Which iPhone Has 120 FPS: Unlocking Smoother Visuals and Enhanced Performance

Which iPhone Has 120 FPS? The Answer for the Smoothest Visuals

You’re probably wondering, “Which iPhone has 120 fps?” It’s a question that gets asked a lot, especially by folks who crave that buttery-smooth scrolling, incredibly fluid gaming, and generally more responsive feel on their mobile devices. I remember the first time I saw a truly high refresh rate display in action; it was on a friend’s Android phone, and frankly, my then-current iPhone felt a bit sluggish by comparison. That experience sparked my own quest to find out which iPhones could deliver that premium visual experience. So, let’s cut right to the chase: the iPhones that offer a 120 fps refresh rate, also known as ProMotion technology, are primarily found in the Pro models of recent iPhone generations. Specifically, we’re talking about the iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, and the iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. These devices boast adaptive refresh rates that can dynamically adjust up to 120Hz, meaning you’re getting that super-smooth 120 frames per second when you need it and conserving battery when you don’t. It’s a game-changer for how you interact with your phone.

Understanding Refresh Rate: More Than Just a Number

Before we dive deeper into which iPhones deliver this impressive feature, it’s essential to understand what a 120 fps refresh rate actually means and why it matters. When we talk about refresh rate, we’re referring to how many times per second the display on your phone updates the image you see. This is measured in Hertz (Hz). So, a standard display might have a 60Hz refresh rate, meaning it refreshes 60 times every second. Conversely, a 120Hz display refreshes 120 times per second. You might be thinking, “Does it really make that much of a difference?” Absolutely, it does! The higher the refresh rate, the smoother motion appears on the screen. This translates into a more fluid and less jarring visual experience, especially during activities like:

• Scrolling: Imagine scrolling through a long webpage or your social media feed. With a 60Hz display, you might notice some choppiness or a slight blur. With 120Hz, that same scroll feels incredibly smooth and seamless, almost like you’re gliding.
• Gaming: For mobile gamers, a higher refresh rate is a significant advantage. It means that actions in the game are rendered more quickly, providing a more responsive feel and potentially a competitive edge. Fast-paced games like shooters or racing games truly shine on a 120Hz display.
• Animations and Transitions: Even the simple act of opening an app, swiping between screens, or seeing system animations becomes noticeably smoother and more polished on a 120Hz screen. It makes the entire user interface feel more premium and refined.
• Video Playback: While many videos are still filmed and distributed at 24, 30, or 60 frames per second, a 120Hz display can still offer benefits. It can interpolate frames to make existing content appear smoother, and it’s ready for future content that might be shot at higher frame rates.

My personal experience reinforces this. Once I upgraded to an iPhone with ProMotion, I found myself instinctively appreciating the fluidity. Even simple tasks like swiping between home screens or closing apps felt significantly more pleasant. It’s one of those things you don’t realize you’re missing until you experience it, and then going back to a 60Hz display feels like a step backward.

ProMotion Technology: Apple’s Adaptive Refresh Rate Solution

Apple calls its 120Hz adaptive refresh rate technology ProMotion. The “Pro” in ProMotion is no accident; it’s a feature that debuted on the iPad Pro and was later brought to the iPhone. What makes ProMotion particularly clever is its adaptability. It doesn’t just lock the display at 120Hz all the time, which would drain the battery quite rapidly. Instead, it intelligently adjusts the refresh rate based on what you’re doing. This means:

• When you need speed: For tasks like fast scrolling, gaming, or any dynamic action, ProMotion ramps up the refresh rate to a maximum of 120Hz, ensuring the smoothest possible motion.
• When you don’t: When you’re reading a static page, looking at a photo, or when the phone is idle, ProMotion can lower the refresh rate significantly, sometimes down to as low as 10Hz or even 1Hz (for always-on display functionality on some models). This dynamic adjustment is key to balancing performance with battery life.

This intelligent power management is a hallmark of Apple’s approach. They don’t just give you a feature; they refine it to work seamlessly and efficiently. This adaptive nature means you get the best of both worlds: stunningly smooth visuals when you want them and excellent battery efficiency when you don’t. For me, the peace of mind knowing my phone isn’t constantly running at its highest refresh rate, thereby saving battery, is a huge plus. It means I can enjoy the smoother experience without the dread of a constantly depleting battery.

