To enable and use FreeSync or G-Sync on a gaming monitor, you will need a compatible monitor and a supported graphics card. Both FreeSync and G-Sync are adaptive sync technologies designed to reduce screen tearing and provide a smoother gaming experience.
Here are the steps to enable and use FreeSync or G-Sync on your gaming monitor:
- Check compatibility: Ensure that your gaming monitor supports either FreeSync (for AMD graphics cards) or G-Sync (for Nvidia graphics cards). Refer to the monitor's specifications or consult the manufacturer's website for this information.
- Verify the graphics card: Your graphics card must be compatible with the adaptive sync technology your monitor supports. AMD graphics cards are compatible with FreeSync, while Nvidia graphics cards are compatible with G-Sync.
- Connect your monitor: Use a DisplayPort cable to connect your monitor to the graphics card. FreeSync and G-Sync require a DisplayPort connection for optimal performance.
- Enable FreeSync or G-Sync in monitor settings: Access your gaming monitor's on-screen display settings by navigating through the physical buttons or using an accompanying software. Find the FreeSync or G-Sync option and enable it.
- Adjust graphics card settings: For AMD graphics cards, open the AMD Radeon Settings software and enable FreeSync. For Nvidia graphics cards, open the Nvidia Control Panel, go to "Display," and enable G-Sync.
- Test and troubleshoot: Launch a game and check whether FreeSync or G-Sync is working. You should notice smoother gameplay and reduced screen tearing. If you encounter any issues, make sure you have the latest graphics card driver installed and update it if necessary.
- Additional settings and optimizations: Depending on your monitor and graphics card, you may have additional settings to fine-tune the adaptive sync technology. Explore your monitor's OSD settings and graphics card control panel for any additional tweaks or optimizations.
Remember, adaptive sync technologies like FreeSync and G-Sync can greatly enhance your gaming experience, but they require compatibility between your monitor and graphics card. Make sure you have a compatible setup and enable the respective technology to enjoy smoother gameplay with reduced screen tearing.
Best Gaming Monitors of 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
LG UltraGear QHD 34-Inch Curved Gaming Monitor 34GP63A-B, VA with HDR 10 Compatibility and AMD FreeSync Premium, 160Hz, Black
-
Great for gaming, this ultra-wide QHD (3440 x 1440, 21:9 aspect ratio) curved monitor immerses you in the action and increases your field of view, allowing you to see more on-screen.Specific uses for product - Gaming
-
A high native 160Hz refresh rate with 1-millisecond Motion Blur Reduction (MBR) keeps you firmly in the action while reducing blur and ghosting, helping you to respond to opponents quickly
-
With HDR10 support and color performance with 99% coverage of the sRGB spectrum, you'll see the game as the developers intend, with accurate and vivid color
-
AMD FreeSync Premium manages refresh rate, reducing screen tearing, flicker, and stuttering for an effortlessly smooth gaming experience with supported video cards such as the AMD Radeon series
-
Dynamic Action Sync helps reduce input lag to help you respond to on-screen action quickly. Black Stabilizer dynamically brightens dark scenes to help you find enemies in the dark. Enhance your accuracy in firefights with the Crosshair feature
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
MSI G271CP, 27" Gaming Monitor, 1920 x 1080 (FHD), VA, 165Hz, FreeSync Premium, HDMI, Displayport, Tilt, Swivel, Height Adjustable,Pivot,Black
-
27" LCD panel LED backlight (1920 x 1080 FHD)
-
165Hz refresh rate - Display without after image.
