Rankings
Gigastone's 256 GB microSDXC delivers fast up to 130 MB/s reads, rugged waterproof and shockproof construction, and broad device compatibility, all with a 5-year warranty. The UHS-I interface caps peak performance and speed claims can be inconsistent, so buyers should verify authenticity. Ideal for budget-conscious creators and gamers who need reliable 4K storage.
The ProGrade Digital 512 GB UHS-II SDXC card offers blazing 250 MB/s read speeds and a guaranteed V60 (60 MB/s) sustained write speed, making it ideal for 4K/UHD video and rapid RAW photo bursts. However, its maximum write speed tops out at 130 MB/s and performance falls back to U3/V30 levels in legacy UHS-I slots. It is best suited for professional photographers and videographers who need rugged durability and fast off-loading in UHS-II-compatible devices.
Lexar's 256 GB E-Series microSDXC provides up to 100 MB/s read and 140 MB/s write speeds, IPX7 waterproofing and a broad compatibility range across smartphones, tablets and action cameras. However, its UHS-I performance cannot exploit the higher speeds of UHS-II devices, and some variants lack detailed temperature specs. It's a solid choice for mobile and action-camera users seeking rugged storage.
Samsung EVO Plus 256GB combines fast 160 MB/s reads with 90 MB/s writes and four-proof ruggedness, suitable for 4K UHD recording on mobile devices. Its performance depends on UHS-I hosts and sustained writes may not reach peak speeds. Perfect for users wanting a balance of speed, durability, and capacity.
The Kingston Canvas React Plus 256 GB SDXC delivers ultra-fast UHS-II performance up to 300 MB/s read and V90 video speeds, providing ample capacity for professional 4K/8K workflows. Its real-world write speeds can fall short of advertised peaks and it lacks the rugged construction of premium rivals. Ideal for pros needing high speed and capacity without premium-grade durability.
Amazon Basics 1TB microSDXC delivers budget-friendly high-capacity storage with up to 100 MB/s read and 80 MB/s write, featuring IPX6 waterproof and shockproof protection. Speed can vary across devices and older hardware may face compatibility limits. Ideal for cost-conscious photographers and gamers needing large space.
The ProGrade Digital 256 GB SDXC UHS-II V90 card delivers top-tier read/write speeds and robust V90 certification for professional video capture. Its main drawbacks are the premium cost and reduced performance on UHS-I-only devices. Ideal for videographers needing reliable 6K/4K RAW recording in demanding environments.
Lexar 1TB Blue microSDXC provides a massive 1 TB capacity with IPX7 waterproof and shock-resistant construction, targeting gamers and mobile creators. Real-world read/write speeds fall short of the advertised 160 MB/s peak, and optimal performance requires a Lexar USB 3.1 reader. Suitable for users needing high capacity and decent speed for apps and media.
The Lexar 512 GB PLAY microSDXC card offers high-capacity storage with fast read speeds up to 205 MB/s, making it ideal for gaming and 4K video on compatible devices. Its write speed is limited and the UHS-I interface caps performance on newer hardware. Best suited for casual gamers and smartphone users seeking large space without needing top-tier write speeds.
Lexar's 256 GB 633x microSDXC offers up to 100 MB/s read speed, a V30 rating, and includes a micro-SD to SD adapter for versatile use. Its slower 45 MB/s write speed and lack of waterproofing limit high-end video applications. Suitable for smartphones, tablets and action cameras where large capacity and broad compatibility are priorities.
