144Hz vs. 165Hz: Which Refresh Rate Is Best for Gamers

You’re deep in a match—your squad’s needs you to help them win. One second you’re lining up the perfect shot, and the next, the screen stutters just enough to throw everything off. Sound familiar? That small mistake could mean the difference between a win and a disappointing loss. For gamers, smooth visuals aren’t just nice to have—they’re essential. Now this is where refresh rates step in. So, which one actually makes more sense for your setup? Let’s break it all down in gamer-friendly terms so you can choose what works best for your style, your budget, and your favorite games.

What Is Refresh Rate, and Why Does It Matter for Gaming?

Think of refresh rate as how many times your monitor updates the image each second. It’s measured in Hertz (Hz), and in gaming, this directly impacts how smooth your visuals feel. A 60Hz monitor shows 60 frames per second, while a 144Hz monitor shows 144 frames—and that’s more than double the visual data per second.

This higher refresh rate can help you see responses faster in fast-paced games like CS: GO or Call of Duty. This can make your moves feel more natural and responsive. You'll be able to see enemies faster, track movements better, and have less trouble with the screen tearing. That’s a huge bonus for competitive play.

And it’s not only about speed. A higher refresh rate also reduces motion blur and eye strain, which makes long gaming sessions more comfortable. Once you’ve played on a high-refresh-rate monitor, it’s hard to go back. It adds a fluidity to gameplay that’s incredibly immersive and hard to ignore.

You Need to Know the Difference Between 144Hz and 165Hz Refresh Rate

144Hz Refresh Rate

A 144Hz gaming monitor is widely considered the entry point for serious gamers. It’s fast, reliable, and supports buttery-smooth gameplay, especially in FPS and racing games. Most graphics cards can comfortably handle games at 144 FPS, which makes this refresh rate both practical and affordable.

Compatibility is another reason why gamers like 144Hz. A lot of games and GPUs work best with this number. 144Hz gaming monitors also come in a lot of different styles, so you can easily find one that fits your wants and budget. If you're coming from 60Hz, the change feels huge—it's like going into fast mode.

165Hz Refresh Rate

The 165Hz refresh rate takes everything good about 144Hz and adds just a little extra. That 21Hz bump might not seem massive, but it tightens up the motion clarity and makes high-speed scenes feel even smoother. It also allows more headroom for GPUs that can push frame rates higher than 144.

This refresh rate is especially useful for gamers using overclocked settings or playing on powerful setups. Think of it as tuning your car for peak track performance. The experience feels slightly more refined and responsive, especially when paired with technologies like FreeSync or G-Sync. It’s an ideal choice if you’re all about that competitive edge.

What Should Pro Gamers Choose: 144Hz or 165Hz?

Frame-Perfect Precision

Precision is not optional for pro players; it is required. Frame-perfect performance counts whether you’re competing in an FPS tournament or streaming to thousands. Here, 165Hz provides that small edge in monitoring quick motion and aiming with more accuracy.

GPU Compatibility

Your graphics card plays a huge role. Most mid-range GPUs handle 144Hz with ease, but if you’re packing something like an RTX 4070 or above, you’ll get more mileage out of a 165Hz gaming monitor. You’re simply unleashing more potential from your hardware.

Competitive Esports Titles

Games like Valorant, CS\:GO, and Apex Legends benefit from higher refresh rates. These are reaction-based titles where even milliseconds matter. If you’re playing at a pro level, 165Hz might help you shave off those extra frames between a win and a loss.

Budget & Accessibility

144Hz monitors are usually easier on the wallet and offer more availability. If you're upgrading from 60Hz or 75Hz, it’s a huge leap and gives great value. It’s still very much used in competitive settings and provides an amazing visual boost for less money.

Longevity of Setup

If you're building a future-proof setup, the 165Hz refresh rate gives a bit more breathing room. It aligns with newer technologies and keeps your rig relevant longer. For gamers planning ahead, it might be the smarter move in the long run.

Which Refresh Rate Is Better for Competitive Gaming?

When you're playing against other players, reaction time, screen clarity, and smooth movements are all very important. When you're in a fast-paced battle or trying to line up an important headshot, every frame counts. It's because of this that refresh rate is so important to esports players and pro gamers.

A refresh rate of 144Hz is already a huge improvement over regular monitors in terms of speed. It's smooth and responsive, which helps players keep up with moving targets, reduces ghosting, and makes the game experience more immersive. It's easy to see why it's the standard for e-sports sets around the world.

However, 165Hz pushes the boundary a little further. It makes inputs more responsive and adds fluidity, which you can see most clearly in twitch-based shooters and racing sims. Even though the difference is small, it can be worth it for serious players who look for every edge. It's like going from a sports car to a race car with extra tweaks—both are fast, but one turns bends a little sharper.

How Does Refresh Rate Impact FPS in Gaming?

