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Introduction

Knowing how SSD Drive Vs SD card compare makes all the difference whether you need extra space for your computer or phone.

SSDs offer speed and durability for computers and gaming. On the contrary, SD cards, being portable, are ideal for cameras and mobile devices. Let’s explore more about them.

Overview of SSD Drive vs SD Card

Solid-State Drives

Developed in the late 1970s, SSDs gained real traction years later. The rise of NAND flash memory allowed for faster data access than traditional hard drives. As technology advanced, costs decreased, making SSDs available to everyone. Today, they are the solid choice for storage across devices, including personal computers and data centers, valued for their speed and reliability.

SSDs serve as high-speed, reliable data storage solutions across various uses. Their lack of moving parts results in quicker read and write speeds, lower latency, and better durability. Commonly found in personal computers, servers, and gaming consoles, SSDs store operating systems, applications, and large files requiring fast access. They also use less power than hard drives, making them ideal for laptops and portable devices.

SD Cards

Panasonic, SanDisk, and Toshiba launched SD Cards in 1999 for compact storage in cameras and smartphones. Initially offering just 32MB, SD cards have significantly increased capacity and speed. Now, they can handle larger files and high-quality media with formats like SDHC and SDXC. They are a trusted option for portable storage, especially for limited space.

Famous for external data storage in devices, they often hold media files such as photos, videos, and music. Their small size and ease of swapping make them ideal for storage expansion. Moreover, they are used in some embedded systems and industrial applications that require compact, removable storage.

Types of SSD Drive Vs SD Card

Types of SSDs

SATA SSDs

Serial Advanced Technology Attachment SSDs connect through the SATA interface, previously used for hard drives. They are faster than traditional drives but limited to about 600 MB/s due to the SATA III standard.

Non-Volatile Memory Express SSDs

NVMe SSDs, a significant advancement, connect directly to the motherboard using PCIe. It allows speeds that often exceed 3GB/s. Their lower latency and higher bandwidth make them the top choice for peak performance.

External SSDs

For additional storage that doesn’t require opening your device, external SSDs are a smart solution. They connect through USB, Thunderbolt, or similar ports. They typically underperform than internal SSDs, but they still offer better speed than standard external hard drives.

Types of SD Cards

SDHC, SDXC, and microSD

SD cards have several types for varying storage requirements.

1. 1. • SDHC cards offer storage from 4 GB to 32 GB.
      • In contrast, SDXC cards support larger sizes, from 32GB to 2TB.
      • microSD cards function as compact counterparts to standard SD cards. They offer diverse storage capabilities with SDHC and SDXC formats.

UHS-I and UHS-II

UHS refers to Ultra High Speed, a measure of SD card speeds.

1. 1. 1. • UHS-I cards can handle speeds up to 104 MB/s.
         • UHS-II cards are quicker, reaching 312 MB/s.
         • With an extra row of pins, UHS-II cards ensure faster data transfer and work with compatible devices.

SSD Drive vs SD Card: Which Is Best For You?

Performance Differences

1. 1. 1. 1. • NVMe SSDs are the fastest, easily surpassing SD cards in speed and access times. SATA SSDs offer good performance but don’t quite match NVMe speeds.
            • In contrast, SDHC and SDXC cards offer moderate speeds, with UHS-II cards performing the best.
            • If you need storage for operating systems or software, go with SSDs. For portable devices, SD cards are the way to go.

Cost Variations

1. 1. 1. 1. • On the cost front, SATA SSDs are typically less expensive than NVMe models, which makes them a solid option for budget shoppers. SD cards, especially SDHC versions, usually cost less than SSDs.
            • However, high-performance SDXC and UHS-II cards can get near the lower end of SATA SSD pricing. You should carefully consider your storage requirements and budgets when choosing.

Use Cases for SSD and SD Card Types in Various Applications

1. 1. 1. 1. • In personal computers and laptops, SATA SSDs replace old hard drives effectively. They lead to faster boot times and quicker app launches. This makes them suitable for everyday tasks and gaming while being budget-friendly.
            • Gamers enjoy reduced load times and easy data access with NVMe SSDs, enhancing their gameplay. Content creators benefit from their fast data transfers and smooth playback. They also improve multitasking and facilitate quick access to large datasets in data science and software development.
            • For those capturing images and videos, external SSDs are excellent for large files. Their rapid data transfer and easy USB or Thunderbolt connections allow backups and device migrations.
            • Digital cameras benefit from SDHC cards, which hold enough high-quality photos and videos. Many camcorders and budget recording devices depend on them for standard-definition video.
            • For photography and videography experts, SDXC cards easily accommodate high-resolution photos and 4K videos. Their larger storage and fast write speeds are perfect for long shooting periods. Nintendo Switch players also use SDXC cards for additional game storage.
            • microSD cards hold apps, photos, and videos for smartphones and tablets, allowing users to cope with internal storage limits. Drones and action cameras also rely on their compact size and HD recording capability.
            • UHS-I cards are suitable for mid-range cameras and standard video recording. UHS-II cards cater to high-performance cameras, offering quick data transfer for fast action and 4K video.