| Attribute | | | | | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
256 GB | 256 GB | 512 GB | 256 GB | 256 GB | 1,024 GBbest | 1,024 GBbest | 256 GB | 512 GB | 256 GB | |
300 MB/sbest | 100 MB/s | 250 MB/s | 300 MB/sbest | 160 MB/s | 100 MB/s | 160 MB/s | 100 MB/s | 205 MB/s | 130 MB/s | |
260 MB/s | 140 MB/s | 130 MB/s | 275 MB/sbest | 90 MB/s | 80 MB/s | 62 MB/s | 45 MB/s | 140 MB/s | 85 MB/s | |
| ↓ lower better | 1.7 g | 0.2 gbest | — | — | 0.25 g | 0.91 g | 0.25 g | 453.6 g | 9 g | 20 g |
— | 10 yearsbest | 3 years | 3 years | 1 years | 1 years | 10 yearsbest | — | 5 years | 5 years | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.54 mm | 1.02 mm | 2.1 mm | 2.1 mm | 1 mm | 0.97 mm | 0.7 mmbest | 1.02 mm | 1 mm | — |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | | | | | | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Storage(1) | ||||||||||
Capacity (GB) | 256 GB | 256 GB | 512 GB | 256 GB | 256 GB | 1024 GB | 1024 GB | 256 GB | 512 GB | 256 GB |
Performance(6) | ||||||||||
Read Speed (MB/s) | 300 MB/s | 100 MB/s | 250 MB/s | 300 MB/s | 160 MB/s | 100 MB/s | 160 MB/s | 100 MB/s | 205 MB/s | 130 MB/s |
Write Speed (MB/s) | 260 MB/s | 140 MB/s | 130 MB/s | 275 MB/s | 90 MB/s | 80 MB/s | 62 MB/s | 45 MB/s | 140 MB/s | 85 MB/s |
Speed Class | Class 10 | C10 | C10 | Class 10 | U3 | U3 | C10 | C10 | Class 10 | Class 10 |
UHS Speed Class | U3 | UHS-I | U3 | UHS-II | UHS-I | UHS-I | UHS-I | U3 | U3 | UHS‑I U3 |
Video Speed Class | V90 | V30 | V60 | V90 | V30 | V30 | V30 | V30 | V30 | V30 |
Interface | UHS-II | UHS-I | UHS-II | UHS-II | UHS-I | UHS-I | UHS-I | UHS-I | UHS-I | UHS‑I |
Durability(1) | ||||||||||
IP Rating | — | IPX7 | — | — | — | IPX6 | IPX7 | — | — | — |
Design(3) | ||||||||||
Form Factor | SDXC | microSDXC | SDXC | SDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC | microSDXC |
Weight (g) | 1.70 g | 0.20 g | — | — | 0.25 g | 0.91 g | 0.25 g | 453.6 g | 9 g | 20 g |
Thickness (mm) | 2.54 mm | 1.02 mm | 2.1 mm | 2.1 mm | 1 mm | 0.97 mm | 0.7 mm | 1.02 mm | 1 mm | — |
Power & Environment(2) | ||||||||||
Operating Temperature (°C) | — | -25 to 85 °C | -25 to 85 °C | — | -25 to 85 °C | -10 to 80 °C | 0 to 70 °C | — | 0-70 °C | — |
Storage Temperature (°C) | — | -40 to 85 °C | -20 to 85 °C | — | -40 to 85 °C | — | -25 to 85 °C | — | -25-85 °C | — |
General(3) | ||||||||||
Warranty (years) | lifetime years | 10 years | 3 years | 3 years | 1 years | 1 years | 10 years | — | 5 years | 5 years |
Certifications | — | — | — | V90 | FCC, CE, VCCI, RCM | — | — | — | — | — |
Compatibility | — | Smartphones, tablets, drones, action cameras, GoPro, Nintendo Switch | — | Canon, Sony, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Fuji, Samsung | — | Smartphones, tablets, cameras, GoPro/action cameras, laptops, computers, DSLRs, drones, game consoles | Nintendo Switch, smartphones, tablets, action cameras | wide compatibility with any UHS‑I device while remaining backward compatible with Class 10, V10 and U1 standards | Nintendo Switch 1, smartphones, tablets, portable gaming devices | GoPro, Dash Cam, DJI, Drone, Security Camera, Nintendo Switch, smartphones, tablets, PCs, laptops, DSLRs, e-readers |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers uniformly commend the Canvas React Plus for its high sustained speeds, reliable in-camera performance, and strong value proposition, though they caution that real-world write speeds can lag behind the advertised maximum and that the card lacks the ruggedness of premium alternatives.
Everyday users praise the card's large capacity and fast, dependable transfers, often highlighting its suitability for event photography and quick post-shoot workflows.
“lots of pictures, amazing storage”
“The card performs very well for read speeds, with peaks hitting the claimed numbers but occasional drops.”
“the first fastest microSD card”
Professional reviewers note that Lexar's high-end GOLD card provides the fastest UHS-II speeds suitable for demanding 4K/8K workflows, while the SILVER PLUS and PLAY cards offer solid V30 performance and rugged durability for action cameras and gaming consoles. The inclusion of an SD adapter and a lifetime warranty are repeatedly praised, though reviewers caution that UHS-II benefits require compatible host devices.
