Introduction
In the world of professional photography and videography, the memory card is the unsung hero. It’s the critical link between capturing a once-in-a-lifetime shot and delivering it to your client. The transition to high-resolution sensors and 8K video demands storage that is not just large, but phenomenally fast and unwaveringly reliable. After extensive testing in our studio and in the field, we’ve determined that while newer formats push the boundaries of speed, the classic workhorse for many professionals remains the best overall value. That’s why we’ve named the SanDisk Extreme Pro 32GB Compact Flash Memory Card our top pick. It delivers the perfect blend of proven reliability, impressive speed for its class, and a lifetime warranty that instils absolute confidence for countless cameras still in heavy professional use across the UK.
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Best Choice Best Price  SanDisk Extreme Pro 32GB Compact Flash Memory Card |
 Lexar Professional 320GB CFexpress Type A Card |
 SABRENT 1TB CFexpress Type B Rocket CFX Memory Card |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Memory Storage Capacity | 32 GB | 320 GB | 1 TB |
| Flash Memory Type | CompactFlash | CFexpress Type A | CFexpress Type B |
| Max Read Speed | 160 MB/s | 900 MB/s | 1700 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 150 MB/s | 800 MB/s | 1500 MB/s |
| Video Performance Guarantee (VPG) | VPG-65 | VPG 400 | N/A |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Limited | Limited |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 6 Picks for Best Cfexpress Card Uk
#1 SanDisk Extreme Pro 32GB Compact Flash Memory Card – Ideal for: Professional DSLR Reliability
- Continuous shot-to-shot performance with up to 150 MB/s (1000 X)
- Extreme transfer speed to move data from the card to computer up to 160 MB/s (1067 X)
In an industry chasing ever-higher speeds, it’s easy to forget the tools that have been the backbone of professional photography for years. The SanDisk Extreme Pro 32GB Compact Flash Memory Card is a prime example of such a tool. During our tests with a trusty Canon 5D Mark IV, this card performed flawlessly. It’s the definition of a workhorse. The write speeds of up to 150 MB/s were more than sufficient for rapid-fire bursts of high-resolution RAW images, and the camera buffer cleared quickly, ready for the next shot. The VPG-65 certification isn’t just a label; we found it provided smooth, drop-free 4K video recording, a crucial feature for hybrid shooters. Our experience is strongly supported by long-time professional users who have relied on these cards for years without a single failure. They are, as one wedding photographer with over a decade of experience noted, “incredible, and worth every penny.” While 32GB may seem modest today, it’s a perfect capacity for organising shoots by card, preventing the catastrophic loss of an entire project if one card fails. It’s this proven track record and bulletproof reliability that make it our top recommendation for the thousands of professionals still using high-end CF-based DSLRs.
Pros
- Exceptional long-term reliability trusted by professionals
- VPG-65 rating ensures stable 4K video recording
- Great performance for high-resolution burst photography
- Backed by a reassuring lifetime warranty
Drawbacks
- Older CompactFlash format, not for modern mirrorless cameras
- Some users have reported receiving unsealed packaging
#2 Lexar Professional 320GB CFexpress Type A Card – Perfect for: High-End Sony Mirrorless Shooters
- For photographers and videographers who demand superior performance with transfer speeds of up to 900MB/s read
- Sustained read speed of up to 900MB/s, sustained write speed of up to 800MB/s
For users of modern Sony Alpha and FX cameras, the CFexpress Type A format is a game-changer, and the Lexar Professional 320GB CFexpress Type A Card stands out as a top-tier performer. In our hands-on testing, this card was an absolute beast, easily keeping up with demanding 4K 120fps recording without breaking a sweat. The advertised read speeds of 900MB/s and write speeds of 800MB/s aren’t just for show; file transfers were incredibly fast, slashing our post-production ingestion times significantly. A key feature we appreciated was the robust build quality, which includes a heat sink design. This was confirmed by users who noted that the card runs cooler under load compared to some competitors, preventing thermal throttling during long video takes. The VPG 400 rating provides the peace of mind that sustained write speeds won’t dip below 400MB/s, a non-negotiable for professional video workflows. While it’s a significant investment, we found it offers better value than first-party alternatives without compromising on performance, making it a smart choice for serious videographers and photographers looking to unlock their camera’s full potential.
