Valorant, Riot Games’ hit tactical shooter, offers numerous graphics options designed to optimize both performance and gameplay smoothness. One setting that generates ongoing debate within the gaming community is VSync—but what exactly does it do, and should you enable it?
Understanding VSync
VSync stands for Vertical Synchronization. It is a graphics technology built to synchronize the frame rate output of your graphics card with the refresh rate of your monitor.
The Purpose
- Prevent Screen Tearing: Screen tearing occurs when your system outputs more frames per second than your monitor can display. You might see horizontal splits or mismatched frame segments during fast gameplay.
- Smoother Visuals: By aligning frame generation with the refresh cycle of your display, VSync makes in-game visuals appear smoother and eliminates distracting graphical splits.
How Does VSync Work?
When VSync is enabled, your graphics card waits for the monitor’s refresh cycle before pushing a new frame to the screen. For example, if your monitor refreshes at 60Hz, VSync ensures the game doesn’t display more than 60 frames per second.
| Without VSync | With VSync |
| Frames may be out of sync, causing tearing. | Frames are synchronized, removing tearing. |
VSync in Valorant: Pros and Cons
Benefits
- Eliminates screen tearing for more immersive visuals, especially noticeable during fast movement.
- Can reduce GPU workload by capping frame rate, potentially lowering system heat and power use.
Drawbacks
- Input Lag: VSync can add a small delay between a player’s actions (like mouse clicks) and what’s displayed on the screen. In high-stakes shooters such as Valorant, this input lag can make the game feel less responsive.
- Potential Stutter: If your system can’t consistently maintain your monitor’s refresh rate, VSync can cause visible stuttering or frame drops, negatively impacting gameplay smoothness.
Should You Use VSync in Valorant?
When to Enable VSync:
- If you consistently experience screen tearing and find it impacts your visual experience.
- If visual smoothness matters more to you than response time (for example, in casual or story-driven games).
When to Disable VSync:
- For competitive and fast-paced play—like most Valorant matches—where low input lag is crucial for precise aiming.
- If you have a high-refresh-rate monitor (144Hz+) and can’t see noticeable tearing.
Pro Tip: Many pro players and competitive gamers turn VSync off and opt for technology like NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync (if available), which smooth visuals without the extra input lag.
How to Find VSync Settings in Valorant
- Go to Settings > Video > Graphics Quality
- Locate the VSync option and toggle it On or Off, depending on your preference.
- Remember to also check your graphics card control panel for system-level VSync settings if needed.
Community Insights
Players’ experiences with VSync vary widely. Some value the crisp, tear-free visuals, while others can’t tolerate the added input lag, especially in ranked or high-level play.
Conclusion
VSync in Valorant is a double-edged sword: it offers visual smoothness at the expense of some game responsiveness. For most serious players, the lowest possible input lag is king, meaning VSync stays off.
Written by:
Christian