4k 60hz or 1080p 120hz for gaming

[TwixOps]

I'm currently using an older fairly high end 1080p 120hz monitor as the main display in my setup.  In the near future, however, I'm going to be picking up a 4k monitor for easier CAD work when I'm home.  I'm a little on the fence about which of the two should I use when I'm gaming, as the better response time and refresh rate of my current monitor set balanced against the higher resolution and larger physical size of my soon to be.  I've got the horsepower to push the frames either way now that I'm getting rid of the old 660ti (1080 arrives Monday!!!)

[LienusLateTips]

Personally I like the smoothness, plus the 1080 probably won't be enough to drive 4K Ultra

[Jurrunio]

Depends on the game. Those that do not require fast reactions will play better on high resolution while others play better on high refresh rate.

[porina]

If you will have both, try both and see. I prefer 1440p at high refresh as balance, but that doesn't really help here if you need the 4k for CAD.

[Maximusfoximus]

I would stick with your original monitor for at 1080 120hz for two main reasons: first is that when gaming, higher refresh rate is always better no matter what; second, in most games that are at least somewhat demanding, you will find it hard to hit 60fps on moderate settings when playing at 4k using a gtx 1080, as the only real "4k game ready" graphics card is the 1080 ti on the consumer side or the Titan XP on the professional side
 

[minervx]

If it were purely a matter of gaming, it would be a tough debate between better visuals and better framerate.

 

However, for general use and for CAD work, 4K wins no question.

 

1440p is also an option in the middle though.