GoKawiilExplainer: Why screen tearing happens and how to stop it
Screen tearing occurs when a GPU sends a new frame to the frame buffer before the monitor finishes scanning the previous one, causing two frames to appear on screen simultaneously. This happens because GPUs render frames at variable rates while most monitors refresh on a fixed schedule measured in hertz, such as 60Hz, 144Hz or higher.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
As gaming monitors push refresh rates into the hundreds or even 1,000Hz, the mismatch between GPU output and display refresh timing remains a persistent technical hurdle that affects visual quality regardless of hardware tier. Understanding the cause suggests why solutions like adaptive sync technologies have become standard features marketed by GPU and monitor makers.
- Screen tearing results from mismatched GPU frame rendering speed and monitor refresh rate.
- Refresh rate, measured in hertz, ranges from 60Hz on basic monitors to 1,000Hz on newer gaming models.
- Tearing appears as visual discontinuities because two frames occupy different horizontal bands of the screen at once.
LG 27GP950-B UltraGear Monitor — This monitor supports adaptive sync technologies like G-Sync and FreeSync, which directly address the screen tearing issue by syncing your GPU's output with the display's refresh rate. With a high 144Hz refresh rate, it's a great way to eliminate tearing while enjoying smoother gaming visuals.
See LG 27GP950-B UltraGear Monitor on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Max Miller, 2026-10-04
Published there as: “What causes screen tearing and how can you fix it?”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.