Largest Memory SD Card: Capacity and Performance Insights
Note: We have researched 13 memory SD cards for you.
Last updated on 08.06.24 um 01:30
In today's digital age, the demand for high-capacity storage solutions is more pressing than ever. As we generate and consume vast amounts of multimedia content, the need for expansive and reliable storage grows. Many consumers and professionals alike seek out the best options to store their abundant data without the worry of running out of space. That's where Secure Digital (SD) cards come in, offering a portable and compact way to store photos, videos, and files.
With a plethora of options available, it can be daunting to choose the right one that meets your storage needs. We've compiled a list of exceptional SD cards that boast enormous storage capacities, ensuring that you have the freedom to capture and keep all your precious moments and crucial data. From seasoned photographers to avid gamers, these SD cards cater to a wide array of requirements, providing efficiency and peace of mind in an ever-growing digital world.
With a plethora of options available, it can be daunting to choose the right one that meets your storage needs. We've compiled a list of exceptional SD cards that boast enormous storage capacities, ensuring that you have the freedom to capture and keep all your precious moments and crucial data. From seasoned photographers to avid gamers, these SD cards cater to a wide array of requirements, providing efficiency and peace of mind in an ever-growing digital world.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: SanDisk 32GB 2-Pack Outdoors HD SDHC UHS
What to Look for in Largest Memory SD Cards
Important criteria
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Storage capacity
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Read speed
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Write speed
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Reliability
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Brand reputation
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Durability
1.) Compatibility
Before investing in the largest capacity SD card available, it's crucial to ensure that it is compatible with your device. Not all devices support the latest SDXC or SDUC cards, which offer the highest capacities. Check your device's specifications to see the maximum supported SD card size and format to avoid purchasing an SD card that is unusable with your equipment.
2.) Performance
The performance of an SD card is measured by its read and write speeds. A higher performance card is essential for tasks such as recording 4K or 8K video, where data needs to be written quickly to the card. Look for class ratings such as UHS-I or UHS-II and Video Speed Class ratings like V30 or V60 that match or exceed the requirements of your intended use.
Pictured: SanDisk 32GB 2-Pack Outdoors HD SDHC UHS
3.) Reliability and Brand Reputation
Reliability is a significant concern when considering a high-capacity SD card, as more data means a greater risk of loss in the event of card failure. Opt for SD cards from reputable brands with positive reviews and warranties. Cards with additional features such as waterproofing, magnet proofing, and x-ray proofing may offer extra peace of mind.
4.) Price and Future Needs
High-capacity SD cards come with a premium price. Assess your budget and consider whether the highest capacity is necessary for your current use. Future-proofing can be valuable, but technology evolves, and prices for high-capacity cards are likely to drop over time. Buying slightly more capacity than you currently need might be a more cost-effective strategy than opting for the largest available card.
The Largest Memory SD Cards of our Choice
Our Pick
Sandisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
Type/Color: Black
Size: 128GB
Properties
- Suitable for compact to mid-range point-and-shoot cameras
- Transfer speeds up to 120MB/s for quick data backup(1)
- Storage capacity up to 128GB for photos and Full HD videos(2)
- Great for Full HD video recording with UHS Speed Class 1 (U1)(5)
- Compatible with SanDisk SD UHS-I card reader for fast speeds(1)
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 19 in Fastest SDXC Card
2
SanDisk 128GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
Type/Color: Black
Size: 128GB
Properties
- Fast for better pictures and Full HD video.
- Great choice for compact to mid-range point-and-shoot cameras.
- From 32GB to 256GB to store tons of pictures and Full HD video.
- Exceptional video recording performance with UHS Speed Class 1 (U1) and Class 10 rating for Full HD video (1080p).
- Quick transfer speeds up to 100MB/s read speed; write speed lower.
3
Gigastone 128GB SD Card UHS-I U1
Type/Color: 128GB 1 Pack
Size: 128 GB
Properties
- Up to 80 MB/s data transfer speed
- Class 10 and U1 speed grade for FHD
- 2x faster than ordinary SD cards
- Ideal for cameras, camcorders, DSLR, and PC
- Waterproof, temperature-proof, x-ray-proof, shock-proof, magnetic-proof
- 5 year limited Warranty from good manufacturers
4
Lexar E-Series Plus 128GB Micro SD Card
Size: 128GB
Properties
- A2 App Performance Class: Faster-launching apps, better performance (A2: 4000 read IOPS, 2000 write IOPS).
