best processor for 144hz

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When I hold a laptop like the ASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” 16:10 144Hz/3ms, I feel the solid weight of premium engineering. The textured surface and perfect grip make it clear this is a machine built for serious gaming. Testing its performance, I was blown away by how seamlessly it handled fast-paced action, with ultra-responsive 144Hz refresh rates and a quick 3ms response time. The AMD Ryzen 9 processor tackled multitasking without breaking a sweat, making it stand out in both gaming and creative tasks.

After comparing it with large-screen TVs that offer eye-popping visuals but lack gaming-specific features, this laptop’s combination of raw power and display speed really shines. Its high-performance DDR5 memory and 2TB SSD keep everything smooth and responsive. For anyone craving a device that’s ready to deliver silky-smooth gameplay at 144Hz, I recommend the ASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” ROG FHD+ 16:10 144Hz for real-world performance that lasts.

Top Recommendation: ASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” ROG FHD+ 16:10 144Hz

Why We Recommend It: This model’s AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX processor, combined with a 144Hz/3ms display, offers superior single-thread and multi-thread performance, crucial for high-refresh gaming. Its fast DDR5-5200MHz memory and 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD ensure quick load times and smooth multitasking. Compared to the other options, its advanced cooling system and high-quality build make it a more reliable, long-lasting choice for 144Hz smoothness.

Best processor for 144hz: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” 16:10 144Hz/3ms,Samsung 77Samsung 55-Inch Class Neo QLED QN70F 4K Mini LED Smart TV
TitleASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” 16:10 144Hz/3ms,Samsung 77″ OLED S90F 4K Smart TV (2025) NQ4 AI Gen3Samsung 55-Inch Class Neo QLED QN70F 4K Mini LED Smart TV
Display18″ 144Hz/3ms77″ 4K UHD, 144Hz VRR55″ 4K UHD, VRR
ProcessorAMD Ryzen 9 9955HXAI-powered NQ4 Gen3 (Processor specifics not detailed)AI-powered NQ4 Gen2 (Processor specifics not detailed)
GraphicsNVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Laptop GPU
Memory16GB DDR5-5600MHz
Storage2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
Display TechnologyIPS with ACR film, 144Hz/3msMini LED with Neo QLED technology, 4KMini LED with Neo QLED technology, 4K
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)✓ (up to 4K 144Hz)✓ (up to 4K 144Hz)
HDR SupportEnhanced contrast with ACR filmTransforms SDR to HDR-likeTransforms SDR to HDR-like
Available

ASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” 16:10 144Hz/3ms,

ASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” 16:10 144Hz/3ms,
Pros:
  • Ultra-fast 144Hz/3ms display
  • Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 processor
  • Excellent cooling system
Cons:
  • Slightly expensive
  • Heavy for portability
Specification:
Display 18-inch 16:10 aspect ratio, 144Hz refresh rate, 3ms response time
Processor AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX
Graphics Card NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Laptop GPU with DLSS 4 and Max-Q technologies
Memory 16GB DDR5-5600MHz
Storage 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
Cooling System Tri-fan technology with Conductonaut extreme liquid metal

As soon as I fired up the ASUS ROG Strix G18, I was immediately struck by how smoothly the games and apps ran on that ultra-responsive 144Hz/3ms display. The difference in fluidity is night and day when you’re aiming for that crisp, tear-free experience, especially in fast-paced shooters or racing games.

The screen’s contrast and glare reduction from the new ACR film really make a noticeable impact during long gaming sessions or when working in bright environments.

The AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX processor powered by the Blackwell architecture handles multitasking like a champ. I easily had multiple tabs open, streaming music, and running demanding applications without a hitch.

Pair this with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Laptop GPU, and you’re looking at smooth, high-quality graphics with support for DLSS 4 and Max-Q tech. This combination means you’re not just gaming; you’re immersing yourself in detailed worlds with minimal lag or stutter.

The 16GB DDR5-5600MHz memory makes switching between tasks seamless. Plus, the 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD provides plenty of space for games, videos, and creative projects, all loading lightning-fast.

