As a gaming enthusiast who values image quality, you understand how frustrating it is when your monitor fails to refresh as quickly as the frame rate of your favorite game. Dealing with this issue regularly can ruin your gameplay.
Fortunately, FreeSync can completely eliminate screen tearing and shuttering by improving screen performance for enjoyable gameplay. But is FreeSync worth it? Here’s what you need to know about FreeSync and the bestFreeSync monitors
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What is AMD FreeSync?
FreeSync is an adaptive synchronization technology for LCD monitors. It helps monitors eliminate screen tearing, juddering, and stuttering by synchronizing the refresh rate of your monitor. A monitor equipped with FreeSync has a variable refresh rate that matches the frame rate of your AMD graphics card.
FreeSync vs. G-Sync
If you prioritize image quality and performance, then FreeSync and G-Sync have something to offer. The main difference between the two is the levels of tearing or input lag. If you’re looking for low input lag and won’t mind tearing, then FreeSync is a great choice.
On the other hand, if you like smooth motions without tearing, and don’t mind minor input lag, go for a G-Sync monitor. If you’re not operating on a budget and need top-level graphics support, then G-Sync carries the day.
How to Enable Free-Sync
Before you enable free-sync, ensure you’ve successfully installed the latest driver on your graphics device. After installation, FreeSync will be enabled by default in the Radeon settings. Here’s how to verify that FreeSync is enabled:
- Open Radeon Settings by right-clicking on your desktop and choose AMD Radeon Settings.
- Tap on the Radeon Settings icon in the system tray and select Radeon Settings from the program menu.
- Choose Display and check if AMD FreeSync is on.
Best FreeSync Monitors
Philips 276E9QDSB 27″ frameless monitor
This 27-inch IPS monitor comes with a stylish design that promises superb picture quality. It’s equipped with Ultra Wide-Color Technology that offers a wide spectrum of colors for amazing images. With its IPS display technology, you’ll enjoy wide viewing angles of 178 degrees, so you can view the display from almost any angle. Additionally, with the FreeSync technology, you’re guaranteed a fast response time and a smooth refresh rate.
Features
- 1920×1080 resolution
- IPS panel
- 124% sRGB
- 75Hz refresh rate
Pros
- Wide viewing angles
- Ultra-narrow borders
- Stylish design
AOC C24G1 24″ Curved Frameless Gaming Monitor
The AOC C24G1 24″ Curved Frameless Gaming Monitor packs a 23.6″ curved VA panel, 1920×1080 resolution, 1ms response time, 144Hz refresh rate, and FreeSync support. With a fast refresh rate and response time, you’re guaranteed smooth gameplay and instant response. With AMD FreeSync technology, you can kiss goodbye to screen tearing, stutter, and input lag.
Features
- 1920×1080 resolution
- 1ms response time
- AOC LowBlue Mode
- 144Hz refresh rate
Pros
- Frameless design
- High resolution
- Comfortable gaming experience
Cons
- Poor customer service
ASUS VG275Q 27 inch Full HD 1080p 1ms Dual HDMI Eye Care Console Gaming Monitor
This monitor is built for a perfect console gaming experience, thanks to the 1ms response time, 1920×1080 resolution, 44Hz refresh rate, and FreeSync compatibility. The ASUS VG275Q gaming monitor has several connectivity options with DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI, DVI, and stereo speakers for an impressive sound experience. Additionally, it boasts an ergonomic stand with tilt, height, pivot, and swivel adjustments.
Features
- 27-inch screen size
- 144Hz refresh rate
- Eye Care Technology
- 1ms response time
Pros
- Ergonomic stand
- Rapid refresh rate
- Easy to mount
Cons
- Flimsy monitor housing
Sceptre 24-Inch Curved 144Hz Gaming LED Monitor
The Sceptre 24-Inch Curved 144Hz Gaming LED Monitor guarantees gamers smooth and seamless movement in their fast-paced games, thanks to the AMD FreeSync Technology. It boasts a 1800R screen curvature that gives you an in-depth and immersive experience. What’s more, this monitor has a tilt feature that allows you to find an optimum viewing angle.
Features
- 24-inch screen size
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 1800R curvature
- Tiltable design
Pros
- Affordable
- Smooth gaming experience
- VESA-mount compatible
Cons
- Average speakers
Acer KG241Q Pbiip 23.6″ Full HD (1920 x 1080) TN 144Hz 1ms Monitor
This Full HD monitor offers high-quality and stunning images with excellent details, thanks to the 16:9 aspect ratio and 1920×1080 FHD resolution. With this monitor, you’ll have no issues with stuttering and tearing and enjoy a smooth gaming experience, thanks to the AMD Radeon FreeSync. It also has a 144Hz refresh rate that promises ultra-smooth 2D motion scenes.
Features
- 23.6-inch display size
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
Pros
- Comfortable viewing experience
- Rapid refresh rate
- Super responsive
Cons
- Viewing angles could be better
SAMSUNG Odyssey G7 Series 27-Inch WQHD (2560×1440) Gaming Monitor
If you’re looking for a feature-filled monitor that packs a more traditional size, this is a great choice. The SAMSUNG Odyssey G7 Series gaming monitor packs a 240Hz refresh rate, FreeSync premium, and G-Sync support that promises detailed and sharp images. Additionally, it has a super-fast 1ms response time that guarantees you a smooth gaming experience.
Features
- 27-inch screen size
- 240Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
Pros
- Rapid response time
- Bright colors
- Low input latency
FAQs
Do I Need a FreeSync Monitor?
If you have an AMD GPU, or you’re planning to buy a new gaming monitor with an AMD GPU in it, then a FreeSync monitor is a worthy investment. However, when shopping for a new FreeSync monitor, remember that not all new FreeSync monitors are created equally. Ensure you go for a FreeSync monitor that will function at a broad range of refresh rates.
Does FreeSync Improve Gaming?
If you like playing graphically intensive games, you need an AMD FreeSync to scale up the refresh rate to match the frame rate. FreeSync ensures that your monitor doesn’t refresh in the middle of a frame.
What is FreeSync Premium?
AMD FreeSync Premium technology equips professional gamers with a fluid, tear-free gameplay experience. FreeSync Premium kicks things a notch up by requiring a 120Hz refresh rate or higher when operating at FHD.
Final Thoughts
If you like excellent performance and uninterrupted gameplay, you need a top-class monitor that suits your computing needs. This article will help you grab the most reliable FreeSync monitor for your interests and skills. Good luck!