Memory Cards
Selecting the right memory cards is crucial for dependable performance and efficient workflow. Higher-capacity cards are generally preferable, as they provide more room for footage, perform better when less full, and minimize the risk of running out of storage during a shoot. Many cameras come with one or two memory card slots, allowing for either backup recording (where both slots mirror each other to protect against data loss) or relay recording (where the camera automatically switches to the second card when the first one fills up). For critical projects, backup mode is usually the better option to ensure data security. When choosing memory cards, it's essential to check your camera’s maximum supported memory size, as exceeding this limit could lead to compatibility issues. Additionally, sticking with the same brand across all slots can help avoid potential incompatibility, deliver more consistent performance, and simplify media management. Using identical brands can ensure smoother workflow integration and minimize any risk of inconsistent speeds or errors that may arise from mixing brands. In summary, select memory cards based on your camera’s specifications, prioritize larger capacities within your camera’s maximum limits, and choose a consistent brand for reliable performance and simplified management—especially important for long or complex shoots.
For detailed guidance on selecting the best memory card for your specific camera, including compatibility, capacity limits, and recommended brands, check out our Camera Essentials Guide. This resource covers everything you need to know to ensure optimal performance and reliable storage solutions tailored to your setup.
Memory cards
CFexpress Type B
Both SanDisk and Angelbird provide excellent, reliable storage solutions that suit most camera setups, with Angelbird often offering better prices and SanDisk providing a slight performance edge. For those looking to maximize quality, ProGrade is a strong option, though at a higher price point. For most filmmakers, 4K DCI is an optimal target format that balances quality and data efficiency. If you’re considering higher data rates, cinema-grade cameras are designed to handle those demands and provide superior results—though they come at a higher price for a reason.
512GB-1TB
The Angelbird CFexpress Card offers excellent performance at a reasonable price, making it a great choice for most filmmakers. With a max read speed of 1785 MB/s and a max write speed of 850 MB/s, this card delivers consistent write speeds around 800 MB/s, ensuring smooth, drop-free recording across its entire capacity. While it may not support ultra-high-speed formats needed by high-end cinema cameras, it’s more than sufficient for beginner, amateur, and moderate professional setups. Incompatibilities typically arise only with cameras priced over $25,000, which require higher speeds for specialized formats. Even then, many of those cameras still support formats that align with this card’s capabilities. If your camera supports it, selecting a 1TB version of this card is ideal. The larger capacity not only helps the drive run more smoothly but also provides a valuable margin in case you end up shooting for longer periods. This ensures you won’t run into storage limitations during a shoot, allowing for more flexibility and peace of mind. With its balance of cost and performance, the Angelbird CFexpress card paired with matching SD cards offers great value, saving you enough to potentially invest in an additional CFexpress or SD card if necessary.
256GB/512GB
The SanDisk CFexpress Type B card is currently an ambiguous choice. While it has solid specifications with a max read speed of 1700 MB/s and a max write speed of 1400 MB/s, it’s relatively pricier than ProGrade, which offers higher performance for a similar or lower price. This card is a good buy if you prefer to keep your storage consistent by pairing it with a SanDisk SD card. However, if brand matching isn’t a priority, you might get better value by opting for either Angelbird or ProGrade cards across the board, or mixing brands if you're open to that.
325GB-640GB
The ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B Cobalt memory card is highly regarded for its exceptional performance. It is available in capacities of 325GB and 650GB, with the 325GB version offering maximum read speeds of 1700MB/s and write speeds of 1500MB/s. These speeds make it suitable for capturing high-resolution video and rapid burst photography. The 650GB version provides even more storage, accommodating longer recording sessions without the need for frequent card changes. Given these specifications, capacities lower than 325GB may be insufficient for most filmmakers' needs.
