SD cards: An overview of the speed classes
In this practical tip, we will explain the speed classes for SD cards.
Speed classes for SD cards: How to keep an overview
With SD cards for digital cameras or micro SD cards for smartphones and tablets, you will always find an addition such as "Class 4" or "Class 10". The cards also differ in price. Here is an overview of the speed classes:
- The slowest class is "Class 2" with a data transfer rate of at least 2MB / s. You will usually only find this class on USB sticks.
- Inexpensive and widespread are the SD cards with "Class 4" and "Class 6", which can transfer at least 4MB / s or 6MB / s. Often, the SD cards are fast enough for normal use.
- The luxury model among the SD cards are those with the designation "Class 10". At least 10MB / s can be transferred here. There are now also micro SD cards (64GB) with the abbreviation "SDXC". These cards can transfer up to 80MB / s.
Which SD card is suitable for whom?
If you do not exchange pictures, videos and music between smartphone and PC too often, micro SD cards with Class 6 are sufficient. It takes a little longer until all data is transferred than with a more expensive Class 10 SDXC - but you save a lot of money. Those who value fast data exchange should invest the extra euros.
In our CHIP leaderboards we present the best SD cards and microSD cards.