The Not-So-Secret Reason Why CS:GO Players Use 4:3 Stretched

The Not-So-Secret Reason Why CS:GO Players Use 4:3 Stretched

Written by 

Jack Marsh

Published 

14th Jan 2021 12:25

In a game where the finest margins can be a catalyst for success, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) players will often look for any means to be able to get that competitive edge. Whether this is by sipping a coffee before a game to get those caffeine reactions on point or having some of the greatest tech known to the gaming sphere, anything that can enhance the chances of winning will be trialled.

Many players' performances are also accredited to their settings both in-game and on their monitors. Brightness, contrast, sensitivity, refresh rates, and resolution are just some aspects that CS fanatics will lose sleep over, with the latter offering rather indifferent results.

According to prosettings.net, 64% of professional CS:GO players use the screen resolution of 4:3, although this is split between those who use 1280x960 pixels (37%) and 1024x768 (27%). These numbers eclipse other resolutions such as the default setting of 1920x1080 16:9, which a mere 9% of professional players use. 

But, why is this a benefit to players?

Well, one Facebook user has showcased why players will use this, and it involves stretching the screen to make your target bigger.

Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge
Images via Anatoli Famin

As you can see from the images, the 4x3 setting makes the screen wider, making the size of their opponent bigger to the eye. Of course, in-game, the hitboxes cannot be manipulated and are the same for every player regardless of your setting, but making them bigger on your screen will help you quickly snap on to your opponent, increasing accuracy.

The downside of this is that players will have to have quicker reactions, as the targets will move slightly quicker with your screen stretched. Increasing horizontal sensitivity can help combat this, although sensitivity is all about being as comfortable with your aim as possible and is completely preferential. 

It is clear as to why 4:3 is the best screen resolution for CS:GO though, so should you be looking to grind the ranks and climb the ladder, this may give you another advantage.

 

Stay up to date with all the latest esports and gaming news by checking out our social channels here: Twitter Facebook Discord 

Image via ESL


Jack Marsh
About the author
Jack Marsh
Jack is an Esports Journalist at GGRecon. Graduating from the University of Chester, with a BA Honours degree in Journalism, Jack is an avid esports enthusiast and specialises in Rocket League, Call of Duty, VALORANT, and trending gaming news.
Why trust GGRecon?

Established in 2019, we don’t just cover games - we live them. Our expert team is full of dedicated gamers, qualified journalists, and industry insiders who collectively boast decades of experience covering gaming and esports. This deep-rooted expertise allows us to provide authoritative and nuanced perspectives first-hand from a team who are playing, and researching every game covered on our website. 

Our foundation is built on a profound commitment to editorial independence, ensuring our content remains free from external influence and advertising pressures and is held to the highest level of editorial conduct, integrity, and quality. 

Every article on GGRecon comes from rigorous research, informed analysis, and a passion for gaming that resonates with our readers. We uphold these standards through a transparent editorial policy, accessible here, which governs our processes and maintains our accountability.


Trending
New Red Bull CS:GO documentary hits all the notes of one of esports' finest eras
Valve allegedly forces CS Major sticker redo, expected to be on sale soon
YNk shares frustration over Major snub, says it's not a budget issue
PGL announces partnership with Perfect World
Talent announcements for the PGL Major keep surprising
Related Articles
PGL announces Major analyst talent with notable exceptions
BLAST shares dates for its CS events in 2025
Liquid drop out of second major tournament in a week
Dev1ce and blameF allegedly declined post-major upset interview
OWCS Asia announces talent line-up, includes polarising exceptions and returns