Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsWindows FixRecommendedWindows errors stealing your time? Find the fix fastScan stability, cleanup and performance issues.Fix NowHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › Adaptive-Sync

How to Set Up Adaptive Sync on a Gaming Monitor: G-SYNC and FreeSync

By Freedom251 Team · · 4 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

To enable adaptive sync, first confirm your monitor and graphics hardware support the same variable refresh rate (VRR) technology. Turn it on in the monitor’s on-screen display (OSD), then enable or verify it in NVIDIA Control Panel for G-SYNC or AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition for FreeSync. The exact options depend on your monitor, GPU, connection and software version, so check the manual for your model when a setting is missing.

What adaptive sync does—and what you need

Adaptive sync adjusts the display’s refresh timing to follow the frames produced by the GPU. It can reduce screen tearing and stutter, but it does not guarantee that every visual artifact will disappear on every system. NVIDIA explains its display requirements in its G-SYNC overview; AMD describes FreeSync compatibility and requirements in its FreeSync overview.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

  • A compatible monitor: It must support the relevant mode, such as G-SYNC, G-SYNC Compatible or FreeSync.
  • Compatible graphics hardware: Confirm that your GPU or APU supports the monitor’s adaptive-sync mode. AMD also lists a current compatible graphics driver as a requirement.
  • A supported connection: Available ports and VRR support vary by monitor and GPU. AMD documents FreeSync over DisplayPort and HDMI on certified displays; its configuration guidance specifies DisplayPort 1.2 or higher where applicable. Neither connection note applies universally to every model.

For G-SYNC Compatible displays, NVIDIA lists Windows 10 or later and Pascal-class or later GPUs; dedicated G-SYNC displays have different requirements. Check NVIDIA’s current documentation and your monitor’s manual for your exact combination.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Set up G-SYNC or G-SYNC Compatible

  1. Connect and power on the monitor, then make it the primary display in Windows. Confirm that the monitor and GPU support the G-SYNC mode you intend to use.
  2. Open NVIDIA Control Panel and choose Display > Set up G-SYNC.
  3. Check Enable G-SYNC/G-SYNC Compatible. Choose Full screen mode for full-screen applications, or Windowed and full screen mode if you want VRR in windowed applications too. If windowed mode causes problems, use full-screen-only mode.
  4. If NVIDIA Control Panel prompts you to enable G-SYNC for the selected display model, do so. Then open Manage 3D Settings and verify that Monitor Technology is set to G-SYNC/G-SYNC Compatible.
  5. To check whether a game is using G-SYNC, select Display > Show indicator for G-SYNC from the NVIDIA Control Panel menu bar. The indicator’s name can differ by display type.

See NVIDIA’s G-SYNC setup instructions for the documented Control Panel steps.

#1 Best Overall
Amzfast 24 Inch Gaming Monitor 200Hz FHD 1080p Computer Monitor, 1ms Adaptive Sync, 3000:1, 129% sRGB, HDR Display, Eye Care, VESA 75x75, Metal Stand, HDMI 2.0 | DP 1.4, AMZG24X1
  • 【24 Inch Gaming Monitor with Fast VA Screen】Amzfast 24 inch gaming monitor features a fast VA panel, offering 178°V/H Viewing Angle. With a resolution of 1920*1080, you can see every detail clearly no matter the angle.
  • 【200Hz Refresh Rate 1ms & Adaptive Sync】This gaming monitor delivers a gaming experience of 200hz refresh rate, delivering smoother gameplay for FPS, RPG, and racing games; With a dynamic response time of 1ms and Adaptive Sync technology, it enables faster image capture while reducing screen tearing and stuttering through refresh rate synchronization, compatibility with FreeSync and G-SYNC.
  • 【129% sRGB & Eye Care Function】Amzfast 24 inch monitor delivers vibrant visuals with 129% sRGB color gamut coverage,300nits brightness, a contrast ratio of 3000:1, and HDR Display.Eye-Care PC gaming monitor reduce the low blue light, Flicker-Free, and Anti-Glare technology to protect you from eye fatigue, irritation and strains. This enables you to work on your documents, watch movies, or play games more comfortably for extended periods.
  • 【Support VESA Mount & Metal Stand】The metal stand provides sufficient stability and improves desktop utilization. The monitor gamer also support VESA mounts(75mm x 75mm) and tilt adjustment of -5°~15°(+/-2°).
  • 【Multiple Interfaces】This gaming pc monitor equipped with versatile connectivity options including HDMI 2.1 TMDS, DisplayPort 1.4 port which support Desktop PC, Gaming Laptops, Switch, XBOX, PS gaming console etc

