Color depth refers to the number of colors a video can display, measured in bits. The higher the color depth, the more colors a video can show, leading to richer, more detailed, and realistic visuals. The most common color depths are 8-bit, 10-bit, and 12-bit.

8-Bit Color Depth

An 8-bit video can display up to 16.7 million colors (2⁸ x 2⁸ x 2⁸ for red, green, and blue). This is the standard for most TVs, monitors, and streaming platforms. While it’s good for general use, 8-bit video often struggles with smooth color transitions. You may notice “banding,” where similar shades of color don’t blend smoothly but instead create visible lines.

10-Bit Color Depth

A 10-bit video significantly increases the color range to over 1 billion colors (2¹⁰ x 2¹⁰ x 2¹⁰). This makes transitions between colors smoother, reducing banding and enhancing detail in bright and dark areas. It's ideal for HDR (High Dynamic Range) content, where vivid highlights and deep shadows are essential for a lifelike experience. Many modern TVs and video platforms support 10-bit video for better quality.

12-Bit Color Depth

A 12-bit video can display a staggering 68 billion colors, offering the most accurate and detailed color representation. It's primarily used in professional video production and high-end displays. With 12-bit color depth, every subtle shade and tone is visible, making it perfect for tasks that demand precision, like film mastering or advanced color grading.