Once you find the perfect action cam, there’s just one question left: What is the best action camera Micro SD card? It’s a simple question, really. But with all the options nowadays, you better get it right or else you may be left frustrated and confused. Not all Micro SD cards are created equal, and some aren't even compatible with action cameras – especially 4K action cameras.
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When shopping for a Micro SD card for your action camera, you should consider both the read speed and the write speed. Write speed affects video recording. While filming, your camera continuously saves data to your Micro SD card. If the card isn’t fast enough to keep up, you’ll run into problems. This is especially important when recording 4K video. Alternatively, read speed affects video playback and transferring data from the Micro SD card to your computer. This is important if you plan to transfer large files.
That's why we recommend UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) or higher Micro SD cards for action cameras. If you opt for a U1 card, you may run into issues with 4K video. Considering how affordable memory cards are nowadays, it’s worth the upgrade. Now let’s jump into our list of the best SD cards for action cameras.
Comparing the Best Action Camera Micro SD Cards
Preview | Product | Rating | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
 | SanDisk Extreme | ||
 | Samsung EVO Select | ||
 | SanDisk Extreme Pro | ||
 | Lexar Professional 1000x |
Scroll to the bottom of the post to see a helpful chart that breaks down the various microSD card speed class ratings
SanDisk Extreme microSD U3 V30 A2
Amazon
Rating: 4.5/5
Read speed: 160MB/s
Write speed: 90MB/s
Capacity: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 400GB, 512GB, 1TB
As the name implies, the SanDisk Extreme is built for speed and strikes the perfect balance between performance and value. It boasts one of the fastest read speeds of any card on the list, clocking in at 160MB/s. This allows for quick file transfers, so you’ll spend less time in front of the computer and more time capturing amazing footage. Furthermore, with a write speed 90MB/s, this card is fast enough to keep up with the demands of the very best 4K action cameras. As if that wasn't enough, the SanDisk Extreme is tested to withstand rough conditions, so you'll never lose your data. It's easy to see why the SanDisk Extreme is an Amazon Best Seller and a TGP favorite!
Pro Tip
What capacity should you buy? Check the requirements for your specific camera. GoPro recommends 64GB to 256GB for the HERO7.
Samsung MicroSD EVO Select U3
Amazon
Rating: 4.5/5
Read speed: 100MB/s
Write speed: 90MB/s
Capacity: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
The Samsung EVO Select comes in a close 2nd and may very well be the best Micro SD card for many photographers. It’s a high performance, no-nonsense memory card that just works. With a maximum read speed of 100MB/s, it’ll allow you to quickly offload your files and move on to your next adventure. Moreover, the write speed of 90MB/s is right up there with the best cards on the market. But what really makes the Samsung EVO Select stand out is its tremendous value. It’s the most affordable Micro SD card on our list. So if you’re looking to get the most storage for the least amount of money, this is the card for you.
And in case you’re wondering about the difference between the Samsung EVO Select and the Samsung EVO Plus, there is none. The Samsung EVO Select is sold exclusively on Amazon, whereas the EVO Plus is available from many different retailers. Besides that, the two cards perform the same. Also, note that the EVO Select is usually cheaper than the EVO Plus. But it's always best to compare current prices.
READ
Best GoPro Alternatives Under $200
SanDisk Extreme Pro microSD U3 V30
Amazon
Rating: 4/5
Read speed: 170MB/s
Write speed: 90MB/s
Capacity: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
If you’re serious about action camera photography and demand the best performance, then the SanDisk Extreme Pro is the Micro SD card for you. With a blazing fast read speed of 170MB/s, it’s the fastest SD card on our list and the best choice for anyone that regularly needs to transfer large 4K video files. Like our other top choices, this card has a write speed of 90MB/s, which is excellent. We also love that the card is built to withstand harsh conditions. It’s temperature-proof, waterproof, shock-proof, and x-ray-proof. In other words, your footage is safe and sound with the SanDisk Extreme Pro. And for what you're getting, the price is surprisingly reasonable!
Lexar Professional 1000x U3
Amazon
Rating: 3.5/5
Read speed: 150MB/s
Write speed: 80MB/s
Capacity: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Rounding out our list of best action camera Micro SD cards is the Lexar Professional 1000x. What makes this memory card so great? First, let's start with its lightning fast read speed of 150MB/s. This is a game changer for travelers, spies, and people on the go who need to transfer files as fast as possible. And there’s no need to worry about the write speed either. At 80MB/s, it’s plenty fast enough to keep up with the 4K video demands of even the best action cameras such as the GoPro HERO7 Black. And if you're feeling extra fancy, there’s the Lexar Professional 2000x which features an insane read speed of 300MB/s and a maximum write speed of 260MB/s. You’ll pay a premium for it, but when Lexar says “professional,” they really mean it! These are seriously high-end SD cards and certainly worthy of a spot on our list.
Action Camera Micro SD Card Speed Class Comparison Chart
You can't go wrong with any of TGP's top action camera Micro SD card recommendations. Each of these cards has the speed and durability to keep up with even the most demanding photographers. Regardless of whether you have the HERO7, YI 4K+, or one of the many cheaper (but very capable) action cameras under $100, remember that speed is the key to finding the perfect Micro SD card.
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