Enable AMD FreeSync

  1. Confirm that your monitor and AMD GPU or APU support FreeSync, and install a current compatible graphics driver.
  2. Open the monitor’s OSD and enable AMD FreeSync. AMD’s configuration guidance also says to disable Anti-Blur and set DisplayPort to 1.2 or higher where those controls apply. Menu names and available settings vary by model, so use the monitor manual for exact instructions.
  3. Open AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition and check or enable FreeSync under Gaming/Display. AMD notes that the feature may turn on automatically with compatible AMD graphics and a certified display.
  4. If FreeSync is unavailable or appears inactive, check the monitor’s picture presets and custom picture settings. AMD says some such settings can disable FreeSync; consult the monitor maker’s directions for the certified model.

AMD recommends enabling V-Sync or capping the frame rate if a game’s FPS regularly exceeds the display’s refresh rate. Treat that as AMD’s guidance, not a universal rule for every game or configuration. See AMD’s FreeSync configuration instructions and instructions for enabling FreeSync.

Check the monitor and connection before changing hardware

There is no single connection choice or VRR operating range that applies to every display. Before buying a monitor or cable, check the exact monitor and GPU models for supported adaptive-sync modes, available input ports, and the monitor’s documented VRR operating range. If your existing monitor and graphics hardware already support the same mode, you may only need to enable it in the OSD and vendor software. The official requirements are in NVIDIA’s G-SYNC overview and AMD’s FreeSync overview.

Rank #2
Sale
KOORUI 24 inch Curved Gaming Monitor 180Hz FHD 1080P, 1ms 1500R Display
  • 1500R Curved Immersion: The KOORUI 24 inch curved gaming monitor features an 1500R curvature, offering a wider, more comfortable,more immersive and natural viewing experience by enhancing depth and dimension in your gameplay,while FHD 1080p delivers crisp details.
  • 180Hz Smooth Gameplay: Experience buttery-smooth visuals with 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT response time , perfect for competitive FPS, racing games, or fast-paced action. Adaptive Sync technology provides smooth, tear-free gameplay, delivering seamless performance for both gaming and business applications.
  • Excellent Color: Enjoy vibrant, true-to-life colors with a 250 cd/m² brightness, 8-bit color depth, and a 16.7 million color gamut. HDR10 support brings out deeper blacks and vibrant highlights for cinematic visuals.The 3000:1 contrast ratio and 99% SRGB bring out rich details and exceptional image quality,ensuring stunning visual quality whether you're gaming or working.
  • Eye Care: Equipped with Flicker-Free technology to eliminate screen flickering, reducing eye strain during extended gaming or work sessions. Combined with the Blue Light Filter, it cuts harmful high-energy blue light emission, providing maximum protection for your eyes.
  • Versatile Connectivity: 3-sided bezel-less screen, this monitor features HDMI (v2.0)×2, DisplayPort 1.2×1, and an audio-out (No speakers). Compatible with a variety of devices, including PC, laptop, gaming consoles. It also supports VESA 100x100mm mounting and offers front and rear tilt adjustments (-5° to 15°) for comfortable viewing angles.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Troubleshoot adaptive sync

