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.
D5200 test data on DxO Mark NEX-5R test data on DxO MarkCameras with longer battery life can take more photos before exhausting their batteries.
Special note: The measurement standard for battery life stipulates that if a camera has an internal flash, it must be used for 50% of photos taken. For this reason, comparisons of one camera with an internal flash to another without will not be comparable
Captures sharp, detailed photos with its new 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, even at higher ISOs; Features a familiar (D5100) but refined body design; Records Full HD video with full-time autofocus tracking; Packs a ton of advanced features into a consumer-friendly body at a great price.
Autofocuses a little slowly for its class and struggles at times in low light; Changing some basic settings takes more time and effort than it should; Mediocre kit lens.