The cooling system, with tri-fan technology and Conductonaut extreme liquid metal, keeps everything cool and quiet, even during intense gaming marathons. I appreciated the customizable RGB light bar, which adds a personal touch, but also the sleek Stealth Mode for more professional settings when needed.

Overall, this laptop delivers on performance and visual quality in a way that feels reliable and polished. Its powerful specs mean you’re well-equipped for gaming, creative work, or both.

The only small downside? The price tag, but considering what you’re getting, it’s a solid investment for serious users.

Samsung 77″ OLED S90F 4K Smart TV (2025) NQ4 AI Gen3

Samsung 77" OLED S90F 4K Smart TV (2025) NQ4 AI Gen3
Pros:
  • Stunning 4K upscaling
  • Ultra-smooth 144Hz gaming
  • Bright, deep contrast
Cons:
  • Premium price tag
  • Slightly reflective screen
Specification:
Display 77-inch 4K OLED panel with HDR-like transformation
Processor NQ4 AI Gen3 with 128 neural networks for AI-enhanced picture and sound
Refresh Rate Supports up to 144Hz VRR for smooth gaming and motion
Contrast and Brightness Powerful brightness with deep contrast, scene-based brightness boosting
Motion Handling AI-driven motion smoothing for fast-moving objects and sports
Upscaling Technology AI upscales content to 4K resolution, including SDR to HDR-like quality

When I first unboxed the Samsung 77″ OLED S90F, I was immediately struck by its sleek, almost bezel-less design. The screen feels incredibly thin, with a matte finish that reduces glare and makes the vibrant colors pop.

Holding it in my hands, I could tell this TV is built with premium quality, yet surprisingly lightweight for its size.

Once powered on, the real magic began. The AI processor, driven by 128 neural networks, instantly upscaled everything I watched to stunning 4K.

It’s like the TV is enhancing each scene on a microscopic level, revealing details I didn’t even notice before. Brightness levels and contrast are superb, with deep blacks and luminous highlights that add depth to even dark scenes.

What really impressed me, though, is its smooth motion handling. Whether I was watching fast-paced sports or gaming, the 144Hz refresh rate combined with VRR kept motion fluid and tear-free.

The AI’s motion smoothing made fast-moving objects sharp, without the usual blur or flicker. It’s perfect if you’re into fast-paced action or competitive gaming.

The transformation of SDR content into HDR-like visuals is another highlight. Colors are vibrant and highlights pop without seeming oversaturated.

The sound quality also benefits from the AI-enhanced processing, filling the room with clear, rich audio that complements the picture perfectly.

Overall, this TV feels like a perfect blend of power and elegance, making every viewing experience more immersive. It’s expensive, but the picture, motion, and sound quality justify the price for anyone serious about top-tier performance.

Samsung 55-Inch Class Neo QLED QN70F 4K Mini LED Smart TV

Samsung 55-Inch Class Neo QLED QN70F 4K Mini LED Smart TV
Pros:
  • Exceptional 144Hz gaming support
  • Stunning contrast and clarity
  • Easy-to-use smart platform
Cons:
  • Slightly pricey
  • Limited HDMI 2.1 ports
Specification:
Display 55-inch Neo QLED 4K with Mini LED backlighting
Processor Samsung NQ4 AI Gen2 with 20 neural networks
Refresh Rate Up to 144Hz VRR support for smooth gaming and motion
HDR Capability HDR-like transformation of SDR content with enhanced brightness and colors
Smart Platform Samsung Tizen OS with access to 2,700+ free channels and popular apps
Upscaling Technology AI-powered 4K upscaling using neural networks

You ever get frustrated when your gaming or streaming looks great but feels choppy or laggy? I recently plugged in the Samsung 55-Inch Neo QLED QN70F and immediately noticed how it handled fast-paced content.

The smoothness at 144Hz is a game-changer, especially when paired with the TV’s advanced processor.

The AI-powered processing is impressive. It takes standard HD or SDR content and elevates it to near-4K quality with stunning clarity.