- Fast Data Transfer Speed: Up to 160MB/s read, up to 90MB/s write.
- Supports UHS-I, U3, V30, and C10 for high read speed and fast file transfer.
- Smooth continuous photo shooting, 4K UHD/1080P Full HD video recording.
- SD Card Adapter Included: Compatible with microSDXC and SDXC enabled devices.
- Provides speed and storage for capturing more adventures and gaming.
- Strong and Durable: Waterproof, shockproof, extreme temperature resistance, X-ray radiation-proof.
- Manufacturer Support: 10-year support for microSD card, 1-year support for adapter.
In other categories
$ 16.99 *
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on Amazon
Price Pick
INLAND 32GB Class 10 SDHC Flash
Type/Color: Blue
Size: 32GB x 2
Properties
- Full-size SD card, 32GB SDHC flash memory card 2 pack
- Not compatible with mobile phones due to physical dimensions
- SDHC card Read speed: 60MB/s, Write speed: 10MB/s
- Allows quick picture shooting and file transfer
- Class 10 speed rating ensures even video recording performance
- Supports full HD video recording
- SDHC supporting devices ONLY
- Not backwards compatible, check device specs for compatibility
- 3-Year Limited Warranty
- Rugged construction to resist damage
- SDHC cards for use with SDHC/SDXC host devices
- Will NOT work with SD host devices
- Look for SDHC/SDXC logo on host devices for compatibility
6
SanDisk 128GB Extreme SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
Type/Color: Gray/Gold
Size: 128GB
Properties
- Card offload speeds up to 180MB/s
- Powered by SanDisk QuickFlow Technology
- High read speeds up to 180MB/s
- Engineered for compatible high-speed devices
- Write speeds up to 90MB/s
- Ideal for 4K UHD video and burst photography
- Supports Full HD and 4K UHD video
- UHS Speed Class 3 and Video Speed Class 30 for uninterrupted video
In other categories
- Rank 8 of 10 in Fastest SD Card
7
Gigastone 16GB SD Card UHS-I U1
Type/Color: 16GB 1 Pack
Size: 16 GB
Properties
- Up to 80 MB/s data transfer speed
- Class 10 and U1 speed grade
- Perfect for Full HD (FHD) videos
- 2x faster than ordinary SD cards
- Ideal for cameras, camcorders, DSLR, and PC
- Waterproof, temperature-proof, x-ray-proof, shock-proof, magnetic proof
- 5 year limited warranty from reputable manufacturers
8
SanDisk 32GB 2-Pack Outdoors HD SDHC UHS
Type/Color: blaze orange
Size: 32GB (2-Pack)
Properties
- Made for use in trail cams and other outdoor devices.
- Capture wildlife in clear HD with motion-triggered camera.
- Record up to 414 minutes of HD video on each 32GB SDHC UHS-I card.
- Withstands extreme temperatures, humidity, water, drops, and shock.
- Easy to find with highly visible orange card case.
9
Gigastone 128GB SD Card V30 SDXC
Size: SD 128GB V30 1PK
Properties
- Up to 100 MB/s data transfer speed.
- 4K Ultra HD UHD Video Compatible.
- Waterproof, temperature-proof, x-ray-proof, and shock-proof.
- Magnetic proof with 1 mini case.
- 5 year limited Warranty from good manufacturers and suppliers of memory cards.
