Input Lag

Press a button and several steps occur before the result appears: the controller scans the input, the game processes it, the CPU and GPU prepare a frame, and the display presents that frame. The combined delay is input lag. Network latency can add delay in online games, but local input lag exists even offline. Frame rate, buffering, wireless connections, display processing, engine design, and synchronization settings all contribute. Low latency matters most in rhythm games, fighting games, shooters, and competitive play, where a few milliseconds can change timing and perceived control.