Adaptive sync technology improves the graphics by eliminating stuttering and screen tearing. These issues occur when the GPU outpaces the monitor’s refresh rate. When users activate adaptive sync, the monitor and GPU refresh rates sync to the same speed. The matching refresh rates result in a smoother picture without adding latency.
There are two main types of adaptive sync: FreeSync and G-Sync. FreeSync comes from AMD, while G-Sync is Nvidia’s alternative. FreeSync monitors are often cheaper than G-Sync alternatives. Another advantage of FreeSync is that it works on HDMI and DisplayPort instead of DisplayPort only like G-Sync.
FreeSync comes in three different tiers. The standard FreeSync is the company’s entry-level adaptive sync technology with basic features. FreeSync Premium is the mid-tier version that adds a minimum 120Hz refresh rate at 1080p resolution and low framerate compensation (LFC). LFC kicks in when a PC’s refresh rate drops below the monitor’s minimum refresh rate. It works by displaying every rendered frame twice, so users don’t notice the frame drop. The top tier is called FreeSync Premium Pro. It has the same features as FreeSync Premium but adds low latency in SDR and HDR. The two lower tiers can have trouble processing HDR because of bandwidth issues, while the Premium Pro can easily process HDR without any difficulty.
These are the best FreeSync monitors currently available.
Best overall FreeSync monitor
Samsung Odyssey G7
Samsung’s Odyssey G7 makes the top of the list because of its all-around capabilities. Everything from its design to performance is top-notch, and it includes FreeSync Premium Pro as a standard feature.
One of the best features of this monitor is its performance. It has a 27-inch vertical alignment (VA) display with WQHD 1440p resolution. The refresh rate is fast at 240Hz, and so is the response time of one millisecond Gray to Gray (GtG). Apart from having the highest tier FreeSync capability, the Odyssey G7 is also G-Sync compatible to work with most graphics cards.
Samsung went all out to give the Odyssey G7 premium design features. The screen has a 1,000R curved shape, meaning it would form a circle with a one-meter radius if it were placed edge to edge with another monitor of the same type. This tight curvature is optimal for gamers because it allows them to view the whole monitor without moving their heads.
Considering its performance and design, the Odyssey G7 is an excellent multipurpose monitor that works equally well for gaming or other activities. It doesn’t come cheap, but it has enough features to justify its price.
Best 4K FreeSync monitor
Gigabyte AORUS FV43U
The Aorus FV43U allows users to enjoy the incredible detail of UHD 4K on a massive screen. Its colossal size blurs the line between a monitor and a TV, and it’s a bit of both. There’s no built-in tuner like a TV, but it has HDMI compatibility to work with most audio and video devices.
Most of the FV43U’s appeal comes from its huge screen. The 43-inch screen is much larger than most monitors and has a VA panel with UHD 4K 2160p resolution. Considering its screen size, the 144Hz refresh rate offered by the FV43U is impressive, and so is the one-millisecond response time. Like the Odyssey G7, it’s compatible with FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync.
There’s no shortage of connectivity options, meaning the FV43U can connect to most devices. Both HDMI 2.1 ports support variable refresh rates (VRR) up to 120Hz, making it ideal for current-gen consoles like the Xbox Series X and the PS5. There’s also two USB-A 3.1 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C port.
While the FV43U has a large screen and high resolution, it’s also very pricey. This monitor costs almost double the Odyssey G7 and may be out of reach for many buyers. Another disadvantage of the large screen is that it may be too big for PC players who sit at a desk.