Pros and Cons of SSD Drive VS SD Card

Pros of SSD

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • SSDs have gained popularity for their impressive speed, especially the NVMe types. They enhance system performance and reduce loading times for apps and games.
               • Their lack of moving parts makes them tough and resistant to shocks. SSDs typically last longer, ensuring reliable performance.

Cons

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • On the flip side, SSDs can be pricey, especially NVMe models. This higher cost might deter budget-conscious buyers.
                  • Many internal SSDs also have limited upgrade options, so it’s vital to consider future storage needs.

Pros and Cons of SD Cards

Pros of SD cards

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • SD cards are portable and lightweight, and their lower cost makes them affordable for casual users.
                     • Plus, many devices support SD cards, allowing for easy storage expansion without modifying internal storage.

Cons

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • However, SD cards generally offer slower speeds than SSDs, affecting data transfer and performance with larger files.
                     • They tend to be less durable, risking damage and wear that can lead to data loss.
                     • Their lower write endurance can also impact long-term reliability with frequent use.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an SSD or an SD card is about what fits your storage needs best.

NVMe SSDs shine with their speed, making them suitable for gaming and content creation where quick access is essential.

In contrast, SD cards, especially SDXC and UHS-II, offer adaptable storage for cameras and smartphones. They are great for holding photos, videos, and applications without needing SSD speeds.

Keep performance, capacity, and cost in mind when you choose. The right storage option will boost your device’s efficiency.

FAQs

What NAND flash types do SSDs use?

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. • SLC: One bit of data per cell. Fast and durable, great for enterprise use.
                        • MLC: Two bits of data per cell. Ideal for consumer SSDs with balanced performance.
                        • TLC: Three bits per cell. Offers a good amount of storage for casual use at a lower price.
                        • QLC: Four bits of data. It maximizes storage but is slower and less durable.

What are speed classes and UHS ratings in SD cards?

SD cards have speed class ratings that show their minimum write speeds. The classes include:

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. Class 2: 2 MB/s.
                     2. Class 4: 4 MB/s.
                     3. Class 6: 6 MB/s.
                     4. Class 10: 10 MB/s.
                     5. U1: 20 MB/s.
                     6. U3: 30 MB/s.

I find storage space constantly running out in a world driven by smartphones and gadgets. More photos, videos, and files call for more storage. Therefore, this guide will walk you through everything about micro SD cards. In addition, I’ll cover the different types of micro sd memory cards, their uses, and what factors matter when choosing one. Obviously, you’ll see why they’re an effective way to handle your digital files.

Understanding different types of micro sd memory cards

What is a Micro SD Card?

A micro SD card is a mini chip that expands storage for devices with little space. It measures 15 x 11 x 1 mm and is compatible with many digital products.

A Quick History of Micro SD Cards

Micro SD cards have seen many updates since 1999, beginning with the SD card, which was improved on earlier MMC technology.
The 2005 Micro SD card, at 15 x 11 mm, was a major advancement and could be used with SD cards using adapters.
Then in 2006, the SDHC format had a 32 GB maximum storage limit. It was greatly increased to 2 TB with the 2009 SDXC format. While The UHS classes introduced in 2010 provided faster speeds and the Video Speed Class (VSC) improved video recording.
Today’s Micro SD cards offer advanced features, with future developments likely to push these boundaries even further.

Types of micro sd memory cards

Micro SD cards are divided by their speed and storage size.

Types of micro sd memory card Based on Speed

Speed class shows the card’s minimum read/write speeds. Here’s how they differ:

1. Class 2, 4, 6, and 10: Class 2 is the slowest, suitable for storing photos. Class 4 is slightly faster and good for basic video recording. Class 6 is even speedier and can handle full HD videos. Class 10 is the speediest, ideal for high-resolution videos and advanced applications.
2. UHS-I, U1, and U3: These are much faster than Class 10 cards. U1 writes at 10 MB/s, while U3 is at 30MB/s. They work wonderfully with 4K video at higher burst shots and fast-write devices like drones.
3. Video Speed Class (VSC): A VSC V10 card can record 1080p. A VSC V30 is your best bet to shoot in 4K. For professional video, VSC V60 or V90 cards offer the required speed.

