Microsoft released non-security Windows 11 preview update KB5079391 on March 26, and with it comes a handful of display improvements, including support for “refresh rates above 1000 Hz.“
In terms of display perks, the update likewise improves “auto-rotation and HDR reliability” while also improving power efficiency for sleeping monitors connected via USB4.
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Why do display refresh rates matter so much?
A display’s refresh rate signifies how many times the panel can update an image in one second. If you’re working with a 60Hz display, for example, the image on the screen updates 60 times per second. A 120Hz display updates 120 times per second, and so on.
For the average PC user who sits down in front of a screen to browse the web, read email, and handle some spreadsheets, a higher refresh rate generally means superior eye comfort with reduced strain over time. As someone who stares at a screen all day, I’m always interested in maximizing refresh rates.
Refresh rates are particularly important for PC gamers. Low refresh rates lead to a choppier image, resulting in motion blur and input lag. Most PC gamers shoot for at least a 144Hz refresh rate — a sweet spot that I’m personally fond of — although competitive esports gamers almost always go for the highest refresh rate possible.
When gaming, a higher refresh rate means you can see a clearer picture and respond faster. It’s that simple.
What do you think about 5,000Hz refresh rate support in Windows 11?
How long do you think we have until 5,000Hz refresh rates are common in high-end monitors? How high of a refresh rate does your current PC monitor have? Is there a point where you’ll call it good enough? Are we already there? Let me know in the comments section below!
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