First, it’s important to know that FPS (frames per second) and refresh rate aren’t the same—but they work together. FPS is controlled by your GPU, while refresh rate is your monitor’s ability to display that output. When they align, you get the smoothest possible experience.

If your graphics card pushes 165 FPS but your monitor only supports 144Hz, you’ll experience screen tearing and input lag. On the flip side, if your monitor has a 165Hz refresh rate and your GPU only delivers 100 FPS, you won’t fully benefit from that higher refresh rate. So, your system should strike a balance between both.

High refresh rates, when supported by your GPU, give you an ultra-smooth and responsive feel. It’s especially noticeable during fast movement—like quick turns, sprints, or gunfire. This makes 144Hz and 165Hz gaming monitors ideal for competitive gaming. For best results, pair a high-refresh-rate display with a GPU that consistently maintains high frame output.

What Are the Average Prices of 144Hz and 165Hz Monitors in Pakistan?

If you're trying to find the sweet spot between performance and price, here’s what you need to know. In Pakistan, the cost of gaming monitors has a wide range depending on screen size, brand, and features. But generally, 144Hz monitors start at a more budget-friendly level.

A solid 144Hz gaming monitor with Full HD resolution can range from PKR 35,000 to PKR 60,000. These options offer excellent value and are ideal for gamers upgrading from basic displays. On the other hand, 165Hz monitors, especially those with IPS panels and additional features like FreeSync or HDR, tend to start around PKR 55,000 and can go above PKR 90,000.

Pricing varies across stores and sales, so it’s smart to compare before buying. You can always check trusted stores like Boost Lifestyle for the best deals, or go to stores like these to find the best gaming monitor price in Pakistan. You won't have to spend a lot of money to get the refresh rate you need.

What Types of Games Support These Refresh Rates?

Game Title	144Hz Compatibility	165Hz Compatibility
Valorant	Ultra smooth aiming and flicks	Slightly crisper tracking for pro-level gameplay
Apex Legends	Better target visibility in fast combat	Extra smooth strafing and fast movement
Fortnite	Smoother building and editing	Seamless transitions during intense battles
CS:GO	Clearer recoil control and snappy response	Improved micro-adjustments during aim duels
Call of Duty: Warzone	Reduced motion blur during quick turns	Sharper frames during air drops and kill trades
PUBG	Less stutter during map traversal	Even quicker zoom and tracking in sniper fights
Rocket League	Precise movement and ball tracking	Hyper-fluid animations and aerial shots
Rainbow Six Siege	Tighter pre-fire advantage	Subtle edge in peeking corners and fast peeks

Why Should You Buy from Boost Lifestyle?

Ever wish buying tech could feel less like a chore and more like a power-up? Boost Lifestyle is exactly that. We are the largest dealer of computer accessories in Pakistan, and we’ve built our name by understanding what gamers and tech lovers truly want. Whether you're hunting for a 144Hz gaming monitor or planning to upgrade to a high-end 165Hz screen, our online store is packed with options that balance quality, price, and performance.

If you're looking to buy computer accessories online in Pakistan, visit our online store—it’s easy to browse, packed with deals, and backed by expert support. Our inventory features trusted brands and the latest gear, all delivered with convenience and care. With Boost Lifestyle, you're not just shopping—you’re upgrading your gaming experience with gear that matches your ambition.

Boost Lifestyle Gaming Monitor

1. Boost Adonis Gaming Monitor: This 23.8-inch monitor packs a punch with its Full HD 1920x1080 resolution and a lightning-fast 165Hz refresh rate. Built with an IPS screen and 1ms response time, it gives sharp visuals and fast action without screen tearing. It’s got built-in speakers and supports both FreeSync and G-Sync, so compatibility is never an issue.

2. Boost Adonis Pro Gaming Monitor: Looking for a larger screen with pro-grade specs? The Adonis Pro offers a stunning 27-inch display with 2560x1440 resolution. It features the same 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, but boosts contrast to 4000:1 and supports 100% sRGB for ultra-accurate colors. You also get HDR, built-in speakers, and dual-sync support.

Pick Your Perfect Frame Rate!

At the end of the day, the difference between 144Hz and 165Hz is small—but meaningful. If you're upgrading from a lower refresh rate, both will feel incredible. If you're already using a 144Hz display and want every tiny edge in competitive play, 165Hz could be worth the switch.

Remember, your choice should match your setup. A powerful graphics card deserves a screen that can match its performance. Likewise, your favorite game genres and how seriously you take competitive play should guide you toward the right refresh rate.

What matters most is how the monitor feels during your own sessions. Fluid gameplay, minimal input lag, and a visual experience that keeps you locked in—that’s what it’s really about. And both refresh rates deliver that, with slight variations that can enhance specific gaming styles.

Ready to level up your setup? Choose the refresh rate that fits your gameplay—and let the wins stack up.