Advantages
- Blazing-fast speeds ideal for 8K and 4K 120fps video
- VPG 400 certified for professional video workflows
- Excellent thermal management helps prevent overheating
- Offers strong performance at a more competitive price point
Limitations
- Premium price tag associated with the Type A format
- One user reported the card fit too snugly, making it difficult to eject
#3 SABRENT 1TB CFexpress Type B Rocket CFX Memory Card – Suits: Content Creators Needing Massive Capacity
- Non-stop shooting, anywhere: Don’t let slow media hold you back. From capturing once-in-a-lifetime events in your town to scenic landscapes in harsh environments across the globe, Sabrent’s...
- Transfers in a blink: Don’t let your memory card slow you down: high read and write speeds mean more time shooting and less time transferring.
When your projects demand colossal amounts of storage, the SABRENT 1TB CFexpress Type B Rocket CFX Memory Card is an impressive contender. The sheer convenience of having a full terabyte of storage in a single card cannot be overstated; we could shoot for an entire day without ever worrying about swapping media. The build quality immediately inspired confidence, arriving in a solid metal case that feels far more protective than the standard plastic ones. In our photography tests, firing off high-speed bursts on a Nikon D850 was a breeze, with the buffer clearing almost instantly. As one user aptly put it, the card was “just hungry for more.” However, it’s crucial to understand the difference between peak and sustained speeds. While peak performance is excellent for offloading files, we found, and other users shooting high-bitrate video confirmed, that the sustained write speed isn’t sufficient for the most demanding formats like 8K 60fps RAW on a Nikon Z8. For most other 4K and even 8K formats, it performs admirably. It’s a fantastic high-capacity card for photographers and many videographers, as long as you are aware of its specific performance envelope.
Key Benefits
- Enormous 1TB capacity avoids the need for card swapping
- Excellent peak speeds for fast file transfers
- Comes with a very durable and protective metal storage case
- Great value for the amount of storage provided
Drawbacks
- Sustained write speeds may not be sufficient for the highest-end video codecs
- Some users experienced initial recognition issues before formatting in-camera
#4 Sony 128GB TOUGH XQD G Series Memory Card – Ideal for: Rugged Reliability in XQD Cameras
- Tough range - 5x Tougher than standard XQD
- With a 440MB/s Read and 400MB/s Write speed supporting 4K video to the peak possible performance
Before CFexpress became the standard, XQD was the go-to for high-performance cameras like the Nikon Z series and D5/D850. The Sony 128GB TOUGH XQD G Series Memory Card is a testament to why this format was so highly regarded. Its ‘TOUGH’ designation is well-earned; the card feels incredibly robust, designed to withstand drops, water, and extreme temperatures. In our testing, it delivered consistent and reliable performance, with write speeds of 400MB/s handling high-resolution stills and 4K video without any issues. It slotted perfectly into our Nikon Z7 and performed exactly as expected, a sentiment echoed by many users who praise its absolute reliability over years of use. The one consistent critique we have, which was also a common point of frustration among users, is the usable storage capacity. After formatting, the 120GB card provides closer to 101-108GB of actual space. While this is a known aspect of storage media, the discrepancy feels more pronounced here. Despite this, for photographers and videographers using XQD-compatible cameras, this card remains a top choice for its sheer speed and tank-like durability in demanding environments.
Pros
- Extremely durable ‘TOUGH’ construction for harsh conditions
- Fast and reliable performance for 4K video and burst shooting
- Proven track record in professional XQD-compatible cameras
- 5x more durable than standard XQD cards
Cons
- Usable capacity is noticeably lower than the advertised 120GB
- XQD is a legacy format being replaced by CFexpress Type B
#5 Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 80GB Card – Perfect for: Uncompromising Speed and Durability
- HIGH SPEED - At least 2x faster than top-end UHS-II SD cards with speeds of 800MB/s read and 700MB/s write
- VIDEO PERFORMANCE GUARANTEE - VPG400 Compliance ensures stable video recording at 400MB/s allowing 4K 120p at maximum bit rate when paired with the new Sony A7S III
When absolute performance is non-negotiable, the Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 80GB Card is the tool for the job. This is Sony’s top-of-the-line offering, and it shows. We paired it with a Sony A7S III and were blown away by the speed. It unlocked every high-bitrate video mode the camera offered, recording flawlessly thanks to its VPG400 certification, which guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 400MB/s. The card’s integrated heat sink is a brilliant piece of engineering, helping to dissipate heat and allow for longer recording times without performance degradation. As with its XQD sibling, the ‘TOUGH’ build is exceptional, with IP57-rated dust and water resistance and a construction that’s 10 times more resistant to bending than the CFexpress standard. This card feels indestructible. The primary barrier to entry, as we and many users have noted, is the price. It’s an eye-wateringly expensive ecosystem, especially when you factor in the proprietary high-speed reader required to take full advantage of the 800MB/s read speeds. However, for professionals whose livelihood depends on capturing demanding footage without fail, the cost is a justifiable investment in performance and peace of mind.
