Refresh rate is how many times per second the screen redraws its picture, measured in hertz (Hz). Your eyes cannot see a fast screen flicker, but a camera can, and it shows up as dark bands or shimmer.
Typical figures
Basic LED screens are often around 1,920 Hz. Higher-end indoor screens for studios and events reach 3,840 Hz or more. For a screen that is only looked at, the lower figure is usually fine. For a screen that will be filmed, higher is safer.
When to pay for more
Choose a high refresh rate for broadcast studios, virtual production, live-streamed events, weddings that are filmed, and any screen that sits behind a speaker on camera. Test with the actual camera when you can.
Other numbers worth asking about
Grayscale depth (how many brightness steps per colour) affects smooth gradients and dark scenes. Higher is better for video. Ask for the refresh rate and grayscale together on the datasheet.
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