256GB-512GB-1TB-2TB
The ProGrade CFexpress Type B card is a top-tier option, offering exceptional performance at a reasonable price. As a Gen 4 card, it ensures compatibility with current camera models. However, as of late 2024, few cameras can fully utilize its 4.0 speeds. The primary benefits are maximizing your camera's potential speed and achieving faster transfer rates, provided your export device can handle them.
320GB-640GB
The SanDisk PRO-CINEMA CFexpress Type B card offers impressive sustained write speeds of 1400MB/s, making it suitable for high-resolution video recording. It is available in 320GB and 640GB capacities. As of 2024, the 320GB version is priced around $90, while the 640GB version is approximately $500. If 640GB is essential for your workflow, it may be justified; otherwise, opting for multiple 320GB cards can provide greater flexibility and cost savings. Despite the pricing, the card's performance and reliability make it a solid choice for professional videography.
Essential
SD Cards
When selecting SD cards, understanding card ratings is essential to ensure smooth performance, long-term reliability, and compatibility with your camera’s capabilities. Ratings like V30, V60, and V90 indicate the minimum write speeds a card can sustain, making them suitable for different types of cameras and recording requirements. While higher-rated cards, such as V90, can be used in lower-end cameras, they may be bottlenecked by the camera’s maximum supported speed. This means you’d essentially be paying extra for performance that won’t make a noticeable difference, as a V30 card could accomplish the same task at a much lower cost. To save money and avoid compatibility issues, it's best to match the SD card rating to what your camera requires. A V30 card is generally sufficient for Full HD or basic 4K recording, while V60 and V90 cards are better suited for more demanding formats, like 4K at high bitrates or 6K recording. Using a card with a lower rating than what your camera demands can lead to issues, as it may not keep up with the required write speed. This can cause problems such as corrupted files, incomplete recordings, and, at the very least, a delay in saving files when you stop recording. It's essential to choose a brand that aligns with your specific needs and budget. Angelbird offers solid value without compromising reliability, making it a popular choice among filmmakers. SanDisk is known for its reliable and high-performance cards, suitable for various shooting scenarios. ProGrade is favored by professionals for its consistent quality and performance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific requirements and shooting conditions.
It is highly recommended to have one identical SD card or two (in the case of a dual SD card bay camera) as a backup. This ensures you are covered in case you forget to empty your card before a shoot, if you don’t have access to a computer or drives to transfer your files to prior to a shoot, or if you end up shooting for a longer period than expected. Having a backup ensures you have reliable storage and avoids the risk of running out of space during critical moments.
Capacity/Rating
Rating recommendation Anything under 240Mbps: V30, V60, or V90 Anything under 480Mbps: V60 or V90 Anything above 720Mbps: V90 Storage recommendation 150Mbps and under: 128GB 250Mbps and under: 256GB 450Mbps and under: 512GB 500Mbps and OVER: 1TB (2X512GB) Since 1TB V90 cards are rare. The best sweet spot for most filmmakers is 400Mbps, running 4K DCI 10-bit in log, retaining a lot of detail. While 800Mbps is nice, the added data doesn't outweigh the inconvenience of constantly monitoring your storage status to switch cards and the extra cost of needing two 512GB cards (or even four if using dual-slot cameras). 400Mbps allows for V60 512GB, 1TB, and V90 512GB cards if a higher SD grade is desired.
