When it comes to gaming, especially fast-paced games like Valorant, CS:GO, COD, and Apex Legends, every little bit of your setup counts. A big talk among gamers is about monitor refresh rates. We’re looking at whether a 165Hz monitor has an edge over a 144Hz one. It’s just a 21Hz difference, but in quick games, even a tiny boost can matter a lot. So, does that extra 21Hz make the money worth it? And does it really make your gaming better, whether you’re playing on a desktop or a gaming laptop? We’ll talk about this here and help you figure out if moving up to a 165Hz monitor is worth it or if sticking with the reliable 144Hz is the way to go.
Also see: Is it Safe to Overclock Desktop or Laptop Monitor?
Page Contents
What do refresh rates like 144Hz and 165Hz mean?
When we talk Hz in monitors, it’s about how quick the screen updates every second. A 144Hz monitor refreshes 144 times a second, and a 165Hz one does it 165 times. This could mean a smoother picture and maybe less blur when stuff moves quickly on the screen. Super important for games where quick reactions are key.
But it’s not just the bigger number that counts. It also depends on the game you’re playing and if your computer can push those extra frames. If your PC can run games like Valorant and CS:GO over 144 frames per second, a 165Hz monitor will let you see those extra frames, making things look a tad smoother. But, we’re talking about a small difference. It’s not going to turn the game on its head, especially if you’re already used to a 144Hz monitor.
Linked issue: 144Hz Monitor Only Showing 60Hz in Windows 11, Why?
How does it feel to game on 144Hz vs 165Hz?
Is the difference noticeable?
For most of us gamers, moving from 144Hz to 165Hz isn’t as big of a deal as jumping from 60Hz to 144Hz. Going from 60Hz to 144Hz is a massive upgrade that makes your game look and feel way better. But from 144Hz to 165Hz? The improvement is there, but it’s tiny, and you might not even spot it much, especially when you’re all in the game.
However, for the pro or super competitive gamers, who count on quick reflexes, the small boost from 165Hz can be helpful. The smoother movement and less blur can matter in quick games like Valorant and CS:GO.
For folks who just game for fun or don’t play in big competitions, you might not see a big difference between 144Hz and 165Hz. Once you hit around 144Hz, going higher doesn’t add much (though 240Hz will stand out more). The higher rates like 165Hz are more for people really into their games and looking for every tiny edge they can get.
Related resource: Why is My 240Hz Monitor Only Showing 144Hz?
Does that little increment improve your gaming skills?
In terms of actual gaming performance, jumping from 144Hz to 165Hz is slight. It’s not likely to massively boost your gaming skills or give you a big edge. It’s more about making the visuals smoother, which might make the gaming feel a bit better.
Can your GPU support it?
It’s key to remember that to really make the most of a 165Hz monitor, your gaming setup, especially the GPU, needs to deliver frame rates that meet or beat 165 FPS. If your current setup struggles to keep up high frame rates, the benefits of a 165Hz monitor will be limited.
Pro tip: AH-IPS vs IPS monitor panel: Their Differences and Which is Better
Is 165Hz worth the extra money over 144Hz?
When thinking about moving from a 144Hz to a 165Hz monitor, the price difference is a big deal. Usually, 165Hz monitors cost more than 144Hz ones. How much more varies a lot depending on the brand, screen size, and other features like panel type or adaptive sync tech. It’s important to think about whether the slight refresh rate bump is worth the extra cash.
For casual gamers or those on a budget, the benefits of a 165Hz monitor might not be worth the extra spend. The improvement in how smooth it looks is small and might not be easy for many to see. On the other hand, competitive gamers who want every advantage might see value in the upgrade, even if it’s modest.
If you’re aiming for a setup that’s ready for the future and have the cash for it, going for a 165Hz monitor could be a smart choice, especially as more games and graphics cards are made for higher frame rates. Actually, you might even think about a 240Hz monitor for an even higher refresh rate. However, if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, a 144Hz monitor offers great value and is enough for most gaming setups.
So, is it worth it? If you’re a serious gamer looking for every advantage, and you’ve got the budget and the setup to back it up, then yes, a 165Hz monitor could be a smart buy. But if you’re more of a casual gamer, or if you want the most for your money, sticking with a 144Hz monitor is likely your best bet.
Useful guide: How to Turn On G-Sync or FreeSync in Windows 11
TL:DR: 144Hz or 165Hz monitor, which is better for gamers?
For the casual gamer
If you enjoy gaming but don’t need the latest tech, a 144Hz monitor is more than good enough. It’s a big step up from standard 60Hz or 75Hz monitors and gives you a lot for your money. The jump to 165Hz probably won’t make a big difference in your gaming, making it hard to justify the extra cost.
For the competitive gamer
For those deep into competitive gaming, every frame counts, so a 165Hz monitor might be worth considering. The small improvement in smoothness and less blur can help in quick games like Valorant and CS:GO. If your system can handle it and you have the money, it’s a good investment.
The bottom line
In the end, choosing between a 144Hz and a 165Hz monitor is about balancing what you want performance-wise with what you can afford. If you can upgrade without missing out on other important parts like a good GPU, then a 165Hz monitor is a great choice. But if your budget is tight, you can be sure that a 144Hz monitor will still give you a fantastic gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need a powerful graphics card to use a 165Hz monitor?
Yes, to make the most of a 165Hz monitor, your graphics card should be able to run games at or above 165 frames per second. If your GPU can’t keep up with these frame rates, you won’t get the full benefit of the higher refresh rate.
Can the human eye even see the difference between 144Hz and 165Hz?
The difference is small and varies by person. While some gamers, especially those in competitive scenes, may notice smoother gameplay, many casual gamers might not see a big difference.
Is a 165Hz monitor better for my eyes?
Higher refresh rates can mean smoother visuals, which might help reduce eye strain during long gaming sessions. However, the jump from 144Hz to 165Hz in this area is small.
Will games run faster on a 165Hz monitor?
The refresh rate of a monitor doesn’t directly speed up game performance. It just means the monitor can show more frames per second, making things look smoother if your GPU is up to it.
Will I notice a difference between 144Hz and 165Hz in everyday use, not just gaming?
For everyday stuff like surfing the web or watching videos, the difference between 144Hz and 165Hz is barely there. The perks of higher refresh rates really show in gaming.
Can using a 165Hz monitor improve my gaming skills?
While a 165Hz monitor can make games look smoother, it doesn’t directly make you better at gaming. Getting better comes from practice and experience.
Do I need a special cable to get the most out of a 165Hz monitor?
To fully enjoy a 165Hz monitor, you should use a DisplayPort or HDMI 2.0 (or higher) cable. These cables support the higher refresh rates and resolutions you’ll want.
