What is Refresh Rate?
The refresh rate of a screen refers to how many times per second it updates the displayed image, measured in Hertz (Hz).
- 60Hz → screen refreshes 60 times per second (~16.7ms per frame)
- 120Hz → screen refreshes 120 times per second (~8.3ms per frame)
A higher refresh rate generally results in smoother motion, less blur, and a more lifelike viewing experience. This is particularly noticeable when scrolling through content, playing fast-paced games, or watching videos with rapid movements.
Why Does High Refresh Rate Matter?
Human eyes are very sensitive to motion. When the movement on screen exceeds what a 60Hz display can handle, it often appears “choppy” or laggy.
- 60Hz screens → sufficient for static images and simple video playback; more power-efficient.
- 120Hz screens → halve the frame interval, making animations and transitions appear much smoother.
Many users report that once they experience 120Hz, returning to 60Hz feels noticeably less fluid.
High Refresh Rate on iPhones
Until recently, most iPhones only supported 60Hz displays. Starting with the iPhone 13 Pro and Pro Max, Apple introduced 120Hz ProMotion technology. This feature has continued in the Pro versions of the iPhone 14, 15, and 16.
Reports suggest that the iPhone 17 series may adopt 120Hz across all models, not just the Pro versions. This indicates that higher refresh rates are becoming a standard expectation rather than a premium feature.
Aftermarket High Refresh Rate Screens
With the increasing prevalence of 120Hz displays, aftermarket screen replacements supporting high refresh rates are becoming more common. These screens aim to replicate the smooth performance of the original displays while offering more options for repair and replacement.
Key Features of 120Hz Screens:
- 120Hz refresh rate driver IC
- Ultra-HD resolution
- Responsive multi-touch
- Dimensions matching original frames for easy installation
iPhone Models
Currently, high refresh rate replacements are available for the iPhone 13–15 Pro/Pro Max series.
Samsung Models (Upcoming)
Samsung flagship devices are also moving toward 120Hz displays:
- Smooth visuals for gaming and video
- High brightness (up to 700 nits) for clear viewing in bright environments
- Accurate color reproduction
- Frame-compatible design for easier installation
Understanding Screen Types: OLED vs. LCD
High refresh rate screens come in different panel types, mainly Soft OLED and Incell LCD:
- OLED → better contrast, deeper blacks, more vibrant colors
- Incell LCD → more affordable, still supports high refresh rates, slightly less vivid
For a detailed comparison, this guide explains the differences between OLED and LCD technologies.
Conclusion
High refresh rate screens, particularly 120Hz, are becoming increasingly common across both smartphones and tablets. They improve visual smoothness, reduce motion blur, and enhance the overall user experience. As devices continue to adopt higher refresh rates, both users and repair professionals will need to understand these technologies to make informed decisions.
📖Click here for full text reading and product recommendations: https://www.ncc.top/everything-you-need-to-know-about-120hz-high-refresh-rate-screens/ncc-know/
Top comments (0)