-
1ms response time helps eliminate screen tearing and choppy frame rates
-
Gaming OSD App – Create the ultimate viewing settings for your game
-
1000R
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Sceptre 30-inch Curved Gaming Monitor 21:9 2560x1080 Ultra Wide/ Slim HDMI DisplayPort up to 200Hz Build-in Speakers, Metal Black (C305B-200UN1)
-
30" Curved Gaming Monitor 2560 x 1080 Full HD Resolution. Response Time- 5ms GTG.Aspect Ratio: 21:9. Viewing Angle is 170° (H) / 170° (V). Brightness(typ) is 250. Without Stand (W x H x D)-27.82 x 12.64 x 3.69 inches
-
DP Up to 200Hz Refresh Rate / HDMI 2. 0 Up to 120Hz Refresh Rate: More than double the standard refresh rate, 200Hz gives gamers an edge in visibility as frames transition instantly, leaving behind no blurred images
-
AMD Free Sync With Free Sync, gamers now enjoy smooth video and seamless on the spot movement through their fast paced games. Free Sync is an AMD technology that nearly eliminates tearing and stuttering due to differences between a graphics card's frame rate and a monitor's refresh rate.
-
FPS-RTS FPS and RTS are Scepter's custom set display settings built for an enhanced gaming experience. FPS (First Person Shooter) , RTS (Real-Time Strategy).
-
Blue Light Shift Reduce your monitors blue light to protect you from eye fatigue, irritation and strains. This enables you to work on you documents, watch movies, or play games more comfortably for extended periods.
-
Gaming LED Light
-
VESA Wall Mount Pattern Using the VESA wall mount pattern, easily mount your Scepter LED monitor on the wall in a manner that is both aesthetically pleasing and conveniently practical. You will be able to save ample space and view the screen in a position that affords the greatest visibility possible.
-
Built-in Speakers With built-in speakers, the monitor delivers office level audio for conference calls and internet workshops. Similarly, enjoy engaging audio while listening to your favorite tunes.
-
Thin Bezel Savor every inch of the large screen as the bezel is a mere . 80 cm wide.
-
Anti-Flicker Provides a crisper picture by preventing the backlight from flickering periodically
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
SAMSUNG 32" Odyssey G55A QHD 165Hz 1ms FreeSync Curved Gaming Monitor with HDR 10, Futuristic Design for Any Desktop, LS32AG550ENXZA
-
HANDPICKED BY AMAZON: They did the research so you don’t have to..
-
STUNNING WQHD: Your gaming world, now astoundingly lifelike; Packing in 1.7 times the pixel density of Full HD, WQHD resolution boasts incredibly detailed, pin-sharp images; Experience a fuller view with more space to take in all the action.Mounting Type:Wall Mount 75 x 75.Aspect Ratio 16:9
-
165HZ REFRESH RATE: Ready to conquer enemies, lag, and blur; The ultra fast 165Hz refresh rate handles even the most exhilarating scenes and super quick visuals
-
1MS RESPONSE TIME: Make every move count with a 1ms response time; Jump on enemies as soon as you see them and stay ahead with precise mouse movements; Your on-screen performance is as swift as your own reflexes
-
AMD FREESYNC PREMIUM: Effortlessly smooth gameplay; AMD FreeSync Premium features adaptive sync technology which reduces screen tearing, stutter, and input latency; Low framerate compensation ensures every scene flows seamlessly
-
TRULY REALISTIC HDR: Awe-inspiring graphics with HDR10; A kaleidoscope of shades brings game scenes to life more vibrantly than ever before; Uncover the secrets hiding in the shadows with deep dark blacks, luminous whites, and outstandingly detailed resolution
-
FUTURISTIC DESIGN: The Odyssey G55A Gaming Monitor’s futuristic design looks attractive in any desktop setting
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
LG UltraGear QHD 27-Inch Gaming Monitor 27GL83A-B - IPS 1ms (GtG), with HDR 10 Compatibility, NVIDIA G-SYNC, and AMD FreeSync, 144Hz, Black
-
Designed for gaming, this monitor with a 1-millisecond (GtG) response time delivers all of the benefits of IPS (In-Plane Switching), delivering responsive, crisp visuals with sharp clarity to immerse you in gameplay.Aspect ratio:16:9.Specific uses for product - Gaming
-
