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Best G-Sync Monitors Available Now
Tulie Finley-Moise
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August 10, 2019
The world of digital gaming has exploded into a sprawling treasure trove of fantastical adventures that unfold right before your eyes. Thanks to the stunning developments made in the gaming technology industry, diving into your favorite game scapes is more than mere playtime. It’s an immersive experience that transports you from your world to another in a matter of load screens and mouse clicks.
Long gone are the days of pixelated, two-dimensional gameplay. Not only are developers releasing games that feature high-quality, life-like graphics, but computer manufacturers are engineering computer systems designed to accommodate that larger-than-life visual standard.
Enter NVIDIA G-Sync technology. Regarded as one of the biggest leaps forward in gaming monitor history, this groundbreaking display technology is designed to deliver a smooth, speedy, and seamless visual performance. Pristine clarity, gorgeous coloring, and minimal input lag are all part of G-Sync’s package deal - giving you some serious competitive edge in addition to a vibrant visual experience incomparable to any other monitor technology.
But what exactly is NVIDIA G-Sync technology, how does it benefit gamers, and what are the best G-Sync monitors available today? Use this guide to answer all of your burning questions and more.
What is G-Sync?
G-Sync is NVIDIA’s proprietary adaptive sync technology that primarily aims to optimize the visual element of the video gaming experience. By manipulating a display panel’s vertical blanking interval (VBI) cycle, G-Sync effectively limits the amount of screen refresh data that gets sent to the monitor.
VBI represents the interval of time between when a monitor finishes drawing the current frame and the beginning of the next frame. It’s during this interval that traditional monitors will show unsightly screen-tearing, stuttering, and lagging.
When G-Sync is active, it communicates with your computer’s GPU and forces it to wait until the monitor is ready to receive another frame before sending it. This revolutionary technology keeps everything in perfect refresh rate synchronization, eliminating distracting visual artifacts and glitchy performance altogether.
G-Sync vs. VSync: What’s the difference?
Before there was NVIDIA G-Sync, there was VSync. VSync technology is designed to serve one single purpose: eliminate screen tearing.
By imposing a frame rate cap, VSync limits the maximum frames per second (fps) to the equivalent of your monitor’s refresh rate. This prevents your graphics processing unit (GPU) rendering more frames than the monitor’s capacity.
In fact, VSync can limit your frame rate to as low as 30 fps. The vast majority of gaming monitors refresh as 60 Hz (60 fps), but higher-end units are capable of 120 Hz, 144 Hz, and even 240 Hz. In the event fps overtakes the refresh rate, VSync steps in to regulate, and re-synchronize. In short, VSync modifies the GPU output to better accommodate your monitor.
On the other hand, G-Sync works by directly controlling the display to accommodate the video signal from the GPU. The technology allows for a more dynamic refresh rate that matches the output of your GPU. G-Sync updates the screen exactly when the frame is finished and the next scene is ready to be pushed out. G-Sync effectively builds upon the basis of VSync but proves to be the better option by eliminating the stuttering and lag associated with VSync.
What are 7 of the benefits of G-Sync?
If you’re a gamer looking to elevate your visuals and upgrade your rig with high-tech hardware, you’ll want to know exactly where your money is going and what to expect from a G-Sync enabled monitor.
1. Premium performance power
The most notable advantage to choosing G-Sync is the premium quality performance that comes with each and every power on. You’ll be able to take full advantage of the rest of your rig, and for gamers with gaming computers, mice, and keyboards, your monitor should meet your high standards.
2. Low latency
G-Sync is able to achieve smooth gameplay by delivering low latency rates. This makes for a responsive gaming experience, an essential for games where timing is crucial and reaction time reigns supreme. This rings especially true for racing or first-person shooter (FPS) games.
3. Incredible image quality
If you’re looking to dive into a world of technicolor and vivid detail, G-Sync technology turns dreamy game scapes into bountiful reality. G-Sync HDR (now renamed G-Sync Ultimate. works with high dynamic range gaming, giving you gorgeous contrast between the brightest whites and the darkest blacks.