In other categories
- Rank 8 of 19 in Fastest SDXC Card
10
SanDisk 64GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
Type/Color: Multicolor
Size: 64GB
Properties
- Good choice for compact cameras
- Transfer speeds up to 140MB/s
- Store pictures with up to 64GB
- Video recording with UHS Speed Class 1
- Compatible with SanDisk SD UHS-I card reader
11
SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-II Memory Card
Type/Color: Black
Size: 128GB
Properties
- Designed for professional and advanced photographers and videographers
- Write speeds of up to 260MB/s for quick buffer clearing
- Supports continuous burst mode shooting and cinema-quality video recording
- Sustained V90 video speeds for high-quality 8K, 4K, and Full HD video
- Extreme transfer speeds up to 300MB/s for efficient workflows
- Requires compatible devices to reach maximum speeds
- Shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and X-ray-proof design
- Ideal for worry-free travel from studio to location
In other categories
- Rank 4 of 10 in Fastest SD Card
- Rank 9 of 19 in Fastest SDXC Card
12
SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-II Memory Card
Type/Color: Black
Size: 128GB
Properties
- For prosumers and professionals shooting with MIL and cinema cameras
- Record cinema-quality 6K and 4K UHD videos
- Video Speed Class 60 rating for high-performance recording
- Capture continuous burst mode and time lapse images
- Shot speeds up to 100MB/s
- Save time with card offloads up to 280MB/s
- Store high-resolution files with up to 128GB capacity
In other categories
- Rank 6 of 10 in Fastest SD Card
13
SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
Type/Color: Dark gray/Black
Size: 128GB
Properties
- Card offload speeds up to 200MB/s
- Powered by SanDisk QuickFlow Technology
- Requires compatible devices for maximum speeds
- Pair with SanDisk Professional PRO-READER for faster speeds
- Shot speeds up to 90MB/s
- Ideal for shooting 4K UHD video and burst mode photography
- UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30)
In other categories
- Rank 5 of 10 in Fastest SD Card
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Top Choices for High-Capacity SD Cards
For Photography Professionals
Capturing high-resolution images and videos requires SD cards with ample storage. Professionals can preserve their shoots without worrying about space constraints.
For Video Gaming Enthusiasts
Gamers seeking to expand their console or PC storage for additional downloadable content can benefit from larger SD cards, offering seamless storage upgrades.
For Data Hoarders
Huge storage capacity is crucial for those who collect and store extensive amounts of data. A large SD card ensures your collection remains intact in one place.
For Tech Gadget Lovers
Tech enthusiasts who love keeping their devices topped up with music, apps, and documents will appreciate the extended memory that a sizeable SD card offers.
Questions You Might Ask
The capacity you need depends on how you intend to use the card. If you're using it for general storage or to store photos on a smartphone or camera, a capacity of 32GB to 128GB should suffice. For high-resolution video recording or extensive photography, you might want capacities of 256GB or more. Always ensure your device supports the capacity of the SD card you're choosing.
The Class rating (e.g., Class 2, 4, 6, 10) refers to the minimum guaranteed write speed in megabytes per second (MB/s). Class 10 cards guarantee a minimum write speed of 10MB/s. For recording high-definition (HD) video and burst photography, you'll likely want a Class 10 card. There are also UHS (Ultra High Speed) classes, such as U1 and U3, with minimum speeds of 10MB/s and 30MB/s, respectively.
The difference between SD (Secure Digital), SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity), and SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) is the range of storage capacity and the file system used. Standard SD cards typically hold up to 2GB, SDHC cards range from 2GB to 32GB, and SDXC cards can store from 32GB to 2TB. Make sure your device is compatible with the specific type of card you're planning to buy.
The primary difference is the size. MicroSD cards are much smaller than regular SD cards and are commonly used in mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. However, they can be used in standard SD card slots with an adapter. When it comes to performance and storage capacity, both types of cards can have similar specifications.
Apart from the minimum write speed (standard Class 2, 4, 6, 10, U1, U3), SD cards also have a 'speed class' rating referred to as V6, V10, V30, V60, or V90 for video recording. These numbers indicate the minimum sustained write speed required for recording video in megabytes per second. For instance, V30 guarantees a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s suitable for 4K video, while V60 and V90 are designed for higher frame rates and resolutions such as 8K video recording.
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How to Choose the Largest Memory SD Card
In the quest for ever-expanding digital storage, selecting the largest memory SD card for your needs can be a tech-loaded task. Whether you're a photographer in need of ample space or a gadget lover looking to expand your device's memory, this guide will walk you through the essential considerations. We'll unravel the world of high-capacity SD cards and ensure your investment stores not just your files, but your peace of mind.
Understanding SD Card Capacity
Before diving into the market, let's clarify the capacity classifications. SD cards come in standard capacity (SDSC), high capacity (SDHC), extended capacity (SDXC), and ultra capacity (SDUC). The latter two options, SDXC and SDUC, provide the largest storage options, currently reaching up to several terabytes. However, make sure your device is compatible with these formats as not all gadgets can handle the sheer size of a SDUC.