64GB/128GB/256GB/512GB
Angelbird has a strong reputation for producing highly reliable memory cards, and the AV Pro MK2 UHS-I V30 SDXC is no exception. This card is designed to meet the needs of photographers and videographers who require dependable performance in demanding environments. Performance and Reliability The Angelbird V30 card offers a solid balance of speed and capacity, with a maximum read speed of 100 MB/s and a maximum write speed of 92 MB/s. The minimum write speed is guaranteed at 30 MB/s, which is ideal for recording 4K video, Full HD, and high-resolution photos. Whether you’re capturing rapid bursts of images or shooting high-bitrate video, this card delivers consistent performance. Build Quality and Durability Like all Angelbird products, the V30 SD card is built to last. It is designed to withstand harsh conditions, including shock, dust, temperature extremes, and water exposure. The card is also resistant to X-rays and magnets, ensuring that your data remains safe even in challenging environments. The operating temperature range is from -13 to 185°F (-25 to 85°C), and it can be stored in temperatures ranging from -40 to 185°F (-40 to 85°C), making it suitable for use in a wide variety of climates. Advanced Features The card also includes a built-in write-protect switch, adding an extra layer of security to prevent accidental data loss. Additionally, it supports advanced shooting modes, making it a versatile choice for both amateur and professional users. Conclusion Overall, the Angelbird AV Pro MK2 UHS-I V30 SDXC Memory Card is a reliable and robust option for those who need dependable storage without compromising on quality. Whether you're shooting video or capturing high-resolution photos, this card will meet your needs with the durability and performance that Angelbird is known for.
64GB/128GB/256GB/512GB
SanDisk is a trusted name in the world of digital storage, and the Extreme PRO UHS-I V30 SDXC Memory Card upholds the brand’s reputation for quality and performance. This card is a reliable choice for photographers and videographers who need a solid, dependable memory solution. Performance and Reliability The SanDisk Extreme PRO V30 card offers impressive speed, with a maximum read speed of 200 MB/s and a maximum write speed of 90 MB/s. The minimum write speed is 30 MB/s, making it well-suited for recording 4K video, capturing high-resolution photos, and handling other demanding tasks. This card ensures smooth, consistent performance even when recording in high-bitrate formats. Build Quality and Durability SanDisk has designed this card to endure tough conditions. It is built to be shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and X-ray proof, so your data is protected in almost any environment. The card can operate in temperatures ranging from -13 to 185°F (-25 to 85°C) and can be stored in conditions from -40 to 185°F (-40 to 85°C). These features make it a reliable option for use in diverse and challenging shooting situations. Advanced Features In addition to its robust performance and durability, the SanDisk Extreme PRO V30 includes a built-in write-protect switch, which helps prevent accidental data loss. This card is ideal for those who need fast, reliable storage without the worry of data corruption or slowdowns during crucial moments. Conclusion The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-I V30 SDXC Memory Card is a top pick among creators for its speed, durability, and reliability. Whether you’re shooting 4K video, high-resolution stills, or working on other intensive projects, this card provides the performance needed to get the job done right.
128GB/256GB/512GB
The ProGrade V60 SD card has been added as an option for those who prefer using a well-known professional brand or matching it with a ProGrade CFexpress card, should their camera require one. Although we generally recommend SanDisk and Angelbird for their superior speed, value, and overall company reliability, ProGrade offers a solid alternative for those seeking brand consistency. While ProGrade’s V60 card may be slightly slower than Angelbird in minimum speeds, its performance is still highly comparable, matching or nearly matching the maximum read speeds of both Angelbird and SanDisk. Although ProGrade cards may be cheaper, they offer dependable performance that suits most professional workflows without major compromises in speed or reliability.
128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
Angelbird has established itself as a go-to brand for reliable and high-performance memory cards, and the AV Pro MK2 UHS-II V60 SDXC Memory Card is no exception. Designed for professionals who require consistent speed and durability, this card delivers solid performance across a range of demanding tasks. Performance and Reliability The Angelbird V60 card features a UHS-II interface, providing a maximum read speed of 280 MB/s and a maximum write speed of 160 MB/s. With a minimum write speed of 60 MB/s, it’s well-suited for recording Full HD, 3D, and 4K video, as well as capturing high-resolution photos in burst mode. The card’s performance ensures that you can handle large files efficiently, making it a reliable choice for intensive shooting sessions. Build Quality and Durability Angelbird’s reputation for durability is evident in this V60 card. It is designed to be shockproof, dustproof, temperature-proof, and waterproof, ensuring your data is safe in harsh environments. The card can operate in temperatures ranging from -13 to 185°F (-25 to 85°C) and can be stored in conditions from -40 to 185°F (-40 to 85°C). It is also resistant to X-rays and magnets, adding an extra layer of protection against data corruption. Advanced Features This card supports advanced shooting modes, making it a versatile option for professional use. It also includes a built-in write-protect switch, which helps safeguard your data from accidental erasure. The card’s reliability and performance make it a valuable asset for any professional looking to ensure smooth, uninterrupted workflow during critical shoots. Conclusion The Angelbird AV Pro MK2 UHS-II V60 SDXC Memory Card is an excellent choice for professionals who need dependable, high-speed storage. Its robust build and consistent performance make it a standout option for those looking to invest in a memory card that will meet the demands of both current and future projects.
