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Should I use 8 or 16 bit Photoshop?

Last updated on September 23, 2022 @ 7:51 pm

When it comes to image editing, most users have a preference for either 8 or 16 bit images. However, the truth is that both formats have their advantages.

8 bit images are limited to a maximum of 256 colors. This can be a big limitation if you want to work with a lot of colors, or if you need to use a specific color a lot.

However, 8 bit images are usually quite small and easy to store, so they’re often preferred by users who don’t need a lot of color options or who need to save space.

PRO TIP: When working with 8-bit images in Photoshop, you will only have access to a limited number of colors. This can lead to banding and other color artifacts in your image. For the best results, it is recommended that you use a 16-bit image.

16 bit images can handle up to 16.7 million colors. This can be a huge advantage if you need to work with a lot of colors or if you want to create images that look very realistic.

However, 16 bit images can be quite large and difficult to work with. They’re also usually more expensive to store and use.

Morgan Bash

Morgan Bash

Technology enthusiast and Co-Founder of Women Coders SF.