Difference Between 60 Hz and 120 Hz HD LCD TV

60 Hz vs 120 Hz HD LCD TV

60 Hz and 120 Hz HD LCD TV, here 60Hz and 120Hz denote the refreshing rate of the screen. Before finding the difference between 60Hz and 120 Hz LCD TV, it is pertinent to know what is 60 Hz or 120 Hz in context to LCD TV. These are actually refresh rates of a TV which indicate how many times per second an image is refreshed on the screen. It is interesting to see why manufacturers would attempt to increase refresh rate if there was no problem with 60 Hz. Plasma TV manufacturers never talk of refresh rates, it is only in the context of LCD TV’s that refresh rates come into play. The problem in LCD TV is that of motion lag, which results when the images on the screen are moving quickly. The other problem, known as judding takes place as LCD has a hard time displaying a moving image. This results from a combination of internal processing chips and the response rate of the TV.

To overcome the problems of Motion lag and Judding, LCD TV manufacturers have found a solution in increasing the refresh rate from 60 Hz to 120 Hz. 120 Hz refresh rate is being offered by LCD manufacturers on premium sets. This fast refreshment of the image cuts down on motion induced effects. Faster refresh rate reduces both motion lag and judder. Though refreshing images at a faster rate is a good thing, it tends to give the content a plastic look which is not visually very appealing. This is why it is suggested to watch sports programs at 120 Hz but to watch serials and news broadcasting at a slower refresh rate of 60 Hz. TV manufacturers also realize this and this is why they are offering the option to the viewer to switch the faster refresh rate off and to go back to 60 Hz. This has become a standard feature in all latest high end LCD TV’s where viewers are getting the option to turn off high refresh rate of the TV.

Before buying a new LCD, it is worthwhile to see the specifications of the TV in this regard. However, most people are not able to distinguish any noticeable difference in 60 Hz and 120 Hz rate. This is because fast moving images do not produce any dramatic effect on smaller screen size LCD’s. It is only with screen size 32” and more that one can notice the difference in refresh rates. It is a matter of debate whether a higher refresh rate (120 Hz) is better than 60 HZ. The difference in the quality of images is perceptible when one is watching action packed sport programs, and if you are an avid sport lover, and also like to watch them on a big LCD TV, it is better if you go for a TV that has a higher refresh rate.

Summary • 60 Hz and 120 Hz are refresh rates of an LCD TV. • Refresh rate is the number of times an image is refreshed on the screen. • A higher refresh rate reduces motion induced effects on the screen. • Change in refresh rates is noticeable in TV with big screen sizes.