G-SYNC Compatible vs. G-SYNC: Which is best? – Guide
G-Sync is probably the most popular, long-lasting and well-known variable refresh rate (VRR) technology on the market. When NVIDIA introduced it nearly a decade ago, G-Sync gave gamers the ability to eliminate screen tearing without incurring the unnecessary input lag that often accompanies VSync (“vertical sync”). Since then, however, there have been several developments. Most importantly, AMD has released its FreeSync VRR technology to compete with NVIDIA. FreeSync does the same thing as G-Sync, but it’s based on the VESA Adaptive-Sync standard, which is open and free. NVIDIA’s G-Sync, on the other hand, requires a proprietary hardware module in the display, adding cost to the equation. Probably because of this competition from AMD, “G-Sync Compatible” was born. Like FreeSync monitors, G-Sync compatible monitors use the free, open Adaptive-Sync standard to enable a seamless gaming experience. But more than two years after the introduction of G-Sync capable monitors, G-Sync monitors are still being produced. That leaves us with the question: why would you choose what will likely be a more expensive G-Sync monitor over a G-Sync compatible one? Are there any advantages to using NVIDIA’s hardware-enabled VRR technology over the free alternative?
What is G-sync?
G-Sync is a frame synchronization technology that allows your monitor to match its refresh rate to the frame rate generated by your PC. NVIDIA developed this technology to eliminate annoying screen artifacts, better known as screen tearing – a visual error where two frames are rendered at the same time. Unlike V-Sync – which attempts to eliminate screen tearing by forcing the GPU to wait for the monitor’s rendering cycle to complete – G-Sync allows the monitor to adjust its refresh rate in real-time. Not only is this a more efficient way to reduce screen tearing, but it also allows your GPU to consistently produce the highest FPS possible. Even better, you won’t experience stuttering or increased input lag when using G-Sync, mainly because the monitor is improving its own performance – not the GPU.
What is a G-sync monitor?
To be classified as a true G-Sync monitor, a monitor must have a dedicated G-Sync hardware module. NVIDIA’s proprietary VRR engine helps deliver the highest frame-matching performance, allowing the display to support fast refresh rates, high resolutions, and low input lag. In addition, a monitor must also meet some stringent requirements of the G-Sync specification, including: variable overdrive, full support across the monitor’s refresh rate range, factory color calibration, passing an NVIDIA certification process ( which includes over 300 image samples). As you can imagine, with a ton of features and benefits, G-Sync monitors are more expensive than FreeSync and G-Sync compatible alternatives.
What does G-sync support?
A workaround for NVIDIA GPU users that does the same thing is G-sync support. G-sync capable monitors are usually FreeSync monitors that allow NVIDIA GPU users to use AMD technology to sync frames during gameplay. G-sync capable monitors do not come equipped with a built-in hardware module, instead they utilize the monitor’s built-in adaptive sync protocols (via DisplayPort 1.2) to reduce screen tearing. While this is great for the general consumer – expanding the market for individuals using NVIDIA GPUs – the technology that supports G-sync isn’t quite as polished as G-sync. Despite NVIDIA claims that more than 200 displays support G-sync compatible technology, many fall prey to unpleasant visual artifacts such as flickering, pulsing, juddering and blanking. Also, while G-sync fully supports variable refresh rate for the entire monitor’s refresh range (1hz – 240hz, for example), G-sync capable monitors are subject to the limitations of Freesync – often ranging from 48Hz at the monitor’s maximum refresh rate).
Compatible with G-sync vs G-sync: Side-by-side comparison
Let’s take a closer look at some of the performance-affecting factors that separate G-sync and G-sync-compatible technologies. NVIDIA results show that G-sync compatible products offer the following features: In comparison, true G-sync products offer the following features: As you can see in the graphic above, there is a big difference in the validation process when selecting G-sync and G-sync compatible products. Each of the additional G-syncs features he adds up to create a much greater overall viewing experience.
Compatible with G-sync vs G-sync: pros and cons
Like most hardware technologies, G-sync and G-sync compatible come to the table with their own unique set of pros and cons. Let’s start with the G-sync monitor pros: The integrated G-sync hardware module allows for some hefty performance boosts – as seen above. All features of G-sync are aimed up to help drive a better visual experience, offering not only superior visuals but additional levels of customization. G-sync compatible pros: As you can see, G-sync capable monitors have advantages such as value and versatility – especially given the prospect of working with AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards.
How does G-sync work?
While the theory behind the G-sync technology is pretty basic, the physical delivery of the technology is much more advanced. This simplified version of the G-sync technology clearly shows how the GPU renders the frame, after which the monitor looks for it. Using this formation does not allow for tearing, stuttering and less input lag – all features prioritized by most players.
Compatible with G-sync vs G-sync: Which is better?
If you look at this comparison purely technically and visually, the G-Sync is the clear winner. G-Sync monitors offer a better visual experience with pre-calibrated colors, variable clipping, ultra-low motion blur reduction, overclocking and reduced input lag. It’s no secret that G-Sync is a far superior technology. That said, there’s one factor that makes many people think twice about diving headlong into a G-Sync monitor – the price. Thanks to the built-in G-Sync hardware module found in all G-Sync monitors, these panels cost a lot more than G-Sync-compatible alternatives. This is the number one consideration for some people when shopping for a monitor – and one that ultimately drives many people to consider G-Sync compatible alternatives. Overall, it is up for you and what you prioritize with your viewing needs. If you want the best possible visual experience, G-Sync monitors definitely give you a better experience compared to G-Sync compatible monitors. However, if you’re looking to cut corners and don’t mind some of the little artifacts that come with NVIDIA’s cutting-edge technology, a G-Sync capable monitor might be just what you’re looking for.
Final note
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