4. Optimized battery life
G-Sync enabled laptops come equipped with NVIDIA Optimus technology which is designed to adjust graphics performance in real-time and increase battery life through heightened efficiency.
5. Adaptable refresh rate
Monitors come with fixed refresh rates while GPUs come with variable refresh rates that depend on the particular image being rendered. This mismatch of refresh rates is the precise cause of lag, screen tears, and glitchy visual performance. G-Sync helps in adjusting the monitor’s refresh rate to sync with the GPUs.
6. New game support
New video games drop each and every year, boasting more impressive visuals than the previous years’ releases. With a G-Sync enabled monitor, you won’t have to worry about a graphics-heavy game burdening your monitor’s specs.
7. Minimal input lag
By using dedicated DDR3 memory to store previous frames to compare it to the next frame, the overall input lag is significantly reduced with G-Sync.
What does G-Sync mean for 4K and HDR?
Back in 2017, NVIDIA announced the massive reveal of the world’s first high dynamic range (HDR) PC gaming monitors. These revolutionary monitors feature G-Sync panels with 4K capability boasting sharp clarity, higher peak brightness, saturated colors, and rich contrast.
According to NVIDIA, G-Sync HDR displays are designed with the latest technologies to deliver the ultimate gaming experience with visuals that better match the capabilities of the human eye.
Not only are you suiting your rig up with professional-grade technologies, but you can simultaneously reap the benefits of a 4K and HDR graphics experience. Elevate your in-game strategy while basking in the glory of lifelike visuals.
What are the best G-Sync monitors by HP?
HP OMEN is HP’s proprietary line of gaming computers. First launched in 2016, the HP OMEN series has blossomed into a sprawling array of expert-level gaming devices that breathe speed, efficiency, and immersive gameplay. Today, it is home to an impressive selection of NVIDIA G-Sync enabled monitors that let you load up the latest titles at high resolutions and ultra-fast refresh rates.
Currently, HP OMEN carries two of the best G-Sync monitors available on the market today.
1. HP OMEN X 35 curved display
The HP OMEN X 35 curved display is an astounding monitor that allows you to experience the full potential of your rig. Witness every single detail, minuscule or massive, with all of the intensity necessary to tackle the next boss. Dive into your game scape of choice and transcend worlds with the help of this futuristic curved monitor. Blurring the line between gameplay and reality, the HP OMEN X 35 is a force to be reckoned with.
Enjoy the fruits of stutter-free, highly-responsive visuals that are beautifully backed by a 100 Hz refresh rate. This curved monitor delivers 34% more screen real estate than a 16:9 display, so you’ll leave all preconceived notions of what a PC monitor can be in the dust. 35 inches of Wide-Quad High Definition (WQHD) visuals will leave you wondering how you ever settled for anything less than perfection before.
Display type: AMVA+ w/LED backlight
Screen size: 35 inches
Native resolution: WQHD (3440 x 1440 at 100 Hz)
Signal input connectors: 1 HDMI 1.4 and 1 DisplayPort™ 1.2
Ports: 3 USB 3.0 and 1 audio output
Brightness: 300 cd/m²
Contrast ratio: 2500:1 static
2. HP OMEN X Emperium 65-inch big format gaming display
They say that bigger is better and the HP OMEN X Emperium big format gaming display does not disappoint. 65 inches of stunning 4K high definition resolution graphics bring your favorite fantasy worlds to vibrant life. As HP’s first venture into big format gaming displays, the HP OMEN X Emperium sets the bar incredibly high. Packing an even more powerful punch with onboard G-Sync technology, this monitor is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
With 384 zones of full direct-array backlight, you can expect lifelike digital images that could pass as second ethereal reality. Achieve ultra-smooth gameplay with remarkable refresh rates up to 144 Hz.
