Linux vs Windows: Setting a 120Hz Monitor Refresh Rate
When it comes to setting a monitor's refresh rate, both Linux and Windows operating systems offer different options. This article will provide a detailed comparison of the two, focusing on the key concepts and steps required to set a 120Hz refresh rate on a monitor that supports it.
What is a Monitor Refresh Rate?
A monitor's refresh rate is the number of times per second that the display updates the image on the screen. A higher refresh rate can result in smoother motion and reduced eye strain. The most common refresh rates are 60Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz.
Setting a 120Hz Refresh Rate in Windows
To set a 120Hz refresh rate in Windows, follow these steps:
- Right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings".
- Click on "Advanced display settings".
- Click on the display adapter properties for your monitor.
- Under the "Monitor" tab, select "120Hz" from the "Screen refresh rate" dropdown menu.
- Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.
It's important to note that not all monitors support a 120Hz refresh rate. If the option is not available, it's likely that your monitor does not support this refresh rate.
Setting a 120Hz Refresh Rate in Linux
Setting a 120Hz refresh rate in Linux can be a bit more complicated than in Windows. The exact steps will depend on the distribution and desktop environment you are using. However, in general, you will need to do the following:
- Open the terminal and enter the command "xrandr -q" to list the available display modes.
- Identify the mode that corresponds to the 120Hz refresh rate. It will typically be listed as "120.00" under the "Refresh" column.
- Create a new mode with the following command: "xrandr --newmode
" - Add the new mode with the following command: "xrandr --addmode
" - Set the new mode with the following command: "xrandr --output
--mode "
For example, to set a 120Hz refresh rate on a monitor connected via HDMI, you might use the following commands:
xrandr --newmode "120Hz" 1920 1080 173.00 1960 2080 2240 2320 +hsync -vsync
xrandr --addmode HDMI1 120Hz
xrandr --output HDMI1 --mode 120Hz
Setting a 120Hz refresh rate on a monitor that supports it can result in a smoother and more enjoyable viewing experience. Both Windows and Linux offer options for setting a 120Hz refresh rate, but the exact steps will depend on the operating system and the specific monitor you are using. It's important to make sure that your monitor supports a 120Hz refresh rate before attempting to set it, as not all monitors do.