128GB/256GB/512GB/1TB
SanDisk is a well-respected name in the world of memory cards, known for producing reliable and high-performance products. The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II V60 SDXC Memory Card lives up to this reputation, offering a balanced blend of speed, capacity, and durability that suits the needs of professionals and enthusiasts alike. Performance and Reliability The SanDisk V60 card features a UHS-II interface, providing a maximum read speed of 280 MB/s and a maximum write speed of 150 MB/s. With a minimum write speed of 60 MB/s, this card is designed to handle the demands of recording Full HD, 3D, and 4K video, as well as capturing high-resolution photos in burst mode. The consistent performance ensures that large files are written quickly and reliably, making it a solid choice for both photography and videography. Build Quality and Durability SanDisk has a strong reputation for durability, and this V60 card is no exception. It is built to withstand the rigors of professional use, being shockproof, dustproof, temperature-proof, and waterproof. The card can operate in temperatures ranging from -13 to 185°F (-25 to 85°C) and can be stored in temperatures from -40 to 185°F (-40 to 85°C). Additionally, it is resistant to X-rays, which helps protect your data during travel or in harsh environments. Advanced Features The SanDisk Extreme PRO V60 card supports advanced shooting modes, making it a versatile tool for capturing fast-action shots or recording high-bitrate video. It also includes a built-in write-protect switch to help prevent accidental data loss, ensuring that your important files remain secure. Conclusion The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II V60 SDXC Memory Card is a reliable and high-performance option for professionals who need consistent speed and robust durability. Its strong build and dependable performance make it a trustworthy choice for a wide range of shooting scenarios, whether you’re working on a critical project or capturing everyday moments.
128GB/256GB/512GB
The ProGrade V90 SD card has been added as an additional option for those who prefer a renowned professional brand or want to pair it with a ProGrade CFexpress card if required by their camera. While SanDisk and Angelbird are our top recommendations for their faster speeds, cost-effectiveness, and dependable brand reputation, ProGrade’s V90 card offers a competitive alternative. This card performs nearly on par with Angelbird and SanDisk, with similar maximum read speeds, though it may have slightly lower minimum sustained speeds than Angelbird. ProGrade cards come in at a slightly lower price point, making them a viable option for those who prioritize brand consistency without significant trade-offs in speed or reliability.