Everyday users provide limited feedback, but the few available comments praise the fast transfer rates and reliability for gaming and video storage. Some users express uncertainty due to the lack of detailed performance data, especially for the GOLD and PLAY variants.
Professional reviewers praise the card's near-spec read performance and reliable V60 sustained writes, emphasizing its cost-effective speed for 4K and RAW capture. However, they caution that the write speed ceiling and the steep performance loss in legacy UHS-I slots limit its suitability for the most demanding 8K workflows.
Consumer commentary is sparse; the few available mentions echo the professional view, highlighting fast reads and durability but offering no additional praise or complaints.
Professional reviewers are not directly quoted in the available sources; the information consists mainly of manufacturer datasheets and retailer specifications that emphasize the card's high sustained speeds, durability and suitability for flagship cameras.
No consumer reviews or testimonials were found in the research, so everyday user sentiment cannot be summarized.
Professional reviewers consider the EVO Plus a solid, reliable microSDXC for mobile and consumer-grade video work, praising its 130 MB/s read capability, U3/V30/A2 ratings and robust build, while noting that its peak speeds fall short of flagship cards like the SanDisk Extreme Pro.
Everyday users consistently highlight the large 256GB capacity, fast 90 MB/s writes for lag-free transfers, and the convenience of the included SD adapter, with few complaints beyond occasional speed drops on older devices.
Professional reviewers commend the Amazon Basics card for delivering sequential and random speeds that meet or surpass the SanDisk Extreme/Pro reference, maintaining cool operation during prolonged 4K/8K recording, and offering a compelling price-to-performance ratio.
Everyday users appreciate the card's accurate capacity, reliable adapter, and fast transfers without heat, noting it as a solid value for high-resolution media and app storage. Common themes include satisfaction with performance for typical use and occasional remarks about speed variability and the need to check device compatibility for larger capacities.
Professional reviewers praised the Lexar 1TB Blue for its astonishing capacity and solid real-world speeds, noting that it delivers about 97 MB/s read and 62 MB/s write without the need for a high-end reader. They highlighted the added value of a clear storage case and a five-year warranty, but cautioned that the advertised 160 MB/s peak requires Lexar's own USB 3.1 readers and that write performance can degrade during long recordings.
Everyday users love the massive 1TB space for gaming and media, citing fast initial transfers and reliable Switch game installs. However, many complain about write-speed throttling during extended use and the necessity of a specific Lexar reader to unlock full read performance, leading to mixed feelings about consistency versus advertised specs.
Professional testing shows the Lexar 633x card delivers real-world read speeds near 97 MB/s and write speeds around 69 MB/s, surpassing its advertised specifications and confirming its suitability for 4K video capture. Reviewers acknowledge its solid mid-range performance but point out that newer Lexar BLUE models provide higher peak speeds, making the 633x less compelling for users seeking top-tier throughput.
Everyday users praise the large 256 GB capacity, the included SD adapter for easy file transfer, and the peace of mind from the lifetime warranty. They also highlight the card's reliable 4K video performance and compatibility with a wide range of devices. However, some users note the write speed feels modest compared to newer offerings, and the lack of UHS-II support limits its appeal for high-end professional use.
Professional reviewers commend the Lexar PLAY 512 GB card for its solid read performance, V30/U3/A2 ratings, and suitability for gaming and 4K video on UHS-I devices, but they caution that the UHS-I interface and capped write speeds limit its appeal for power users seeking microSD Express performance.
Everyday users generally appreciate the high capacity and quick load times for games and media, while recurring concerns focus on the limited write speed, the lightweight feel of the packaging, and the absence of a protective case.
Professional reviewers commend the Gigastone 256 GB 4K Pro for its fast read speeds, solid V30/U3 rating, and rugged build, making it a capable choice for 4K video and gaming on a budget. However, they caution that the UHS-I interface limits peak performance, independent benchmarks are lacking, and there are documented counterfeit concerns, which together temper enthusiasm for demanding professional workflows.
Everyday users generally appreciate the card's ability to handle 4K video on devices like GoPro and Nintendo Switch, its quick transfer times, and the peace of mind offered by the free data recovery warranty. Recurring themes include satisfaction with durability and convenience of the included adapter, alongside worries about possible counterfeit units and occasional speed drops when the card fills up.
