Nowadays, the battle of home entertainment is growing so wide! The reason is simple. The new technologies are rounding up and competition is heavier than ever. Hence, the world is filled with High Dynamic Range (HDR) formats. The HDR list is long. However, the most potent battle engaging between the two most famous HDR forms – Dolby Vision vs HDR10.
Both of them are top-notch HDR formats. There’s no doubt about this. But, which one will be the best? People often feel mystery about it. While Dolby Vision offers better picture quality, HDR10 is supported by most devices. However, DV has an edge over its counterpart due to its updated tech.
In this article, we’ll talk about the two best HDR formats – Dolby Vision vs. HDR10: What are the differences, and which is better? Please keep reading to learn about them thoroughly.
Dolby Vision vs HDR10: Differences and Comparison
It is the era of HDR formats. Almost all the top TV manufacturing companies are trying to implicate these formats in their respective products. As a result, things got pretty much difficult when choosing between Dolby Vision and HDR10. You can’t take one of them by a single consideration.
You have to consider multiple matters before making a final move. Before going into a full-fledge discussion, we should check out the Dolby Vision vs. HDR10 – side-by-side comparison:
Dolby Vision vs HDR10 – Side-by-Side Comparison
| Dolby Vision | HDR10 | |
| Intro | It is an HDR format that consists of 12-bit and 68.7 billion colors | It is an HDR format that contains 10-bit and 1.07 billion colors |
| Name | Dolby Vision | High dynamic range |
| Metadata format | Dynamic | Static |
| Developers | Dolby Laboratories | Consumer Technology Association |
| Open Standard | No | Yes |
| License | Dolby company | Open format |
| Use | Restricted | Worldwide |
As things stand, Dolby Vision is undoubtedly better over HDR10. The brightness, image quality, and broad spectrum of colors – everything is literally outstanding in this HDR format. However, HDR10 is ahead in terms of availability.
The main reason is that Blu-Ray players and 4K TVs vastly support HDR10. This is why it is widely available. On the other hand, no Samsung TVs don’t have Dolby Vision technology. Other big companies like Sony, Panasonic, LG, etc., installed the Dolby Vision technology in their home-cinema ranges and in 4K tech TVs.
Furthermore, Dolby Vision can be found in various streaming services like Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Netflix, Paramount Plus, etc.
Summarization of Dolby Vision vs HDR10
When it comes to the point of difference between Dolby Vision vs. HDR10, the first thing is the content pattern. HDR10 is open for everyone and free. Nevertheless, Dolby Vision is owned by the Dolby Company. Therefore, the question can be raised – what’s the point people will have to pay for Dolby?
Ok. While the HDR10 can produce only 10-bit and 1.07 billion colors, DV has the capability to create 12-bit and 68.7 billion colors. But, no 12-bit TVs or any content exist in the real world. As a result, you can only find the usual 10-bit color with some enhancement with DV.
Before going into the in-detail discussion, we should know what is Dolby Vision and HDR10? Let’s check –
Dolby Vision
Dolby Laboratories own Dolby Vision. It is not a free source. For this reason, content creators have to pay a minimal fee to achieve the display certification for Dolby Vision. Henceforth, you’ve to meet some requirements to get the verification. Another thing is DB uses metadata on a frame-by-frame basis.
The whole procedure is widely known as dynamic metadata. This type of metadata can deeply enrich the picture quality. For this reason, it becomes more sophisticated and the visual’s video becomes highly appealing and eye-popping.
The DV has given home entertainment a new dimension. You’ll effortlessly notice the significant difference between DV and other HDR formats. DV is such a vast improvement over what came earlier than it. The deeper colors, eye-soothing movement, awe-inspiring contrast ratios – everything is outwardly in this format.
Pros of Dolby Vision
- The dynamic metadata is way better than static metadata
- The image quality is excellent
- DB possesses the best color gamut ingredient
- The bit depth of the DB is 12 bits and 68.7 billion colors.
Cons of Dolby Vision
- Not available for all TV brands
- Very few games and streaming contents
HDR10
High Dynamic Range (HDR) is one of the latest technologies that has already paved its way into a bunch of products like TVs, Laptops, PC monitors, movies, etc. Moreover, the HDR technology offers superior contrast between light and dark tones. This is how color and luminance become so sophisticated.
Further, HDR10 is an open-source format and content creators don’t have to pay a penny to post their content in it. It is entirely free. Besides, it was manufactured by the Consumer Technology Association. The HDR10 tech was actually created to make a revolution in cinematography and photography. But, it has become an essential part of the latest home entertainment.
It is a widely used format and you can find it in streaming services like Amazon Prime, Hulu, Vudu, Netflix, etc.
Pros of HDR10
- It is globally available
- Free HDR format
- The image and video quality are enjoyable
- Too much streaming content
Cons of HDR10
- It uses static metadata which isn’t that superb like DB’s
- The contrast ratio is not up to the mark
Top Features of Dolby Vision
There are two main specs of Dolby Vision. They are –
Top-notch Specs
Dolby Vision possesses all the high-level specifications. It has metadata that is capable of creating superior picture quality. On the other side, the color depth is so great. It can go almost 12 bits which you can’t find in any other HDR options.