128GB/256GB/512GB
Angelbird has earned a reputation for producing some of the most reliable and high-performance memory cards available, and the AV Pro MK2 UHS-II V90 SDXC Memory Card is no exception. Designed for professionals who demand the best, this card offers top-tier speed and durability, making it an excellent choice for intensive workflows and high-resolution video production. Performance and Reliability The Angelbird V90 card features a UHS-II interface with a maximum read speed of 300 MB/s and a maximum write speed of 280 MB/s. With a minimum write speed of 90 MB/s, this card is designed to handle the most demanding recording tasks, including 8K, 4K, and Full HD video, as well as capturing raw photos and high-speed burst photography. The card’s consistent high-speed performance ensures that even the largest files are written quickly and efficiently, minimizing the risk of buffering or dropped frames during critical shoots. Build Quality and Durability Angelbird is known for its rugged build quality, and the V90 card is engineered to withstand the toughest conditions. It is shockproof, dustproof, temperature-proof, and waterproof, making it ideal for use in extreme environments. The card operates reliably in temperatures ranging from -13 to 185°F (-25 to 85°C) and can be stored in temperatures as low as -40°F and as high as 185°F (-40 to 85°C). Additionally, it is resistant to X-rays and magnets, providing an extra layer of protection for your data during travel or in challenging environments. Advanced Features The Angelbird AV Pro MK2 V90 card supports advanced shooting modes, making it a versatile tool for capturing everything from fast-action sports to cinematic video. It also includes a built-in write-protect switch to safeguard your data against accidental erasure, ensuring that your work remains safe and secure. Conclusion The Angelbird AV Pro MK2 UHS-II V90 SDXC Memory Card is an outstanding choice for professionals who require the highest levels of speed, reliability, and durability. Whether you’re working on a high-budget film, shooting in extreme conditions, or simply need a memory card that you can rely on, this V90 card offers the performance and build quality necessary to meet the demands of modern content creation.
128GB/256GB/512GB
SanDisk is a leading name in the memory storage industry, known for delivering high-performance and reliable products. The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II V90 SDXC Memory Card is designed for professionals who need top-tier speed and dependability, making it a perfect choice for demanding video and photography tasks. Performance and Reliability The SanDisk Extreme PRO V90 card utilizes a UHS-II interface, offering a maximum read speed of 300 MB/s and a maximum write speed of 260 MB/s. Its minimum write speed of 90 MB/s ensures smooth recording of high-resolution video formats, such as 8K, 4K, and Full HD, as well as capturing high-speed burst photos. This card's reliable performance helps to eliminate the risk of dropped frames or buffering, even during the most data-intensive recording sessions. Build Quality and Durability SanDisk has engineered the Extreme PRO V90 card to endure harsh environments, ensuring that your data is protected no matter where your work takes you. It is shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and resistant to X-rays, making it a trustworthy companion for professionals working in diverse and challenging conditions. The card operates within a wide temperature range of -13 to 185°F (-25 to 85°C) and can be safely stored in temperatures ranging from -40 to 185°F (-40 to 85°C). Advanced Features The SanDisk Extreme PRO V90 card supports advanced shooting modes, providing flexibility for various professional applications, from capturing rapid sequences of photos to recording high-bitrate video. A built-in write-protect switch adds an extra layer of security by preventing accidental data loss, ensuring that your critical files are safe. Conclusion The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II V90 SDXC Memory Card is a top choice for professionals who demand the best performance and reliability from their equipment. Whether you're shooting cinematic videos, high-speed sports photography, or working in extreme conditions, this V90 card delivers the speed, durability, and peace of mind that professionals need to excel in their craft.
Essential
SD Cards
MicroSD cards come in various capacities and are widely used in compact devices like drones and audio recorders. They are classified into two primary types: SDHC and SDXC. SDHC cards, while limited to a maximum of 32GB, are generally considered more reliable for smaller devices due to their simpler structure and better compatibility. SDXC cards offer higher capacities, starting from 64GB, but unless you specifically require larger storage, opting for SDHC cards is a more dependable choice for most applications.
Capacity
Storage recommendation 32GB for recorders only 75Mbps and under: 64 GB 150Mbps and under: 128GB 250Mbps and under: 256GB 450Mbps and under: 512GB Some devices may not support higher-capacity MicroSD cards, such as those exceeding 32GB, due to compatibility limitations. For devices that can handle larger capacities, opting for a higher-capacity card offers more storage headroom, which can be beneficial for extensive data needs. However, it's important to note that ultra-high-capacity cards, like 1TB, can be more susceptible to failure, especially in the compact MicroSD form factor, due to their complexity and density. Always consider reliability alongside storage requirements when selecting a card.