Color accuracy with sRGB 99% and wide viewing angles (up to 178° horizontal / 178° vertical) from IPS reproduce colors with high fidelity to being vivid scenes to life
-
A high native 144Hz refresh rate with 1-millisecond Motion Blur Reduction keeps you firmly in the action while reducing blur and ghosting, rendering screen objects more clearly
-
With compatible video cards, NVIDIA G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium virtually eliminate screen tearing and minimize stutter in high-resolution and fast-paced games for a fast and fluid gaming experience
-
Dynamic Action Sync helps reduce input lag to help you respond to on-screen action quickly. Black Stabilizer dynamically brightens dark scenes to help you find enemies in the dark. Enhance your accuracy in firefights with the Crosshair feature
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
ASUS TUF Gaming 32" 1440P HDR Curved Monitor (VG32VQ1B) - QHD (2560 x 1440), 165Hz (Supports 144Hz), 1ms, Extreme Low Motion Blur, Speaker, FreeSync Premium, VESA Mountable, DisplayPort, HDMI,BLACK
-
31.5-inch WQHD (2560x1440) 1500R gaming monitor with ultrafast 165Hz refresh rate (supports 144Hz) designed for professional gamers and immersive gameplay.Specific uses for product - Gaming
-
ASUS Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) technology enables a 1ms response time (MPRT) together with Adaptive-sync, eliminating ghosting and tearing for sharp gaming visuals with high frame rates
-
FreeSync Premium technology supported through DisplayPort and HDMI ports providing variable refresh rates for low latency, stuttering-free and tearing-free while gaming
-
Shadow Boost enhances image details in dark areas, brightening scenes without over-exposing bright areas
-
Supports HDR-10 to enhance bright and dark area, delivers lifelike gaming experience
-
Robust connectivity with HDMI (v2.0) x2 and DisplayPort 1.2
-
Pixel Pitch : 0.272mm
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Acer Nitro XZ270 Xbmiipx 27" 1500R Curved Full HD (1920 x 1080) VA Zero-Frame Gaming Monitor with Adaptive Sync, 240Hz Refresh Rate and 1ms VRB (Display Port & 2 x HDMI 2.0 Ports) , Black
-
27.0" Full HD (1920 x 1080) 1500R Curved Widescreen VA Gaming Monitor
-
Adaptive-Sync Technology | Zero-Frame Design | 2 Speakers, 2 Watts per Speaker
-
Refresh Rate: 240Hz | Response Time: 1ms VRB | Pixel Pitch: 0.3114mm
-
Ergonomic Tilt: -5° to 25° | Height Adjustment Range: 4.7" | Swivel: plus/minus 180°
-
Ports: 1 x Display Port & 2 x HDMI 2.0 (HDMI Cable Included)
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Dell Curved Gaming Monitor 27 Inch Curved with 165Hz Refresh Rate, QHD (2560 x 1440) Display, Black - S2722DGM
-
A NEW VIEW: This 1500R curved gaming monitor provides a truly immersive experience that offers more realistic visuals and comfortable viewing.Specific uses for product - Gaming
-
SEE EVERY DETAIL: A QHD (Quad HD) curved monitor screen provides a display resolution of 2560 x 1440 on a 27-inch panel
-
A SMOOTHER EXPERIENCE: A 165Hz refresh rate allows fast-moving visuals to be seen with incredible clarity for faster reaction times
-
REMARKABLE CLARITY: AMD FreeSync premium technology allows gamers to stay engaged during battle with swift, responsive, stutter-free gameplay
-
WIN FROM ANY ANGLE: Game in comfort for extended periods due to a new slim, tapered stand with easy height and tilt adjustability
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
SAMSUNG 24" Odyssey G32A FHD 1ms 165Hz Gaming Monitor with Eye Saver Mode, Free-Sync Premium, Height Adjustable Screen for Gamer Comfort, VESA Mount Capability, LS24AG320NNXZA
-
165HZ REFRESH RATE: Conquer every enemy, even at soaring speeds; 165Hz refresh rate eliminates lag and motion blur for exhilarating gameplay with ultra smooth action
-
1MS RESPONSE TIME (MPRT): Make every move count with a 1ms(MPRT) response time; Screen pixels change colors with near instant response, enabling fast-paced action to flow with real-world accuracy; Your on-screen performance is as swift as your own reflexes
-
AMD FREESYNC PREMIUM: Effortlessly smooth gameplay; AMD FreeSync Premium features adaptive sync technology which reduces screen tearing, stutter, and input latency; Low framerate compensation ensures every scene flows seamlessly
