Is There Really a Difference Between 60 FPS When a Game Runs at 59 FPS?

Data shows that a lot of PC games often run at around 59.94 FPS, which leads to the question: Is there a significant difference between 60 FPS and 59 FPS in these scenarios?

Understanding FPS and Performance

The frequency at which a display updates its image is known as its frame rate (FPS). For a 60Hz monitor, the optimal FPS is 60, meaning a new frame is processed and displayed by the GPU every sixth of a second (0.0167 seconds). Conversely, at 59Hz, the time between frames slightly increases to 0.0169 seconds. While that difference may be minute, it affects how the game looks and feels as it runs through different areas and situations.

Noticing the Difference in Performance

As we analyze the data, one point becomes clear: unless the frame rate is significantly lower, you won't see a noticeable difference between 60 FPS and 59 FPS. Moving from 2 FPS to 1 FPS is much more jarring than from 120 FPS to 119 FPS.

Our visual perception can indeed note the difference, especially when the frame rate exceeds 120 FPS (240 frames per second). However, does this difference translate to a noticeable performance impact? The answer is often no. In many cases, the visual difference between 59 FPS and 60 FPS is nonexistent to even a meticulous eye. For some players, 59 FPS can sometimes appear slightly janky, though individual experiences can vary. This variability underscores the fact that the difference is more about personal perception than actual gameplay.

The Role of V-Sync

A key factor in perceiving differences in frame rates is the use of V-Sync (Vertical Synchronization). V-Sync ensures that the game's frames are rendered to fit perfectly into the monitor's refresh cycle, typically 60 frames per second. When V-Sync is enabled, it can override the game's rendering at 59 FPS and force it to render at 60 FPS, making the difference between 59 and 60 FPS more apparent. Conversely, without V-Sync, the game's frame rate might be slightly perceptible, but it's usually not enough to make a noticeable difference.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there is a mathematical difference between 60 FPS and 59 FPS, the impact on game performance and visual experience is minimal. Most players will not consciously notice the difference, making it a matter of personal preference and the specific nature of the game. For the vast majority of players, maintaining the frame rate within the 30-60 FPS range offers a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience without the need for finer micro-adjustments.