Performance Tool

Hz & FPS Calculator

Analyze the relationship between your monitor's refresh rate and in-game framerate to optimize input lag, eliminate screen tearing, and achieve perfect frame pacing.

Input Settings

Frame Pacing Timeline
MONITOR (Hz)
GPU (FPS)
Frame Time (GPU)
4.17 ms
Your GPU generates a new frame every 4.17ms.
Scanout Duration (Hz) 6.94 ms
Sync Status Screen Tearing
Engine Latency ~2.08 ms
Optimal FPS Cap 141 FPS

Analysis

Because your FPS (240) exceeds your monitor's refresh rate (144Hz), the GPU is sending frames faster than the screen can draw them. This results in screen tearing unless V-Sync is enabled (which adds input lag).

Why Frame Time Matters More Than FPS

Gamers often aggressively optimize for average FPS (Frames Per Second) or high Hz (Refresh Rate), but the most critical metric for actual gameplay smoothness is Frame Time, measured in milliseconds (ms).

Frame time represents the exact delay between each new rendered image. Consistency is absolutely key: a steady 60 FPS (where every frame takes precisely 16.67ms) feels remarkably smoother than a fluctuating 100 FPS (where frames bounce erratically between 10ms and 30ms variance).

How to Use the Hz & FPS Calculator

  1. Enter your monitor's exact Refresh Rate (Hz).
  2. Enter your average in-game Framerate (FPS).
  3. Read the precise millisecond frame time and scanout duration calculations.
  4. Review the dynamic Sync Status analysis to determine if you are at risk for screen tearing, micro-stuttering, or excessive input latency.

Pro Tips for Optimal Smoothness

  • Capping FPS for G-Sync: Professional players routinely cap their FPS slightly below their monitor's maximum refresh rate (e.g., capping at 141 FPS on a 144Hz monitor, or 237 FPS on a 240Hz monitor). This keeps G-Sync or FreeSync active and prevents standard V-Sync from turning on and causing massive input lag.
  • 1% Lows: Always pay attention to your "1% Low" FPS metrics in benchmarks. Aim for this 1% low number to consistently match or exceed your monitor's Hz for a truly stutter-free, tear-free competitive experience.
  • Scanout Synergy: If your FPS precisely matches your monitor's refresh rate without variable refresh rate (VRR) tech, you might still experience tearing depending on exactly when the frame buffer flips during the monitor's scanout phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you calculate frame time from FPS?

To calculate frame time in milliseconds, simply divide 1000 by your frames per second (FPS). For example, 1000 / 60 FPS = 16.67 ms frame time.

Why is my frame time more important than FPS?

FPS is an average over a whole second, which hides micro-stutters. Frame time measures the exact delay between individual frames, giving you a much more accurate picture of game smoothness.

Should my FPS exactly match my monitor's Hz?

If you use G-Sync or FreeSync, it is recommended to cap your FPS about 3 frames below your monitor's maximum refresh rate (e.g. 141 FPS on a 144Hz monitor) to prevent V-Sync lag from activating.

What causes screen tearing?

Screen tearing occurs when your GPU renders frames faster than your monitor can display them (FPS > Hz), causing the monitor to show pieces of multiple frames simultaneously.