Identifying Which iPhone Models Feature 120 FPS (ProMotion)

As mentioned, the 120 fps capability, powered by ProMotion, is not available on all iPhones. It’s a feature reserved for Apple’s higher-end, flagship models. Here’s a breakdown of which iPhone lines you should be looking at:

The iPhone 15 Series

The latest iteration of Apple’s flagship devices continues the trend. If you’re looking for 120 fps on the newest models:

• iPhone 15 Pro: Yes, this model features ProMotion with an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz.
• iPhone 15 Pro Max: Absolutely. This larger Pro model also includes the 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.

The standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus, while excellent phones, do not feature ProMotion. They stick to a standard 60Hz refresh rate.

The iPhone 14 Series

Following the pattern of previous years, the Pro models of the iPhone 14 generation introduced ProMotion:

• iPhone 14 Pro: This device comes equipped with the 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
• iPhone 14 Pro Max: Similarly, the larger Pro variant also boasts ProMotion.

The base iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus models, much like their 15 counterparts, operate at a 60Hz refresh rate.

The iPhone 13 Series

The iPhone 13 generation was a significant year, as it marked the debut of ProMotion on the iPhone. If you’re looking at this generation:

• iPhone 13 Pro: Yes, this model was one of the first iPhones to feature ProMotion with its 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.
• iPhone 13 Pro Max: This flagship model also includes ProMotion.

The standard iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini, while fantastic phones, do not have the 120Hz ProMotion display.

Older iPhone Models

For any iPhone models prior to the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, you will not find the 120Hz ProMotion display. This includes all iPhone 12 models, iPhone 11 series, iPhone SE models, and older generations. They are all limited to a 60Hz refresh rate.

To summarize, if 120 fps is a must-have feature for you, your focus should be on the Pro models starting from the iPhone 13 series and onwards.

How to Check and Control Your iPhone’s Refresh Rate

While ProMotion is designed to work automatically, Apple does offer users some control over the display’s refresh rate, primarily for accessibility reasons or if you have a specific preference. Here’s how you can check and potentially adjust it:

Checking Your iPhone’s Refresh Rate (or ProMotion Status)

There isn’t a direct setting that simply says “120Hz ON/OFF” for ProMotion in the way you might expect. Instead, the system manages it automatically. However, you can confirm if your iPhone *supports* ProMotion by checking your model. As detailed above, if you have an iPhone 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15 Pro, or 15 Pro Max, it does support ProMotion.

Limiting Frame Rate for Specific Needs

For users who might experience discomfort or prefer a less dynamic visual experience, or for developers testing frame rate compatibility, Apple provides an option to limit the maximum frame rate. This is found within the Accessibility settings:

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Tap on Accessibility.
3. Scroll down and tap on Motion.
4. Here, you’ll find the toggle for “Limit Frame Rate.”

If you toggle “Limit Frame Rate” ON: Your iPhone will be capped at a 60Hz refresh rate. This can be useful if you find 120Hz causes eye strain for some reason, or if you’re trying to simulate the experience of a standard 60Hz device for testing purposes. It will also ensure maximum battery conservation if that’s your sole priority, though ProMotion’s adaptive nature is generally quite good at this.

If you toggle “Limit Frame Rate” OFF: Your iPhone will utilize its ProMotion technology, allowing the display to adapt its refresh rate up to 120Hz for smoother motion when supported by the content and necessary for the user experience. This is the default setting and the one that provides the most fluid visuals.

For most users, leaving “Limit Frame Rate” OFF is the ideal setting to enjoy the full benefits of the 120Hz display. I’ve experimented with turning it on, and while the battery life might see a slight improvement, the visual difference is quite stark, and I always end up turning it back off to enjoy that smooth ProMotion experience. It’s a personal preference, but the smoothness is truly a core part of the “Pro” experience.

Why is 120 FPS Important for Gamers and Creatives?

