To test your monitor refresh rate, open a refresh rate test and let it run for a few seconds. The free refresh rate test counts the real frames your browser draws and reports the result in hertz, so you can confirm whether your screen is running at 60Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz or higher.
That is the quick answer. The reason most people check is that they bought a high-refresh monitor and want to be sure they are actually getting it, so let us tackle that head on.
The “I paid for 144Hz but get 60” problem
This is the most common refresh rate complaint, and the fix is usually simple: the higher rate is not switched on. Both Windows and macOS frequently default a newly connected screen to 60Hz, even when the panel supports far more. You have to select the higher rate yourself.
Run the test first to confirm the symptom. If a 144Hz monitor reads 60, open your display settings and look for a refresh rate option, then pick the highest value your screen lists. Run the test again to confirm the change took effect.
If the setting is already correct and the rate is still capped, the cable or port is the next suspect. Older cables and some ports cannot carry the bandwidth a high rate needs, so they fall back to 60Hz.
How to test your refresh rate
Step 1: Run the measurement
In the refresh rate test, press measure and leave the tab in focus for a few seconds. The test counts frames as they are drawn and works out the average rate.
Step 2: Read the hertz figure
The result settles on a number such as 60, 120 or 144. That is how many times a second your screen is refreshing right now, as seen by the browser.
Step 3: Compare against the spec
Check the reading against your monitor’s rated refresh rate. A match means you are getting the full rate. A figure stuck at 60 on a higher-rated screen means the rate is not enabled or the cable is limiting it.
Why a browser test reads what it does
A browser only draws as often as the screen refreshes, so the test measures the rate at which frames actually reach the glass. That is exactly what you want to know. Because of this, the reading reflects your screen and browser working together, and an overloaded machine can pull it slightly low. Letting it run a few seconds and closing heavy tabs gives the steadiest number.
Once you know the refresh rate, the FPS test shows how many frames your browser is actually producing, and the screen resolution tool confirms the rest of your display setup.