Today, many good brands of microSD are available in the market. There is a microSD SDXC which offers a large capacity of up to 2 TB. Then, there are other capacity options, such as 64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB, and 1 TB. For the speed class itself, we recommend a microSD with speed class 10.
The many types and capacities of this microSD may be confusing. Therefore, we will review how to choose a good memory card. We also provide recommendations for the best microSD brands, such as Samsung, SanDisk, and others. Read each point carefully so that you can choose the product without hesitation.
How to choose the best microSD?
There are many electronics companies that manufacture microSD, such as SanDisk, Samsung, Toshiba, and others. In order not to make the wrong choice, first consider a few points on how to choose which we will explain below.
Choose the type and capacity of the microSD according to your needs
Some of you may be looking for a microSD to use as a good HP memory card. In fact, there are many types of microSD on the market, there are SD, SDHC, and SDXC. Then, the capacity options offered also vary, ranging from 8 GB to 1 TB. Therefore, identify the type of microSD and the capacity you need.
Type of microSD, adjust the compatibility with your device
Based on capacity and compatible devices, there are three types of microSD, namely SD, SDHC, and SDXC. SD is a type of microSD that has a maximum capacity of up to 2 GB. Then, there is also a microSD SDHC with a capacity of up to 32 GB.
The third type of microSD is SDXC. MicroSD SDXC has a maximum capacity of up to 2 TB. You also need to pay attention that not every device is compatible with all types of microSD. So, before buying, first make sure the type of microSD is compatible with your device.
MicroSD capacity, choose according to your needs
As a reference in choosing, the 64 GB microSD is capable of storing around 9,000 photos with a total resolution of 19.2 million pixels. Products with the same capacity can also store about 240 songs with high-quality music. In addition, for the need to store game console data, a 64 GB microSD is also considered sufficient.
If you want to use a microSD for photography or videography needs, a larger capacity is needed. We recommend a microSD with a capacity of more than 64 GB. This is just in case in the future you don't have to buy a microSD again.
Check the speed performance of the microSD
Of course you want a microSD with a capable performance. There are at least two factors that affect microSD performance, namely writing speed and reading speed. We will review both of these in detail in the following points.
Writing speed, affects performance when transferring data
One of the uses of microSD is to store data, such as photos, videos, or music. You can also use a microSD to backup your smartphone application data. If you want to use a microSD for these needs, pay attention to the writing speed of the microSD.
Writing speed indicates the maximum transfer speed on the microSD. Meanwhile, the speed class indicates the minimum guaranteed transfer speed.
The larger the value of both, the faster the data can be moved. If there is a microSD with the same capacity and speed class, choose a product with a higher writing speed value.
Reading speed, ability to play videos and play games better
If you want to enjoy image and movie files stored on a microSD, pay attention to the reading speed value. This microSD value speeds up the process of opening images and playing videos. The higher the data reading speed, the shorter your waiting time.
MicroSD with high reading speed is also needed if you want to play games. The higher the speed, the shorter the loading time required.
You can also play games more comfortably. For example, if you use a Nintendo Switch console, use a microSD with a reading speed of around 60–95 MB/s or more.
For video recording, see the microSD speed class rating
If you're going to use a microSD for video recording, it's important to know the minimum speed class. If the speed class value is small, the captured image will be broken and even damaged.
This is because the speed between data recording and data transfer is not balanced. There are three standard types of data transfer rates based on the amount of data received per second.
Speed class, the standard speed of microSD
Speed class is the original speed class on the microSD and is indicated by the circle symbol C. Based on the speed level, the speed class is divided into four levels:
- C2 : minimum transfer rate 2MB/s
- C4 : minimum transfer rate 4MB/s
- C6 : minimum transfer rate 6 MB/s
- C10: minimum transfer rate of 10 MB/s
For the need to record video with HD resolution or higher, choose a microSD with speed class 10. This MicroSD can transfer data at 10 MB / s. That way, the video that you record is smoother and the frame is not broken.
UHS speed class, has a high transfer speed
MicroSD UHS (ultra-high speed) speed class is characterized by the presence of a U logo. MicroSD which has a UHS speed class indicates that the product has a transfer speed higher than the speed class. There are two levels of transfer speed in UHS speed class, namely U1 and U3.