  • The G-SYNC page or checkbox is missing: Check that the monitor is connected, powered on and enabled; verify GPU and display compatibility; set the monitor as primary; and review Monitor Technology under Manage 3D Settings.
  • FreeSync does not appear active: Verify the monitor’s OSD toggle, AMD graphics driver and Adrenalin settings. Check whether Anti-Blur, a picture preset or a custom picture setting is disabling the feature, and consult the model manual.
  • G-SYNC works only in full-screen games: In Display > Set up G-SYNC, select Windowed and full screen mode if you want it in windowed applications. Switch back to full-screen-only if windowed use causes problems.
  • You cannot tell whether a game is using G-SYNC: Turn on NVIDIA Control Panel’s Display > Show indicator for G-SYNC option.
  • You are unsure whether HDMI or DisplayPort supports VRR: Check the exact monitor and GPU documentation. AMD documents both connection families for FreeSync-certified displays, while its configuration guidance specifies DisplayPort 1.2 or higher where applicable.

Settings, drivers and certification status can change. NVIDIA’s cited Control Panel help uses its vLatest documentation path and showed no publication date; AMD marked its Adrenalin support article last updated March 3, 2025. For current steps, use the vendors’ documentation and the manual for your exact hardware.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
Amazon Basics 27 inch Gaming Monitor, FHD 1080P, 165Hz, VESA Compatible, Adaptive sync, 1ms Response, Black
  • IMPORTANT: Remove protective film (with date code) from panel surface before use. This film protects against shipping scratches.
  • 27-inch IPS digital monitor for gaming and entertainment
  • Crystal clear 1080P high definition picture and graphics relay
  • Nearly zero lag with 1ms response time for smooth gaming experience
  • Additional specs include adaptive sync, VESA compatibility, and 165Hz (Note: To achieve maximum refresh rate, ensure your computer ports and graphics card support FHD output at 165Hz. Use a DisplayPort 1.4 or HDMI 2.0 compatible cable. Consult your device manufacturer's manual for more information. Finally, select the maximum 165Hz refresh rate in your computer's advanced display settings.)
Rank #3
Deco Gear 27” 240Hz Curved Gaming Monitor, FHD 1080p 1500R VA Display, HDR, 99% sRGB, Adaptive Sync, 5ms OD Response, HDMI & DisplayPort, FPS/RTS Modes, PC & Console Compatible
  • 27-Inch FHD Workspace: The 1920x1080 resolution and 16:9 format give racing sims, fast games, editing timelines, data dashboards, and multi-window entertainment room to stay visible on one screen. The layout reduces constant window switching and suits home desks, office workstations, studios, or entertainment setups that benefit from a larger working area.
  • 240Hz Motion with 2ms OD: The refresh rate makes scrolling, cursor movement, video, and fast on-screen action feel smoother, while 2ms OD supports clearer motion. Adaptive-Sync can help reduce visible tearing with compatible hardware. Maximum refresh performance depends on the source device, input, cable, and system settings.
  • 1500R Curved VA Image Quality: 4000:1 contrast and 99% sRGB / 72% NTSC coverage support clear text, deep dark tones, vivid media, photo review, presentations, and creative work, while HDR adds support for compatible high-dynamic-range content. The image profile is suited to mixed daily use where both readable detail and visual depth matter.
  • Multi-Source Flexibility: HDMI 2.0 + DP 1.4 connect desktops, laptops, docks, and compatible entertainment devices, giving users practical options for dedicated work systems, personal computers, media sources, and shared desks. Supported resolution and refresh modes depend on the connected device and selected input.
  • Flexible Connectivity: HDMI 2.0 + DP 1.4 support work, study, streaming, editing, and entertainment sources on one desk. Choose the input that matches the target resolution, refresh rate, and source-device capability. This helps keep a dedicated work computer and a separate personal or media source ready on the same desktop.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Adaptive-SyncFreeSyncG-SYNCgaming monitorsPC gaming

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?Free scan - under a minute

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.