It will be the Leader!
Yes, it’s undeniable that DV is still not that popular nor available around the globe. But, many tech analysts predict that it will lead to the future gen. Still, have doubts?! Ok, then! Let’s try it by yourself. When you watch it with the perfect device and watch streaming or a movie, you’ll have a unique experience.
Henceforth, it will surely lead the NextGen home entertainment arena and using it will keep you one step ahead in the game!
Top Features of HDR10
The main features of HDR10 are –
Much Upgraded Version
Are you feeling tired of using the standard dynamic range? No problem! HDR10 is here! It is a highly upgraded version of the normal dynamic range. Besides, it contains a color range of around 10 bits and 10k nits. So, you can guess how magnificent it is!
Moreover, the brightness, color and overall visuals are much more elegant with HDR10 than the previous standard dynamic range.
No Problem in Finding Consonants
We’ve already been told several times that it is an open-source format. As a result, you won’t find any pain in finding its compatible device.
No Extraordinary Requirements
You don’t need to spend big to run HDR10 in your home. All you need is to purchase an HDR television and that’s it. Afterward, you can conveniently run the whole program and enjoy it!
Dolby Vision vs HDR10 – The Use of them
Dolby Vision and HDR10 dominate the home entertainment sector in the modern era. People were so disgusted to see the standard dynamic range in the past. Nevertheless, the introduction of HDR changes it. For example – you’re in a dark tunnel and suddenly light up the torch with you. What will be then?
The torch will surely enlighten your front area. However, you won’t be able to see anything due to the darkness. This is such a big problem. But, you can conveniently overcome this tricky situation. These types of situations are really problematic and that’s why HDR is so essential.
Additionally, HDR can productively enhance the dynamic range of an image even in dark places. It can wash out bright areas in those shaded areas without losing quality.
Now, let’s check out the uses of Dolby Vision and HDR10 –
Filming
Nowadays, directors are using Dolby Vision and HDR10 to shoot films, documentaries, and advertisements. It’s getting more and more common day by day. Henceforth, these formats make films and documentaries more stylish, improve the color grading, and enlarge their dynamic range.
Therefore, shooting becomes more effortless and it attaches to reality more than ever.
Photography
These formats will give photographers the luxury of taking HD images. There will be a crystal clear view of an image. Moreover, you shouldn’t worry about losing quality while taking marvelous images.
Gaming
If you want to play HD games, you should go for Dolby Vision or HDR10. This is how you will feel the authentic taste of gaming. Hence, the images will be more visible because HDR can simultaneously provide deeper black and sheer brightness.
HD format is very much needed when you’re about to play shadow-type games. Almost every highly engaging game, such as Forza Motorsport 7, Call of Duty, Shadow of War, etc., uses HD formats.
Besides, Dolby Vision and HDR10 supported top dogs like PlayStation 4 Pro, PS5, and Xbox One gaming consoles.
What are the Differences Between Dolby Vision vs HDR10?
Now, we are coming to the topic where we’ll find out the differences between Dolby Vision vs. HDR10. It will be like a big battle between the USA and RUSSIA! Before starting the in-detail discussion, we want to tell you something. Several Hollywood studios have created HDR10 like Lionsgate, Paramount Pictures, Sony Entertainment, United Artists, etc.
Contrariwise, Dolby Vision was developed by Dolby Laboratories. Some Hollywood studios’ top executives were also part of this project. After the release of DV, it is widely considered the best HD version and undoubtedly a better version than its counterpart. Now, let’s check the differences between them –
Image Quality
Imagine it’s 2.00 am. You and your pals are watching a horror-type film like “Friday the 13th“. Suddenly, one of you starts complaining about the screen being too dark. What then? People get irritated if the color quality is terrible. Additionally, the resolution makes a massive impact on the monitor’s picture.
It also ensures the amount of color, contrast, and brightness produced by the display. In addition, Dolby Vision and HDR10 assist significantly in delivering the perfect picture that will be comfortable to your eyes and gives you a first-class experience of film watching even in the deep dark!
Color Accuracy
Standard Definition Range’s display generally braces 8-bit color depth. It is capable of producing nearly 17 million different hues. Contrariwise, HDR10’s contents can develop a 10-bit color depth. It can translate to 1.07 billion different colors.
Elsewhere, DV contents support 12-bit color depth. Dolby Vision’s contents are more realistic and highly advanced than others. But, very few devices can possess 12-bit color depth. For this reason, it is not available globally. Moreover, human eyes can’t see such a high-level color depth without a remarkably brighter display.
Only limited devices are available to match the sheer brightness of DV.
Brightness
The brightness of HDR10 and Dolby Vision is astounding. HDR10 possesses the lowest luminance of 1k Nits and the highest luminance of 4K Nits. On the other side, DV contains minimum peak luminance of 4K Nits while its maximum peak luminance of 10k Nits.
