I'm about to build my first PC after saving for a while, and I'm focusing on design work like illustration, video editing, and motion graphics, while also wanting to play some games. I've always gamed on consoles that usually run at 60fps and 1080p, so I'm curious about whether the refresh rate of a monitor really matters. Most articles claim that if you don't have a 144Hz monitor with ultra-low refresh rates, then your setup is inadequate. However, I'm prioritizing features like an IPS panel and a color gamut close to 100% sRGB. I intend to play casual games like League of Legends and narrative-driven titles like Cyberpunk 2077, but I don't have to have the top specs for competitive play. I'm looking for advice: is a 75Hz monitor a waste of money or is it sufficient for what I want?
7 Answers
If you're building a gaming rig, I'd suggest looking into a 144Hz monitor. You can often find them for good prices, sometimes around 50€ used! A higher refresh rate can make a noticeable difference in smoothness, and considering your usage, it might be worth compromising on other specs to get that higher rate. Seriously, the jump from 60 to 120Hz is huge!
Exactly! It makes a big difference in the feel of the gameplay. Definitely something to think about.
I think you're on the right track! I used a similar setup with a 75Hz monitor for a decade. But in today's market, you can easily find decent monitors with 120Hz refresh rates, so I'd prioritize that! Good screen clarity, HDR, and a nice size will definitely enhance both work and gaming experiences, and I doubt you'd even find many 75Hz monitors being sold anymore.
75Hz is just fine, but with so many monitors out there, you might find a comparable 120 or 144Hz model for not much more. It's not absolutely necessary, but it could open up more options for your gaming in the future, so why limit yourself if you can get something better for a similar price?
Your concerns are valid! Many games are totally playable at 60 or 75Hz, and in some cases, high framerates are really just overhyped, especially for more story-driven games. A 75Hz monitor can still give you a solid experience if you're not strictly going for competitive gaming. And remember, an IPS panel with good color can enhance your visual experience, even at that refresh rate. Plus, you'll be saving some power, which is always a nice bonus!
Honestly, 75Hz isn't a huge upgrade from 60Hz and might not be worth your investment. While higher refresh rates are generally better for gaming, if you're eyeing greater color accuracy and features, you might want to stick with the 60Hz monitor. Also, think about the content you’re making; if you're working with 24fps, having a better panel that handles variable refresh rates could be beneficial.
The general take is that for casual story games, 60fps is absolutely fine, but for fast-paced FPS games, a higher refresh rate could improve your experience. A lot of folks find 144Hz to be the sweet spot, but 75Hz is definitely usable, especially for what you have in mind. Don't overthink it too much; you'll be fine!
Look at the pricing landscape before making your final decision. Nowadays, there are plenty of 120–180Hz IPS monitors available that deliver great color. The difference in price between 75Hz and those higher refresh rate models isn't usually that significant, so it might be worth it to stretch your budget a little for a better option!
I totally agree! Once you experience that smoothness, you won't want to go back to 60Hz, even for casual gaming.