Why we chose 8-bit color depth in our workflow instead of a 16-bit color depth for PBR maps

When utilizing a 16-bit color depth, the file size of all PBR maps increases approximately threefold compared to using an 8-bit color depth. We have opted for an 8-bit color depth setting because the trade-off in terms of file size does not significantly improve quality or work efficiency, as explained below:

• Given the typical computer specifications of most users, there are primary issues associated with using a 16-bit color depth in these scenarios:
  • If the user is working on a complex project or studio scene with materials that have a large 16-bit color depth, the computational complexity of the program will increase, leading to longer processing times.
  • In the case of using CLO software, this can result in project crashes or the corruption of saved projects. Additionally, when objects textured with PBR maps in 16-bit color depth are used, users may encounter problems with the mesh in the rendered view or find that the mesh in the overlapping area is not rendered properly.
• Furthermore, the difference in quality between 16-bit and 8-bit is negligible, despite the threefold difference in file size capacity.

For a detailed comparative analysis of PBR maps extracted with 8-bit and 16-bit settings, please refer to the information provided below.

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We have conducted a comparison and analysis using one of our assets, PD-00453521, to examine the differences between two types of PBR maps: one extracted with an 8-bit color depth setting and the other with a 16-bit color depth setting using xTex. Here is an overview of our findings:

1) Bit depth of each PBR map for 8-bit and 16-bit settings:

2) File sizes for 8-bit and 16-bit settings:

3) Displacement maps for 8-bit and 16-bit settings:

Color depth setting	8-bit	16-bit
Displacement Map

• When comparing displacement maps extracted with 8-bit and 16-bit settings, you may notice differences between the two maps. The displacement map extracted in the 16-bit color setting appears sharper than the one extracted in the 8-bit color setting.
• However, this disparity in sharpness does not necessarily translate to the same difference in quality in the rendered images. When rendering with all the other PBR maps applied, the practical distinctions are minimal. For visual reference, please consult the images in the following Section 4).

4) Rendered images using PBR maps extracted in 8-bit vs. 16-bit settings:

Color depth setting	8-bit	16-bit
Displacement Amount 0.05mm
Displacement Amount 0.1mm

• The images above were rendered in CLO with all six PBR maps applied, and the displacement amount was adjusted to 0.05mm and 0.1mm, respectively.
• The reason for displaying the 0.05mm and 0.1mm examples is that most of the displacement amount adjustments in CLO typically range from 0.05mm to 0.1mm for realistic fabric representation. As you can see, there is no noticeable difference in detail between the 8-bit setting and the 16-bit setting.