Review of Phones With Ultra-Fast 240Hz Refresh Rate
In the fast-paced world of smartphones, where every swipe and scroll counts, refresh rates have become a game-changer for smooth visuals and responsive performance. While 120Hz displays are now standard on many flagships, ultra-fast 240Hz refresh rate phones take things to the next level—delivering buttery-smooth animations, reduced motion blur, and an edge in mobile gaming. But with great speed comes trade-offs like battery drain and limited app support. In this comprehensive review, we'll dive into the best phones with 240Hz refresh rate, compare them to lower rates like 120Hz and 144Hz, and help you decide if upgrading is worth it in 2025.
Whether you're a competitive gamer chasing high frame rates or just tired of choppy scrolling, these devices promise fluidity that feels almost unreal. Let's break it down.
What Is a 240Hz Refresh Rate on Phones?
A phone's refresh rate measures how many times per second the display updates its image, in Hertz (Hz). A standard 60Hz screen refreshes 60 times per second, while a 240Hz refresh rate hits an astonishing 240 updates—four times faster.
This isn't just about numbers. Higher refresh rates mean:
- Smoother scrolling: Web pages and social feeds glide without stutter.
- Less motion blur: Fast-moving objects, like in games or videos, look sharper.
- Quicker touch response: Inputs feel instantaneous, often paired with high touch sampling rates (e.g., 240Hz touch response).
However, not all apps or games support 240Hz yet—most cap at 60-120fps. Adaptive refresh rates (dropping to 1Hz for static content) help mitigate power use, but expect premium pricing for this tech.
Pros and Cons of 240Hz Refresh Rate Phones
Before we review specific models, here's a quick rundown of why 240Hz shines (and where it stumbles).
Pros:
- Ultra-Responsive Gaming: Ideal for titles like PUBG Mobile or Genshin Impact, reducing input lag and blur for pro-level play.
- Premium Feel: Everyday tasks like browsing or multitasking feel luxurious and fluid.
- Future-Proofing: As games evolve, 240Hz positions your phone ahead of the curve.
Cons:
- Battery Drain: Constant high refresh guzzles power—expect shorter life unless adaptive modes are optimized.
- Diminishing Returns: The jump from 120Hz to 240Hz is subtle compared to 60Hz to 120Hz for non-gamers.
- Limited Availability: Mostly Japan-exclusive or gaming-focused, with higher costs (starting ~$700).
240Hz vs. 120Hz vs. 144Hz: A Quick Comparison
Wondering if 240Hz is overkill? Here's how they stack up on smartphones:
| Refresh Rate | Smoothness Level | Best For | Battery Impact | Example Phones |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120Hz | Noticeably fluid; standard for flagships | Everyday use, casual gaming | Moderate (adaptive helps) | Samsung Galaxy S24, iPhone 15 Pro |
| 144Hz | Enhanced responsiveness; great for mid-tier gaming | Competitive esports, scrolling | Higher than 120Hz | Asus ROG Phone 8, Nubia Red Magic 9 |
| 240Hz | Ultra-smooth; minimal blur | Pro gaming, high-FPS titles | Significant (without optimization) | Sharp Aquos R9, Sharp Aquos Zero 6 |
The difference shines in fast action: 120Hz cuts blur by 50% over 60Hz, 144Hz adds ~20% more fluidity, but 240Hz's edge is most evident in sustained 120+fps gaming. For most users, 120-144Hz hits the sweet spot; 240Hz is for enthusiasts.
Top Phones with 240Hz Refresh Rate: In-Depth Reviews
Based on 2025 availability and performance, here are the standout 240Hz phones. We've focused on models with global or import potential, prioritizing gaming prowess and display quality.
1. Sharp Aquos R9: The Balanced Flagship Powerhouse
Sharp's latest (launched summer 2024) blends lightweight design with beastly specs, making it a top pick for 240Hz fans.
- Display: 6.5-inch Full HD+ OLED, 240Hz refresh, HDR10+ support—vibrant colors and deep blacks with zero lag.
- Performance: Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage. Handles Genshin at 120fps effortlessly.
- Camera: Triple 50MP setup (main, ultra-wide, telephoto)—solid for daylight shots, though not Leica-level.
- Battery & Extras: 5,000mAh with 45W charging; IP68 rating; lightweight at 178g.
- Price: ~$800 (Japan import via carriers like SoftBank).
- Verdict: Perfect for all-day use without bulk. The 240Hz shines in UI animations, but battery holds up better than predecessors thanks to adaptive tech. Ideal if you want a non-gaming phone with gaming chops.
2. Sharp Aquos Zero 6: The Featherweight Gaming Champ
If portability is key, this 2021 Japan-exclusive (still relevant in 2025 via resellers) is under 150g with flagship speed.
- Display: 6.6-inch IGZO OLED, 1080p+, 240Hz refresh, Gorilla Glass Victus—feels premium and blur-free.
- Performance: Snapdragon 888 (aged but capable), 8GB RAM. Optimized for esports with low-latency mode.
- Camera: Dual 20MP + 12MP—decent for quick snaps, not a priority here.
- Battery & Extras: 3,130mAh (small but efficient), wireless charging; ultra-light 146g build.
- Price: ~$600 (used/import).
- Verdict: Revolutionary for its weight-to-power ratio. 240Hz makes scrolling addictive, but the tiny battery means frequent top-ups during marathon sessions. A cult favorite for travelers.
3. Asus ROG Phone 7 Ultimate (Honorable Mention: Up to 240Hz in Games)
While not native 240Hz across the board, Asus's gaming beast dynamically hits 240Hz in supported titles via LTPO tech—close enough for our list.
- Display: 6.78-inch AMOLED, 165Hz base (up to 240Hz gaming mode), 1080p, 2500 nits brightness.
- Performance: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 16GB RAM, 512GB storage—overkill for any mobile game.
- Camera: 50MP triple array with gimbal stabilization—surprisingly versatile.
- Battery & Extras: 6,000mAh, 65W charging, AirTriggers; RGB accents for flair.
- Price: ~$1,000.
- Verdict: If pure gaming is your jam, this edges out Sharp for accessories and cooling. The variable 240Hz mode delivers without constant drain.
Other niche options like the Lava Blaze Nxt (budget 240Hz touch response) exist but lack full display refresh.
Is a 240Hz Phone Worth Buying in 2025?
For gamers and smoothness obsessives, absolutely—the edge over 144Hz is tangible in high-FPS scenarios. Casual users? Stick to 120Hz for better battery and value. Availability remains a hurdle (mostly imports), but as trends push higher rates, expect more global options soon.
Upgrade to 240Hz Smoothness Today
240Hz refresh rate phones like the Sharp Aquos R9 redefine mobile fluidity, turning everyday interactions into seamless experiences. If you're upgrading from 60-120Hz, the difference will blow you away—especially in gaming. Our top recommendation? The Aquos R9 for its balance of features and price.