FPS to Hz Calculator

How to use this calculator

1. Enter the FPS you typically see in your game or application (an average or a capped value is fine).
2. We convert this FPS into frame time in milliseconds so you can see how long each frame takes.
3. We match your FPS against common monitor refresh rates and suggest one that pairs well with your performance.
4. Use the suggested refresh rate as a starting point when shopping for a display or tuning in-game settings.

Inputs explained

Frames per second

Your game or application’s FPS. You can use an in-game counter, overlay, or benchmark to estimate your typical FPS at your preferred settings.

When to use it

• Choosing between 60 Hz, 120 Hz, 144 Hz, 165 Hz, 240 Hz, or 360 Hz monitors based on your real-world FPS.
• Checking frame time to understand why a game feels choppy even when the FPS number looks high.
• Deciding whether it’s worth lowering graphics settings to hit a higher refresh rate target.
• Verifying that your current monitor isn’t bottlenecking your FPS (for example, 144 Hz display with 140–160 FPS gameplay).
• Explaining FPS and refresh rate relationships to clients, teammates, or friends when building PCs or configuring esports setups.

Tips & cautions

• Aim for a refresh rate that is at or slightly above your typical FPS; there is little benefit to buying a 240 Hz monitor if you usually sit around 80 FPS.
• If your FPS fluctuates a lot, consider a variable refresh rate (VRR) technology like G-Sync or FreeSync for smoother motion and reduced tearing.
• For competitive shooters and fast-paced games, higher refresh rates and lower frame times can feel significantly better—but only if your hardware can actually push those frames.
• For slower strategy or turn-based games, extremely high refresh rates matter less; you might prioritize resolution or panel quality instead.
• Remember that console games often target fixed frame rates (30, 60, 120 FPS); use this calculator to see what kind of display pairs best with your platform.
• Suggested refresh rates are approximate and based on common options; your actual monitor may support a different set of modes.
• The calculator focuses on average FPS and does not model frame pacing, stutters, or 1%/0.1% low frame behavior.
• It does not account for VRR behavior, display overdrive quality, or input device latency—all of which also affect perceived smoothness.
• Frame time is computed from a single FPS number; real games often have dynamic FPS that changes with scene complexity.

Worked examples

Deep dive

FAQs

Do I need a monitor with the exact same Hz as my FPS?

No. You don’t need a perfect match. A refresh rate at or above your typical FPS is usually enough. Variable refresh rate monitors can adapt on the fly, which matters more than an exact Hz-to-FPS match.

Why does frame time matter if I already know my FPS?

Frame time shows how long each frame takes, which ties directly to input-to-display latency and perceived smoothness. Two games with similar FPS can feel different if their frame times are inconsistent.

Is 144 Hz always better than 120 Hz?

From a pure numbers standpoint, 144 Hz is slightly smoother, but many people won’t notice a big difference if their FPS is already in the 100–140 range. Panel quality, VRR support, and response time often matter more.

Can I benefit from a 240 Hz monitor if my FPS is only 90?

You may see some benefit from reduced input lag and future-proofing, but you won’t fully utilize 240 Hz if your games rarely exceed 90 FPS. In that case, a high-quality 120/144/165 Hz panel may be more cost-effective.

Related calculators