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Which Micro SD Card is Best for Action Cameras and Why

by Avi Green 22 Jul 2024

As a professional photographer, the hunt for the best micro SD card for your action camera can be a daunting task. The increasing demand for higher resolution videos and pictures, combined with the need for fast and reliable storage, makes this even more critical. Choosing the wrong card can result in dropped frames, corrupted files, and overall frustration.

In this article, we'll delve deeply into which micro SD card is best for action cameras, exploring the various options available, and ultimately helping you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Importance of the Right Micro SD Card

Your action cameras performance is significantly influenced by the kind of micro SD card it uses. Whether you're using a GoPro, DJI Osmo, or any other highly-rated action camera, the speed and storage capacity of your micro SD card can make a significant difference.

Speed Classes Explained

The speed of your micro SD card is typically measured by its speed class. There are four main types of speed classes you need to be aware of:

  • Class 10: Suitable for full HD video recording. Minimum write speed of 10 MB/s.
  • UHS-I: Ideal for full HD and some 4K video recording. Minimum write speed of 10 MB/s.
  • UHS-II: Excellent for 4K video recording. Minimum write speed of 30 MB/s.
  • V60/V90: Perfect for high bitrate 4K and even 8K video recording. Minimum write speed starting from 60 MB/s for V60 and 90 MB/s for V90.
which micro sd card is best for action camera

Top Recommendations for Micro SD Cards

SanDisk Extreme Pro

The SanDisk Extreme Pro has been a favorite amongst many professional photographers. With its exceptional read and write speeds, often clocking at 170 MB/s and 90 MB/s respectively, it is ideal for 4K UHD video recording and burst mode photography. Furthermore, it's built to withstand harsh conditions - water, shock, X-ray, and temperature proof. You can purchase it from Photo4Art for reliable and durable performance.

Samsung EVO Select

Samsung EVO Select offers a balanced performance with read speeds up to 100 MB/s and write speeds at 90 MB/s. It's a cost-effective solution without compromising much on reliability and performance. Ideal for 4K video recording and high-resolution pictures, the Samsung EVO Select stands out for its value for money.

Lexar Professional 1000x

Lexar Professional 1000x micro SD cards are surfacing as top choices for action cameras. Boasting read speeds of up to 150 MB/s, they cater well to 4K video recording and are backed by solid reliability. For those looking to push their action cameras to their limits, Lexar is a dependable choice. Explore more about it on CameraKlean.

which micro sd card is best for action camera

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Storage Capacity

Choosing the right storage capacity for your needs is crucial. Action cameras typically support micro SD cards ranging from 32GB to 512GB. Higher capacities allow for longer recording times and more high-resolution photos but are generally more expensive. If you're an avid adventurer who doesn't want to constantly switch cards, going for a 256GB or 512GB might be more reasonable.

Durability

Action cameras are often subjected to extreme conditions. Having a micro SD card that can withstand water, high temperatures, shocks, and even X-rays is essential. Cards labeled as water, shock, temperature, and X-ray proof, like the SanDisk Extreme Pro, are your best bets for reliability under tough conditions. Learn more about action camera maintenance on Action Camera.

Compatibility

Not all micro SD cards are compatible with all action cameras. Ensure the card you choose is supported by your specific camera model. Checking the manufacturers recommendations can save a lot of hassles.

Making the Final Decision

Deciding which micro SD card is best for action cameras boils down to analyzing your specific needs and camera specifications. Consider the kind of videos or photos you predominantly capture, the typical conditions you shoot in, and your budget.

Frequency of Usage

If you're constantly capturing high-resolution footage, investing in a higher-end, high-speed card such as the SanDisk Extreme Pro or Lexar Professional 1000x is worthwhile. For occasional use, a card like the Samsung EVO Select can be quite effective without burning a hole in your pocket.

Long-Term Investments

For professional photographers, investing in the right gear, including storage solutions, is a long-term investment. Durability and reliability should not be compromised. Ensuring you've got the best tools means fewer chances of malfunction and data loss, ultimately saving time and money. Read more about action camera usage in harsh conditions at Flymount.

Conclusion

Choosing which micro SD card is best for action cameras is no trivial task. With technological advancements, the storage solutions available have become faster, more reliable, and more durable. From the highly recommended SanDisk Extreme Pro to the value-packed Samsung EVO Select, your ultimate choice should align with your specific needs and shooting habits.

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FAQs

What is the minimum speed class recommended for 4K video recording?

For 4K video recording, it's recommended to use a card with a minimum UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) or V30, which ensures a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s.

Can I use a micro SD card with a lower storage capacity for 4K videos?

Yes, but it will significantly limit the amount of footage you can record. Higher capacity cards (128GB and above) are generally recommended for 4K video to avoid frequently swapping cards.

Are all micro SD cards waterproof?

Not all micro SD cards are waterproof. Check for cards explicitly labeled as waterproof, such as the SanDisk Extreme Pro, to ensure reliability in wet conditions.

How often should I format my micro SD card?

It's good practice to format your micro SD card after transferring your data to your computer. This helps in maintaining optimal performance and prevents potential file corruption.

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