We shoot a specially designed chart in carefully controlled conditions and the resulting images are analysed using DXO Analyzer software to generate the data to produce the graphs below.

A high signal to noise ratio (SNR) indicates a cleaner and better quality image.

For more more details on how to interpret our test data, check out our full explanation of our noise and dynamic range tests.

JPEG images from the Nikon 1 J2 show better signal to noise ratio results than the original Nikon 1 J1 throughout the whole sensitivity range, but sit below those of the Sony NEX-5R at every sensitivity setting but ISO 1600. The Panasonic GF5 starts of with a greater signal to noise ratio than the Nikon 1 J2 at lower ISOs, but falls below its results at ISO 800, where the Nikon 1 J2's results improve for a while, as the other cameras' all steadily fall.

Raw signal to noise ratio

TIFF images (after conversion from raw) from the Nikon 1 J2 show a more uniform picture, with the Nikon 1 J1 again beating the original Nikon 1 J1 for signal to noise ratio, but sitting below the Sony NEX-5R. The Panasonic GF5 is again better at ISO 200, but produces worse results after that.

Dynamic range

This chart indicates that dynamic range in the Nikon 1 J2's JPEGs is better than the Nikon 1 J1, Sony NEX-5R and Panasonic GF5 at most sensitivities. It falls below the Panasonic GF5 at ISO 400, and matches the Sony NEX-5R at ISO 100, but otherwise outperforms them.

Raw dynamic range

TIFF/raw images from the Nikon 1 J2 show a greater variation in dynamic range scores, but are still ahead of those from the Nikon 1 J1 and Panasonic GF5. The Sony NEX-5R produces superior dynamic range in its raw images. There's no overlap between the Nikon 1 J2 and any of the other cameras in this chart.