While there are many different parts of a computer that affect FPS, including CPU, RAM, and graphics card, a monitor is not one of them.
I’ve spent years working with and using all sorts of different monitors. My own experience, combined with extra research on the devices, allowed me to put together the following article.
The below sections analyze FPS from several different angles, including what impacts it, the effect monitors have on it, and a range of ways to make it better.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- The monitor you’re using, including size, model, or even a dual-setup, has very little impact on FPS.
- RAM, GPU, drivers, internal hardware, and your internet connection are all factors that can improve or lower your FPS.
- If you want to increase your computer’s FPS, you can do so by getting a new machine, switching into game mode, and keeping your computer updated.
Monitors’ Impact on FPS
Before getting into specifics, it’s first important to break down what FPS is and why it matters. The acronym, which stands for frames per second, refers to the number of frames your monitor shows during each moment. The higher the FPS, the better your display will run.
That quality boost is incredibly important, not just for viewing quality, but for playing games or running graphic-intensive programs as well. Always go for a monitor with a higher frame rate (if it’s within budget), as that will raise your overall experience with the machine.
However, while a monitor affects your image by impacting the refresh rate (as shown in Hertz), it only plays a limited role in the FPS.
For the most part, both the monitor and FPS are completely separate. They only interact if you have a low-quality monitor with a refresh rate that’s far below your computer’s FPS. That can then alter your images or make them blurry. Beyond that, your monitor has little to no impact on your FPS.
Larger Screens and Dual Set Ups
Some believe that monitor size matters in regard to FPS, but it doesn’t. Your monitor can be huge with a low FPS, and vice versa. Resolution and compatible configurations are the only things you want to pay attention to when creating your setup.
In that same vein, owning or using two monitors has no impact either. Some users believe that going with a dual setup will give them better results, while others stay away from that due to the belief that two monitors will lower FPS.
In reality, both scenarios do almost nothing in terms of frame rate (either positive or negative). You can use multiple monitors, or only go with one, and their FPS will only be as good or as bad as your computer delivers.
The only thing to keep in mind for that configuration is to pair both devices to the same settings, as that will create the best experience. Having the two monitors on different layouts can lead to graphical issues or slowdowns.
Factors That Affect FPS
Though monitors don’t affect FPS, there are quite a few things that do. One of the biggest is RAM. If you’re playing a game, you need to meet the minimum RAM requirements to avoid any drops or annoying bottlenecks.
The number of active tasks can drop the frame rate, as can having outdated drivers. Hardware components like GPU depend on drivers to run properly. If something’s out of whack, it can slow the system and negatively impact the FPS.
The right settings and proper configuration both matter, as does your internet connection. While it’s not as critical as some of the other issues, if your WiFi or ethernet isn’t working as intended it can cause your screen to freeze or jump at inopportune times.
If you want to improve your computer’s display, getting something with a higher resolution is always a good starting point. That’s a bit of a pricey fix, but it’s one that will deliver immediate results and provide you with extra benefits as well.
Lowering your resolution a bit is another quick way to improve FPS without going too out of your way, as is using your PC’s game mode (if it has one) when playing any big titles. Windows 10 offers that feature across all models, and it makes a big difference.
Keep your machine updated as well. Many users avoid updating their system, but it can greatly improve their computer’s performance. Always see if you’ve fallen behind, and, if you have, fix it as soon as you can.
FAQs
In this section, I look at and tackle some of the largest questions surrounding monitors and FPS.
Will a Second Monitor Improve My FPS?
Unfortunately, having a second monitor is unlikely to improve or impact your FPS in a meaningful way. In fact, tests show that there’s almost no difference between using one or two monitors when it comes to FPS.
Do Monitors Run 120Hz?
It is rare for a monitor to natively run at 120Hz, but it’s not completely unheard of either. There are a few models out there that hit that refresh rate. You’ll just have to spend some extra time searching for them.
Are 240Hz Monitors Worth It?
While the monitor you get depends on your personal preferences, a 240Hz is a great one for those who value performance. The machines almost always have a quick response time and fast refresh rate. They look great as well.
Final Words
High FPS is something many computer users strive for, but it’s not something that can be achieved with a new or fancy monitor. If you want to get smoother video and a cleaner display, you have to turn to aspects like RAM and your CPU to see noticeable results.
What type of monitor do you own? Have you been happy with the FPS, and have you taken any steps to improve it? Let us know in the below comments!
