Let’s revisit the complex world of memory cards. In the last blog post we gave you a few tips to take into account when trying to decide which memory card is the most suitable for your needs – and if you haven’t read it yet, this might be a good time to do so -. Because today we are looking at the memory card class.

Last blog post: Which memory card should I buy? (I)

Before starting this topic, remember not to get tempted purely by the large storage capacities on offer. Obviously this point is important, but there are more points to consider when buying a memory card.

So, once you have chosen the storage capacity that you need, you now need to choose the access speed of the memory card. What are we talking about? With cards that are not fast enough, you won’t need to do burst shooting captures and you will take longer to view your photos on the camera. To avoid this and other problems, we will pay attention to the “class” factor.

The speed of memory cards can be divided into “classes”. The number that accompanies each class corresponds with the writing speed of the memory card. And so a class 4 memory card guarantees 4MB of writing, and a class 10 works at a minimum of 10MB per second. Please note! It is important to take the different classes into account, because the number that we normally find in memory cards, in MB, tells us the reading speed, which is always greater than the writing speed.

Basically, the reading speed is how long it takes to read a file on the memory card. Whilst the writing speed refers to the time that the camera takes to save the file on the memory card. Both pieces of information are important.

Memory card class (according to minimum writing speed):

• Class 2: 2MB
• Class 4: 4MB
• Class 6: 6MB
• Class 10: 10MB
• UHS Speed Class 1 (U1): 10MB
• UHS Speed Class 3 (U3): 30MB

How to choose the right class

Choose a card depending on the use that you are going to make of it and the device that it is going to be inserted into.

If it is for a smartphone or tablet, we can choose between Class 4 or Class 6. Although it is also worthwhile explaining that this is where the use factor comes into play. If you are only going to save multimedia files on the memory card then Class 4 will be suitable. If you are going to store files for applications, photos or games, then you would be better choosing a Class 6 memory card.

If we are going to use it in a reflex camera, or to record high definition videos, then Class 10 is recommended. We will avoid losing frames in the recording process.

For a more professional use, for Full HD video recording and in 4k quality, then you should choose UHS Class 3 memory cards (U3).

Now you need to choose the memory card that best suits your needs. Take your time deciding, and if you are still uncertain, then leave us a comment. And thanks for sharing!

Last blog post: Which memory card should I buy? (I)