Why FPS Above 60 Matters
Even if a monitor is 60Hz:
- Extra FPS does not increase visible frames.
- It can reduce input lag, making controls feel more responsive.
- Excess FPS may also increase GPU load unnecessarily.
For optimal balance, match FPS to monitor refresh rate using caps or adaptive sync.
How Hz Affects Gaming Experience at 60 FPS
60Hz Monitor
- Perfectly matches 60 FPS
- Smooth motion and minimal stutter
- Ideal for casual gaming and older GPUs
120Hz or Higher Monitor
- 60 FPS will display every frame multiple times
- Motion appears smooth but not “ultra-fluid”
- Higher refresh rates benefit FPS above 60
120 FPS on 120Hz Monitor
- Fully utilizes monitor refresh
- Motion is smoother and input lag lower
- Competitive gaming gains more responsiveness
For more on monitor limitations and bottlenecks, see Can a 144Hz Monitor Run 240 FPS?.
Does a 60Hz Monitor Cap FPS at 60?
Yes, a 60Hz monitor cannot display more than 60 frames per second visually, and any extra frames generated by the GPU will not be visible—something a Bottleneck Calculator can help identify when analyzing system performance.
How to Mitigate
- Enable V-Sync or G-Sync/FreeSync to prevent tearing
- Cap FPS slightly above 60 to reduce GPU over-rendering
- Upgrade monitor for higher refresh rates if you want smoother motion
Optimal Settings for 60 FPS Gaming
1. Match Monitor and FPS
- Use a 60Hz monitor for 60 FPS
- Use higher Hz monitors if FPS regularly exceeds 60
2. Enable Adaptive Sync
- Prevents screen tearing
- Ensures smoother gameplay even if FPS fluctuates
3. Adjust Game Settings
- Lower GPU-intensive settings to maintain 60 FPS
- Balance visuals and performance for consistency
4. Consider Input Lag
- Higher FPS reduces latency
- Important for competitive shooters even on 60Hz monitors
FAQ: People Also Ask
How many Hz is 60 FPS?
60 FPS requires a 60Hz monitor to display each frame once. Higher Hz monitors can display 60 FPS, but frames are repeated.
Can 60 FPS feel smooth on a 144Hz monitor?
Yes, but motion may feel less responsive compared to higher FPS matching the refresh rate.
Do I need a 120Hz monitor for 60 FPS?
No, a 60Hz monitor is sufficient. A 120Hz monitor only provides smoother performance if FPS exceeds 60.
Does FPS above 60 matter on a 60Hz monitor?
Extra FPS does not increase visible frames but can reduce input lag slightly.
Should I upgrade from 60Hz for gaming?
Yes, if your GPU can produce FPS above 60 consistently or if you play competitive titles requiring faster input response.
Conclusion
60 FPS corresponds to 60Hz for perfect frame display. A 60Hz monitor can display 60 FPS smoothly, making it ideal for casual gaming and older hardware. Higher refresh rate monitors allow better performance for FPS above 60 and reduce input lag, which is especially important for competitive gaming.
To check your system balance and ensure your CPU and GPU can maintain stable FPS, use the Bottleneck Calculator for optimal gaming performance.