Question 1

What is the difference between 8-bit and 10-bit video?

Accepted Answer

8-bit video can display 16.7 million colors, while 10-bit video supports over 1 billion colors, reducing banding and improving grading flexibility.

Question 2

Is 8-bit video good enough for YouTube?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 8-bit is sufficient for YouTube if you're not doing heavy color grading. However, 10-bit is better for professional work and HDR content.

Question 3

Does 10-bit video have a larger file size than 8-bit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 10-bit files are significantly larger than 8-bit due to the increased color information.

Question 4

Can I edit 10-bit video on any computer?

Accepted Answer

Not all computers handle 10-bit smoothly. Editing requires a powerful GPU and CPU, such as those in the M1 Max MacBook Pro or high-end PCs.

Question 5

Do I need a special monitor to view 10-bit video correctly?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most consumer monitors are 8-bit, so a 10-bit monitor is recommended for accurate color grading.

Color Depth for Cinematography