Types of Micro SD Cards Based on Capacity

1. Secure Digital: Originally, SD cards came with a storage limit of 2 GB. They’re not used as much anymore because of this limitation.
2. Secure Digital High Capacity: SDHC gives a space ranging from 2 GB to 32 GB. These cards can store more than standard SD cards.
3. Secure Digital Extended Capacity: SDXC cards offer substantial storage, ranging from 32 GB to 2 TB. They are ideal for managing large files, making them perfect for photo and video collections.

Comparing Micro SD Card Types

Speed Comparison

Capacity Comparison of Micro SD Card Types

Price Comparison

A Micro SD card’s cost relates to its speed and storage capacity. Superior performance may require a higher-priced card.

Main Applications and Functions

Micro SD cards are key for expanding your digital storage. They help you keep everything from photos to important documents safe and accessible. Their small size and versatility make them useful in many devices. Here are some common uses:

Smartphones and Tablets

Limited storage can lead to a full device in no time. A micro SD card adds space for apps and media in smartphones and tablets.

Cameras

Expanded storage and faster speeds boost camera performance for photographers and videographers. It makes UHS-I U3 cards suitable for taking HD photos and recording 4K videos reducing missed frames in burst mode.

Gaming Consoles

Many gaming consoles accept micro SD cards. Firstly, it allows players to download more games and save progress. Furthermore, a high-speed UHS-I U3 card is essential for quick loading times and smooth gameplay. Meanwhile, it is reducing lag and enhancing your gaming experience.

Drones

The card’s speed and capacity affect how well a drone records high-resolution videos and photos. For example, a V30 card allows for smooth 4K recording, which is vital for professionals.

Micro SD Cards vs. Other Storage Media

Micro SD vs. SD Card

More compact than SD Cards, MicroSDs are ideal for smartphones, action cameras, as well as drones. Both types increase storage, but microSDs are easier to carry around.

Micro SD vs. CF Card

Professional photographers used to prefer CompactFlash cards for their speed and capacity. However, Micro SD cards deliver even better performance now at a lower price and in a tiny form.

Micro SD vs. USB Drive

These cards offer more convenience than USB drives, fitting directly into common devices. Also, they often provide faster data transfer, especially when paired with compatible hardware.

Conclusion

Micro SD cards are now essential due to rising storage needs. They’re great for photographers, gamers, and those needing more space. Compare the types, speeds, and capacities to select the best fit.
As tech progresses, they will get better. We might see higher capacities, faster performance, and improved strength. Stay tuned for the latest updates in portable storage.

The technology of storage is improving year by year, we can store terabytes of data in a tiny chip. Also, those digital gadgets are using TF card and SD card for keeping data. For instance, the devices like tablets, 3D printers, DSLR cameras, Drones, dash cam and the other types all adopt memory cards as their storage option. TF card vs SD card, how can we make right selection for the equipment? Researching into the difference and similarity between them is helpful for making correct purchase.

What is TF card?

TF card stands for trans-flash card. This is a small, removable, and portable storage media for expanding the capacity of various electronic devices. The first launch of it was in 2004, which was invented by Motorola and SanDisk. The presentence of TF card was to replace SD cards at that time. Meanwhile, it got a new name of Micro SD card due to its compact design. With one Micro SD card, user can upload and download data among various devices.

As small as a fingernail is the most amazing part of TF card, which only occupy limited space in the devices. Therefore, especially smartphones adopt it as storage accessory. No matter storing photos, music, movies, files, or applications this tiny media is a better choice.

What is SD card?

SD Card has an official name Secure digital and is one member of bulk memory card group. It consists of controller and non-volatile flash memory inside, therefore, the main function of it is storing data. As if the electronic devices need additional storage, SD card can be a nice option. What’s more, SD card has a unique technology of data security and protection. There is an extra lock button on the shell, it can protect the data from loss in case any mistake formatting. Also, SD cards use non-volatile memory technology, it means the data will not disappear when the power is off.

Due to the reliable technology and portable design, SD card is used for storing important files, photos, documents, and movies. In addition, there are various sizes and formats for SD cards, which are workable with different devices and applications.

