Many of our favorite TVs and monitors feature displays with high refresh rates, promising smoother on-screen action and a sharper picture. Today, every iPhone 17 model can reach a 120-Hz refresh rate. High refresh rates are frequently discussed in gaming, where fast reactions and instant on-screen updates can mean the difference between victory and defeat. But what exactly does screen refresh rate mean? To get the full benefit of a high refresh rate, you also need a high frame rate, and ideally, the two match.