High Refresh Rate Displays in 2024: Do You Really Need 120Hz on Your Smartphone?

Introduction

In 2024, high-refresh-rate displays became a buzzword in the smartphone industry. Tech enthusiasts rave about 120Hz screens, but is this feature genuinely transformative, or is it just another marketing gimmick? This article dives deep into the benefits, drawbacks, and whether the average smartphone user truly needs a 120Hz refresh-rate display.

What is a Refresh Rate?

The refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to how many times a screen updates its content per second. For example:

• 60Hz: Updates 60 times per second.
• 120Hz: Updates 120 times per second.

Higher refresh rates translate to smoother animations, fluid scrolling, and enhanced visual performance, particularly in gaming or content-heavy applications.

The Rise of 120Hz Displays in Smartphones

In recent years, smartphone manufacturers have embraced 120Hz displays as a premium feature. This leap started with flagship models but has trickled down to mid-range devices in 2024. Brands market it as a must-have for:

• Gaming Enthusiasts: Games like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile support higher refresh rates, offering smoother gameplay.
• Content Creators: Video editing and design tools benefit from responsive touch interactions.
• Everyday Users: Improved scrolling on apps like Instagram, Twitter, and browsers enhances user experience.

However, not everyone may feel the difference. For many, a 60Hz or 90Hz display may already suffice.

Benefits of a 120Hz Display

1. Enhanced Smoothness

   • Seamless scrolling through social media feeds.
   • Smoother app transitions and animations.

2. Improved Gaming Performance

   • Real-time responsiveness in high-refresh-rate-supported games.
   • Competitive advantages in fast-paced games.

3. A Future-Proof Feature

   • More apps and services are optimizing for 120Hz, ensuring your device remains relevant for years to come.

Drawbacks of 120Hz Displays

1. Battery Drain

   • Higher refresh rates demand more power, reducing battery life significantly. Most phones offer adaptive refresh rates to mitigate this, but it's still a concern for heavy users.

2. Minimal Difference for Casual Users

   • For non-gamers and those who primarily use their phones for texting or calling, the jump from 60Hz to 120Hz might not be noticeable.

3. Higher Cost

   • Smartphones with 120Hz displays are generally more expensive, making them less accessible to budget-conscious buyers.

Do You Really Need 120Hz on a Smartphone?

For Gamers

If you're a gaming enthusiast who plays competitive games, 120Hz is a game-changer. The smooth visuals and improved responsiveness can enhance your gaming experience.

For Professionals

High refresh rates offer fluidity and precision for graphic designers, video editors, and content creators.

For Average Users

If your primary smartphone usage involves browsing, streaming, or texting, a 90Hz display—or even a well-optimized 60Hz panel—might suffice. Paying extra for 120Hz might not be worth it unless you want the latest tech.

High Refresh Rate vs. Other Display Features

A 120Hz refresh rate is just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors like resolution, brightness, color accuracy, and panel type (OLED vs. LCD) also significantly impact display quality.

• OLED with 60Hz can often look better than LCD with 120Hz.
• HDR Support enhances visual richness more than a high refresh rate in media consumption.

How Adaptive Refresh Rates Help in 2024

Many smartphones now feature adaptive refresh rate technology, which dynamically adjusts the refresh rate based on the content displayed. For instance:

• Drops to 10Hz when viewing static images.
• Peaks at 120Hz during gaming or scrolling.

This innovation strikes a balance between performance and battery efficiency.

Top Smartphones with 120Hz Displays in 2024

1. Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max
   • Smooth ProMotion technology with adaptive refresh rates.
2. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
   • Vibrant AMOLED display with a buttery-smooth 120Hz experience.
3. OnePlus 12
   • Affordable flagship with exceptional refresh rate and gaming optimization.
4. Google Pixel 8 Pro
• AI-driven adaptive refresh rate for an enhanced user experience.

Is 120Hz a Must-Have or Nice-to-Have?

While 120Hz displays undoubtedly offer a smoother and more responsive experience, they may not be necessary for everyone. Gamers, professionals, and tech enthusiasts can reap the most benefits, while casual users might find a well-optimized 60Hz or 90Hz display sufficient. Ultimately, your smartphone's display should align with your usage patterns and priorities.

By understanding the pros and cons of 120Hz screens, you can make an informed decision in your next smartphone purchase.