Refresh Rate

In the context of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), the “refresh rate” refers to the number of images per second that are displayed on the screen. This rate is measured in hertz (Hz) and is crucial for a fluid and realistic experience in digital environments.

The importance of frame rate in AR/VR

• Smoother motion: A higher frame rate means the image is refreshed more frequently, contributing to smoother motion in the virtual or augmented environment.
• Reduce motion sickness: Many users experience discomfort or motion sickness in VR because what their eyes see does not match what their bodies feel. A higher
  refresh rate reduces the lag and stuttering that can contribute to this feeling.
• Increased realism: Faster refresh rates help make the virtual world look and feel more real, which is critical for immersion.

Typical refresh rates

• VR headsets: Many high-quality VR headsets have a refresh rate of 90 Hz or more, with some reaching 120 Hz or 144 Hz.
• AR devices: For AR technologies that overlay digital elements onto the real world, a high refresh rate is also critical to keep the augmented elements in sync with the user's view of the real world.

Frame rate is an important technical specification for AR and VR devices, as it has a significant impact on user comfort and the overall quality of the experience.

Facts and features

• Impact on image quality: Higher refresh rates result in smoother motion and less motion blur.
• Standard values for monitors and TVs: Common refresh rates include 60 Hz, 75 Hz, 120 Hz, 144 Hz, and 240 Hz.
• Typical values for AR/VR devices: At least 90 Hz.
• Compatibility: Not all video cards support high refresh rates.
• Eye strain: Lower refresh rates can lead to increased eye strain and fatigue.
• Difference from frame rate: The frame rate (frames per second, fps) indicates how many frames per second are produced by the source (e.g., game, movie), while the refresh rate indicates how often the screen updates those frames.
• Technology: New technologies such as G-Sync (NVIDIA) and FreeSync (AMD) synchronize the monitor's refresh rate with the graphics card's frame rate to eliminate tearing and stuttering.