# Refresh rate
> Refresh rate is how many times per second a screen updates what you see.
Topics: Smartphones, Gaming
Difficulty: Everyday
Aliases: Hz, screen refresh
Updated: 2026-06-26T08:00:00.000Z
## In one analogy

Like flipping pages in a notebook faster, higher refresh can make motion look smoother.

## Why it matters

A high refresh rate can make scrolling and gaming feel smoother, but it can use more battery.

## Go deeper
Refresh rate is how many times per second a screen updates what you see. In everyday buying decisions, the useful question is not just what the spec says, but what it changes for comfort, cost, speed, safety, or battery life.