-
ERGONOMIC DESIGN: Reach the height of winning; Swivel, tilt, and adjust your monitor until all enemies are in perfect view; Your display can be moved freely so you can find total gaming comfort
-
3-SIDED BORDERLESS DESIGN: Your legacy has no boundaries; The 3-sided borderless design unveils maximum space for bigger, bolder gameplay; Line up two displays precisely in a dual monitor setup, so no enemies slip through the crack
-
INFINITY CORE LIGHTING: Odyssey’s Infinity Core is a striking addition to any desktop, matching world firsts in technology, with stunning visual design
-
LIGHTNING FAST 1ms(MPRT) RESPONSE TIMES: A fraction of a second can be the difference between your destruction, or your enemy’s; Odyssey’s grey to grey 1ms(MPRT) response time ensures that you’re receiving information as fast as technologically possible
-
CUTTING EDGE QLED TECHNOLOGY: Utilizing Quantum Dot technology, Samsung QLED creates more vivid colors with 125% more color space compared to sRGB, ensuring the highest class of color reproduction
How to disable V-Sync when using FreeSync or G-Sync?
When using FreeSync or G-Sync, the V-Sync (Vertical Sync) option is usually automatically disabled or overridden by these technologies. However, in some cases, you may want to manually disable V-Sync. Here's how to do it:
- Nvidia Control Panel (for G-Sync):
a. Right-click on your desktop and select "Nvidia Control Panel" from the context menu.
b. In the control panel, navigate to "Display" on the left-hand side and click on "Set up G-Sync."
c. In the right-hand panel, check the box for "Enable G-Sync."
d. Choose either "Enable for full screen mode" or "Enable for windowed and full-screen mode" depending on your preference.
e. Uncheck the box for "Vertical sync" under the "Manage 3D settings" section.
- AMD Radeon Settings (for FreeSync):
a. Right-click on your desktop and select "AMD Radeon Settings" from the context menu.
b. In the Radeon Settings window, go to "Display" on the left-hand side and click on "AMD FreeSync."
c. Ensure that FreeSync is enabled by toggling the switch in the right-hand panel.
d. Additionally, you may also need to access the Radeon Settings "Gaming" tab and disable V-Sync for specific games by individual profile.
Please note that these instructions may vary slightly depending on the version of your graphics driver software. Furthermore, it's worth mentioning that disabling V-Sync while using FreeSync or G-Sync can introduce screen tearing, but some users prefer to disable it this way to reduce input lag.
How to disable FreeSync or G-Sync?
To disable FreeSync or G-Sync, you can follow these steps:
For FreeSync:
- Open the Radeon Settings by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting "AMD Radeon Settings."
- Once the Radeon Settings window opens, click on "Display" on the left-hand side.
- In the Display tab, scroll down to "AMD FreeSync" and toggle the switch to "Off" to disable FreeSync.
- Click on "Apply" or "OK" to save the changes.
For G-Sync:
- Right-click on the desktop and select "NVIDIA Control Panel."
- In the NVIDIA Control Panel, click on "Display" on the left-hand side.
- Under "Display," click on "Set up G-Sync."
- In the G-Sync window, uncheck the box that says "Enable G-Sync" to disable G-Sync.
- Click on "Apply" or "OK" to save the changes.
After disabling FreeSync or G-Sync, the adaptive sync technology will no longer be active, and your display will run without the sync feature.
What is the difference between FreeSync 1 and FreeSync 2?
The main difference between FreeSync 1 and FreeSync 2 lies in their respective capabilities and features.
FreeSync 1, also known as AMD FreeSync, is a technology developed by AMD that eliminates screen tearing and stuttering by synchronizing the refresh rate of the display with the variable frame rate output of the graphics card. This synchronization helps to deliver smooth and tear-free gaming experiences. FreeSync 1 has a range of frame rates within which it operates, typically between 30fps and the maximum refresh rate of the monitor.
