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Choosing The SanDisk Extreme or Extreme Pro

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Since I started working full-time in videography and photography a few years back, I have used SanDisk memory card to store my footage.
Today I will go over the differences between these memory cards and help to find the right one for you.

SanDisk Extreme vs Extreme Pro features:

Both share the V30 video speed.
Extreme maximum capacity is 256 GB, Extreme Pro 1TB.
Both are shockproof and waterproof.
The maximum write speed for SanDisk Extreme is 70 MB/s and the Extreme Pro is 90 MB/s.
Both SD cards can be used for Class 10 and U3 purposes.

SanDisk Extreme

This is a solid SD card with a rich history that spans over 32 years.

The SanDisk Extreme has been a favourite among filmmakers and photographers for over ten years because of its reliability and speed. This latest version appears to be just as popular.

It can shoot at up to 70 MB/s and has UHS Class 3 (U3) record, which will give you a smooth and stable high-resolution video. You also have the option to take burst-mode photos.

It speeds up the transfer of your videos and photos to other devices, which can help you save time.

This SD card is also available with a lifetime warranty if purchased in the USA.

PROS:

Photographers and filmmakers around the world trust longevity.
Market leader
Offers U3 recording.
Waterproof.
Guaranteed for life

CONS:

256 GB maximum capacity.
The SanDisk Extreme Pro version has a slower maximum write speed of 70MB/s, compared to 90MB/s.
Maximum read speed is 150 MB/s, which is slower than the 170MB/s maximum read speeds of the SanDisk Extreme Pro.

SanDisk’s Extreme card was not enough. The guys at SanDisk wanted to improve the performance of their Extreme Pro.

This powerful storage unit can be described as fitting a nitrous dioxide unit to your car. It increases both acceleration and velocity.

The SanDisk Extreme Pro has a faster read speed. You can maximize your post-production time if you have large files or have been using 4k video.

SanDisk has also increased the write speed of this card to 90 Mb/s. This means uninterrupted recording which will ensure you don’t miss that moment.

The Extreme Pro also offers an option for expanded storage so that you can increase your storage size if you don’t have enough space.

PROS:

Capacity up 1TB
The maximum write speed is 90 MB/s faster than the 70 MB/s SanDisk Extreme.
Compare the speed of the SanDisk Pro Extreme’s 150 MB/s to get 170 MB/s maximum read speed.
Swift read speed delivers time-saving benefits.
Guaranteed for life
X-ray proof.

CONS:

It is more expensive than the SanDisk Extreme.
You will get the best benefit if your device has the same speed card.
Some older cameras may not be compatible.

SanDisk Extreme Pro vs Extreme Pro: How They Compare

Let’s compare the key features of these SD cards to see how they stack up.

Maximum Shot/Write Speed

Keep in mind that the manufacturers claim write speeds are for short bursts of action, not sustained use. It is important to note that the speed displayed on the Sandisk Extreme Pro and Sandisk Extreme Pro fronts is the read speed, not the write speed.

The maximum write speed for the SanDisk Extreme is 70 MB/s. The Pro version can store 90 MB/s. If you are a frequent user of burst mode for photography and have a camera capable of writing at this speed, the SanDisk Extreme Pro may be worth considering.

If you take a lot of sequential shots, you will need a faster write speed. A higher specification won’t make a difference if you record video for a longer time than just a.

The speed of your SD card is not the only thing that matters. It’s equally important to choose the right device for you to use the card.

The storage card may not function at full capacity due to different interfaces and processing units in your camcorder or camera. You will not get the full benefits of a higher-rated removable memory, but it will work faster than one that is lower-classed.

If this is not the case and you are more likely to shoot long-lasting videos, the standard SanDisk Extreme might be better suited for you.
Maximum Transfer/Read Speed

While you are out taking photos, read speed is not an issue when you return to your computer.

An SD card with a faster read speed is more convenient and efficient. A faster read speed will allow you to transfer images and videos quicker, saving you time if there are many files.

I like the faster read speed, especially because I shoot 4K videos and take photos using my Sony a7RIII with a 41MB raw image file.

Pro videographers or photographers who are semi-pro or pro videographers will appreciate faster read speeds. It will save you time and money in the long term.

If you feel like this, I recommend the Extreme Pro. It has a maximum read speed 170 MB/s compared to the 150 Mb/s offered by the SanDisk Extreme.

The SanDisk Extreme is a good option if you are patient and have self-control.

You are about to capture the perfect shot.

You click the shutter button to capture the “magic hour”, everything is perfect framed. You smile and realize that this is going to be an award-winner.

Then you will get the much-dreaded Notification–Memory Card Complete.

Sounds familiar, right?

We’ve all been there at one time or another. It’s that gut-sucking emotion that makes you wish you had done more preparation.

Access to high-performance SD-secure digital cards has been crucial since digital memory almost replaced film stock. You need to have enough memory to capture your images and videos, but also to be able to take the shots at the speed that your subject requires.

While this comparison of the SanDisk Extreme and Extreme Pro will highlight the differences between these memory-masters they share one thing in common.

Both are SD cards.

They are compatible with most cameras including DSLRs, camcorders and drones. With many modern optic devices lacking any internal memory, they’re essential tools for photographers and videographers–whether professional or hobbyist.

These SD cards are a reliable, protected storage option that you can easily transfer to your laptop or tablet.

A quick warning: Make sure your equipment has a standard SD card size before you buy. Micro-SD is used by some smaller devices, such as smartphones, GoPros and drone cameras.

Here are some points to remember if you feel confident that your equipment requires a standard SD Card.

UHS (Ultra High-Speed) Classes
Different video speed classes
Card Capacity