SanDisk SD Cards

SanDisk SD Cards for Digital Media Storage

Use SanDisk SD cards in all types of electronic devices, including cameras, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, GPS trackers, and personal computers. They vary in physical size, storage capacity, and reading/writing speeds. When choosing the right SanDisk memory cards, there are many factors to consider.

Physical Size

SanDisk memory cards come in two different sizes: standard and micro. Standard SD cards, also known as full-size cards, measure 32 x 24mm. They're the norm for DSLR cameras and larger electronic devices. MicroSD cards, which measure 15 x 11mm, are widespread, and you'll find them in many smaller electronics, including cell phones, music players, and small cameras.

It's essential to determine the size you need before looking at digital memory cards. However, keep in mind that it's possible to use a microSD card in a standard slot if you obtain a card adapter.

Storage Capacity

You also have to consider how much storage capacity you need. It's always a good idea to have more than you think you'll need. Certain SD cards are capable of holding 1TB or more of data. Because some electronic devices are not compatible with newer SD cards, always double-check if yours will work with the memory card you have in mind.

SDHC memory cards introduced something new to the market. Not only did they switch to a different file system, but they also got an upgrade to their speed and storage capacity. Most SDHC-compatible devices work with standard-capacity SD cards. However, the same is often not true in reverse, and it's a similar situation with later formats. If your electronic device was manufactured after 2008, it should accept SDHC cards.

When shopping for SanDisk memory cards, use this format as a general guide for storage capacity:

• SD (standard capacity): Up to 2GB
• SDHC: 2GB to 32GB
• SDXC: 32GB to 2TB

Reading and Writing Speed

Speed refers to how fast data can write to or read from the SD card. Find the card's maximum operating speed, also known as "rated speed," on the card or the packaging, which usually ranges between 10 and 300MB/s. Standard SD cards don't list a speed.

Unless you're processing data constantly, speed may not be important. However, if you're a photographer shooting lots of photos or videos within a short time frame, such as at a sporting event or wedding, choose an SD card with a high speed.

You may prefer SanDisk Ultra SD cards for their super-fast writing speed, and they're the go-to choice if speed is an essential factor. Ultra cards range anywhere from 10 to 80MB/s. However, their reading speed may be a bit slow in comparison. If you're looking for high speed in both reading and writing, SanDisk Extreme SD cards are a suitable choice. The transfer speed of the Extreme line ranges from 20MB/s to 300MB/s.

B&H Photo and Video features an extensive selection of SanDisk SD cards for all your personal or professional digital media storage needs.