Should I enable VSync, what are its side effects and possible alternatives
In most computer games, there is a setting such as "Vertical Sync". Many do not know what to do with it and notice only a decrease in the number of FPS after turning it on. In this article, we will analyze the main issues related to this topic.
What is vertical sync (VSync) and how does it work in games?
Monitors display frames evenly when each has 16.7 milliseconds at standard 60 hertz. And the video card draws each next frame immediately when the previous one is ready. In addition, the complexity of rendering is constantly changing - either the player moves around a location rich in details, or fights, or looks into some kind of chest. As a result, at first it takes, for example, 10 milliseconds to draw each frame, then 15, and then 5. Due to this unevenness, “frame breaks” appear:
V-sync affects the rendering of frames by the video card and makes it "take your time". That is, if the monitor has a refresh rate of 60 hertz (60 updates per second), then no more than 60 frames will be drawn in 1 second. This removes image tearing and makes the video sequence as smooth as possible, but increases the control response. The latter generates an input lag.
When should you turn on vertical sync (VSync)?
When the smoothness of the image is more important than the responsiveness of the game. This applies to most single-player games, except for first-person shooters. Maximum smoothness will allow you to enjoy the plot without being distracted by graphic artifacts.
In role-playing adventures like The Witcher or Assassin's Creed, characters even move slightly slowly, with short pre-animations before they start moving. The developers do this on purpose to compensate for the input lag from the gamepad, and on the PC it also compensates for the delay from the vertical synchronization.
But in fast-paced shooters like Doom Eternal, even a small amount of input lag can make it hard to aim.
When is it better to disable vertical sync (VSync)?
When the responsiveness of the game is more important than the smoothness of the image. This applies to most competitive online projects, such as online shooters or royal battles. But not so much for many MMORPGs and other leisurely-paced games.
Esports games are usually played on monitors with a high refresh rate, where tearing is less noticeable and the control response feels noticeably better. In addition, the image at high hertz is less blurred in motion.
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