Buzz
Currently, the demand for SD cards is increasing rapidly to serve data copying and storage purposes. However, the market is flooded with various SD cards of varying quality, including counterfeit ones. This article below will provide you with essential tips for buying SD cards.
1. Incompatible Card Format
All types of MicroSD cards usually fit snugly into the Micro SD card slot, but in many cases, they may not work. The reason is that there are three different card formats: microSDHC, microSD, and microSDXC. Also, note that newer card formats may not be compatible with older hardware. Therefore, users cannot use new memory cards on hardware that supports older formats.
There are three common formats in the market, specifically:
MicroSD: maximum capacity of 2GB, usable on all types of microSD card slots.
MicroSDHC cards typically have a storage capacity ranging from over 2GB to 32GB and are compatible with hardware supporting SDXC and SDHC.
MicroSDXC cards offer storage capacities from 32GB to 2TB and are compatible with devices supporting SDXC.
2. Maximum Memory Card Capacity
Hardware supporting microSDXC slots may not support all storage capacities. If users intend to use a memory card for a computer, they should check if the computer supports the card's file format system. Currently, microSDXC cards use the exFAT file system by default. The Windows operating system has support for this format.
UHS Technology (Ultra High Speed)
SDHC and SDXC formats support UHS technology, allowing devices to transfer data rapidly. Currently, there are two versions of UHS: UHS-I (with speeds up to 104 MBps) and UHS-II (with speeds up to 312 MBps). Users should also verify if their computer hardware supports this technology.
3. Identifying Incorrect Card Speed
SD memory cards are categorized into 4 different speed classes: Class 2, 4, 6, and 10. Specifically, as outlined below:
Minimum speed of Class 2: 2MBps
Minimum speed of Class 4: 4 MBps.
Minimum speed of Class 6: 6 MBps.
Minimum speed of Class 10: 10 MBps.
Depending on your usage needs, determine which memory card is suitable.
4. UHS Speed Class
The UHS speed type will determine the minimum write speed for microSD cards supported by UHS-I, II, and III bus speeds. Some manufacturers divide UHS Speed Class into two types:
U1: minimum write speed of 10MBps.
U2: minimum write speed of 30MBps.
5. Video Speed Class
Video Speed Class sets the minimum sequential write speed necessary when recording video. Higher video resolutions require faster speeds. There are 5 specific video classes:
V6: minimum write speed of 6MBps
V10: minimum write speed of 10MBps
V30: minimum write speed of 30MBps
V60: minimum write speed of 60MBps
V90: minimum write speed of 90MBps
6. Standardized Speed
Many manufacturers also provide the maximum standardized speed for memory cards measured in megabytes per second. Users can quickly select the fastest microSD card. However, it's important to note that these speeds based on tests may differ from real-world performance.
7. Relative Speed
Manufacturers may also specify the speed of microSD cards based on the reversed time of burning CD discs.
Initially, the CD disc burning speed was 150 KBps. Currently, with improved technology, manufacturers have increased microSD card speeds by 2, 4, 16 times, etc., compared to previous cards.
8. Application Performance Class
Application Performance Class indicates the minimum sustained write speed of the card at 10MBps. It also reveals the random read and write speeds per second during input and output operations. The class is divided into two types.
A1: minimum random read speed of 1500 IOPS; minimum random write speed of 500 IOPS
A2: minimum random read speed of 4000 IOPS; minimum random write speed of 200 IOPS
9. Incompatibility with Usage Needs
You need to choose the right size and speed suitable for your needs, not necessarily the fastest and largest. High-capacity cards are expensive but may not require the power to meet every need.
If you intend to use a microSD card to expand your phone's storage capacity, choose a high-capacity card without prioritizing speed because you don't need to copy many large files on the phone. For shooting 4K videos, choose a microSD card to serve two factors: fast speed and large capacity.
10. Disregarding Brand
Damaged cards will affect stored data, impacting the learning and work of many people. Therefore, choose SD cards from reputable brands. Avoid the temptation of cheap cards from unknown brands. Cards from famous brands will have higher performance, longer lifespan, and better water resistance. Many brands like Kingston, Sandisk,... even offer lifetime warranties for users' peace of mind.
11. Purchasing Counterfeit Items
Currently, the market is flooded with counterfeit SD cards, making it easy for users to mistakenly purchase them. If you see memory cards from well-known brands at incredibly low prices from less reputable sellers, they are likely to be fake.
Therefore, choose to buy from reputable places like Mytour to ensure you get genuine products, avoiding wasting money.
These are common mistakes to avoid when buying SD cards. Remember to save this for reference and application. Don't forget to follow Mytour for the latest and most useful information.
Check out some of the SD card models currently available at Mytour
