Buying Guide for the Best 120 Hz Gaming Tvs
When choosing a 120 Hz gaming TV, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best performance and experience for your gaming needs. A 120 Hz refresh rate is crucial for smooth and responsive gameplay, but there are other factors to consider as well. Here are the key specs you should pay attention to and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.Refresh RateThe refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), indicates how many times per second the TV updates the image on the screen. A 120 Hz refresh rate means the TV refreshes the image 120 times per second, which is important for smooth and fluid motion, especially in fast-paced games. Higher refresh rates reduce motion blur and provide a more responsive gaming experience. For gaming, a 120 Hz refresh rate is ideal as it offers a significant improvement over the standard 60 Hz, making your gameplay smoother and more enjoyable.
Input LagInput lag is the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the corresponding action on the screen. This spec is crucial for gaming because lower input lag means more responsive gameplay. Input lag is measured in milliseconds (ms). For competitive gaming, aim for a TV with an input lag of 20 ms or lower. For casual gaming, anything under 40 ms should be sufficient. Always check the TV's game mode settings, as these can significantly reduce input lag.
ResolutionResolution refers to the number of pixels that make up the image on the screen. Higher resolution means more detail and clarity. Common resolutions include Full HD (1080p), 4K (2160p), and 8K (4320p). For gaming, 4K is currently the sweet spot, offering a great balance between image quality and performance. If you have a next-gen console or a powerful gaming PC, a 4K TV will provide stunning visuals. However, if you're using older consoles or don't prioritize ultra-high definition, a 1080p TV can still offer a good experience.
HDR (High Dynamic Range)HDR enhances the contrast and color range of the TV, making the image more vibrant and realistic. This is particularly important for gaming, as it can make the game world look more immersive. There are different HDR standards, such as HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG. HDR10 is the most common and widely supported, while Dolby Vision offers more advanced features but is less common. If you want the best visual experience, look for a TV that supports HDR, and consider the type of HDR based on the games you play and the devices you use.
Panel TypeThe type of panel used in the TV affects the picture quality, viewing angles, and response times. The most common panel types are LED, OLED, and QLED. LED panels are generally more affordable and offer good brightness, but may have limited viewing angles and contrast. OLED panels provide excellent contrast, deep blacks, and wide viewing angles, making them great for gaming, but they can be more expensive. QLED panels, a variation of LED, offer better color accuracy and brightness than standard LED panels. Choose a panel type based on your priorities: OLED for the best picture quality, QLED for a balance of performance and price, and LED for budget-friendly options.
ConnectivityConnectivity options are important to ensure you can easily connect your gaming console, PC, and other devices. Look for a TV with multiple HDMI ports, preferably HDMI 2.1, which supports higher resolutions and refresh rates, as well as features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). These features enhance gaming performance by reducing screen tearing and input lag. Additionally, consider other ports like USB, Ethernet, and audio outputs based on your setup and needs.
Smart FeaturesSmart features refer to the TV's ability to connect to the internet and run apps, stream content, and more. While not directly related to gaming performance, having a smart TV can enhance your overall experience by providing easy access to streaming services, game streaming apps, and other entertainment options. Look for a TV with a user-friendly interface and support for the apps and services you use most frequently.