Introducing the Latest Comparison Tool: Camera Noise

You've seen the color block noise test comparisons in the DSLR camera reviews. Creating each of those comparisons was time consuming, the comparables were limited and the test results were buried in the review pages. With the new Camera Noise Comparison Tool, any tested camera can be quickly and easily compared with any other tested camera. Links to the new tool are found throughout the site including on the Tools menu and at the top of most camera reviews.

All cameras included in the tool have "Standard" test results available. A key to remember is that the "Standard" test results have no noise reduction included. Since noise reduction can be applied to images from any camera, the without noise reduction results become the best option for comparing camera models. These results aim to best show the camera's capabilities without software algorithm assistance. Some cameras include multiple sets of test results that may include noise reduction, Multi-Shot Noise Reduction and resolution changes to match other DSLR models.

My suggestion is to load the higher resolution camera sample using the right drop-down list selection when comparing two cameras.

While adding new tests to the tool will remain somewhat time consuming, only the new test images need to be created. Nearly 500 test images are immediately available. The Canon EOS Rebel T6i / T6s results are next in line for inclusion in the tool.

Loading test results from old cameras was nostalgic. Remember when the max ISO was 1600? And we thought it was amazing?

As with most of the site's other comparison tools, the URL showing in the address bar allows sharing specific noise comparisons with others. The complete set of parameters needed to reproduce the specific comparison being viewed are included.

This page is just out of beta testing. Please report any issues and, as always, suggestions are welcome.

Resolution Results

Also added to most DSLR camera review pages is a link to resolution chart test results in the Image Quality Comparison Tool. These previously existing results were usually mentioned in the reviews, but even more buried than the noise comparisons. Look for the bulleted resolution link near the top of the camera review pages.