Maximum effective ISO is an estimate of the highest sensitivity at which a camera can capture excellent quality photos.
Cameras with higher effective ISO will be better choices for indoor photography, night shooting, and indoor sports photography, especially if you intend to make large prints.
You can learn more at our glossary entry.
Maximum effective ISO test data courtesy of DxO Mark.
X100 test data on DxO Mark P7700 test data on DxO MarkSuperb image quality; Dazzling Hybrid Viewfinder; Traditional mechanical controls; Mostly excellent optical performance.
Quirky interface; Manual dials turn easily; Manual focus is too difficult to use; Dramatic lens flare, especially at night.
Much improved, sleeker camera design doesn't mimic the competition; Sharp 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen swivels to the side, letting you compose shots from difficult angles; Brighter lens performs better in low light; Fast burst mode; Full HD movies.
Some photographers will miss having an optical viewfinder; Slower autofocus and single-shot cycle times when capturing RAW images; Shallow buffer; No one-touch video button.
