MicroSD cards, being small, portable, and versatile storage devices, serve as crucial components for expanding the memory capacity of various gadgets, such as smartphones, tablets, cameras, drones, and gaming consoles. They are especially known for their storage abilities, but what is more important is discovering which is the fastest microSD card available in the market.
In this article, we at Ems Gadgets will review the best microSD cards in 2024, based on their speed, capacity, durability, and compatibility. we will also be looking to understand its efficiencies and why speed is important.
What is A MicroSD Card?
MicroSD cards, being diminutive versions of SD cards, find applications in game consoles, cameras, drones, and various portable electronics. Despite their smaller capacity compared to conventional SD cards, they hold a significant advantage in size. While SD cards boast far larger capacities, reaching beyond 1 TB, microSD cards, capped at 1 TB, provide a more compact alternative. However, the adaptability of microSD cards shines through, thanks to their frequent inclusion of an SD adapter. This feature allows users to employ them in hardware designed exclusively for SD cards, showcasing their versatility. It’s worth noting that microSD cards adhere to four SD standards: microSD, microSDHC, microSDXC, and microSDUC. Among these, the primary distinguishing factor is their storage capacity.
Functions of MicroSD Cards in 2024
Here are some of the functions of microSD cards in 2024:
#1. High-speed data transfer:
With the introduction of SD Express, microSD cards can achieve SSD-like data transfer speeds of up to 985MB/s, using the PCIe and NVMe interfaces.
#2. Multi-stream recording:
SD Express also enables microSD cards to support multi-stream recording of up to eight streams simultaneously. Also, this is ideal for devices that use multiple cameras, such as security and vehicle cameras, drones, and virtual and augmented reality devices.
#3. Enhanced security:
SD Express also offers enhanced security features, such as a self-encrypted Drive using TCG and Replay Protected Memory Block mechanism. Additionally, these features protect your data from unauthorized access and tampering, as well as prevent data loss and corruption.
#4. Advanced power and thermal management:
SD Express also includes advanced power and thermal management capabilities that improve the overall lifespan and performance of microSD cards. Furthermore, these features help regulate the power consumption and heat dissipation of the card, as well as support the speed class assurance.
Ranking Criteria for the Fastest MicroSD Card
Several criteria can affect the ranking of the fastest microSD cards, such as:
#1. Capacity:
The amount of data that a microSD card can store, is measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB). The higher the capacity, the more files you can store on the card, but also the more expensive it is. The maximum capacity for microSD cards is currently 1TB.
#2. Speed class:
The minimum sequential write speed that a microSD card can sustain, is measured in megabytes per second (MB/s). However, the higher the speed class, the faster the card can transfer data, which is important for recording and playing high-resolution videos. There are four speed classes for microSD cards: C2, C4, C6, and C10.
#3. Application performance class:
The minimum random read and write speed that a microSD card can sustain for running applications is measured in input/output operations per second (IOPS). The higher the application performance class, the more responsive the card is for running apps and games. Additionally, there are two application performance classes for microSD cards: A1 and A2.
#4. Durability:
The ability of a microSD card to withstand physical damage, such as water, shock, temperature, and X-ray. The more durable the card is, the longer it can last and the safer your data is. Likewise, some microSD cards have special features, such as waterproof, shockproof, temperature-proof, and X-ray-proof.
#5. Warranty:
The guarantee that the manufacturer provides for the quality and performance of a microSD card, is measured in years. The longer the warranty is, the more confident the manufacturer is about the card and the more protection you have in case of defects or failures.
Top Rated: Best Fastest MicroSD Card Recommendations for 2024
#1. SanDisk Extreme PRO:
This card has a capacity of 1TB, a speed class of C10, a UHS speed class of U3, a video speed class of V30, an application performance class of A2, and a warranty of 10 years. Moreover, it also has a read speed of up to 170MB/s and a write speed of up to 90MB/s. It is ideal for speed, performance, and reliability.
#2. ProGrade Digital UHS-II:
This card has a capacity of 256GB, a speed class of C10, a UHS speed class of U3, a video speed class of V90, an application performance class of A2, and a warranty of 5 years. Also, It has a read speed of up to 250MB/s and a write speed of up to 200MB/s. It is ideal for 4K and 8K video recording and playback.
#3. Samsung PRO Endurance:
This card has a capacity of 128GB, a speed class of C10, a UHS speed class of U1, a video speed class of V30, an application performance class of A1, and a warranty of 5 years. It also has a read speed of up to 100MB/s and a write speed of up to 30MB/s. Additionally , it is ideal for CCTV and bodycam systems, as it can withstand up to 43,800 hours of continuous recording.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards?
The difference between these types of microSD cards is their storage capacity. MicroSD cards have a maximum capacity of 2GB, microSDHC cards have a maximum capacity of 32GB, and microSDXC cards have a maximum capacity of 2TB.
How do I format a microSD card?
To format a microSD card, you need to insert the card into a compatible device, such as a computer, a smartphone, or a camera, and follow the instructions on the device’s screen or manual. Formatting a microSD card will erase all the data on the card, so make sure to back up your files before formatting.
How do I use a microSD card on Nintendo Switch?
To use a microSD card on Nintendo Switch, you need to power off the console and open the microSD card slot cover on the back of the console. Then, insert the microSD card into the slot and close the cover. Power on the console and follow the on-screen instructions to format the card if needed.
Conclusion
MicroSD cards are small, portable, and versatile storage devices that can enhance the performance and functionality of various devices and applications that require high-speed data transfer and storage. Furthermore, in this article, we have reviewed the best microSD cards in 2024, based on their speed, capacity, durability, and compatibility. Additionally, we have also explained the different types, standards, and ratings of microSD cards, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Editor’s Recommendations
References
- TechRadar – Best microSD card of 2024.
- SD Association – The State of microSD and Trends to Watch in 2024.
- TechRadar – Best microSD card of 2024.
