Understanding Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)

Introduction to VRR

• Purpose: VRR technology addresses screen tearing issues in gaming.
• Function: Synchronizes monitor's refresh rate with the GPU frame rate.

Historical Context

• Pre-VRR: Screen tearing occurred due to mismatch between monitor refresh rates and GPU frame rates.
• Vertical Sync (V-Sync): Previous solution that locked GPU frame rate to monitor refresh rate, but could cause stuttering if the frame rate fell below the refresh rate.

How VRR Works

• Adaptive Technology: Adjusts the monitor refresh rate dynamically to match GPU output.
• Limitation: Potential tearing if frame rate exceeds monitor's maximum refresh rate; can be mitigated with FPS cap settings.

Types of VRR

• VESA Adaptive Sync: Open-source VRR solution at a driver level.
• AMD FreeSync: A version of Adaptive Sync certified by AMD.
• Nvidia G-Sync: Proprietary solution with extra Nvidia hardware built into the monitor.
  • G-Sync Compatible: Adaptive Sync without hardware, tested by Nvidia.
  • G-Sync Ultimate: Includes HDR support and advanced processing.

Compatibility

• Cross-Brand Support: Newer G-Sync monitors with hardware work with non-Nvidia GPUs.
• Adaptive Sync: Works with most modern GPUs.
• HDMI 2.1: Integrates VRR similar to Adaptive Sync.

Additional Considerations

• Motion Blur and Ghosting: VRR can be susceptible to these issues.
  • Caused by variable pixel transition times.
  • Requires extra processing for compensation.

Conclusion

• G-Sync Hardware Advantage: Provides enhanced processing to reduce motion blur.
• Buying Decision: Depends on personal preference between minimizing screen tearing and the cost-effectiveness of Adaptive Sync monitors.

Note

• If interested in reducing OLED burn-in, refer to additional video content on pixel cleaning.