The impact of a 120 fps display, powered by ProMotion on iPhones, extends far beyond just pretty scrolling. For specific user groups, it’s a critical component of their mobile experience. Let’s break down why:

For Gamers: The Competitive Edge and Immersion

Mobile gaming has exploded in popularity, and for many, their iPhone is their primary gaming device. For these users, a 120Hz display is not just a luxury; it can be a significant advantage:

• Reduced Motion Blur: In fast-paced games, especially first-person shooters or racing games, quick movements can lead to motion blur on lower refresh rate displays. 120Hz significantly reduces this blur, allowing for clearer visuals and better tracking of on-screen action.
• Improved Responsiveness: A higher refresh rate means the display updates more frequently, so your inputs (taps, swipes) are registered and displayed on screen faster. This translates to a more responsive feel, which is crucial in competitive gaming where milliseconds can matter.
• Smoother Animations: Game animations, character movements, and environmental effects all appear much smoother and more lifelike at 120 fps. This enhances immersion and makes the gaming experience more enjoyable.
• Higher Frame Rate Support: Many modern mobile games are designed to take advantage of higher refresh rates. When you play a game that supports 120 fps on an iPhone with ProMotion, you’ll experience the game as the developers intended, at its smoothest and most fluid.

I’ve personally noticed this when playing games like Call of Duty: Mobile or Asphalt 9. The difference in responsiveness and clarity during intense firefights or high-speed chases is palpable. It feels less like playing on a “phone” and more like playing on a dedicated gaming device. It truly elevates the experience.

For Creatives: Smoother Editing and Previewing

While not always the primary focus, creatives can also benefit from the smoother visuals provided by a 120Hz display:

• Video Editing: When editing video clips directly on an iPhone, especially those shot at higher frame rates (like 60 fps or even 120 fps if the camera supports it), a 120Hz display allows for smoother playback and scrubbing through footage. This can make the editing process more intuitive and less taxing on the eyes.
• Photo Editing: While less critical than video, the smooth panning and zooming within photo editing apps can feel more refined.
• App Prototyping and Design: For app developers and designers, previewing their work on a device with ProMotion offers a more accurate representation of how animations and transitions will feel to the end-user.
• General Responsiveness: For anyone who uses their iPhone for demanding creative tasks, the overall snappiness and fluidity of the interface, even when multitasking between creative apps, contributes to a more efficient workflow.

It’s easy to overlook these benefits, but for professionals who spend hours on their device, even small improvements in fluidity and responsiveness can make a difference in productivity and user experience. I’ve found that when I’m working on image editing apps, the ability to zoom and pan with such smoothness makes fine adjustments feel more precise.

Comparing ProMotion iPhones: What to Consider

When you’ve decided that you want an iPhone with 120 fps (ProMotion), you’ll likely be looking at the Pro models. While they all share this core display technology, there are other factors that differentiate them:

1. Performance and Chipset

Each generation of Pro iPhones comes with Apple’s latest and greatest chip. For instance:

• iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max: A17 Pro chip
• iPhone 14 Pro/Pro Max: A16 Bionic chip
• iPhone 13 Pro/Pro Max: A15 Bionic chip

While all these chips are incredibly powerful, the newer generations offer incremental improvements in speed, efficiency, and graphics performance. This is particularly beneficial for demanding games and creative applications that can fully utilize the higher frame rates.

2. Camera Capabilities

The Pro models are also distinguished by their advanced camera systems. While the core ProMotion display remains the same, the quality of content you can create and view on it will differ:

• iPhone 15 Pro Series: Features advanced camera systems, often with enhanced zoom capabilities and computational photography features.
• iPhone 14 Pro Series: Introduced a significant upgrade to the main camera sensor and improved telephoto capabilities.
• iPhone 13 Pro Series: Offered a substantial leap in low-light performance and cinematic modes.

The 120fps display is fantastic for showcasing the photos and videos taken by these advanced cameras, offering a smoother, more detailed viewing experience of your captured memories.

3. Battery Life

Battery life is always a critical consideration. While ProMotion is adaptive, larger phones generally have larger batteries. Therefore:

• iPhone 15 Pro Max: Typically offers the best battery life in its generation.
• iPhone 14 Pro Max: Similarly, excels in battery endurance.
• iPhone 13 Pro Max: Also renowned for its strong battery performance.

The standard Pro models (iPhone 15 Pro, 14 Pro, 13 Pro) will generally have slightly less battery life than their Max counterparts due to smaller physical batteries, but still offer excellent endurance, especially with ProMotion’s power-saving capabilities.