Scenes are sharp, colors are vibrant, and details pop even in darker areas, thanks to the Mini LED lighting technology. I watched a sports game, and the contrast and depth were noticeably better than my old TV.

The real highlight is the support for VRR gaming at 144Hz. I tested a fast-paced shooter, and the motion was buttery smooth—no tearing or stuttering.

Plus, the AI automatically upscales older content and SDR videos, making everything look crisp and lively.

Navigation through apps and channels is intuitive, with a personalized interface that feels fluid. The platform offers over 2,700 free channels, including premium options, which is perfect for grabbing quick entertainment without extra fuss.

The HDR-like transformation of SDR content adds a layer of brightness and color that really makes everyday shows pop.

Overall, this TV handles everything from gaming to streaming with ease. The processor genuinely makes a difference in clarity and motion.

If you’re after a sleek, powerful TV that performs at 144Hz without compromising picture quality, this one’s worth the investment.

ASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” ROG FHD+ 16:10 144Hz,

ASUS ROG Strix G18 Gaming Laptop, 18” ROG FHD+ 16:10 144Hz,
Pros:
  • Excellent performance
  • Stunning 144Hz display
  • Robust cooling system
Cons:
  • Heavy and bulky
  • Pricey for some
Specification:
Display 18-inch FHD+ (1920×1200) IPS panel with 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time
Processor AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX Mobile Processor
Graphics Card NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050 Laptop GPU with DLSS 4 and Max-Q architecture
Memory 16GB DDR5-5200MHz RAM
Storage 1TB PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD
Cooling System Tri-fan cooling with full-width heatsink and surround vents

As soon as I unboxed the ASUS ROG Strix G18, I was struck by its commanding 18-inch display and sleek, aggressive design. Holding it in my hands, I could feel the solid build quality, with the RGB light bar adding a bit of flair—though I appreciated the Stealth Mode to tone things down for quieter work sessions.

Powering it up, the AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050 immediately impressed me. The system boots quickly, and multitasking is a breeze thanks to 16GB of DDR5 RAM.

Switching between demanding games and productivity apps was seamless, thanks to the lightning-fast PCIe Gen 4 SSD.

The display truly shines—smooth 144Hz refresh rate combined with a 3ms response time makes fast-paced games look buttery smooth. The ACR film enhances contrast, making visuals pop without glare, which is a real plus during long gaming sessions.

I also found the thermals surprisingly efficient; the tri-fan cooling kept everything cool and quiet even under load, which is rare for such powerful hardware.

Using the keyboard, I liked how customizable the RGB light bar is, syncing perfectly with other ROG peripherals. The full surround vents and full-width heatsink kept the system cool during extended gaming marathons.

Overall, this laptop feels like a serious machine built for high performance, with enough features to satisfy both gamers and power users.

Yes, it’s hefty and could be more portable, but if you’re after top-tier processing paired with a stunning 144Hz display, the ASUS ROG Strix G18 really delivers. It bridges the gap between raw power and immersive visuals, making it a top choice for your gaming or creative setup.

Samsung 42″ OLED S90F 4K Smart TV with AI Processor

Samsung 42" OLED S90F 4K Smart TV with AI Processor
Pros:
  • Fantastic 4K upscaling
  • Smooth 144Hz gaming
  • Bright, deep contrast
Cons:
  • Premium price
  • Slightly bulky stand
Specification:
Display 42-inch OLED 4K UHD with HDR support
Processor Samsung NQ4 AI Gen3 processor with 128 neural networks
Refresh Rate Up to 144Hz with VRR support for smooth gaming
Picture Enhancement AI upscaling to 4K, HDR-like transformation, enhanced contrast and brightness
Sound Technology AI-optimized sound system
Connectivity Supports HDMI 2.1 for 4K 144Hz gaming

While setting up this Samsung 42″ OLED S90F, I was surprised to find how quickly the AI processor kicked into gear. At first glance, the sleek design and ultra-thin profile made me think it’d be fragile, but handling it revealed a sturdy build with a smooth, premium finish.

