Memory Cards

A memory card can affect how quickly your camera saves photos and records high-resolution video. A slower card may become a bottleneck during continuous RAW burst shooting or high-bitrate 4K and 6K recording.

digiDirect stocks memory cards for cameras, drones, action cameras, phones and other compatible devices. Explore SD, microSD, CFexpress, CFast and XQD options when adding to your memory & storage setup.

Find the Right Memory Card Format

Memory cards come in different formats for different devices. Check your device specifications before choosing one.

SD Cards

SD cards are widely used in DSLR and mirrorless cameras. Different capacities and speed ratings cover everyday photography, burst shooting and high-resolution video.

microSD Cards

microSD cards are commonly used in action cameras, drones, phones and tablets. Their small size makes them suited to compact devices.

CFexpress Type A and Type B

CFexpress cards support the fast data transfer needed for burst photography and high-bitrate video. Type A and Type B differ in size and are not interchangeable.

CFast Cards

CFast cards are used in selected professional cameras and cinema equipment. Always check compatibility before buying.

XQD Cards

XQD cards are found in selected professional cameras and video equipment. Some compatible cameras can also support CFexpress Type B through a firmware update.

Understand Memory Card Speed Ratings

Speed ratings tell you how quickly a card can handle data. They matter most when your camera is continuously writing large files.

UHS-I and UHS-II refer to the SD card's bus interface. UHS-II offers higher potential transfer speeds when used with compatible equipment.

V30, V60 and V90 indicate minimum sustained write speeds of 30MB/s, 60MB/s and 90MB/s. V30 can support many 4K modes, while higher-bitrate 4K and 6K recording may call for V60, V90 or another faster format.

Read speed affects file transfers. Write speed affects how quickly your camera can save data, making it particularly relevant for video and burst photography.

Which Memory Card Do You Need?

Your device and shooting style determine the format and speed you need. Check the manufacturer's requirements before buying.

Mirrorless and DSLR Cameras

UHS-I U3 or V30 SD cards can suit many cameras. Faster bursts and demanding video modes may require UHS-II, V60, V90 or CFexpress.

Action Cameras and Drones

Most compatible action cameras and drones use microSD. U3 or V30 is a common starting point for 4K recording.

Cinema and Pro Video

Professional video equipment may use V60 or V90 SD, CFexpress or CFast cards. Match the card's sustained write speed to your recording mode.

Phones and Tablets

Compatible phones and tablets typically use microSD cards. U3 or V30 can suit supported devices recording 4K video.

Choose the Right Storage Capacity

Higher-resolution photos and video can fill a card quickly. Your camera settings and shooting habits should guide your capacity choice.

A 64GB card can hold roughly 1,000 to 2,500 RAW photos when files average 25MB to 60MB. One hour of 4K footage at 100Mbps uses roughly 45GB. Actual storage varies by camera, codec and recording settings.

Using several smaller cards can also spread your files across multiple storage devices rather than keeping an entire shoot on one card.

Keep Your Memory Cards in Good Condition

Simple handling and storage habits can help keep your cards reliable and your files organised.

  • Format cards in-camera after backing up your files.
  • Safely eject them from computers and store unused cards in memory card cases.
  • Use compatible card readers for transfers, then back up valuable files to another location such as external hard drives.
  • Retire cards that repeatedly show errors, corruption or unreliable performance.

FAQs

What is the difference between UHS-I and UHS-II?

UHS-I and UHS-II describe the interface used by compatible SD cards. UHS-II supports higher potential speeds and has an extra row of contacts. You need compatible equipment to benefit from its higher speeds.

Do I need a V60 or V90 card for 4K video?

Not always. Many 4K modes work with V30, while higher bitrates may require V60 or V90. Check your camera's recommended sustained write speed for your chosen recording mode.

Can I use a CFexpress Type B card in a Type A slot?

No. CFexpress Type A and Type B cards have different physical dimensions. Use the type specified by your camera manufacturer.

What speed card do I need for burst shooting RAW files?

This depends on your camera's burst rate, buffer, and supported card formats. UHS-II SD or CFexpress can help compatible cameras clear their buffers faster during extended RAW bursts.

How often should I replace a memory card?

Memory cards have no fixed replacement schedule for everyday use. Consider retiring a card if you notice repeated write errors, corrupted files, physical damage or inconsistent performance.