FAQ
This FAQ explains how VCX scores are represented, how official results are published, how devices are tested, and how results may be interpreted and used.
Understanding VCX Scores
1What does a VCX score represent?⌄
A VCX score represents the camera performance of devices tested under the same standardized conditions, enabling direct comparison between devices.
The scores published on the website are based on official test results (Top-Level Result) generated by VCX Trusted Labs (VFTL) or by VCX Certified Labs (VFCL), which require verification by a VFTL.
2Are there more detailed results beyond the benchmark score shown on the VCX website?⌄
The website displays the Top-Level Result in integer form.
A more detailed report containing precise measurement data that composes this result exists separately, and can be accessed upon request.
3How is the ranking on the website score page determined?⌄
- Sorted in descending order by score
- In case of identical scores, the most recently tested device is ranked higher
4Which test results qualify as official VCX scores?⌄
Official VCX scores must meet all of the following conditions:
- The test must be conducted according to VCX standards
- The result must be generated by a VCX Trusted Lab (VFTL), or tested by a VFCL and verified by a VFTL
- Only such results are eligible to be published on the VCX website
5Are all test results from VCX Forum labs publicly available?⌄
No.
The following cases are not published:
- Private Testing
- Prototype or non-mass-production devices
- Cases where the sponsor does not request publication
6Can in-market devices be published at any time?⌄
Yes.
Devices that are already available on the market (in-market devices) may be published at any time, provided all conditions are met.
Pre-launch devices may also be published under certain conditions.
For details, please refer to the Publication Policy on the website.
9Do the tests reflect real user conditions?⌄
Yes.
Testing is based on “out-of-box” conditions and includes the following:
- Default camera settings
- Typical user usage scenarios
- No use of special equipment or additional configurations
10What types of devices are eligible for testing?⌄
- Devices available to general consumers
- Devices equipped with standard camera functionality
- Devices with a stable OS and usable default applications
11Why are VCX results reliable?⌄
VCX is based on the following principles:
- Standardized testing procedures
- Execution by independent laboratories
- Repeatability under identical conditions
- Prevention of result manipulation (through systems that allow direct observation and verification by multiple stakeholders)
12How can VCX scores be used by general users or related businesses?⌄
VCX scores are produced and published by a non-profit organization and are publicly available for use. However, the following principles apply:
- Must be used without modification
- The VCX source must be clearly indicated
- Misleading or deceptive use is not permitted
14What should be done if there is a concern about a result?⌄
- Anyone may request a re-test
- Final decisions are made by the VCX Board
Data and Result Management
15Why are there multiple entries with the same model name?⌄
Even for the same model, separate entries may exist due to:
- Different test timings
- Different firmware versions
- Different sponsors or testing entities
Therefore, identical model names do not guarantee identical results.
It is recommended to check the software version and release period of the device.
16Are previously published scores updated or fixed?⌄
In cases where firmware changes or different physical units of the same model are tested, multiple results may be listed.
However, existing scores may be updated in the following cases:
- When a re-test is conducted
- When errors or abnormal data are identified
The latest result is used as the reference.
17Are past scores removed?⌄
No.
When new versions are published, previous results are moved to an archive.
This allows VCX to reflect rapidly evolving technology while preserving historical data, including devices no longer available on the market.
Publication and Sponsorship
18Who can request a VCX test?⌄
Test proposals can be made by anyone through sponsorship, including:
- Manufacturers (OEMs)
- VCX members
- Media organizations
- General public
19Does requesting a test guarantee publication?⌄
No.
- Results may remain private depending on the sponsor’s choice
- Publication is only possible when all conditions are satisfied
20Can a sponsor prevent publication of results?⌄
Yes.
If the test is conducted as Private Testing, the results will not be published.
Testing, Integrity and Sourcing
21Can a manufacturer influence the test results?⌄
No.
This is a fundamental principle of VCX.
Testing is conducted by independent laboratories with no direct relation to manufacturers, and results are generated through standardized, computer-based scoring.
Therefore, manufacturers cannot alter results upon request.
23In what condition are devices tested?⌄
- Default user condition (default settings)
- No additional tuning
- Tested using the latest available version at the time of testing
24Where do the test devices come from?⌄
- Purchased directly by VCX (online or offline)
- Provided by manufacturers, competitors, partners, or related entities
- Provided by sponsors
Usage, Interpretation and Coverage
25Can different types of devices be compared?⌄
VCX provides scores based on standardized testing conditions.
Official scores are defined within specific product categories; however, VCX labs may test and compare different device types for purposes such as research, tuning, and development.
Interpretation of such comparisons may vary depending on the use case.
26Can purchase decisions be made based solely on VCX scores?⌄
VCX scores are an indicator for comparing camera performance.
If camera quality is a significant factor in a purchase decision, the score can serve as a useful reference.
However, other factors should also be considered when selecting a product.
27Is a difference of X points significant?⌄
VCX scores are aggregated values composed of multiple evaluation attributes.
Even if total scores are similar, devices may differ significantly in individual attributes.
To support this, VCX provides sub-scores for each test category.
Because VCX scores are derived from multiple evaluation criteria, small differences should not be interpreted as absolute performance superiority, but rather as variations that may depend on user preference.
To improve interpretability, VCX also provides a star-based category system.
28What happens to the score after a software update?⌄
VCX scores reflect performance at a specific software or firmware version.
If updates affect camera performance, the score may change for the same device.
For this reason, the website provides device information at the time of testing, including software version.
Re-testing can also be conducted to reflect performance changes after updates.
29Why are some devices not included in VCX? Does it mean they have lower performance?⌄
VCX aims to test a wide range of devices available on the market.
However, due to the nature of operating as a non-profit organization, it is not feasible to test all products.
Devices are selected based on factors such as:
- Market relevance
- Technical interest
- Sponsorship or request-based submissions
- Availability through testing channels
Therefore, the absence of a device from VCX should not be interpreted as an indication of lower performance.