The difference of TF card VS SD card

To make a right selection on TF card and SD card, there are numbers of key parameters to consider. Such as dimension, Format, speed, capacity, application range, and cost, all of these are linking to the decision on purchase.

1.Dimension – This is the most obvious difference between TF and SD cards. TF card is much smaller than SD card, therefore, it is a perfect choice for smaller devices such as smartphones, toys, Bluetooth speakers, and the other equipment. While SD cards will be used in cameras or larger devices, the storage space has enough room for it.

• SD Card: 32mm*24mm*2.1mm
• TF Card (Micro SD Card): 15*11*1mm

2.Capacity – The development of flash memory is at a leading and speedy step, which has scaled into sub-32nm nodes and 3D layering. This technology drives memory card to support high capacity. Therefore, both TF and SD cards are available for a wide range of capacities. However, TF card has a bit advantage.

• SD Card: from 128MB to 1TB
• TF Card (Micro SD): from 64MB to 2TB

3.Cost – since the launch of SD card and TF card, the price of SD card is more. Viewing from the physical structure, SD card has extra components. Furthermore, Micro SD cards are mostly applied in consumer devices, the cost will cater to the public. Let’s taking 16GB as an example.

• SDHC Card 16GB Class 10: It is USD 2.85/pc
• Micro SDHC 16GB Class 10: It is USD 2.55/pc

The similarity of TF card VS SD card

Both of TF card and SD are belonging to non-volatile memory card. They are used for storing and transferring data in portable devices. Thus, they can deliver in same format and speed. Although they are in different size, manufacturer has developed SD card adapter for Micro SD. With one adapter, Micro SD can be turned into SD card in one second. Even the device just has SD slot, Micro SD can be compatible as if it is using with SD adapter.

1.File system – memory card basically uses FAT32 by default, as it is a general system workable with most devices. Besides it, it also has exFAT and NTFS due to the different capacities.

• SD Card: Support FAT, FAT32, EXFAT and NTFS
• TF Card: display same file system as SD card

2.Speed – both use speed class ratings, which indicates the minimum writing speed. Thus, the standard of defining the speed is same

• SD Card and TF Card: use class 2, 4, 6, 10, UHS-1, UHS-3, V60 and V90 to tell the speed rate.

3.Application – the function of them is to store data and run applications, consequently they can apply to same devices on some occasions.

• SD Card: Normally users adopt it for DSLR cameras, gaming consoles, tablets, GPS and drones.
• TF Card: People use it in smartphones, dash cam and raspberry pi, but it also can be used in cameras with SD adapter.

Conclusion

With a deep tour of TF card and SD card, you may have a vivid notion of them. No one can image that such a tiny card can support up to 2TB, it gathers human innovation and creativity. TF card leads a compact design and versatile function, SD card offers high safety and great performance. Reviewing your needs or budget, you can make a good selection immediately. SD card is a larger type and compatible with devices with big space, while TF card is suitable for compact devices. In other words, each has its own advantages.
Hope people can gain meaningful information from this resourceful guide. When you make decision on purchasing TF and SD cards, you will know how to make choice and how to maximize its usage.

Selecting the right SD card helps to save cost and improve your devices’ performance. Especially when using a camera or camcorder to take videos or continuous shooting, a good SD card really matters. As SD card has been an essential storage for your digital devices by storing data, it is a necessary to know the standard of SD card classes.

How is the type of SD card classes?

Class is a guidance of speed for memory cards launched by SD Association. To distinguish SD cards among different writing or reading speed, there are various types linking to the speed ratings.

Speed Class	UHS Speed Class	Video Speed Class
“Speed Class“ Mark C10	“UHS Speed Class” Mark u3	“Video Speed Class” Mark v90

1. Speed Class – this is an older generation of speed family, the market used it in last decades. Normally number with a circular “C” symbol is telling minimum write speed.
   • Class 2 (C2): The minimum write speed is 2MB/s. This is the slowest version for this type, most SD cards in low capacity offers this speed.
   • Class 4 (C4): 4MB/s by write
   • Class 6 (C6): minimum write speed of 6MB/S
   • Class 10 (C10): minimum write speed of 10MB/S. C10 is the main demands for present devices, users prefer fast reaction.
2. UHS Speed class – It is an updated version of speed; the full name is Ultra-high speed. There is “U” symbol together with number to tell different types. Two main ratings within the UHS speed class are as follows.
   • UHS-1 (U1): The minimum write speed reaches 10MB/s. Comparing with class 10, many dash cams and DSLR cameras prefers U1 type. As the UHS bus interface provides a sustained write performance, it is perfect for 1080P or 4K video recording.
   • UHS-3 (U3): minimum write speed at 30MB/s. High-end cameras or drones always take a U3 rated SD card. Regardless of a high write speed, its read can hit up to 104MB/s
3. Video Speed class – This is the latest feature to support higher video resolution. They are displaying in “V” symbol.
   • V30: minimum write speed at 30MB/s
   • V60: lowest writing speed of 60MB/s
   • V90: minimum write speed at 90MB/s