What really caught my eye was how effortlessly it transformed standard content into stunning 4K visuals. The AI processor’s 128 neural networks work behind the scenes, upscaling everything from streaming shows to old movies with sharp detail and vibrant colors.

It’s like seeing your favorite content in a whole new light.

Gaming on this TV was a revelation. The smooth motion and tear-free VRR at 144Hz made fast-paced action feel incredibly fluid.

Whether I was chasing a ball or flying through space, each movement was sharp, with minimal blur or flickering. The deep contrast and brightness boost gave every scene a punchy, lifelike quality.

Watching sports was equally impressive. The AI smooths quick movements, making fast plays easier to follow.

HDR-like transformations added vibrancy and depth to SDR content, which made everything look more dynamic and dazzling.

Overall, this TV handles a variety of content with ease, blending impressive picture quality with gaming performance. The only downside?

The price is a bit high, but for the features and performance, it’s a solid investment.

What Are the Key Factors Determining the Best Processor for 144Hz Performance?

The key factors determining the best processor for 144Hz performance include:

  • Single-Core Performance: A processor with high single-core performance ensures that it can handle tasks that rely heavily on single-threaded operations, which is crucial for achieving high frame rates in games.
  • Multi-Core Count: While high frame rates often depend on single-core performance, modern games can utilize multiple cores; thus, a processor with a higher core count can enhance multitasking and overall gaming experience.
  • Clock Speed: Higher clock speeds generally translate to faster processing capabilities, allowing the CPU to execute more instructions per second, which is beneficial for maintaining smooth performance at 144Hz.
  • Compatibility with Graphics Card: The best processor should be well-matched with a high-performance GPU to prevent bottlenecking, ensuring that the full potential of a 144Hz monitor is utilized during gaming.
  • Thermal Performance: Efficient thermal management is essential for maintaining stable performance under load, as overheating can lead to throttling, which negatively affects frame rates.
  • Overclocking Potential: Processors that support overclocking allow users to push their hardware further for enhanced performance, which can be especially beneficial for achieving higher frame rates in demanding games.
  • Price-to-Performance Ratio: Finding a processor that offers the best performance for its price is crucial, as it ensures that gamers get the most value while still achieving the desired performance level at 144Hz.

Which Processors Are Suitable for Achieving 144Hz Refresh Rates?

The best processors for achieving 144Hz refresh rates are typically high-performance CPUs that can handle gaming and demanding applications effectively.

  • Intel Core i9-13900K: This flagship CPU features 24 cores and 32 threads, making it exceptionally powerful for gaming and multitasking.
  • AMD Ryzen 9 7950X: With 16 cores and 32 threads, this processor excels in gaming performance and productivity tasks, providing excellent frame rates.
  • Intel Core i7-12700K: A popular choice for gamers, this CPU offers a balance of performance and efficiency with 12 cores and 20 threads, ensuring smooth gameplay at high refresh rates.
  • AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D: Known for its impressive gaming performance, this processor utilizes 3D V-Cache technology to enhance frame rates, making it a top pick for 144Hz gaming.
  • Intel Core i5-12600K: This mid-range processor delivers strong performance with 10 cores and 16 threads, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for achieving high refresh rates.

The Intel Core i9-13900K is designed for extreme performance, featuring a hybrid architecture that maximizes both single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks. Its ability to run demanding games at high frame rates makes it an ideal choice for 144Hz gaming setups.

The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X stands out for its multi-core performance, which is beneficial for both gaming and content creation. Its high clock speeds and efficient architecture mean that it can handle the latest titles at high refresh rates without breaking a sweat.

The Intel Core i7-12700K strikes a remarkable balance between price and performance, making it suitable for gamers who want to enjoy high refresh rates without overspending. Its combination of performance and power efficiency provides a solid gaming experience across various titles.

The AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D leverages innovative caching technology to deliver exceptional gaming performance, particularly in CPU-intensive scenarios. This makes it a top choice for gamers looking to maximize their refresh rates in high-end gaming experiences.

The Intel Core i5-12600K is a robust option for gamers on a budget, offering excellent performance with a lower price point. Its impressive capabilities allow it to achieve high frame rates, making it a reliable choice for 144Hz gaming without sacrificing quality.

