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Windows Peaks at 5000Hz for Gamers
14 Mar
Summary
- Windows now supports monitors with refresh rates exceeding 1,000Hz.
- Microsoft has raised the refresh rate limit to 5,000Hz for future updates.
- High refresh rates reduce input lag and improve motion clarity for gamers.
Microsoft has rolled out a new Windows build enabling support for gaming monitors with refresh rates exceeding 1,000Hz. This move prepares the operating system for the increasing demand for supercharged visuals from semi-professional and professional gamers.
The company has committed to raising the refresh rate limit to 5,000Hz in future Windows 24H2 and later versions. This change was prompted by feedback highlighting the benefits of high refresh rates for reducing input lag and improving motion clarity.
While advancements to 5,000Hz and even 10,000Hz are technically supported, the perceptible benefits decrease significantly at such high levels. Experts note that beyond a certain point, diminishing returns are observed, and alternative display technologies like OLED might offer more noticeable improvements in motion handling.
To fully capitalize on these ultra-high refresh rates, users will need compatible high frame rate output from their hardware and gaming peripherals with high polling rates. Current Insider builds with this support are 26100.8106 and 26200.8106.