The importance of SD card classes

When purchasing SD cards, users firstly will check the speed, and then it is the capacity. With a faster writing or reading, a camera can shoot a larger number of photos per minute. Even you purchase a 128GB or 512GB SD card, the recoding time is slow if you ignore the speed. In addition, the parameter of devices must be checked prior to order SD card. As you need to confirm the speed range of your equipment, it will make sure a good performance.

1. High SD speed classes enhance your devices’ performance
   • Action photography normally shoots photo in RAW format, each image displays in 41 MP and occupies over 25MB. To avoid any delays on photo loading, U1 and U3 class are the best option.
2. Speed version tells the cost
   • Normally we can know the cost range of SD card by capacity and speed. However, high capacity not always deliver high cost if the speed is slow. For example, one 128GB SD card class 10 is much cheaper than U1 or U3 version. Therefore, the lowest price is hard to guarantee high speed.
3. Speed backward compatibility
   • Bulk memory cards are able to be backward compatible within its generation. For instance, you can use one SDHC card in SD version slot. The only difference is that the device will work at the slowest speed of memory card. Thus, if you use one U3 SD card in U1 slot, the fastest speed will be same as U1 standard.

SD speed classes for host device

In order to bring users convenience, devices suppliers will mark class symbol on their hosts. It indicates a minimum speed request; the equipment cannot work properly if you use lower speed.

1. Host device requests for Class 4 SD card: You can use SD speed at Class 4, 6 and class 10
2. Host device asks for UHS-1 SDHC Card: It means it supports UHS-1 or UHS-3 memory cards.

Device with Video speed class has the same rule request as above. Therefore, it is wiser to check these details prior to order any bulk SD cards.

Benefits from fast SD Cards

As if the devices can support high speed type, SD cards in fast speed offer a good performance. Let’s research into these benefits from different devices.

1. Game console such as Nintendo Switch: A good game experience is guaranteed if you use a faster card, which is helpful for games loading.
2. Cameras: Photographers prefer continuous shooting modes. As speedy cards can catch up with an efficient storing, it means numbers of photos can be shoot at once. Especially, when you use camera to take photo in 4K or 8K, a U3 SD or CFexpress card can record extreme high-resolution images.
3. 3D printer and Raspberry Pi: You can save lots of time if you get fast SD card using there.

Notes on purchasing SD memory cards

Obviously, the cost is more if you choose a large capacity and high speed card. However, the purchase instruction should follow up the requests of devices. For example, your GPS device tells class 4 workable for data recording, then class 4 SD card is good and cheap enough for supporting its performance. Likewise, if you are engaging in photography business, a large amount of data transfer is a must for daily job. In this way, you ‘d better consider SD cards in higher speed and larger capacity.

Conclusion

SD speed rating is a key parameter for measuring speed of writing and reading, normally it is expressed as megabytes per second. Class speed on cards is telling minimum speed of recording, as if users know well of these specificat

The application of portable devices is growing sharply, therefore, the demands on accessible data storage also increase. SD card is not a single group, which has varied ranges available in size, class, interface, and specifications. The word “SD Card” represents a storage media including SD, SDHC and SDXC. Furthermore, it is just one type of bulk memory cards family, the size is the standard one. In order to create a right selection of SD card sizes, let’s start by understanding the use of SD card.

What does SD Card mean?

SD Card is a short term of secure digital card. It is one type of memory card developed by the SD Association. The main function of this media card is to store data such as documents, videos, photos, and the other contents. Also, it presently comes in three types indicating capacity ranges. There is SD, SDHC and SDXC. Standard SD cards go up to 2GB; SDHC represents the range of high capacity from 4GB to 32GB, and SDXC offers extended capacity from 64GB up to 2TB. Manufacturers also use sizes to define SD card capacity, in other words, we have SD card sizes from 128MB to 2TB.

