The PlayStation TV (PSTV) is a microconsole that allows users to stream PS4 games to another TV in their home. It has a refresh rate of 240Hz and supports 1080p resolution for smooth, high-quality graphics. But how does this translate into input lag, an important factor for gaming performance? Let‘s take a closer look.
PSTV Refresh Rate
The PSTV has a native refresh rate of 240Hz. This means the screen is capable of refreshing and displaying a new frame 240 times per second.
For comparison:
- Standard TVs have a 60Hz refresh rate
- Gaming monitors often have 120Hz or 144Hz refresh rates
- High-end gaming monitors can reach 240Hz
So with 240Hz, the PSTV is on the higher end for a smooth, responsive display.
PSTV Input Lag
Input lag refers to the delay between pressing a button on your controller and seeing the action happen on screen. Lower input lag leads to a more responsive, real-time gaming experience.
According to tests, the PSTV has an input lag of around 33ms across different display modes. How does this compare?
- TVs often have input lag of 60ms or higher
- Good gaming monitors aim for 10-20ms input lag
- Top esports monitors get down to 5ms or below
So while not as fast as dedicated gaming monitors, the PSTV‘s 33ms input lag is very good for a streaming device and on par with many decent gaming TVs. This makes gaming feel snappy and responsive.
240Hz Refresh Rate Benefits
With its high 240Hz refresh rate, the PSTV delivers some key benefits for gaming:
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Smoother motion and animations. The higher refresh rate makes fast movement and panning shots look fluid.
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Less motion blur. With more frequent screen refreshes, you get reduced blurring during fast on-screen motion.
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Lower input lag. A higher refresh rate enables faster response time and lower input lag.
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Reduced screen tearing. Games look cleaner with less tearing or artifacts between frames.
Overall, the 240Hz refresh rate enables a smoother, sharper picture with extremely responsive controls – ideal for gaming.
Is a 240Hz Refresh Rate Overkill?
You might be wondering – is 240Hz overkill for the PSTV? After all, many PS4 games run at 30fps or 60fps.
A 240Hz refresh rate may seem excessive, but it has some benefits:
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Future-proofing. As PS4 games aim for higher framerates, 240Hz will be able to keep up.
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Smoother video. Even at 60fps, a higher refresh rate makes motion look cleaner.
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Reduced input lag. 240Hz enables faster response times.
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Improved PS Now streaming. The higher bandwidth smoothes out compression artifacts.
For the PSTV, 240Hz gives a premium experience and some headroom for higher fidelity PS4 gaming and streaming in the future.
Is the PSTV Good for Gaming?
Between its 240Hz refresh rate and low input lag of 33ms, the PlayStation TV delivers extremely responsive, smooth gaming that feels almost like playing directly on a PS4. Motion looks clean, controls feel snappy, and there‘s minimal lag.
While serious competitive gamers may want an even faster gaming monitor, the PSTV provides a terrific casual and mainstream gaming experience, especially for streaming PS4 games around the house. Its high refresh rate and quick response time are perfectly suited for fast-paced, graphics-intensive gaming.
