Monitor response time measures how quickly a pixel can change from one colour to another, typically expressed in milliseconds (ms). A lower response time reduces ghosting and trailing images, which is crucial for fastβpaced games where scenes change rapidly.
When combined with a monitorβs refresh rate, response time directly influences perceived motion blur. Even if a display refreshes at 144β―Hz, a slow response (e.g., 8β―ms) can cause each frame to linger, making motion appear smeared and reducing visual clarity.
For competitive gaming, the total latency perceived by the player also includes input lag β the delay between a controller action and the pixel update. By analysing response time, refresh rate, frame rate, and input lag together, gamers can estimate how βsnappyβ their setup feels.
What is monitor response time?
How does response time affect gaming?
Is a higher refresh rate enough for smooth gameplay?
What is the ideal response time for gaming monitors?
How does monitor response time compare to refresh rate?
Can a slow response time be fixed?
What games benefit most from low response times?
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.
