120Hz vs. 240Hz: What's the difference in these LCD TVs?
Posted by Becky Vickman on Tue, Jul 19, 2011 @ 09:26 AM
Every year there seems to be a new, catchy feature in HDTVs. First it was 1080p resolution. Next we heard about 120Hz processors, which reduced the motion blur in fast-moving images. Now one of the newest features is 240Hz, which is supposed to reduce motion blur even more. But is there really a difference between 120Hz and 240Hz?
To begin, it’s worth remembering that there is not any 120Hz or 240Hz content. There is only 24Hz and 60Hz because film is shot at 24 frames per second and video at 60 frames per second.
Standard LCD TVs and plasma TVs refresh the screen 60 times per second, or 60Hz. The difference between a 60Hz picture and a 120Hz picture can be detected by most people. The picture appears sharper and clearer with 120Hz. 60Hz and 120Hz processors are currently available on TVs that are less expensive, and provide lesser panels with fewer features.
To reduce blurring, most 120Hz TVs use a system called MEMC (motion estimation and motion compensation) to slip in a new frame between each of the original frames. The end result is one extra frame for every original frame.
Moving up another level to 240Hz is an additional attempt to reduce motion blur, and to make moving images as smooth as possible. The refresh rate of 240Hz can certainly improve the look of a HDTV, especially when watching fast-moving content such as sports or action movies.
To reduce blurring in 240Hz TVs, there are two different versions of technology currently being used. Here is a breakdown of the two versions.
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MEMC (motion estimation and motion compensation): Some manufacturers use MEMC to basically double the 120Hz process. However, instead of getting one extra frame for each original frame, you get three extra frames.
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Scanning backlight (240 effect): Other manufacturers use what is called “scanning backlight” technology. These TVs use MEMC once to achieve 120Hz, but instead of doubling the interpolation, a backlight flashes on and off very quickly to achieve what some call a “240 effect.”
When you move up to 240Hz, the TV is up to four times faster depending on the processor. 240Hz TVs are a major leap in the quality of components, not just the processor, but the panel as well. A 240Hz processor in a name brand TV assures you quality. Why should you care about the name brand? A higher quality TV, which will always have a 240Hz processor, will also have almost the same quality picture the last day of its life. Most TVs’ pictures become darker and less sharp during their service life. This equals value for your money. The difference in quality is greater in off brand TVs compared to top name brands and the price is not that much higher. So you get quality, longevity and higher performance for not a lot more.
To summarize, a 240Hz TV will produce a significantly better viewing experience for a much better value than a 120Hz. So if you enjoy sports and action movies, you may want to look into purchasing a 240Hz HDTV. Still have questions? Feel free to call a member of our Sales Team, or come in to our store and see the difference for yourself. We will be able to provide additional information to help you decide which TV is right for you.
