360Hz vs 144Hz: Will It Actually Make You Better at Valorant?

As refresh rates climb from 144Hz to 360Hz, the benefits in terms of motion clarity and input responsiveness become more nuanced, especially in esports titles like Valorant. A higher refresh rate means the display can show more frames per second, reducing motion blur and providing smoother animations. However, the human eye can perceive diminishing returns beyond a certain point, making the leap from 240Hz to 360Hz less noticeable than from 60Hz to 144Hz. The BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K and Alienware AW2523HF both offer 360Hz, providing the ultimate in fluidity for fast-paced gaming. In contrast, the ASUS VG248QG and KOORUI 24E3 provide 165Hz, balancing performance with cost. For gamers prioritizing the highest possible refresh rate, a 360Hz monitor is ideal, but for those on a budget, 165Hz still offers excellent performance. The choice depends on whether the incremental benefits justify the cost.

BenQ's proprietary DyAc+ technology is a game-changer for competitive gamers, particularly in fast FPS games like Valorant. DyAc+ uses backlight strobing to reduce motion blur, resulting in clearer visuals during rapid movements. This technology is exclusive to the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K, setting it apart from other 360Hz monitors like the Alienware AW2523HF, which lacks this feature. However, it's important to note that DyAc+ cannot be used simultaneously with variable refresh rate technologies like FreeSync or G-Sync, which might be a consideration for some users. The reduction in motion blur can significantly enhance target tracking and precision during gameplay, making it a valuable feature for serious esports competitors. For those who prioritize motion clarity above all, DyAc+ offers an edge that could be the difference in high-stakes matches.

In 2025, the choice between TN and IPS panels remains a critical decision for gamers. TN panels, like those in the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K and ASUS VG248QG, are renowned for their ultra-fast response times and high refresh rates, offering minimal motion blur and ghosting. However, they fall short in color accuracy and viewing angles compared to IPS panels. The Alienware AW2523HF and KOORUI 24E3, both featuring Fast IPS technology, offer a balance between speed and superior color reproduction, with 99% sRGB coverage. Fast IPS panels have closed the gap on response times, achieving as low as 0.5ms, making them a compelling choice for those who value both performance and visual fidelity. While TN panels remain the go-to for pure competitive edge, IPS panels are increasingly favored for their versatility and improved viewing experience.

Achieving 360FPS to fully leverage a 360Hz monitor requires a powerful gaming rig. An optimal setup includes a high-end CPU, such as an Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9, paired with a top-tier GPU like the NVIDIA RTX 4080 or AMD RX 7900 XT. RAM also plays a crucial role; at least 16GB of high-frequency DDR4 or DDR5 RAM is recommended to avoid bottlenecks. Additionally, games must be optimized and settings adjusted to maintain such high frame rates. While the BenQ ZOWIE XL2566K and Alienware AW2523HF can deliver 360Hz, the system must consistently output 360FPS to benefit from these displays fully. For competitive gamers investing in a 360Hz monitor, ensuring their hardware can keep up is essential to avoid underutilizing their display's capabilities.