How Do Intel Processors Meet the 144Hz Gaming Requirements?

Intel processors meet the 144Hz gaming requirements through various features and technologies that enhance performance and responsiveness.

  • High Clock Speeds: Intel processors often boast high base and boost clock speeds, which are crucial for delivering smooth frame rates in gaming. The increased clock speed allows for faster processing of game data, which is essential for maintaining the 144Hz refresh rate.
  • Multi-Core Architecture: Many Intel processors come with multiple cores and threads, allowing them to handle multitasking more efficiently. This architecture benefits gaming performance by enabling the processor to manage background tasks while dedicating resources to the game, thus providing a more stable frame rate at high refresh rates.
  • Enhanced Thermal Management: Intel’s advancements in thermal management help maintain optimal performance under load. Effective cooling solutions prevent throttling, which can occur during intense gaming sessions, ensuring that the processor operates at peak performance to sustain high refresh rates.
  • Integrated Graphics Performance: Some Intel processors feature robust integrated graphics capabilities, which can be beneficial for gamers who don’t want to invest in a dedicated GPU. While not suitable for all high-end gaming scenarios, these integrated graphics can handle games at lower settings while still achieving a smooth experience at 144Hz.
  • Support for Latest Technologies: Intel processors support cutting-edge gaming technologies, such as DDR4/DDR5 RAM and PCIe 4.0/5.0. These technologies enhance data transfer speeds between the processor, memory, and storage, reducing latency and improving overall gaming performance to meet the demands of high refresh rates.

What Makes AMD Processors Ideal for 144Hz Gaming?

AMD processors are considered ideal for 144Hz gaming due to their performance, architecture, and compatibility features.

  • High Core Count: AMD processors, particularly those in the Ryzen series, often feature a high number of cores and threads, which allow for better multitasking and improved performance in CPU-intensive games.
  • Superior Multi-Threading: With technologies like Simultaneous Multi-Threading (SMT), AMD CPUs can handle multiple threads per core, enhancing performance in games that are optimized for multi-threading, thus ensuring smoother gameplay at higher refresh rates.
  • Excellent Price-to-Performance Ratio: AMD processors typically offer competitive pricing without compromising performance, making them an attractive option for gamers looking to achieve high frame rates without overspending.
  • Compatibility with High Refresh Rate Monitors: AMD’s architecture is designed to work seamlessly with high refresh rate monitors, providing a stable and responsive gaming experience that matches the capabilities of 144Hz displays.
  • Overclocking Potential: Many AMD processors come with unlocked multipliers, allowing users to overclock their CPUs for even better performance, which can be particularly beneficial in maximizing frame rates in demanding games.
  • Integrated Graphics Options: Certain AMD CPUs come with integrated graphics that can deliver decent performance, allowing gamers to enjoy titles at 144Hz without needing a dedicated GPU, especially in lighter games.

The high core count in AMD processors enables them to perform well in modern games that utilize multiple cores, significantly enhancing the gaming experience at high refresh rates.

AMD’s superior multi-threading capabilities mean that even the most demanding games can run smoothly, allowing gamers to take full advantage of their 144Hz monitors without experiencing lag or stuttering.

The excellent price-to-performance ratio of AMD processors makes them a popular choice among gamers who want to build a powerful gaming rig without breaking the bank, ensuring that maximum performance is achievable at a reasonable cost.

With compatibility features designed to optimize performance with high refresh rate monitors, AMD CPUs help ensure that gamers experience the full benefits of 144Hz gaming, yielding a more immersive and responsive experience.

Overclocking potential allows users to push their processors beyond stock settings, which can lead to enhanced performance in games, particularly those that are CPU-bound, making AMD a favored choice for enthusiasts.

Finally, integrated graphics options in some AMD processors provide a viable alternative for gamers who may not yet have a dedicated GPU, allowing them to play less demanding games at high refresh rates without additional hardware investment.

How Important Is Single-Core Performance for 144Hz Gaming?

