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.
E-PL1 test data on DxO Mark X10 test data on DxO MarkCameras with more dynamic range allow you to take photos with dramatic differences in highlight and shadow areas while retaining detail in both.
Think of a brilliant sunset on a rocky beach: Bright sunset in the background, with dark rocks in the foreground. High dynamic range means more of the extremes will be faithfully reproduced.
Dynamic range test data courtesy of DxO Mark.
X10 test data on DxO Mark E-PL1 test data on DxO MarkReally solid body littered with external controls feels like a camera should; Very bright zoom lens; Clever EXR modes; Raw support.
White orb problem; EV dial difficult to turn; Below average battery life; Shallow buffers; Occasional demosaicing errors.