4. Build Materials and Design

Subtle differences exist across generations:

• iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max: Introduced a titanium frame, making them lighter and more durable than previous stainless steel models.
• iPhone 14 Pro/Pro Max: Featured a stainless steel frame.
• iPhone 13 Pro/Pro Max: Also used a stainless steel frame.

The design language evolves slightly, with features like the Dynamic Island appearing on the iPhone 14 Pro and 15 Pro models, replacing the notch. While not directly related to the 120 fps display, these design elements contribute to the overall premium feel of these devices.

5. Price and Value

Newer models naturally come with a higher price tag. When choosing, consider your budget and what features are most important to you. If 120 fps is the absolute must-have, then any of the Pro models from the 13 series onward will satisfy that. If you’re looking for the absolute best in performance, camera, and display technology, you’ll naturally lean towards the latest Pro models, but often the previous generation offers exceptional value.

For me, the balance often lies in the previous generation. While the latest and greatest is always enticing, an iPhone 14 Pro or 13 Pro can often be found at a more accessible price point while still delivering that fantastic 120Hz ProMotion experience. It really comes down to what you’re willing to invest for those extra features.

Frequently Asked Questions About 120 FPS iPhones

Q1: Will watching videos benefit from a 120 FPS display?

Yes, watching videos on an iPhone with a 120 FPS display, powered by ProMotion, can offer a noticeably smoother viewing experience, even though most video content is not natively shot at 120 frames per second. Here’s why:

Firstly, ProMotion’s adaptive refresh rate technology allows the display to dynamically adjust its refresh rate. When you’re watching a video, the iPhone can intelligently match the video’s frame rate (e.g., 24 fps for movies, 30 fps for many TV shows, or 60 fps for some content) or use motion smoothing techniques to present the content more fluidly. While it won’t magically add frames that aren’t there, the ability to display frames at a higher rate, even if the source is lower, can reduce judder and motion blur, making the overall playback appear more polished and less choppy.

Secondly, the higher refresh rate is particularly beneficial for content that does have higher frame rates, such as sports broadcasts or some YouTube videos that are intentionally shot at 60 fps or even higher. In these cases, you’ll see a direct benefit in terms of clarity and smoothness. For those who are sensitive to motion or appreciate the nuances of visual fluidity, the upgrade to a 120Hz ProMotion display can make a significant difference in how enjoyable video playback is on their iPhone.

Q2: Is 120 FPS good for battery life on my iPhone?

This is a common concern, and the answer is nuanced. The technology behind Apple’s ProMotion is designed to be incredibly power-efficient precisely because it’s adaptive. Unlike a fixed 120Hz display that would constantly drain battery, ProMotion intelligently adjusts the refresh rate based on what you’re doing.

When you are engaged in an activity that benefits from a high refresh rate, such as scrolling through a webpage, playing a game, or navigating the interface, ProMotion will ramp up to 120Hz to provide that smooth experience. However, when you are viewing static content, like reading an article, looking at a photo, or when the screen is idle, ProMotion can significantly lower the refresh rate, sometimes down to 10Hz or even 1Hz (for the Always-On display on newer Pro models). This dynamic adjustment is crucial for battery conservation.

So, while using the 120Hz capability will consume more power than a static 60Hz display, the adaptive nature of ProMotion ensures that it only uses that extra power when necessary. In many real-world scenarios, the battery performance on ProMotion-equipped iPhones is excellent and often comparable to, or even better than, previous models with fixed 60Hz displays, thanks to the efficiencies gained from the adaptive refresh rate and newer, more power-efficient chipsets. If battery life is your absolute top priority above all else, you could choose to manually limit the frame rate to 60Hz in Accessibility settings, but most users find the battery life perfectly acceptable with ProMotion enabled.

Q3: Can I force my iPhone to always be 120 FPS?

No, you cannot force your iPhone with ProMotion to *always* be at 120 FPS. This is by design, and as we’ve discussed, it’s a deliberate choice to balance performance with battery life. Apple’s ProMotion technology is inherently adaptive. The iPhone’s software and hardware work together to determine the optimal refresh rate for any given moment.

While you can’t force it to stay at 120 FPS, you can do the opposite: you can limit the maximum frame rate to 60 FPS. This is an accessibility feature designed for users who might prefer a less dynamic visual experience or want to ensure maximum battery savings in all scenarios. To do this, you would go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion and toggle on “Limit Frame Rate.”