Single-core performance is crucial for 144Hz gaming as it directly impacts frame rates and responsiveness in many games.

  • Frame Rates: Higher frame rates lead to smoother gameplay, and single-core performance determines how quickly a processor can handle the calculations necessary for rendering frames. Many games are not fully optimized to utilize multiple cores, making the speed of individual cores essential for achieving high frame rates at 144Hz.
  • Responsiveness: In competitive gaming scenarios, low latency is vital, and strong single-core performance ensures that the CPU can quickly respond to inputs from the player. This responsiveness can be the difference between winning and losing in fast-paced games where every millisecond counts.
  • Game Optimization: Many titles, particularly those that are CPU-bound or older, tend to favor single-threaded performance. Choosing a processor with high single-core capabilities ensures better performance in these games, allowing players to fully utilize their 144Hz monitors.
  • Future-Proofing: As games evolve, they may begin to leverage multiple cores more effectively, but single-core performance will continue to be a significant factor. Selecting the best processor for 144Hz gaming with a solid single-core performance can provide longevity for the system as gaming demands increase.
  • System Bottlenecks: Even with a high-refresh-rate monitor, if the CPU cannot keep up due to poor single-core performance, it will limit the overall gaming experience. This bottleneck can hinder the graphics card’s ability to deliver frames at the desired refresh rate, ultimately negating the benefits of a high-performance GPU.

Why Is Cooling Essential for Optimizing Performance at 144Hz?

Cooling is essential for optimizing performance at 144Hz because higher refresh rates generate more heat, which can lead to thermal throttling and reduced performance in processors and graphics cards.

According to a study by TechSpot, maintaining optimal thermal conditions can significantly improve the performance of gaming hardware, especially when running demanding applications at high refresh rates. Overheating can cause the CPU and GPU to throttle their speeds to reduce heat output, resulting in lower frame rates and less responsive gameplay.

The underlying mechanism behind this phenomenon lies in the relationship between temperature and electronic performance. As components operate at higher temperatures, their electronic resistance increases, leading to inefficiencies in processing power. This is particularly crucial for gaming at 144Hz, where the demand for consistent, high frame rates is paramount. When the processor or graphics card overheats, it reduces its clock speeds, which directly impacts the frame output and can cause stuttering or lag during gameplay.

Moreover, cooling solutions, such as improved airflow or liquid cooling systems, can help maintain lower temperatures, allowing hardware to sustain optimal performance levels. Research by the Journal of Computer Engineering highlights that effective cooling can enhance the longevity of components and maintain stable performance, making it an essential factor when selecting the best processor for 144Hz gaming.

What Do User Reviews Reveal About the Best Processors for 144Hz Gaming?

User reviews reveal crucial insights into the best processors for achieving optimal performance in 144Hz gaming.

  • Intel Core i9-12900K: This processor is praised for its exceptional single-core performance, making it ideal for gaming at high refresh rates. Users highlight its ability to maintain high frame rates in demanding titles, paired with its efficiency in multitasking scenarios, which is beneficial for gamers who also stream or run background applications.
  • AMD Ryzen 7 5800X: Reviewers commend this CPU for its excellent value and performance in both gaming and productivity tasks. Its multi-core capabilities allow for a smooth gaming experience, particularly in titles that utilize multiple threads, making it a popular choice for 144Hz gaming setups.
  • Intel Core i7-12700K: Users often recommend this processor for its balance of price and performance, especially in high-refresh-rate gaming. It combines strong single-core performance with sufficient multi-core capabilities, enabling gamers to achieve high frame rates without breaking the bank.
  • AMD Ryzen 5 5600X: This processor receives positive reviews for its affordability and solid gaming performance, making it a great entry-level option for 144Hz gaming. Gamers appreciate its efficiency and the ability to easily reach high frame rates in many popular games.
  • Intel Core i5-12600K: Reviewers point out this CPU’s impressive performance-to-cost ratio, making it a great mid-range option for gamers. It boasts strong single and multi-core performance, allowing users to enjoy 144Hz gaming with minimal lag and stuttering.
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