How to check hz on monitor

Content on WhatAnswers is provided "as is" for informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees. Content is AI-assisted and should not be used as professional advice.

Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: You can check your monitor's refresh rate (Hz) through your operating system's display settings. For Windows, right-click on your desktop, select 'Display settings,' then 'Advanced display settings,' and find the refresh rate dropdown. On macOS, go to 'System Preferences,' 'Displays,' select your monitor, and choose the desired refresh rate.

Key Facts

Refresh rate is measured in Hertz (Hz) and indicates how many times per second the screen image is updated.
Higher refresh rates (e.g., 120Hz, 144Hz, 240Hz) result in smoother motion, especially in gaming and fast-paced video.
Standard monitors typically have a refresh rate of 60Hz.
Your graphics card (GPU) must also support the desired refresh rate.
Checking and adjusting your monitor's Hz can improve visual experience and reduce motion blur.

What is Monitor Refresh Rate (Hz)?

The refresh rate of a computer monitor, measured in Hertz (Hz), signifies how many times per second the display updates the image on the screen. A higher refresh rate means the image is refreshed more frequently, leading to smoother visuals, especially in fast-moving content like video games or action movies. For instance, a 60Hz monitor updates the image 60 times every second, while a 120Hz monitor does so 120 times per second. This difference can be noticeable in the fluidity of motion and the reduction of motion blur.

Why is Monitor Refresh Rate Important?

The importance of monitor refresh rate largely depends on your usage. For everyday tasks like web browsing and word processing, a standard 60Hz refresh rate is usually sufficient. However, for activities involving rapid motion, such as gaming, a higher refresh rate becomes significantly beneficial. Gamers often prefer monitors with 120Hz, 144Hz, or even 240Hz refresh rates because it allows them to see more frames per second, leading to a more responsive and immersive gaming experience. This higher rate can give players a competitive edge by providing clearer visuals of fast-moving targets and reducing input lag. Beyond gaming, a higher refresh rate can also make general computer use feel more fluid and responsive, reducing eye strain for some users.

How to Check Your Monitor's Refresh Rate

Checking your monitor's current refresh rate and available options is straightforward and can be done through your operating system's display settings.

On Windows:

Right-click on an empty area of your desktop.
Select 'Display settings' from the context menu.
Scroll down and click on 'Advanced display settings.'
Under the 'Choose a refresh rate' dropdown menu, you will see the current refresh rate and any other supported rates your monitor and graphics card can handle.
Select your desired refresh rate and click 'Keep changes' if prompted. Note that your monitor must physically support the refresh rate you choose.

On macOS:

Click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your screen.
Select 'System Preferences.'
Click on 'Displays.'
If you have multiple displays connected, select the monitor you want to check.
Look for a 'Refresh Rate' dropdown menu. Here you can see the current refresh rate and select a different one if supported.

Factors Affecting Refresh Rate

Several factors determine the refresh rate you can achieve:

Monitor Hardware: The most crucial factor is the monitor itself. If a monitor is only designed for 60Hz, you cannot force it to run at 120Hz through software settings. Always check your monitor's specifications.
Graphics Card (GPU): Your graphics card must be powerful enough and have the appropriate outputs (e.g., DisplayPort is often preferred for higher refresh rates over HDMI on older standards) to support the desired refresh rate.
Cable Quality: For higher refresh rates, particularly at higher resolutions, the cable connecting your monitor to your computer (HDMI, DisplayPort) needs to be of sufficient quality and standard. Older or damaged cables may not support the bandwidth required for high refresh rates.
Operating System Settings: As detailed above, the OS settings are where you select and confirm the refresh rate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you're not seeing the expected refresh rate options or are experiencing issues:

Update Graphics Drivers: Outdated graphics drivers can prevent your system from recognizing or utilizing higher refresh rates. Visit the manufacturer's website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download the latest drivers.
Check Cable Connections: Ensure your display cable is securely plugged in at both ends. Try a different cable if possible, especially if you suspect it might be an older standard.
Verify Monitor Specifications: Double-check your monitor's manual or manufacturer's website to confirm the maximum refresh rate it supports.
Lower Resolution: Sometimes, achieving the highest refresh rate is only possible at specific resolutions. You may need to adjust your screen resolution in the display settings.

By understanding and adjusting your monitor's refresh rate, you can significantly enhance your visual experience, whether for demanding gaming sessions or general computer use.