Three different components contribute to the modulation transfer function of the visual system: (1) formation of the optical image (refractive media, pupil); (2) scattering of light in the prereceptoral layers of the retina; (3) neuronal processing in the retina und superior visual centers. In the presence of media opacities or non-correctable refractive errors, the clinical question often arises as to which macular function can be expected under the assumption of normal optical image formation (e.g. prior to cataract extraction, corneal transplantation, or vitrectomy). Simple tests such as light projection, color discrimination, and two-point discrimination cannot provide adequate information about macular function. The same holds true for the global luminance ERG. The X-ray phosphene is obsolete. The Maddox rod (with limitations), transilluminated Amsler grid, and various entoptic phenomena (Purkinje vascular phenomenon, foveal chagrin, Haidinger's brushes, blue field phenomenon) are available as qualitative subjective tests. Maxwellian view systems with pinhole aperture (potential acuity meter PAM) and the interferometers (retinometer, visometer, SITE-IRAS interferometer) provide quantitative subjective methods. The flash VECP is primarily a qualitative objective test that allows semiquantitative acuity prediction under special conditions (unilateral opacities). Psychophysical criteria that are less affected by the quality of the retinal image show promising developments in future subjective tests, e.g. optotypes in positive contrast, optotypes or targets superimposed on a background of optical noise, or hyperacuity. Future objective test developments are pattern VECP or even pattern ERG elicited by interferometric stimulation, speckle VECP and focal ERG.