- U1 : minimum transfer rate 10MB/s
- U3 : minimum transfer rate 30 MB/s
Keep in mind, not all devices support UHS. If you're using a device that doesn't support UHS, the microSD minimum speed goes back to speed class (C). So, make sure the compatibility of the device you are using too, yes.
Video speed class, for high-resolution videography needs
Video speed class (V) is a new generation speed class type developed for recording high quality videos. This type of speed class is used to record 4K, 8K, up to 360-degree videos. However, it all depends on the type of video speed class used. Here are the video speed class levels that you can find on the market:
- V6: minimum transfer rate of 6 MB/s
- V10: minimum transfer rate of 10 MB/s
- V30: minimum transfer rate of 30 MB/s
- V60: minimum transfer rate of 60 MB/s
- V90: minimum transfer rate of 90 MB/s
For those of you who will record videos with 4K resolution, it will be smoother if you use a V10 or V30 microSD. If you want to record 8K video, use a microSD with video speed class V60 or V90.
MicroSD V60 and V90 are also recommended for those of you who record video using a DSLR, action camera, or drone.
Also pay attention to the durability of the microSD for longer use
The resilience of the microSD determines the security of the data you store. Therefore, it is important for you to choose a product with strong durability. This will make the data stored on the microSD more secure.
For example, if your phone sinks, the data stored on the microSD can be saved. Then, a shock-resistant microSD will help secure data in the event of a crash or accident. For those of you who often travel by airplane, choose a microSD with the X-ray proof feature.
There are several features related to microSD resistance. For example, waterproof, shockproof, X-ray proof, magnetic proof, temperature resistant, and so on.
There are products that have these five features, there are also those that have only a few features. Therefore, adjust the type of feature to your activity and use of the microSD.
Top 10 recommended microSD cards
We will introduce some of the best microSDs, which we summarize based on their prices and specifications. The products below are also sorted by popularity. Carefully read each point and find the product you want.
1. XTREEM Micro SDXC UHS-II U3 MicroSD CARD 64 GB
One of the products from Teamgroup this not only offers functionality but also an attractive design. Unlike other products, this microSD has a design with bright colors that light up. Not only that, there is a color gradient that makes the microSD design look like 3D (three-dimensional).
In terms of durability, the ability of this product is unquestionable. This product has several safety features, ranging from waterproof, dustproof, and X-ray proof. That way, you can use this product in a variety of situations without worrying about the data it contains errors.
- Capacity: 64GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U3/-
- Writing speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 250 MB/s
- Endurance: Waterproof, dustproof, X-ray proof
2. ADATA Premier Pro Micro SDXC/SDHC UHS-I U3 V30S 256GB
Do you doubt the data transfer process on the microSD will be fine? If so, we recommend you to use this ADATA Premier Pro microSD.
There is ECC (Error Correcting Code) technology on this microSD. This feature serves to detect and correct errors in the data transfer process. You also don't need to be afraid or worried that the microSD will experience errors when transferring data.
- Capacity: 256GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U3/V30
- Writing speed: Up to 80MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Endurance: Waterproof, shockproof, X-ray proof, magnetic proof, temperature resistant
3. PNY microSDXC PRO Elite - 512GB
If you are looking for a microSD compatible with multiple devices, we recommend this product from PNY. This MicroSD is designed to maintain high performance on a variety of devices.
You can use this microSD both on smartphones, tablets, drones, action cams, CCTV, game consoles, and others. In addition, UHS speed class U3 makes this microSD capable of recording HD quality videos up to 4K resolution.
- Capacity: 512GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U3/V30
- Writing speed: Up to 90 MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Endurance: Magnetic proof, shockproof, temperature proof, waterproof, X-ray proof
4. Transcend High Endurance microSDXC/SDHC 64 GB
Transcend High Endurance is the right choice for those of you who are looking for a microSD with "magic" features. There is RecoveRx software in this product which allows you to search for deleted files. With a friendly interface, various files ranging from photos, documents, music, to deleted videos are possible to be saved.
Recording performance is also strong. Using the MLC Nand flash chip, you can record videos for 12 thousand hours non-stop with HD quality. If you want to use a microSD in a dashcam in a car or a security camera such as CCTV, this microSD is the right choice.
