Key Takeaways
- MPRT measures the time for a pixel to fully transition between colors, accounting for motion blur. GtG measures transition time between shades of gray.
- MPRT provides a more accurate measurement of motion blur. GtG measures static image transitions.
- MPRT is achieved through backlight strobing and black frame insertion. GtG through overdrive technology.
- For gaming, MPRT is more important to reduce motion blur. For graphics work, GtG is key for image quality.
When shopping for a high-performance gaming monitor, you may come across technical terms like “1ms response time” or “1ms MPRT” and wonder what the differences are.
I’ll break things down in simple terms to help you make sense of these specs.
What is Response Time?
Response time measures how quickly a monitor can transition pixels from one color to another. This determines the clarity and sharpness we perceive in motion onscreen.
Slow response times lead to distracting artifacts in fast-moving images like games. Faster is better.
There are two main ways response time is measured:
Gray-to-Gray (GtG)
- Measures how fast a pixel can change from one shade of gray to another.
- The simplest transition for a monitor to make.
- Marketed response times like “1ms” or “4ms” refer to GtG.
Motion Picture Response Time (MPRT)
- Measures display persistence – how long pixels remain illuminated.
- More complex and realistic measurement.
- Closer to what we actually perceive in fluid motion.
Generally, MPRT is regarded as a more accurate method of measuring reaction time for gaming monitors because it accounts for the time required for a pixel to completely transition from one color to another.
However, not all monitors enable MPRT, and GtG is still a popular standard.
It’s also worth mentioning that response time is only one of many factors that can influence the performance of a monitor.
Input lag, refresh rate, resolution, and panel type are also essential considerations. All of these factors must be considered when selecting a gaming monitor to guarantee the best possible experience.
MPRT vs GtG: Detailed Comparison Table
| Factor | MPRT | GtG |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Measures the time for a pixel to fully transition between colors, accounting for motion blur. | Measures the transition time between shades of gray. |
| Goal | Provides accurate measurement of motion blur. | Measures static image quality transitions. |
| Implementation | Achieved through backlight strobing, black frame insertion, or motion blur reduction features. | Achieved through overdrive technology which increases voltage to LC cells. |
| Marketing | Often used to market gaming monitors as fast response time. | Also used to market monitors as fast response time. |
| Ideal Use Case | Critical for gaming to reduce motion blur. | Important for graphics/content creation for color accuracy. |
1ms MPRT vs 1ms GtG
Now, let’s explore the nuances between 1ms MPRT and 1ms GtG and decipher their implications for gaming monitors.
1ms MPRT (Moving Picture Response Time)
MPRT refers to the time it takes for a pixel to change from one color to another and back again, measured in milliseconds.
It is the time it takes for a monitor to display a moving image without any visible blur or ghosting effect.
MPRT is an alternative way of measuring response time to GtG, and it is often used to compare monitors with different panel types (e.g., VA, IPS, TN).
1ms MPRT is a common specification found on gaming monitors, and it means that the monitor can display a moving image without any visible blur or ghosting effect in just one millisecond.
This spec is often achieved through the use of technologies such as backlight strobing or black frame insertion, which helps to reduce motion blur and create a sharper image.
1ms GtG (Gray-to-Gray)
GtG refers to the time it takes for a pixel to transition from one shade of gray to another and back again.
It is also measured in milliseconds and is the time it takes for a pixel to change color.
1ms GtG means that the monitor can transition from one shade of gray to another and back again in just one millisecond.
However, it’s important to note that GtG does not take into account the time it takes for a pixel to fully transition from one color to another.
Therefore, a monitor with a fast GtG response time may still suffer from motion blur or ghosting effects when displaying moving images.
Why MPRT Matters More for Gaming
GtG seems straightforward, but it doesn’t tell the whole visual story.
Here’s why MPRT gives a better idea of real-world performance:
- Pixels often transition between colors other than gray. These more difficult color changes will take longer than GtG times.
- GtG only measures transitions at one specific interval. But pixel transitions happen at various speeds in actual content.
- It fails to account for effects like ghosting or coronas around moving objects.
MPRT helps estimate the overall clarity we experience tracking motion. It’s a more realistic indicator for gaming visuals.
Comparing 1ms GtG and MPRT Performance
Let’s see how a monitor with a 1ms GtG rating could produce different MPRT results:
| Monitor A | Monitor B |
|---|---|
| 1ms GtG response time | 1ms GtG response time |
| 5ms MPRT | 1ms MPRT |
Both monitors measure 1ms GtG. But Monitor B achieves a matching 1ms motion clarity rating, while Monitor A scores 5ms in real-world pixel transitions.
So Monitor B would provide noticeably sharper, cleaner visuals in motion. This shows why MPRT gives more insight for gaming than gray-to-gray.
