On Tuesday, NVIDIA announced an exciting collaboration with MediaTek that will see its G-Sync technologies integrated into future monitor scalers. This partnership aims to bring NVIDIA’s advanced gaming features to a wider audience by eliminating the need for a separate G-Sync module.
Historically, G-Sync technology relied on a dedicated module built on an Altera FPGA to synchronize a monitor’s refresh rate with that of the GPU, effectively minimizing issues like screen tearing, stuttering, and input lag. However, in 2019, NVIDIA introduced the G-Sync Compatible certification. This leveraged VESA’s AdaptiveSync technology, which allowed variable refresh rates without requiring the specialized module, thus paving the way for more affordable monitors. These certified monitors guaranteed compatibility with NVIDIA GPUs, meeting certain performance standards, though lacking some features exclusive to the dedicated module.
With MediaTek on board, full support for all NVIDIA G-Sync features, including the latest addition called G-Sync Pulsar, will soon be embedded directly within their scalers. G-Sync Pulsar is a noteworthy improvement that enhances motion clarity and reduces ghosting, offering smoother gameplay. Furthermore, MediaTek-powered G-Sync displays will support features like variable overdrive, 12-bit color, Ultra Low Motion Blur, low-latency HDR, and Reflex Analyzer. This integration means more displays can enjoy the full breadth of G-Sync capabilities without the costly FPGA.
Looking ahead, the first batch of monitors equipped with this full G-Sync support sans NVIDIA module are the AOC Agon Pro AG276QSG2, Acer Predator XB273U F5, and ASUS ROG Swift 360Hz PG27AQNR, all of which boast 360Hz refresh rates, 1440p resolution, and HDR capabilities.
One question that lingers, however, is which MediaTek scalers exactly will incorporate NVIDIA’s G-Sync technologies, or if a blanket implementation across their entire range is on the cards. Additionally, time will tell if displays with NVIDIA’s dedicated G-Sync modules maintain any distinct advantages over the upcoming MediaTek-enhanced models.
