A micro SD card adds compact removable storage to cameras, drones, phones, gaming devices and more. It works much like a full-size SD card but comes in a much smaller format for devices where space is limited.
The right micro SD card is not just about capacity. Your device also needs to support the card standard and speed rating you choose.
Match a microSD Card to Your Device
Different devices put different demands on storage. Check the manufacturer's compatibility requirements before choosing your card.
Action Cameras and Drones
High-resolution video needs a card that can maintain fast write speeds without interruption. Check the recommended capacity and Video Speed Class for your action cameras or drones.
Dash Cams
Dash cams constantly record and overwrite footage, so endurance matters. Look for cards designed to handle repeated write cycles and continuous recording.
Phones and Tablets
Compatible phones and tablets can use microSD storage for photos, videos and other files. Some devices also support app storage, although this depends on the operating system and device.
Handheld Consoles
A microSD card can add space for downloadable games on compatible consoles. Check the supported capacity and card standard before buying.
Security Cameras
Security cameras can record for long periods or use loop recording. High-endurance cards are better suited to frequent writing and overwriting.
Understand microSD Capacity Standards
Not every device supports every microSD capacity. The card standard determines its capacity range:
- microSDHC: More than 2GB up to 32GB.
- microSDXC: More than 32GB up to 2TB.
- microSDUC: More than 2TB up to 128TB.
An older device designed for SDHC may not recognise an SDXC card, even if the card physically fits. Always check the device's maximum supported capacity.
Make Sense of microSD Speed Ratings
Speed markings tell you how quickly a card can handle data. This matters when recording video or shooting bursts.
Speed Class, UHS Speed Class and Video Speed Class indicate minimum sustained write performance. For example, V30 means a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s. UHS ratings also relate to the card's bus interface and compatible device performance.
Read speed affects how quickly files can be transferred or accessed. Write speed is the bigger consideration for recording video and saving continuous bursts.
Choose and Look After Your Card
Match the capacity and speed rating to your device rather than simply buying the largest card available.
- Format a new card in the device where possible and back up files you want to keep.
- Store spare cards in memory card cases and use compatible card readers when transferring files.
- Replace a card if it develops repeated errors, becomes unreliable or shows physical damage.
Shop microSD Cards at digiDirect
digiDirect stocks microSD cards across different capacities and speed ratings from recognised memory brands. You can also compare other memory cards for compatible cameras and devices.
Shop Australian stock with applicable warranty coverage, with Click & Collect and delivery options available depending on stock and location.
microSD Card FAQs
How can I tell if a microSD card is counterfeit?
Counterfeit cards may report a false capacity or perform well below their advertised speed. Packaging, printing or pricing that looks unusual can also be a warning sign. Buying from an established retailer reduces the risk of receiving counterfeit storage.
Why does my card show less storage than the advertised capacity?
Storage manufacturers and operating systems can calculate capacity differently. Some space is also used for formatting and file system data. This means the usable capacity shown by your device is usually lower than the number printed on the card.
Can I move apps and games onto a microSD card?
Some phones, tablets and handheld consoles support apps or games on microSD cards. Others limit cards to photos, videos and other files. Check your device's storage settings and manufacturer guidance.
Does a microSD card get slower as it fills up?
Performance can change when a card is nearly full, particularly during frequent writing and deleting. Leaving some free space can help the device manage files more effectively. Back up and remove files you no longer need.
Can files be recovered if a card stops being recognised?
Sometimes, depending on why the card failed. Stop using the card if files are missing, as further writing could overwrite recoverable data. Recovery software or a professional data recovery service may help in some cases.