How Monitors Improve MPRT
There are a few display technologies that help lower motion picture response times:
Overdrive – Accelerates pixel transitions by overvolting. Can overshoot ideal colors causing inverse ghosting.
Backlight Strobing – Cyclically dims backlight in sync with the refresh rate. Reduces persistence so pixels don’t linger.
OLED – Self-illuminating pixels react extremely fast. MPRT close to 0.1ms since pixels dim instantly. HDR also enhances motion clarity.
Top monitors combine methods like these to hit 1ms MPRT or lower, significantly increasing visible clarity.
Why it is important to check the MPRT and GTG of monitors?
It is crucial to examine the MPRT and GTG of monitors because they are significant determinants of how well a display renders both motion and static content.
In fast-paced games, videos, or action movies, a monitor with slow reaction times can cause visible artifacts like ghosting, blurring, smearing, and trailing, which can impair the viewing experience. The technology of the monitor, the refresh rate, and input lag, among other things, have an impact on both of these measures.
A lower MPRT value indicates that the display can render fast-moving content more accurately and with less motion blur, while a lower GTG value indicates better static image quality.
However, it is important to note that a low MPRT value does not necessarily equate to a low GTG value and vice versa, and other factors such as panel type and resolution can also affect the display’s performance. Checking MPRT and GTG values can help users choose the right monitor for their intended use case.
For gamers, a display with a fast MPRT value and a low input lag is essential to ensure smooth and responsive gameplay, especially in fast-paced games. For professionals working with static content such as graphic designers or content creators, a display with a low GTG value and a high color accuracy would be more suitable.
Checking MPRT and GTG values can provide users with valuable information about a monitor’s performance and help them make informed purchasing decisions.
How to Choose Between MPRT and GtG
When selecting a monitor, consider your intended use case:
- For gaming, prioritize a low MPRT monitor to reduce motion blur. MPRT has a bigger impact on gaming performance.
- For professional graphics work, a low GtG monitor is key for color accuracy and image quality.
- For general use, balance MPRT and GtG based on your needs. Faster is better for video/movies.
- IPS panels tend to have slower response times than TN or VA panels. However, they offer better viewing angles and color.
- Try to get a monitor with the fastest MPRT and GtG within your budget. 1ms is ideal, but even 4-5ms can be decent.
- Don’t neglect other important factors like resolution, refresh rate, connectivity, and ergonomics.
Example Monitors
- For gaming, the Asus ROG Swift PG259QN has a 0.5ms MPRT and 1ms GtG response time.
- For graphics work, the Dell UltraSharp UP3218K has a 60Hz refresh rate and 5ms GtG response time but excellent color accuracy.
Hitting the Gaming Visual Sweet Spot
While numbers never tell the whole story, targeted specs provide a great starting point:
- 1ms MPRT – Provides excellent base-level motion clarity for high pace competitive games.
- 4ms GtG – Solid pixel response to avoid distracting artifacts in most titles.
- 144+ Hz refresh rate – Higher is better for responsiveness and reducing input lag. Smooth-out frame delivery for a fluid gaming feel.
As long as a monitor meets quality marks like these for response, refresh rate, and input lag, other factors like resolution, size, color performance, and features can come down to budget and preferences.
Testing Methodologies
MPRT is measured using specialized high-speed cameras to capture pixels in motion. GtG is measured by changing pixels between shades of gray and timing the transitions. Both require specialized equipment for accurate measurements.
GtG vs MPRT: Which one is better?
GtG response times are faster than MPRT measures the time it takes for a moving object to appear on the screen without smearing. Therefore, a 1ms GtG response time is considered to be faster than a 1ms MPRT response time.
Again, some manufacturers may use marketing terms such as “1ms MPRT” or “1ms GtG” to promote their products, even if the actual performance of the monitor may not live up to the advertised specifications. Therefore, it’s always important to research a monitor’s performance and read reviews from trusted sources before making a purchase decision.
Clear Motion = Clear Advantage
Understanding display response is crucial for taking your gaming visuals to the next level. While gray-to-grey fails to tell the whole story, motion picture response time provides a realistic indicator of sharpness and clarity in motion.
Matching a monitor’s capabilities to your needs for speed, size, resolution, and beyond comes next. But by knowing the importance of response specs like MPRT, you’re already on the way to finding your dream gaming display.
The key is translating numbers on a spec sheet into tangible improvements feeding your gameplay experience. Because when you fully grasp vital metrics like motion response – and what they allow you to see and do more clearly in the heat of battle – you’ve gained a distinct edge over the competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lower MPRT/GtG always better?
Generally yes, but diminishing returns exist. Going below 4ms is less noticeable. At 1ms differences are hard to discern.
What other specs should I consider besides response time?
Resolution, refresh rate, input lag, viewing angles, contrast ratio, color accuracy, adaptive sync technologies. Get the right balance for your needs.
