How to Turn a FreeSync Monitor Into a G-Sync Monitor

Unlock Premium Adaptive Sync Performance Without Paying the G-Sync Price

For years, gamers had to choose between AMD’s FreeSync and NVIDIA’s G-Sync when it came to adaptive sync technology—two competing standards aimed at eliminating screen tearing, stuttering, and input lag. G-Sync was known for its premium performance but also its premium price tag, requiring a proprietary hardware module in monitors. FreeSync, on the other hand, was more open and affordable, but limited to AMD users.

That changed in 2019, when NVIDIA began allowing G-Sync functionality to run on select FreeSync monitors through software. That means, with the right setup, you can use a FreeSync display with an NVIDIA graphics card and enjoy a smooth, tear-free gaming experience.

This guide will walk you through the exact steps needed to turn your FreeSync monitor into a G-Sync compatible one—and what you need to know before getting started.

What Is G-Sync and FreeSync?

Before diving into the how-to, it’s important to understand what these technologies actually do. Both G-Sync (NVIDIA) and FreeSync (AMD) are adaptive sync technologies. They synchronize the refresh rate of your monitor with the frame rate output of your graphics card.

Normally, monitors operate at a fixed refresh rate (like 60Hz or 144Hz), which can lead to visual artifacts if the GPU can’t match that rate. Screen tearing and stuttering are common issues. Adaptive sync solves this by dynamically adjusting the monitor’s refresh rate to match the frame rate of the GPU.

G-Sync originally required special hardware built into the monitor, which is why G-Sync monitors were more expensive. FreeSync, however, uses the Adaptive Sync protocol in the DisplayPort standard, making it easier and cheaper to implement. With NVIDIA’s software support for FreeSync, gamers can now access G-Sync features on more affordable monitors.

Requirements to Enable G-Sync on a FreeSync Monitor

Before you start, make sure you meet all of the following requirements:

• NVIDIA Graphics Card: You need a GeForce GTX 10-series (Pascal) GPU or newer. RTX 20, 30, and 40-series cards are fully supported.
• FreeSync Monitor: While NVIDIA has a list of certified “G-Sync Compatible” monitors, many uncertified ones also work well. The only way to know is to test.
• DisplayPort Cable: HDMI does not support G-Sync through FreeSync. You must connect your monitor via DisplayPort.
• Latest NVIDIA Drivers: Make sure you have updated to the latest Game Ready Driver via GeForce Experience or the official NVIDIA site.
• Windows 10 or Later: The G-Sync over FreeSync option is only supported in recent Windows versions with updated drivers.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Enable G-Sync on a FreeSync Monitor

1. Enable FreeSync on Your Monitor

This varies by manufacturer but generally follows this method:

• Press your monitor’s physical menu or joystick button to open the On-Screen Display (OSD).
• Look for “Adaptive Sync,” “FreeSync,” or “Variable Refresh Rate” in the settings.
• Enable it and exit the OSD.

Note: This must be done before enabling G-Sync in your GPU settings.

2. Connect Via DisplayPort

Make sure your monitor is connected to the GPU using a DisplayPort cable—not HDMI. Only DisplayPort supports the adaptive sync feature needed for G-Sync compatibility.

3. Open NVIDIA Control Panel

• Right-click anywhere on your desktop and choose NVIDIA Control Panel.
• If it's not installed, you can download it from the Microsoft Store or reinstall your drivers via GeForce Experience.

4. Enable G-Sync

• In the NVIDIA Control Panel, navigate to the “Display” section.
• Click “Set up G-SYNC.”
• Check “Enable G-SYNC, G-SYNC Compatible.”
• Choose whether to apply this to Full-screen mode only, or both Windowed and Full-screen modes. Full-screen is more stable for gaming, but modern systems handle both well.

5. Select Your Monitor

If you have multiple displays, ensure that your primary FreeSync monitor is selected. It will usually appear in the right pane of the “Set up G-SYNC” window.

6. Apply the Settings

Click “Apply” in the bottom right corner to save your changes. G-Sync should now be active and running on your FreeSync display.

7. Optional: Configure 3D Settings for Performance

To further refine your experience:

• Go to “Manage 3D settings” in the NVIDIA Control Panel.
• Under the Global Settings tab, set:
  
  • Monitor Technology: Set to G-SYNC Compatible
  • Vertical Sync: Set to “On” (for smoothest results) or “Fast” (for low-latency)
• Click Apply again.

This ensures your games will use G-Sync features by default.

How to Test If G-Sync Is Working

You can test G-Sync functionality using the G-Sync Pendulum Demo available from NVIDIA’s website. This tool visually demonstrates tearing with G-Sync on and off. If you don’t see tearing with it enabled, it’s working.

You can also try playing a demanding game and checking for:

• Lack of tearing
• Smoother camera pans
• Consistent frame pacing without stutters

If you're still unsure, you can use third-party tools like RTSS or CapFrameX to measure frame synchronization.

Troubleshooting and Known Issues

Problem: G-Sync Option Not Visible in NVIDIA Control Panel

• Ensure your monitor is connected via DisplayPort.
• Verify FreeSync is enabled in your monitor’s OSD.
• Make sure the GPU drivers are up to date.
• Try rebooting the system.

Problem: Flickering or Blank Screens

• Some FreeSync monitors aren’t fully compatible with NVIDIA’s implementation.
• Try limiting the monitor’s refresh rate range via Custom Resolution Utility (CRU).
• Disable G-Sync and re-enable it after a fresh restart.

Problem: Tearing Still Visible

• Check if Vertical Sync is turned on in NVIDIA’s 3D settings.
• Use exclusive full-screen mode in games for more reliable performance.

Final Thoughts

Thanks to NVIDIA’s expanded support for adaptive sync, gamers no longer have to pay a premium for smooth performance. With just a few simple tweaks, a FreeSync monitor can effectively operate like a G-Sync display—giving you reduced screen tearing, better responsiveness, and a more fluid gaming experience.

While not all FreeSync monitors are created equal, the majority of modern panels provide excellent results. For best performance, stick to monitors listed as “G-Sync Compatible,” but don’t be afraid to experiment with uncertified models—you might be surprised how well they perform.

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