Why does 60fps feel choppy?

Why does 60fps feel choppy?

When it comes to frame rates in video games and other forms of media, the higher the frame rate, the smoother the motion appears to our eyes. So why does 60fps sometimes feel choppy?

One possible reason is that our eyes are capable of perceiving more than just the frame rate itself. Our eyes have a natural ability to track and follow moving objects, and when the frame rate is lower, our eyes can detect the slight stutter or lack of smoothness in the motion. This can result in the perception of choppiness, even at 60fps.

Another factor that can contribute to the perception of choppiness at 60fps is the presence of screen tearing. Screen tearing occurs when the GPU and the display are not perfectly synchronized, causing parts of different frames to be displayed at the same time. This can create a visual artifact that disrupts the smoothness of the motion, making it appear choppy.

Additionally, the responsiveness of the controls can affect how we perceive the smoothness of the motion. If there is input lag or delay between our actions and the corresponding on-screen movement, it can create a disconnect between our expectations and what we see, leading to the perception of choppiness.

It’s also worth noting that the perception of smoothness can be subjective and vary from person to person. Some individuals may be more sensitive to frame rate differences and notice choppiness more easily, while others may not be as affected by it.

Personal experiences can also play a role in how we perceive frame rates. If we are accustomed to playing games or watching videos at higher frame rates, such as 120fps or 240fps, then 60fps may appear less smooth in comparison. This is because our eyes have become accustomed to the higher frame rate and can detect the difference when we switch to a lower frame rate.

There are several factors that can contribute to the perception of choppiness at 60fps. Our eyes’ ability to track motion, the presence of screen tearing, input lag, and personal experiences with higher frame rates can all play a role in how we perceive the smoothness of the motion.