Screen Tearing: What Causes It?
A mismatch between GPU frame rendering and monitor display rates causes screen tearing, but technologies can fix it
Screen tearing is a visual artifact that occurs when there is a mismatch between the speed at which a computer's GPU renders frames of video and the rate at which a monitor can display them. This issue is primarily caused by the GPU rendering frames at a different rate than the monitor displays them.
The problem arises when a GPU renders up to hundreds more frames each second than a monitor can display. The speed at which a monitor can refresh itself each second is measured in hertz and is referred to as refresh rate. Basic monitors typically have a refresh rate of 60Hz, while gaming-focused monitors can have higher refresh rates such as 144Hz or above, with 240Hz being increasingly common and 1,000Hz monitors also available.
The GPU's output is measured in frames per second (fps). Screen tearing can occur when the GPU renders a new frame into the buffer before the monitor has scanned the previous one. This can result in a jagged patchwork of imagery, where the in-game avatar's torso is separated from its legs and head, and the path in front of you is likewise torn asunder.
## What happens next Screen tearing can be a problem for both PC and console gamers. However, thanks to a combination of technologies that help coordinate frames between the graphics card and monitor, screen tearing is no longer the scourge it once was. These technologies can fix the issue by ensuring that the GPU and monitor work together in harmony.
## Why it matters The stakes are high for gamers, as screen tearing can ruin the gaming experience. With the increasing demand for high-performance gaming, the need for technologies that can prevent screen tearing has become more important than ever. Fortunately, the development of these technologies has made it possible to enjoy a seamless gaming experience, free from the distractions of screen tearing.
In conclusion, screen tearing is a visual artifact that can be fixed with the right technologies. By understanding the causes of screen tearing and using the appropriate technologies, gamers can enjoy a smooth and immersive gaming experience.