Entertainment buffs who love a good movie as much as they love a good RPG will appreciate the integrated NVIDIA Shield technology. This Android-based streaming interface is NVIDIA’s take on the modern smart TV. Supporting major streaming providers like Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime, HBO Now, and more, NVIDIA Shield also comes with a number of free and subscription-based channels to best suit your entertainment desires.
Display type: MVA with LED backlight
Screen size: 65 inches
Native resolution: 4K UHD (3840 x 2160 at 144 Hz)
Signal input connectors: 1 DisplayPort™ 1.4 and 3 HDMI 2.0
Ports: 3 USB 3.0 and 1 audio output
Brightness: 750 cd/m²
Contrast ratio: 4000:1 static
Is G-Sync worth it?
If you’re a dedicated gamer looking to elevate your in-game experience, choosing G-Sync is an absolutely worthwhile investment. It would be nonsensical to overlook the fact that different games demand different visual processing power. However, when it comes to games that are graphics-heavy or dependent on nimble reaction time, G-Sync’s ability to perfectly align frame rates will prove invaluable.
Hardcore gamers working their way up the leaderboards toward a professional gamer title will benefit from G-Sync enabled monitors and computers the most, but any serious gamer should put this technology on their wish list.
Distracting stuttering, lagging, and tearing can ruin your game in a split second. Gameplay shouldn’t be frustrating, it should be fluid, seamless, and flawlessly synchronized. G-Sync enabled devices ensure you get the most out of your playtime.
NVIDIA proudly claims that monitors equipped with their latest G-Sync technology deliver the highest-quality gaming experiences every single time, with the brightest colors, darkest blacks, and smoothest gameplay at 4K at 144Hz, with none of the added lag found on TVs. These specifications alone are enough to ease your decision-making process.
How to enable G-Sync
Before you can transform your rig into an NVIDIA-powered workhorse machine, you’ll need to have a few things in place first:
- Compatible G-Sync enabled monitor
- GTX 10-series graphics card or better
- DisplayPort connection from the GPU to the monitor
Once you’ve checked off each box, you’re ready to dive into the activation process.
Step 1. Access the NVIDIA Control Panel application on your computer. On the left menu for the Display section, select Set up G-Sync
Step 2. Within the setup window, check off the box for Enable G-Sync. Be sure to have full-screen mode selected as well
Step 3. Select your compatible display. If you have multiple monitors to work with, be sure to apply your particular changes as needed
Step 4. Make sure the box for Enable Settings for the selected display is checked.
Step 5. Click Apply to activate G-Sync
If you’re dealing with an older or lower-quality monitor, you may need to take an extra step to get the seamless results you’re looking for. Follow these steps:
Step 1. Access the NVIDIA Control Panel and select Manage 3D Settings within the 3D settings section
Step 2. Go to the Global tab and locate Monitor Technology
Step 3. Within this window, make sure G-Sync compatibility is enabled
Step 4. For extra customization on a game by game basis, you can set your preferred settings within the Program Settings tab rather than the Global tab.
Are G-Sync monitors compatible with AMD FreeSync monitors?
Yes! In January of 2019, NVIDIA released a drivers update that made a selection of NVIDIA GPUs capable of working with AMD FreeSync monitors. This compatibility opened up a wider world of options for gamers across the globe and will continue to do so as manufacturers adapt and build. Currently, this list includes 17 monitors across several manufacturers.
Conclusion
HP’s best G-Sync monitors are the first products of a futuristic PC monitor line that shows great promise for gamers worldwide. With the push toward widespread gaming PC availability and compatibility, gamers can expect to see an increase in hardware options, incredibly advanced integrated technologies, and a myriad of game-changing features that will surprise and entice.
About the Author: Tulie Finley-Moise is a contributing writer for HP® Tech Takes. Tulie is a digital content creation specialist based in San Diego, California with a passion for the latest tech and digital media news.
