How FPS and frame time relate
Frames per second counts how many images your PC or console finishes each second. Frame time is the same thing upside down: how long each one takes. Because they're reciprocals, equal FPS gains get smaller and smaller in real time as frame rates climb.
The formula
FPS = 1000 ÷ frame time (ms)
refresh interval (ms) = 1000 ÷ refresh rate (Hz)
Common frame rates
| FPS / Hz | Frame time | Saved vs. the row above |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 33.3 ms | — |
| 60 | 16.7 ms | 16.7 ms |
| 120 | 8.3 ms | 8.3 ms |
| 144 | 6.9 ms | 1.4 ms |
| 240 | 4.2 ms | 2.8 ms |
| 360 | 2.8 ms | 1.4 ms |
| 480 | 2.1 ms | 0.7 ms |
Getting smoother frames
- Cap your frame rate. A cap just under your refresh rate, with G-Sync or FreeSync on, gives steady frame times and avoids tearing.
- Watch the 1% lows. Stutter comes from the slowest frames. Lowering CPU-heavy settings (view distance, crowds, shadows) often helps more than lowering resolution.
- Don't chase the last few ms. Past about 240 FPS, each upgrade saves under 2 ms per frame. A good monitor and a stable connection may matter more.
Frequently asked questions
How do you convert FPS to milliseconds?
Divide 1,000 by the frame rate. 60 FPS is 16.7 ms per frame, 144 FPS is 6.9 ms and 240 FPS is 4.2 ms. To go the other way, divide 1,000 by the frame time in milliseconds.
Why is frame time better than FPS for comparing performance?
Frame time is linear and FPS isn't. Going from 30 to 60 FPS saves 16.7 ms per frame, but going from 144 to 240 FPS saves only 2.8 ms. Frame time shows how much each upgrade actually changes what you feel.
Should my FPS be higher than my refresh rate?
Frames above your refresh rate still lower input latency a little, because the frame you see is newer, but they aren't displayed as extra frames and can cause tearing without a sync technology. With G-Sync or FreeSync, many players cap FPS a few frames below the refresh rate for smooth, tear-free motion.
What is 1% low FPS?
1% lows are the frame rate of your slowest 1% of frames. A game averaging 120 FPS with 1% lows of 40 will feel stuttery, because those slow frames take 25 ms each. Stable frame times matter as much as the average.
What frame time do I need for a 144 Hz monitor?
A 144 Hz monitor refreshes every 6.94 ms. To show a new frame on every refresh, your PC needs to render each frame in 6.94 ms or less, which is 144 FPS or more.
Rates and figures last checked October 2026.
This calculator gives estimates for planning. Check current rates and product labels before you buy, list or file.