Diagnose and eliminate screen tearing in games and videos with our comprehensive testing tools and proven solutions. From V-Sync basics to advanced G-Sync/FreeSync optimization, master smooth, tear-free gaming.
Click below to launch our screen tearing detection test. This will display moving patterns to help identify tearing issues.
Watch for horizontal lines splitting the moving bar
Screen tearing occurs when your display shows information from multiple frames in a single screen draw. This results in a visible horizontal line or "tear" where the image doesn't line up properly. It happens when the frame rate output by your graphics card doesn't sync with your monitor's refresh rate.
Imagine your monitor is painting the screen from top to bottom. Halfway through, a new frame arrives. The monitor continues painting but now uses the new frame's data, creating a visible "tear" where the old and new frames meet.
The most reliable way to test for screen tearing using TestUFO.com:
Test in actual gaming scenarios where tearing is most noticeable:
Screen tearing can also occur during video playback:
Vertical Synchronization (V-Sync) is the oldest and most basic solution to screen tearing. It forces the graphics card to wait for the monitor to finish displaying a frame before sending a new one.
Modern adaptive sync technologies dynamically adjust the monitor's refresh rate to match the GPU's frame output, eliminating tearing without V-Sync's drawbacks.
Frame rate limiters are crucial for eliminating tearing while minimizing input lag, especially with adaptive sync technologies.
For adaptive sync: Max Refresh Rate - 3 FPS
Example: 144Hz monitor → Cap at 141 FPS
This keeps you within VRR range while preventing V-Sync activation.
While not directly causing tearing, incorrect overdrive can make it more noticeable:
Can reduce motion blur but may interact poorly with sync:
ULMB, ELMB, DyAc, etc.:
Yes, NVIDIA GPUs (GTX 10-series and newer) support many FreeSync monitors through "G-Sync Compatible" mode. Not all work perfectly, but NVIDIA has tested and certified many models. Enable in NVIDIA Control Panel under "Set up G-SYNC."
This usually happens when FPS exceeds the monitor's maximum refresh rate or drops below the VRR range (typically 48Hz minimum). Use an FPS limiter set to 3-5 FPS below your max refresh rate, and ensure Low Framerate Compensation (LFC) is working for drops.
No, screen tearing is purely a visual artifact and doesn't damage your monitor. It's simply a synchronization issue between your GPU and display. However, it can cause eye strain and headaches during extended gaming sessions.
Most competitive players disable all sync technologies to minimize input lag, accepting screen tearing as a trade-off. However, modern G-Sync/FreeSync implementations add minimal lag (1-3ms). With a 240Hz+ monitor and proper FPS limiting, adaptive sync can provide tear-free gaming with negligible competitive disadvantage.
Cable quality doesn't cause tearing, but bandwidth limitations can prevent sync technologies from working. Use DisplayPort 1.4 for G-Sync and high refresh rates. HDMI 2.1 supports FreeSync and newer G-Sync Compatible displays. Always use certified cables for your target resolution and refresh rate.
Screen tearing doesn't have to ruin your gaming experience. With modern adaptive sync technologies and proper configuration, you can enjoy smooth, tear-free visuals without significant input lag. The key is understanding your priorities:
Remember to test your configuration with the tools provided above and adjust based on your specific hardware and preferences. Every system is different, and finding the perfect balance takes experimentation.