Adaptive Sync Over HDMI: The Game-Changing Monitor Test

Tired of that ugly screen tearing ruining a perfect headshot in Apex or a beautiful vista in Elden Ring? What if the secret to buttery-smooth gameplay wasn't a pricey new GPU, but a setting you’ve overlooked? For years, DisplayPort was the only way... but now, Adaptive Sync over HDMI is here. It’s a massive leap for PC gamers and console warriors alike, delivering flawless visuals without needing a specialised, expensive setup. 🚀

Unpacking Adaptive Sync Over HDMI

So, what exactly is this tech? Adaptive Sync, also known as Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), allows your monitor to perfectly match its refresh rate to the frames-per-second (FPS) your graphics card is putting out. The result? No more screen tearing, stuttering, or input lag. It's the visual difference between a choppy home video and a Hollywood blockbuster.

For the longest time, getting this feature reliably meant using a DisplayPort cable. HDMI was the wild west... until now. While HDMI 2.1 made VRR an official standard, many modern displays now support Adaptive Sync over HDMI 2.0 or even 1.4, thanks to AMD's FreeSync technology becoming more widespread. This means that even if you don't have a top-tier rig, you can still get premium performance. If you're chasing the absolute best experience with 4K at high refresh rates, exploring premium monitors from R5000 and up is your first stop.

Dahua LM27-A200V 27" Monitor / FHD 1920 x 1080 / 100Hz Refresh Rate / 5ms Response Time / DHI-LM27-A200V

R2499.00In Stock

SAMSUNG 24" Odyssey G32A FHD 1ms 165Hz Gaming Monitor with Eye Saver Mode, Free-Sync Premium, Height Adjustable Screen for Gamer Comfort, VESA Mount Capability / LS24AG320NAXXA

R3199.00In Stock

AOC 20E1H 19.5" HD (1600 x 900) 60Hz Desktop Monitor - 5ms response time - WLED-Backlit - HDMI, VGA Inputs - Cable Management - Stand Offers Tilting / 20E1H

R1499.00In Stock

Alienware AW2523HF Gaming Monitor - 24.5-inch (1920x1080) 360Hz Display (DP 1.4), 1ms Response Time, AMD Free Sync, Preset OSD Modes, Height/Tilt/Swivel/Pivot Adjustability, Dark Side of The Moon - AW2523HF

R7799.00In Stock

Lenovo G24e-20 23.8" 120Hz FHD WLED Gaming LCD Monitor - 16:9 - Black / 66D7GAR1SA

R3999.00In Stock

Dahua 27" QHD Gaming Monitor - E331 / 1000:1 Contrast ratio / 16.7M Colors / 2560x1440 / 180Hz Refresh Rate / 1ms Response Time / DHI-LM27-E331

R3599.00In Stock

How to Run Your Own Monitor Test 🔧

Think you might already have the hardware for it? Let's check. Enabling Adaptive Sync over HDMI is usually a simple, three-step process.

Step 1: Check Your Monitor's Settings

Grab your monitor's remote or use the buttons on the display itself to open the On-Screen Display (OSD). Navigate through the menu to the 'Gaming' or 'Picture' section. Look for an option called "FreeSync," "Adaptive-Sync," or "VRR" and make sure it’s toggled ON. If you don't see it, consult your monitor's manual... it might be hidden away.

Step 2: Enable It In Your GPU Software

Next, head to your PC.

• For NVIDIA users: Right-click your desktop, open the NVIDIA Control Panel, go to "Set up G-SYNC," and tick the box to "Enable G-SYNC, G-SYNC Compatible." If your monitor is compatible, it should appear here.
• For AMD users: Open the AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition, click the 'Gaming' tab, then 'Displays'. From there, you can enable AMD FreeSync.

Step 3: Fire Up a Game and See the Magic! ✨

Launch your favourite game and pan the camera around quickly. The difference should be night and day. The stuttering is gone, the tearing has vanished... all you're left with is gloriously smooth gameplay. What a pleasure!

Finding a Great VRR Monitor in South Africa

The best part about this evolution is that you no longer need to spend a fortune to get a great experience. The technology has become so common that many fantastic, budget-friendly screens support it. You can find a huge range of gaming monitors for under R5000 that deliver crisp visuals and the smooth performance of Adaptive Sync over HDMI. It’s the perfect way to get a serious competitive edge without emptying your wallet.