Memory & storage: all you need to know
Storage and memory are essential for photographers and videographers. Whether you take photos with a photo camera, shoot videos with a drone or edit images on your laptop. From fast memory cards to external storage, read all you need below.
What is the difference between memory and storage?
The difference is simpler than you think. Memory (RAM) is what you use while working with files, such as when editing Photo or Video. Storage (such as a hard drive or SSD) is for storing files permanently. So you can say: memory works temporarily, storage is permanent.
For photo and video photographers, this means that the memory in their Camera determines how quickly and smoothly they can shoot or film, especially at high resolutions or fast sequences. Once the image is captured, it is stored on a memory card - a form of temporary storage. After the shoot, you use a Card reader to quickly transfer the files to a Computer or external storage. This way, you work quickly and efficiently, and prevent your Camera from being 'full' on your next shoot.
Various memory cards
There are all kinds of memory cards, but they can be broadly divided into three main types:
- SD card - The most widely used memory card for photography. Compatible with almost all digital Cameras. Available in variants such as SDHC (up to 32GB) and SDXC (from 64GB), each with their own speed categories.
- MicroSD card - Small in size, but versatile. Commonly used in drones, Smartphones and Action cam. With an adapter, they can also be used as a regular SD card.
- CF card (CompactFlash) - Rugged cards with high read and write speeds. Commonly used in professional DSLRs and Video cameras. Also includes other types:
- CFast card - Faster and more modern variant of the traditional CF card, suitable for high-resolution Video.
- CFexpress card - The latest standard for extreme performance. Ideal for 4K and 8K Video recording or continuous high-speed photography.
- XQD card - The predecessor of CFexpress, still in use in some professional Nikon cameras.
Different storage options
Besides memory cards, you also need external storage to keep your files safe or backed up. These are the best-known options for storage:
- Hard drive & SSD - Traditional storage solutions for large files. SSDs are faster, but often more expensive.
- NAS & network storage - Perfect for those who want to connect multiple devices to the same storage at home or in the office.
- USB-Stick - Convenient solution for fast, portable storage.
- CD/DVD/Blu-ray - Used less and less, but still an option for long-term archiving.
What should I look out for when buying a memory card or storage?
The range of memory cards and storage is vast, but which one best suits your situation? When buying storage and memory, pay attention to the following points:
- Storage capacity
How many GB or TB do you need? For photography in JPEG, 32GB is often enough, but for 4K video or RAW photography, 128GB or more is recommended. For external storage, prefer to choose some extra space so you don't have to choose between your images.
- Read and write speed
This determines how fast data is written or read. Important for burst recording or high Resolution Video. Look for designations such as 'V30' (Video Speed Class) or 'UHS-II' (Ultra High Speed) for faster performance.
- Card or storage type
Choose the type your device supports: SD, microSD, CF, CFexpress or XQD. For storage, choose between USB-Stick, SSD, HDD or NAS - this is very personal and depends on your work process.
- Abbreviations and designations
Terms such as SDHC, SDXC, UHS-I/II, V30/V60/V90 indicate what the card can handle. For example: SDXC is suitable for larger files (from 64GB) and UHS-II offers faster transfer speeds.
- Security
Some cards and storage media have physical sliders (such as write protection on SD cards) or software-based encryption options. Ideal if you work with sensitive data.
- Protection and durability
Check whether the card or drive is waterproof, shockproof or temperature-resistant. Especially if you are out and about a lot or work in extreme conditions, this can make all the difference.
Memory and storage at Kamera Express
Whether you are looking for a memory card or want to buy external storage: at Kamera Express you will find everything you need. With our years of experience, expert advice and wide range, we are happy to help you.
Frequently asked questions about memory and storage