When considering capacity, also think about how you’ll use the card. For instance, 4K videos and high-resolution images require more space than standard documents. As tempting as it is to go for the maximum capacity, it's crucial to balance capacity with your actual requirements, ensuring you're not paying for unused storage space.
Navigating the numbers can be tricky. Remember that manufacturers may use decimal arithmetic where a gigabyte is 1,000 megabytes, but your computer uses binary, where a gigabyte is 1,024 megabytes. This slight difference can make your SD card appear to have a smaller capacity when formatted by your device.
Speed Class and Performance
The speed class of an SD card is just as important as its storage capacity, particularly when dealing with large files. The speed class — Standard Class (2, 4, 6), UHS Class (1, 3), Video Class (V6, V10, V30, V60, V90) — indicates the minimum sustained writing speed. For instance, if you're recording 4K or 8K video, look for a V60 or V90 card, to avoid dropped frames and ensure smooth recording.
Performance also includes read and write speeds defined by the card's 'UHS' (Ultra High Speed) Bus. Cards with UHS-II and UHS-III buses offer significantly faster transfer rates, reducing the time it takes to transfer files to and from your card. If time is of the essence and you frequently transfer large files, opting for a card with a fast transfer rate will be beneficial.
Speed class also relates to the card's application performance class — either A1 or A2. This class determines the card's ability to run and store applications. If you're looking to use your SD card for app storage on your smartphone or tablet, an A2 class card would provide optimal performance.
Reliability and Durability
Larger SD cards mean more crucial data in one place, making reliability an essential consideration. Look for cards with built-in error correction code (ECC) to detect and correct transfer errors and wear-leveling technology which extends card life by evenly distributing data writing actions. These technologies help safeguard your data against corruption and the wear and tear of regular use.
Durability is another key factor. Consider SD cards that are waterproof, shockproof, x-ray proof, and temperature resistant. These rugged features provide additional protection for your data, especially if you're using your SD card in extreme conditions or if you travel often. The last thing you want is to lose memories or important files because of environmental factors.
Some SD card manufacturers provide additional software tools that enable file recovery and management. Investing in a card from a brand that supports its products with these kinds of tools can be the difference between recovering a precious memory or not. Also, don't forget to back up regularly; even the most durable and reliable card is not impervious to loss or damage.
Compatibility and Future-proofing
Your SD card's compatibility with current devices is crucial, but thinking ahead can maximize your investment. Consider the technological advancements and the possibility of upgrading your camera, laptop, or smartphone. Ensuring that your SD card meets future standards can help avoid the need for an imminent replacement.
Check if your devices are SDXC or SDUC compatible and understand the file system limitations. For example, SDXC cards typically use the exFAT file system, which might not be readable by older devices. If you're on the brink of a tech upgrade, ensure the SD card you choose will make the transition smoothly.
In addition, keep an eye out for emerging technologies and standards in the SD card space. While SDUC cards are relatively new and not widely supported, they do offer a glimpse into the future of portable storage. Factor in these considerations to make a future-proof choice that will serve your expanding data needs well beyond today.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In this section, we'll delve into a collection of valuable resources for anyone seeking information on the largest memory SD cards available. These resources are painstakingly handpicked by us to ensure you get the most credible and informative content. They are organized into four distinct types: expert reviews, insightful forum discussions, engaging Reddit threads, and informative videos. Each category has been chosen to provide a well-rounded perspective on the topic.
forums.radioreference.com
Both the SDS100 and the SDS200 owner's manuals state that 32 GB is the largest card supported, but there have been posts from time to time with...
It supports SDXC which is max 2TB - anything that can read SDXC cards should be able to read at least 2TB cards. The filesystem can come into...
According to 3ds hacks guide 128 GB is ideal and if you go any bigger things start to have problems.
The SDUC standard (2019) supports up to 128TB capacities. Most modern phones, digital cameras, and other handheld electronics currently ...
The highest capacity currently available offering is the Micron 1.5TB micro SD which is being sold for ~$450.
Silicon Power Micro Sd cards My thoughts & update 1TB…
Silicon Power Micro Sd cards My thoughts & update.. Silicon Power micro Sd cards are a excellent value and good quality for the price.
