High-dynamic range (HDR) video calls for a minimum color depth of how many bits?

High-dynamic range (HDR) video is designed to provide a greater range of colors and brightness levels compared to standard dynamic range (SDR) video. For HDR content to display its full potential, a minimum color depth of 10-bits per channel is required. This means each primary color (red, green, and blue) can have 1,024 different intensity levels (2^10).

This deeper color depth is essential not only to accommodate a wider color gamut but also to ensure smoother gradients and prevent banding, which can occur in lower bit depths. A 10-bit color depth allows HDR content to represent over a billion colors, compared to the approximately 16 million colors available with an 8-bit depth. This enhanced color representation is crucial for HDR’s intended visual experience and improved realism.

Therefore, the requirement of 10-bits as a minimum color depth is integral to delivering the vivid and dynamic imagery that HDR is known for.