Physical size of SD card

Bulk Memory cards have three major types following their physical size. SD cards are full size one, it is 32*24mm. Mini SD is another member and only half of it; Micro SD is the smallest one and is as small as a fingernail. To know all sizes and types of memory cards in details, let’s sort out as follow.

1.Secure Digital Cards (It includes three types)

• Size for Standard SD/SDHC/SDXC: 32mm*24mm (The physical size of these types is all same)
• Capacity: SD card is up to 2GB, SDHC supports from 4GB to 32GB, SDXC will be available from 64GB to 2TB

2.Micro SD Cards (same as SD offering three types)

• Size for Micro SD cards: 15mm*11mm (This dimension is same for all types)
• Capacity: Micro SD card – Up to 2GB, Micro SDHC – from 4GB to 32GB, Micro SDXC – from 64GB to 2TB

3. Mini SD Card

• Size: 21.5*20mm
• Capacity: Up to 2GB (As it is an old version, the available capacity is small)

Viewing the physical size can have an idea of the storage space. Obviously, SD card will need more rooms for installment. Thus, people use it often in DSLR cameras, tablets, 3D printers and the digital devices with enough spaces.

Labeling of SD Card

To distinguish SD cards in different capacities or specifications, manufacturers have use labels to tell information. As SD card delivers a standard dimension, it has a bigger space than Micro SD to present logo or the other description. Thus, you may find labels stick to the surface.

1.Capacity on the labels

• The density will be the number together with MB or GB, for instance, 8GB, 32GB and 128GB. These are indicating the capacity of SD cards

2.Speed on SD labels

• There are classes to tell speed. For example, you can find Class 4, class 6 and 10 there.  These are important data to tell the writing speed, which is 4MB/s, 6MB/s and 10MB/s by write.
• In addition, there are U1 and U3 also a guide for speed. In fact, U1 is identical to Class 10, but U1 means a minimum writing speed of 10MB/s; U3 requests the write not slower than 30 MB/s.
• Furthermore, the astonishing part is the speed of read. UHS-1 can reach up to 104MB/s by read, and UHS-II cards can hit 300MB/s. The structure of UHS-II card is a bit different, which has two rows of interface pins, this is the reason of high reading speed. Some SD labels will display the specific data of speed to expect good sales, so does SD card sizes.

3.Video speed

• UHS cards has a specific parameter for video shooting. There are V30, V60 and V90, which tells the minimum write speed at 30MB/s, 60MB/s and 90MB/s.

With the info of SD label, users can positively receive basic specification from it. Moreover, it can help people make right purchase.

Order appropriate SD card Capacity

Although users can understand basic info from labels, they are hard to make right purchase. Even there is no limit on budgets, the largest capacity may not fit the device. Prior to order SD cards, it is important to know capacity options in the market. What’s more, it is essential to check with the parameters of your equipment.

1. Old cameras: They only can support up to 32GB in SDHC
2. Latest smart phones: They can use up to 2TB

Therefore, getting the most appropriate SD card is the right way to make purchase.

Besides it, we need to research out the performance of SD card.

1. SD card in high capacity: it normally adopts TLC flash, which delivers fast speed but short lifespan.
2. SD card in low capacity: it uses SLC and MLC flash that helps extend life circle.

At present, the resolution of video and photo is reaching 4K and 8K, it requests one SD card in larger size and higher speed. Thus, 64GB is a basic choice; or you can go for 128GB and 1TB instead as if you have enough budgets.

All in all, selecting SD card sizes is following your actual needs and the requirement of devices. In case you have no idea of the status of equipment, you can collect 8gb, 32GB and 64GB SD cards to test. You will know the right SD card when the device can work after connection with this storage media.

Format size of SD card

Every SD card has file system, this is different from capacity by capacity.

• Format FAT: 4GB or smaller one
• Allocation unit size: 16KB
• FAT 32: from 8GB up to 64GB
• Allocation unit size: 32KB
• EXFAT: supports 64GB or above
• Allocation unit size: 128KB
• NTFS: from 64GB to 2TB

In fact, SD card performance is a bit affected by allocation unit. As you need to select default allocation unit size when formatting, the selection is linking to the density.

Small allocation unit sizes will take more time for data accessing, but large unit sizes can cause more waste. So proper use on unit sizes can bring efficiency on application. For instance, you can go for small size if you just load a few files. However, a large allocation size could be helpful for improving reading and writing if you need store video or films.

Final thought

The performance of SD card is directly affecting by various aspects such as size, speed, file system, video captures and flash type. To purchase a perfect card for photography or any institution, it is wise to know about these factors before any wholesale purchase.