Selecting the Right SD Card

Selecting an SD card might seem like a straightforward decision—just pick the one with the right amount of storage you need. More storage means more photos. There’s a bit more to it than just selecting the right storage size when it comes to picking the right SD card for your shoot. 

The device you’re using will be the main factor in deciding which memory card to use, and you should check your camera’s user manual to ensure the card is compatible. Many cameras have multiple memory slots, which gives you more options. In this post, we break down the differences in the SD cards offered by ProMaster and when you’ll want to use each one.

Defining SD and Micro SD Cards

SD (Secure Digital) memory cards are used to store video and image files captured on your device. When shooting more complex photos or videos, like burst photographs or high-definition videos, you’ll need a faster and larger memory card to keep up. Some devices can support Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) or Secure Digital eXtended Capacity (SDXC), which can store substantially more photos and videos than traditional SD cards. The right SD card will be compatible with your device and have the speed to support your content.

MicroSD means the SD card has been scaled down in size for use in smaller devices like a smartphone, drone, and some cameras. ProMaster SD and MicroSD cards are available in a range of capacities and features to serve your content-saving needs.

Best SD Cards for Basic Needs and Beginners

For the average photographer or those just getting started, you’re looking for a basic memory card to store your image and video files. The ProMaster Performance 2.0 memory cards are an excellent combination of speed, reliability, and value for your photography and videography needs. These are available in sizes from 16GB up to 256GB. We recommend selecting a storage size that makes sense for your style of working—16GB will work for day-to-day use, while the larger 256GB is great to have for travel or video. 

Another solid option for the everyday photographer is ProMaster’s line of Advanced SD cards, which are available in 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. These reliable cards combine speed and value to meet your needs. Key features include 100MB/s read speed and 50MB/s write speed as well as an operating temperature range of 32°F to 158°F (0°C to 70°C).

Best SD Card for Videography and Large Photo Files

ProMaster Velocity CINE Memory Cards are some of the fastest SD cards in the world, which comes in handy when you’re capturing large image and video files. The SDXC Velocity CINE cards are ideal for ultra-high resolution cinematic video and high-speed RAW photography. With 250MB/s write speed and V90 video speed class, demanding cameras with UHS-II card slots and card readers will never outpace this card, and dropped frames or buffering problems are a thing of the past. The high read speed on this card saves time when transferring files.

 On top of these impressive features, the Velocity CINE cards are backwards compatible with UHS-I cameras and readers, so you can be sure to get the highest performance no matter what device you’re using. The Velocity CINE SD card is available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB.

Best SD Card for Extreme Photography and Videography

The Rugged and Rugged CINE memory cards by ProMaster are made for the photographer contending with the elements. Designed with industrial-grade components that offer protection against water, weather, and impact, these cards combine performance with durability. A unique molded design makes these cards three times stronger than normal memory cards. Industrial-grade internal components offer maximum protection against water, high humidity, extreme temperatures, and impact. The lock switch and thin plastic ribs typically found on SD cards have been removed to eliminate the most common physical causes of card failure. 

These cards are also shockproof, meaning they are three times more impact-resistant than normal memory cards. Their waterproof sealed design protects against full submersion for up to 72 hours. And, you can take them out in all weather conditions— these SD cards can withstand temperatures from -13°F to 185°F (-25°C to 85°C). The bright red color of the Rugged SD cards makes them easy to find if dropped. Rugged UHS-I cards boast 100MB/s read speed, 90MB/s write speed, and V30 video speed class. Rugged CINE UHS-II cards combine top level performance and protection with 300MB/s read speed, 260MB/s write speed, and V90 video speed class. They are both available in 32Gb, 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage sizes.

Conclusion
Now that you know a little more about selecting the right SD card, you can go out and shoot with confidence knowing your photo and video files are safe. On top of that, all ProMaster memory cards have a limited lifetime warranty. Still have questions? Reach out to an expert at ProMaster. And make sure to check out the full line of ProMaster SD cards online.