The Ultimate Guide: How to Run FreeSync on GSync Monitor in 2024

Are you tired of screen tearing and stuttering ruining your gaming experience? Do you own a G-SYNC monitor but want to explore the benefits of FreeSync? You’re not alone! Many gamers wonder if it’s possible to combine the strengths of both technologies, and the good news is, you can! This guide will walk you through the process of how to run FreeSync on a G-SYNC monitor, unlocking smoother gameplay and a more immersive experience.

Understanding G-SYNC and FreeSync

Before diving into the setup, let’s clarify what G-SYNC and FreeSync are and why you might want to use them together.
G-SYNC (Nvidia’s technology) and FreeSync (AMD’s technology) are variable refresh rate (VRR) technologies that synchronize your monitor’s refresh rate with your graphics card’s frame rate. This eliminates screen tearing, a visual artifact that occurs when the refresh rate of your monitor doesn’t match the frame rate of your graphics card.
Here’s why you might want to run FreeSync on a G-SYNC monitor:

• Wider Compatibility: While G-SYNC monitors usually support G-SYNC, they may also support FreeSync. This opens up compatibility with AMD graphics cards, allowing you to use a G-SYNC monitor with an AMD GPU.
• Potential Performance Boost: In some cases, FreeSync might offer better performance than G-SYNC, especially at lower frame rates.
• Flexibility: Having both technologies at your disposal gives you more flexibility when choosing graphics cards or monitors in the future.

Checking for Compatibility

The first step is to confirm if your G-SYNC monitor supports FreeSync. Not all G-SYNC monitors are compatible with FreeSync, so checking is crucial.
Here’s how to find out if your monitor supports FreeSync:
1. Check the Monitor’s Specifications: Look for the “FreeSync” or “Adaptive Sync” label in the monitor’s specifications. This is the most reliable way to confirm compatibility.
2. Consult the Manufacturer’s Website: Visit the manufacturer’s website and search for your monitor’s model. The website often provides detailed specifications, including whether it supports FreeSync.
3. Use DisplayHDR: The DisplayHDR certification website allows you to search for your monitor and check if it supports FreeSync.

Enabling FreeSync in Your Graphics Card Settings

Once you’ve confirmed FreeSync compatibility, you need to enable it in your graphics card settings. The process may vary slightly depending on your graphics card, but the steps are generally similar.
For AMD Graphics Cards:
1. Open the AMD Radeon Software.
2. Go to “Settings” > “Display” > “AMD FreeSync.”
3. Enable “AMD FreeSync.”
4. Choose the appropriate refresh rate range for your monitor.
For Nvidia Graphics Cards:
1. Open the Nvidia Control Panel.
2. Go to “Manage 3D Settings.”
3. Under “Global Settings,” scroll down to “Monitor Technology.”
4. Select “G-SYNC” or “G-SYNC Compatible.”
5. If you see a “FreeSync” option, enable it.

Adjusting Monitor Settings

After enabling FreeSync in your graphics card settings, you may need to adjust some monitor settings to optimize performance.
Here are some key settings to check:

• Refresh Rate: Ensure your monitor’s refresh rate is set to the highest supported rate.
• Adaptive Sync: Make sure “Adaptive Sync” or “FreeSync” is enabled in the monitor’s settings.
• Adaptive Sync Range: Some monitors allow you to adjust the range of refresh rates for FreeSync. Set the range to match your monitor’s capabilities.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While running FreeSync on a G-SYNC monitor is usually straightforward, you might encounter some common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Black Screen or Flickering: If you experience a black screen or flickering, try disabling FreeSync and see if the issue persists. If it does, there might be a compatibility issue with your monitor or graphics card.
• Performance Degradation: If you notice a significant performance drop, try lowering your graphics settings or resolution. Some games may not be optimized for FreeSync, and lower settings can improve performance.
• No FreeSync Option: If you can’t find the FreeSync option in your graphics card settings, double-check your monitor’s compatibility and ensure your graphics card drivers are up to date.

Beyond the Basics: Optimizing Your Experience

Once you have FreeSync running smoothly, you can further enhance your gaming experience by exploring these additional tips:

• Use a High-Refresh Rate Monitor: A higher refresh rate monitor (144Hz or higher) will provide smoother and more responsive gameplay, especially noticeable in fast-paced games.
• Adjust the Adaptive Sync Range: Experiment with different refresh rate ranges to find the optimal setting for your monitor and games.
• Update Your Drivers: Keep your graphics card drivers up to date to ensure compatibility and performance optimization.
• Enable Low Latency Mode: Some graphics cards offer a low latency mode that can further reduce input lag and improve responsiveness.

In a nutshell: The Power of Choice

By following these steps, you can unlock the benefits of FreeSync on your G-SYNC monitor, enjoying smoother gameplay and a more immersive gaming experience. Remember, the key is to check compatibility, enable FreeSync in your graphics card settings, and adjust your monitor settings accordingly. With the right setup, you can enjoy the best of both worlds, giving you the flexibility to use AMD or Nvidia graphics cards without sacrificing visual quality or performance.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use FreeSync on a G-SYNC monitor with an Nvidia graphics card?
While G-SYNC monitors are designed for Nvidia cards, some models support FreeSync as well. However, enabling FreeSync with an Nvidia card may require specific settings in the Nvidia Control Panel, and not all G-SYNC monitors offer this functionality.
2. Will enabling FreeSync affect the G-SYNC functionality of my monitor?
Enabling FreeSync should not affect G-SYNC functionality. Both technologies can coexist, allowing you to switch between them based on your graphics card and game preferences.
3. What are the benefits of using FreeSync on a G-SYNC monitor?
Using FreeSync on a G-SYNC monitor provides wider compatibility with AMD graphics cards, potentially better performance at lower frame rates, and greater flexibility when choosing future graphics cards or monitors.
4. What if my monitor doesn’t support FreeSync?
If your monitor doesn‘t support FreeSync, you can still benefit from G-SYNC functionality with an Nvidia graphics card. However, you won’t be able to use FreeSync with an AMD graphics card.
5. Can I run FreeSync and G-SYNC simultaneously?
While both technologies aim to reduce screen tearing, they are incompatible with each other. You can only use one technology at a time, depending on your graphics card and monitor settings.