- Capacity: 64GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U1/-
- Writing speed: Up to 45 MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 95 MB/s
- Endurance: Temperature resistant, waterproof, shockproof, X-ray proof, static proof
5. Sandisk Extreme® PRO microSDXC UHS-I 1 TB
If you want to make a microSD as your main storage or a large-capacity file storage area, this microSD is the answer. Unmitigated, this SanDisk Extreme PRO has a capacity of 1 TB. This capacity is the largest in the microSD class so you can store various forms of files with various capacities.
Besides being able to be used to store files, this product is also ideal for Android smartphones, especially the flagship class.
By using the A2 specifications, the performance of applications that use this microSD on your smartphone becomes extraordinary. When you open the application, you don't have to wait for long data loading times.
- Capacity: 1 TB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class -/U3/V30
- Writing speed: Up to 90 MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 170 MB/s
- Endurance: Shockproof, temperature proof, waterproof, X-ray proof
6. Lexar® Professional 1066x microSDXC™ UHS-I Cards SILVER Series
Do you need a microSD for professional image processing needs? If so, we recommend choosing this product. This MicroSD is designed for action cameras, drones, and Android smartphones. The Lexar® Professional 1066x microSDXC™ lets you quickly capture and transfer high-quality photos.
The performance and quality of this product is unquestionable. This MicroSD has passed testing at the Lexar Quality Lab using more than 1,100 digital devices. Therefore, if you are a professional photographer or videographer, there is no need to hesitate with this product.
- Capacity: 256GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U3/V30
- Writing speed: Up to 120MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 160 MB/s
- Endurance: Waterproof, shockproof, vibration proof, X-ray proof
7. Toshiba Exceria Pro™ M501 32 GB
This product is recommended if you are looking for a microSD that has excellent reading and writing speed performance. The Toshiba Exceria Pro M501 has read and write speeds of 270 MB/s and 250 MB/s, respectively. This speed is the highest compared to other products.
This microSD is also recommended if you often shoot in burst mode so you don't miss the moment. With this extraordinary performance, microSD is able to keep up with the process of capturing images in fast mode.
- Capacity: 32GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U3/-
- Writing speed: Up to 250 MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 270 MB/s
- Endurance: Waterproof, shockproof, X-ray proof
8. Samsung EVO Plus microSDXC Memory Card 512GB
For those of you who like to go to the beach or do activities at sea, maybe this product is what you are looking for.
The Samsung EVO Plus MicroSD is claimed to have extraordinary durability, especially in salt water. Because this product can last up to 72 hours in sea water. When the microSD is exposed to seawater, the stored data is still safe.
Not only is this product resistant to seawater, it is also able to withstand extreme temperatures, X-rays, and magnetic fields. Another feature that is not less important, this microSD has a high transfer speed. You can send 3GB video files to your notebook in just 38 seconds.
- Capacity: 512GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U3/-
- Writing speed: Up to 90 MB/s
- Reading speed: Up to 100MB/s
- Endurance: Magnetic proof, temperature proof, waterproof, X-ray proof
9. Kingston Canvas Select Plus Class 10 microSD Card 64 GB
Usually, the larger the microSD capacity, the more expensive it will be. However, not with the Kingston Canvas Select Plus. For the 64 GB capacity class, this microSD has a more affordable price than other brands.
There are several advantages of this product, one of which is that it is compatible with A1-performing Android devices. That way, you can open apps quickly. This type of microSD can also be used to record at 1080p resolution on an action cam, drone, or dashboard camera.
- Capacity: 64GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class -/U1/V10
- Writing speed: 85MB/s
- Reading speed: 100MB/s
- Endurance: Not mentioned
10. V-GEN MicroSD 128GB Turbo
For those of you who are concerned about security and health, the V-GEN MicroSD 128 GB Turbo is the right choice. This product has been certified RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). This means that this product uses ingredients that are safe for health.
For its own durability, this microSD is known to have several security features that are sufficient for daily use. Here's a great memory card that's right for your cellphone or smartphone!
- Capacity: 128GB
- Speed class (SD/UHS/Video): Class 10/U1/-
- Writing speed: 48MB/s
- Reading speed: 100MB/s
- Endurance: Waterproof, shockproof, weatherproof, X-ray proof
Conclusion
After reading reviews on how to choose a microSD and product recommendations, is there a microSD that suits your needs? You can find a variety of products with various advantages, each of which you can find in the market. This may confuse you when choosing.
Therefore, don't forget to compare each of the advantages of the product, from capacity, features, to price. That way, you can find a product that fits your needs. Hope this review helps you!