Color depth refers to the number of unique colors that a sensor can faithfully capture. Cameras with better color depth will demonstrate smoother transitions from one color to the next, and avoid "banding" in areas with subtle shading. (Blue skies are an example of where you might see color banding.)
More color depth is generally better, but you'll struggle to notice a difference between two cameras with less than 1 bit of difference. Color depth above 22 bits is considered excellent.
Want to learn more? Head over to our full glossary entry on color depth
Color depth test data courtesy of DxO Mark.
X100 test data on DxO Mark EX2F test data on DxO MarkMaximum 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 EX2F 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.
Good (modern, not retro!) looks and solid build; f/1.4 Schneider-Kreuznach lens starting at a wide 24mm equivalent with excellent low-light capabilities; Advanced photographic controls and RAW capture; 3-inch, articulated AMOLED monitor.
Limited telephoto reach; Inconsistent and disappointing JPEG images; Some corner blurring at both wide and tele; Noise suppression too strong at ISO 800 and above, robbing detail.