So, it’s pretty clear that Dolby Vision’s display is much more prominent in comparison to HDR10. For this reason, you’ll feel more vibrant while watching films in DV.
Dynamic HDR
Dolby Vision executes its metadata on a frame-by-frame basis. But, HDR10 is static and can’t do the same thing as DV. But, what does that mean? It means that if you’re enjoying an HDR film on an HDR display, there will be no change in metadata. It will remain exact for the whole film.
However, Dolby Vision can change the color, brightness, etc., things dynamically according to the info. Therefore, you’ll get a more immersive and superior experience while watching a movie.
Recently, the HDR10+ format came out. It can provide dynamic HDR to the HDR10 standard. But, you don’t have to pay a fee to use it.
The only problem is that HDR10+ isn’t fully available on the market. Nevertheless, Samsung, Panasonic, etc. companies have already announced that they will soon bring a variety of TVs and games in this format. So, we’ll see the increasing use of this format soon.
Gaming
Most top-notch gaming consoles like PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PlayStation Pro, etc., support HDR10. Elsewhere, Dolby Vision is available on the consoles such as Xbox One S, Xbox One X, etc.
There are lots of popular games that are now available on HDR. Game lovers don’t need to have the pain of playing those games. All they need to do is an HDR-compatible monitor or TV. That’s it!
Cost
As we’ve already said, HDR10 is an open-source format. Therefore, you don’t need to pay added money for that. And, that’s why it is not that expensive. It is pretty reasonable in price. On the other side, Dolby Vision is a dominion standard. For this reason, it is not free and consumers must pay extra money to use it.
This is why it is costly and you must pay a considerable amount to purchase it. If you want better image quality than your old TV or monitor, then HDR10 is such a great option without a thought. But, if you want the best picture quality and most satisfactory movie-watching experience, there’s no alternative to Dolby Vision.
Obtainability
HDR10 is kinda standard format for HD-range content. It is also free. Dolby Vision is still not globally available since it’s not free and very few devices support this format. Only a few monitors can show this format on their screen. For this reason, you need an HDR television. Besides, you can conveniently play high-resolution videos with an HDR TV.
OTT platforms like Netflix, Apple TV, etc., are offering Dolby Vision content to their customers.
If you want to take advantage of Dolby Vision, you should purchase a TV that can support it correctly. But, there’s no reason one format can’t work with others if they have similar functions and specifications. HDR10 is an open standard format that can be used in games. But, very few displays support it.
On the other hand, Dolby Vision supports only a few TVs. It will be wise to ensure that your display contains this tech before playing games with an HDR soundtrack. Otherwise, things could backfire and you’ll be highly disappointed.
Notwithstanding, don’t worry! A new format called HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) is now on the market. In addition, you can use it for both static HDR10 content along with those videos that were taken using DV displays.
Dolby Vision vs HDR10 – FAQs
Which is Actually Better? Dolby Vision or HDR10?
Obviously, it’s Dolby Vision! Both are good. But, DV is much ahead if we count on the face-to-face comparison. The DV owns more modern technologies. It’s dynamic metadata, highly sophisticated image quality, gaming experience – everything is superb. Many high-class TV brands are starting to use this format in their products.
So, it is safe to say that DV will lead the NextGen home entertainment industry.
Which one is brighter, Dolby Vision vs. HDR10?
HDR10 is brighter than its counterpart. The reason is it uses static metadata. For this reason, the brightness and color level executes in the whole content. This means the tone mapping is primarily based on the brightness frame leading to outstanding extra compression of the color gamut on the video.
Which one is perfect for gaming between Dolby Vision and HDR10?
The truth is DV has the upper hand. The reason is simple. It contains more modern tech than the HDR10. But, the problem is that it’s not available everywhere and very few TVs support it. As a result, HDR10 is better, at least for now. However, things could change in the future.
Between Dolby Vision vs. HDR10, which one is better for streaming?
It’s no wonder that Dolby Vision and HDR10 are currently leading home entertainment due to their fascinating content. Therefore, most devices and films are now incorporating these formats to gain more popularity among mass people. But, which one is better for streaming?
Well. HDR10 is widely available to most OTT platforms like Netflix, Paramount Plus, HBO MAX, Amazon Prime, etc. Nevertheless, DV is a better version due to its more comprehensive brightness range (0-10k nits) and capability of providing more details of image or scene.
Dolby Vision vs HDR10 – Final Verdict
So, after a deep and in-detail discussion, we can conclude that both Dolby Vision and HDR10 are beasts on their own games. They’re leading the market. However, if we say which one is good between Dolby Vision and HDR10 – it’s undeniable that the former possesses more highly advanced technology.
But, DV is only suitable for those contents that support it. On the other hand, HDR10 is widely supported by most devices and displays. It’s like a baseline of the content. However, things are changing since many top-notch companies prefer DV to manufacture their future products. So, the reign of the HDR10 is in danger in this ever-evolving tech world.
