latency

Definition

Latency is the time delay between an action and its result, typically measured in milliseconds. In multiplayer games, total latency includes input lag, client-to-server ping, server tick processing, and server-to-client return. Competitive shooters tune for total latency under 60-80 ms. Cloud gaming services target similar targets but rarely achieve them.

Example

"The new server location dropped my latency from 90 ms to 35 ms." The player is closer to the new datacenter, so total round-trip time decreased.

Related terms

• ping
• tick rate
• packet loss
• lag