On the other hand, FreeSync 2, also known as AMD FreeSync 2 HDR, builds upon the foundation of FreeSync 1 while introducing additional features. The primary enhancement offered by FreeSync 2 is support for high dynamic range (HDR) content. HDR provides enhanced contrast, color accuracy, and brightness, resulting in richer and more vibrant visuals. FreeSync 2 HDR also specifies a wider color gamut and lower input latency for improved responsiveness.
Additionally, FreeSync 2 HDR includes stricter certification requirements compared to FreeSync 1. Monitors must meet specific criteria related to HDR quality, luminance levels, and color gamut coverage to be certified as FreeSync 2 HDR-compatible.
In summary, FreeSync 1 provides adaptive sync technology for eliminating screen tearing and stuttering, whereas FreeSync 2 HDR builds upon this foundation by adding HDR support and stricter certification standards.
How to adjust the aspect ratio when using FreeSync or G-Sync?
To adjust the aspect ratio when using FreeSync or G-Sync, you will need to follow the steps below:
For FreeSync:
- Right-click on your desktop and select "AMD Radeon Settings" or "NVIDIA Control Panel" (depending on your GPU brand).
- In the Radeon Settings or NVIDIA Control Panel, navigate to the display settings.
- Look for the option called "Scaling" or "Display Scaling" and click on it.
- In the scaling options, you will see various aspect ratio choices such as "Maintain Aspect Ratio," "Full Panel," or "Stretch." Select the desired aspect ratio you prefer.
- Apply the changes and close the control panel. The aspect ratio should now be adjusted accordingly.
For G-Sync:
- Right-click on your desktop and select "NVIDIA Control Panel."
- In the NVIDIA Control Panel, navigate to the display settings.
- Look for the option called "Adjust desktop size and position" and click on it.
- Under the "Scaling" tab, you will find various options to adjust the aspect ratio, such as "Perform scaling on" or "Aspect ratio." Select the appropriate choice.
- Apply the changes and close the control panel. The aspect ratio should now be adjusted for G-Sync.
Note: The steps provided are general guidelines and may vary slightly depending on your specific GPU brand and driver version.
How to update drivers to enable FreeSync or G-Sync?
To update your drivers and enable FreeSync or G-Sync, follow these steps:
- Identify your graphics card: Determine the make and model of your graphics card (e.g., Nvidia or AMD) as well as the specific model number.
- Visit the official website: Go to the official website of your graphics card manufacturer:
For Nvidia: www.nvidia.com
For AMD: www.amd.com
- Find the drivers section: Look for the drivers or support section on the website. It is usually listed prominently on the homepage or under a specific product category.
- Select your graphics card model: Choose the correct graphics card model from the list provided. Ensure it matches the make and model of your graphics card.
- Download the latest drivers: Download the latest driver software for your graphics card from the website. It is generally available as an executable file (.exe) or a zipped folder.
- Install the drivers: Once downloaded, run the executable file or extract the zipped folder and then run the installer. Follow the installation prompts and instructions provided.
- Restart your computer: After the driver installation is complete, restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
- Enable FreeSync or G-Sync: Enable FreeSync or G-Sync in the graphics card control panel by following these steps:
For Nvidia:
Right-click on your desktop and select "Nvidia Control Panel."
In the left navigation pane, click on "Display" and then "Set up G-SYNC."
Enable G-SYNC for either full screen or windowed and borderless modes.
Click "Apply" to save the changes.
For AMD:
Right-click on your desktop and select "AMD Radeon Software."
In the Radeon Software interface, click on the "Settings" tab.
Select "Display" from the left sidebar and click on "AMD FreeSync."
Enable AMD FreeSync using the toggle switch.
Click "Apply" to save the changes.
- Test FreeSync or G-Sync: Verify that FreeSync or G-Sync is properly functioning by launching a supported game or application. Check if the dynamic refresh rate technology is activated.
Note: Ensure that your monitor also supports FreeSync or G-Sync. If it does not, enabling these technologies on your graphics card will not have any effect.
