Want a Faster Pixel 10 Experience? Here’s How to Unlock 120Hz
Google Pixel 10 is set to 60Hz refresh rate by default. Learn quick steps to enable 120Hz Smooth Display and unlock its full screen performance.
image for illustrative purpose
Google’s Pixel 10 has arrived with upgraded hardware, a refreshed design, and a triple-lens rear camera system, but many buyers may not be experiencing its full display performance out of the box. The smartphone, which features a 6.3-inch OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate capability, is set to run at 60Hz by default, requiring users to manually switch on the higher refresh rate option.
The Pixel 10, priced at $799, introduces the Tensor G5 processor, Qi2 magnetic charging, and a new Indigo color variant. The base model also continues Google’s reputation for high-brightness panels, offering up to 3,000 nits of peak brightness. Despite these upgrades, the initial setup keeps animations and scrolling limited to 60Hz.
How to Activate the Pixel 10’s 120Hz Mode
Owners can enable Google’s “Smooth Display” option through the phone’s settings:
1. Open Settings.
2. Select Display & Touch.
3. Scroll to Other Display Controls.
4. Toggle Smooth Display.
Once enabled, the display refreshes at 120Hz, delivering smoother visuals. Google notes this feature may consume additional battery power, as the Pixel 10 lacks the LTPO panel technology found in the Pro variant, which adjusts refresh rates dynamically.
Google has offered higher refresh rate displays on its Pixel lineup since the Pixel 4 but continues to disable them out of the box on non-Pro devices. The company’s approach is believed to be a power management decision, as the Pixel 10’s standard OLED panel can only alternate between 60Hz and 120Hz, unlike LTPO-equipped displays that drop as low as 1Hz for improved efficiency.
Industry analysts say enabling 120Hz during setup or at least notifying users about the feature would improve first impressions of the device. Many buyers prefer smooth navigation over marginal battery savings, making this a frequent discussion point among Pixel users.
The Pixel 10 features a triple-camera setup with telephoto and ultrawide lenses complementing a 50MP primary sensor. It is powered by the Tensor G5 chip and offers multiple storage options, high-speed performance, and tight integration with Google’s AI-driven software.
