Resolving the 60Hz Refresh Rate Limitation When Using Capture Cards on Samsung Galaxy Tab S8
Many users of the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 experience a common issue: despite the device boasting a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, this high refresh rate is reduced to 60Hz when connected to capture hardware via a capture card. This restriction can significantly impact gameplay experience, especially for those engaged in competitive gaming or content creation, where fluid visuals are paramount.
Understanding the Issue
The Galaxy Tab S8’s native display supports up to 120Hz refresh rates, allowing for smooth scrolling and gameplay. However, when a capture card is introduced—used for recording or streaming gameplay—the tablet defaults to a lower refresh rate, operating at 60Hz. While this is acceptable for recording, it can hinder real-time gameplay, making fast-paced actions appear choppy or less responsive.
This limitation is often rooted in the device’s internal hardware management and how it handles video output when under the load of external capture devices. Some factors influencing this include:
- HDMI output restrictions enforced by the device’s GPU or system firmware.
- Power management settings that limit high refresh rates during external display or recording sessions.
- Compatibility issues between the tablet’s output and the capture card’s capabilities.
Can You Disable the Refresh Rate Cap?
Disabling or bypassing this enforced 60Hz limit involves several potential solutions, which may vary in complexity and effectiveness depending on your specific setup and use case.
1. Adjust Display Settings
While Android devices don’t typically provide direct user controls for refresh rate selection in all scenarios, start by:
- Navigating to Settings > Display > Refresh Rate (if available) and selecting 120Hz.
- Ensuring Game Mode or any system optimization features that might lock the refresh rate are turned off.
2. Use Third-Party Apps or Developer Options
Some Android devices allow enabling higher refresh rates through developer options:
- Enable Developer Options by tapping the build number multiple times in Settings > About Phone/Table.
- Access Settings > Developer Options.
- Look for options like “Force 90Hz” or similar, and enable them if available.
Note: such options are often device-specific and may not be available or effective on the Galaxy Tab S8.
3. Check HDMI Output Settings and Capture Card Compatibility
- Ensure that your capture card supports 120
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