For the vast majority of users, leaving “Limit Frame Rate” OFF is the intended way to experience the iPhone, allowing ProMotion to intelligently switch between refresh rates from as low as 1Hz up to 120Hz. This ensures you get the smoothest visuals when they matter most, without unnecessary battery drain.

Q4: Are there any downsides to having a 120 FPS display on an iPhone?

For most users, the downsides are minimal, especially with Apple’s implementation of ProMotion. However, a few points are worth considering:

Battery Consumption: As discussed, while ProMotion is adaptive, running at 120Hz will inherently consume more power than running at 60Hz. Although Apple’s adaptive technology mitigates this significantly, heavy usage of applications or games that consistently push the display to its 120Hz limit can lead to slightly quicker battery drain compared to a device that is strictly capped at 60Hz. However, this is often offset by the overall efficiency of the iPhone’s hardware and software.

Compatibility and Development: While most modern apps and games are designed to work well with varying refresh rates, there might be niche applications or older games that don’t perfectly optimize for 120Hz displays. This could lead to occasional stutters or visual glitches, though this is becoming increasingly rare. Developers are generally well-equipped to handle adaptive refresh rates.

Potential for Eye Strain (for some users): While 120Hz generally makes motion smoother and less jarring, a very small subset of users might find extremely fluid motion to be disorienting or cause eye strain. This is why Apple includes the “Limit Frame Rate” option in Accessibility. For the vast majority, though, the smoothness is a benefit.

Cost: iPhones with ProMotion are typically the “Pro” models, which come at a higher price point. If your budget is a primary concern and 120 FPS isn’t a critical feature for you, a non-Pro model at a lower price might be a better fit.

Overall, the benefits of ProMotion on iPhones – the incredible smoothness and responsiveness – generally far outweigh the potential minor drawbacks for most users. The adaptive nature of the technology is key to minimizing these downsides.

Q5: Which iPhone models *do not* have 120 FPS?

This is a straightforward distinction. If you are looking for an iPhone that *does not* feature the 120 FPS ProMotion display, you should be looking at the standard models and older generations:

• iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus
• iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 13 and iPhone 13 mini
• iPhone 12 series (all models)
• iPhone 11 series (all models)
• iPhone SE (all generations)
• All older iPhone models (iPhone X, iPhone 8, etc.)

These models are equipped with standard 60Hz displays. While they offer excellent performance and visual quality for their price points, they do not provide the ultra-smooth motion capabilities of the ProMotion technology found in the Pro variants.

The Future of Refresh Rates on iPhones

While Apple has already brought 120Hz adaptive refresh rates to its Pro iPhones, it’s natural to wonder about what comes next. Given the widespread adoption of high refresh rates across the mobile industry, it wouldn’t be surprising to see further advancements. One possibility is that Apple might eventually bring ProMotion technology to its standard iPhone models, making the smoother display experience accessible to a wider audience. This would align with how features that were once exclusive to Pro iPads eventually trickled down to other iPad models. Another avenue for evolution could be even more refined adaptive refresh rate capabilities, perhaps with finer control over lower refresh rates for even greater power savings, or potentially higher refresh rates in the future, although 120Hz is already very high for most mobile use cases and significantly improves the user experience. For now, the 120Hz ProMotion technology on the Pro models remains a premium feature that significantly enhances the visual experience.

Conclusion: Which iPhone for 120 FPS?

To reiterate and provide a definitive answer: The iPhones that have 120 FPS capability, through Apple’s ProMotion technology, are primarily the Pro models from the iPhone 13 generation onwards. This includes the iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro, and iPhone 15 Pro Max. These devices offer an adaptive refresh rate that can dynamically adjust up to 120Hz, delivering exceptionally smooth motion for an enhanced user experience, especially in gaming and general navigation. If you’re seeking that premium, fluid visual performance, these are the iPhones you should be considering.

The introduction of ProMotion was a significant step forward for the iPhone, elevating its display technology to match – and in many ways, surpass – what’s available on competing devices. It transforms everyday interactions, making them feel more responsive, polished, and enjoyable. Whether you’re a gamer looking for a competitive edge, a creative professional seeking a smoother workflow, or simply someone who appreciates the finer details of a premium user interface, the 120 FPS experience offered by these Pro iPhones is undoubtedly a worthwhile upgrade.