Memory Cards Explained: The Different Types of Memory Cards and What They Mean
There are many different types of memory cards available on the market, but most people don’t know what they all do. In this blog post, we will explain the different symbols and what they mean. We will also discuss the best memory cards for each type of use. So whether you are looking for a new memory card or just want to learn more about them, read on!
6 Different types of memory cards explained: Which one should you choose.
Before we get started you need to make sure you know what type of memory card you need. Memory cards come in many shapes and sizes and knowing the symbols on them can help you determine which one is right for your device.
The most common memory cards are CF, SD, Memory Stick Pro (MS), XD, microSD and miniSD. Let’s take a look at each one in more detail.
CF: CF stands for Compact Flash Memory which is typically found in professional-grade cameras and camcorders.
Cfast: Cfast stands for Compact Fast Memory which is a newer type of cf memory card that offers faster speeds and higher capacities than SD cards.
SD: SD stands for Secure Digital Memory and this is the most popular type of memory card in use today. It’s mainly used by digital cameras, smartphones, tablets and other portable devices.
SDHC: SDHC stands for Secure Digital High Capacity Memory and this type of memory card is able to hold more data than the standard SD card.
SDXC: SDXC stands for Secure Digital Extended Capacity Memory and this type of card can hold up to 2TB of data.
XD: XD stands for eXtreme Digital Memory and this type of card is typically found on older cameras. It’s not widely used anymore but can still be found in some specialty devices.
XQD: XQD stands for eXtreme Quick Memory and this type of card is used in professional cameras. It’s much faster than the other types of cards, but not as widely available.
Memory Stick Pro (MS): Memory Stick Pro cards are a type of Memory Stick which is usually found in Sony devices like digital cameras, camcorders, MP3 players and gaming consoles.
MicroSD: microSD cards are a smaller version of the SD Memory card and they are primarily used in mobile devices like smartphones, tablets and gaming consoles.
MiniSD: miniSD cards are an even smaller version of the Memory Stick Pro. They are mainly used by digital cameras and some older mobile phones.
The Best Memory Cards for Each Type of Use
Before buy anything you need to consider the device you want to use it in and check the following:
- Compatibility: You need to make sure that the Memory Card you choose is compatible with your device. Speed
- Read & Write Speed: The speed of Memory Cards can vary depending on their type and capacity.
Now that you know the different types of Memory cards and what they mean, let’s take a look at the best Memory card for each type of use.
Best CFast Memory Card for professionals
SanDisk Extreme PRO Memory Cards
For high performance cameras and videography
- 4k Video VPG 130
- Extreme read 535MB/s and write 450mb/s speeds
- But expensive
Lexar Professional 3500x CFast 2
For high performance cameras and videography
- 4k Video VPG 130
- Extreme read 525MB/s and write 445MB/s speeds
Best SD Memory Card for everyone
SanDisk SDXC
For cameras & security.
- Available from 64GB to 1TB.
- 1TB is approx 250,000 photos taken with a 12MP camera; 250 films or 500 hours of HD video
Best Budget SD Memory Card:
SanDisk Ultra
Find for everyday point and shoot cameras
- Slow read and write speeds
- Considerably cheaper (starting from £/$10)
CF Memory Card:
SanDisk Extreme PRO CF Memory Card
For high performance cameras and videography
- 4k Video VPG 130
- 160MB/s
- VPG 65
Memory Stick Pro Memory Card:
Sony Memory Stick PRO Duo
For PSP, older camcorder and cyber shot digital cameras
- Smaller in size
XD Memory Card:
Fujifilm XD-Picture Memory Card
For specific cameras
- Lower read and write speeds and harder to get high capacity.
MicroSD Memory Card:
SanDisk Micro SDXC
Mainly used for mobiles and handheld consoles with the Nintendo switch.
- 120 MB/s and works better at lower temps.
MiniSD Memory Card:
Kingston Mini SD Card
For tablet or mobile
- 80 MB/s read and write
- Very affordable
What do the numbers on sd cards mean?
SD cards have numbers printed on them that indicate the capacity, speed and other aspects of a Memory card. The first number indicates the Memory capacity in Gigabytes (GB) and the last two digits indicate its Class rating for speed.
The read and write speeds of a Memory card are essential when it comes to performance. Memory cards can vary in speeds from Class 2, the slowest, up to UHS-II, the fastest. The higher the class letter, the faster the Memory card’s read and write speeds.
Class 2 Memory Cards have a minimum read/write speed of 2MB/s, Class 4 Memory Cards have a minimum read/write speed of 4MB/s, Class 10 Memory Cards have a minimum read/write speed of 10MB/s and UHS Memory Cards have speeds up to 312 MB/s.
Memory card essential accessories
Memory cards are prone to damage, so it’s important to have a few Memory card accessories in your bag. Memory card cases and Memory card readers are essential for any Memory card user as they help protect your Memory cards from dust, dirt and moisture.
Additionally, Memory card locks are a great way to prevent accidental data loss or deletion. Memory card locks are especially helpful when traveling as they ensure that your Memory cards stay safe and secure at all times.
With so many Memory cards on the market these days, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your device. But armed with this knowledge, you can make an informed decision and get the Memory card that’s perfect for your needs! Thanks for reading!