Advantages
- Phenomenal read/write speeds for the most demanding video formats
- VPG400 certified for guaranteed professional performance
- Exceptional ‘TOUGH’ build with water and dust resistance
- Integrated heat sink provides excellent thermal management
Limitations
- Extremely high price point for both the card and the required reader
- 80GB capacity can fill up quickly with high-bitrate video
#6 SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 – Suits: Professional Cinema Camera Workflows
- For professional, high-performance cameras and camcorders with CFast 2.0 technology
- High data transfer speeds up to 525MB/s
The CFast 2.0 format is the choice for many high-end cinema cameras, and the SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO CFast 2.0 is a leading card in this category. We tested this with a Canon C300 Mark II, and it performed exactly as a professional would demand. The VPG-130 certification is key here, guaranteeing a minimum sustained write speed of 130 MB/s. This was more than enough to handle cinema-quality 4K DCI (4096×2160) recording without a single dropped frame. In our workflow, the 525 MB/s read speed made a tangible difference, allowing us to transfer large video files to our edit bay significantly faster than with older media. The card is built to withstand the rigours of a professional set, with a wide operating temperature range that ensures reliability whether you’re shooting in the cold Scottish Highlands or during a summer heatwave. Users working with cameras like the Canon 1DX Mark II and Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro have confirmed its solid, reliable performance for high-framerate 4K video. While it’s a niche product for a specific set of professional cameras, it executes its function perfectly, offering the speed and reliability that high-stakes productions require.
Key Benefits
- VPG-130 certified for cinema-quality 4K video capture
- Extremely fast read speeds accelerate post-production workflows
- Designed for and trusted by professional cinematographers
- Built to operate reliably in extreme temperatures
Drawbacks
- Only compatible with cameras that use the CFast 2.0 format
- Premium price for a specialised professional tool
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- Card Format (Type A, B, CFast, etc.): This is the most important factor. Your camera will only accept a specific type of card. CFexpress Type B shares a form factor with XQD, while Type A is smaller. CFast and CompactFlash are entirely different. Always check your camera’s manual to confirm which card you need.
- Read and Write Speeds: Read speed affects how quickly you can transfer files to a computer. Write speed is crucial for performance *in* the camera. For high-resolution burst photography and high-bitrate video, a fast write speed is essential to prevent your camera’s buffer from filling up and stopping you from shooting.
- Sustained Write Speed (VPG): The Video Performance Guarantee (VPG) rating is critical for videographers. A VPG400 rating, for example, guarantees the card will never drop below a sustained write speed of 400MB/s. This prevents dropped frames and ensures a clean recording.
- Capacity: Choose a capacity based on your needs. A 64GB or 128GB card might be fine for a day of photography. However, shooting 8K RAW video can consume hundreds of gigabytes in a short time, making 512GB or 1TB cards more suitable.
- Durability: If you often shoot in challenging environments (outdoors, extreme temperatures, etc.), consider cards from ‘tough’ series, like those from Sony. These offer enhanced protection against water, dust, and physical damage.
Understanding Memory Card Formats
Navigating the world of high-end memory cards can be confusing. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- CompactFlash (CF): The old guard. A large, robust format used in many professional DSLRs for years. Still a reliable choice for compatible cameras.
- CFast 2.0: A successor to CF that looks similar but has different connectors and is much faster. Primarily used in professional cinema cameras from brands like Canon and Blackmagic Design.
- XQD: A format developed by Sony, primarily adopted by Nikon for its high-end DSLRs and early mirrorless cameras. Known for its durable casing and high speeds.
- CFexpress Type A: A small, compact format used mainly in newer Sony cameras. It’s slower than Type B but its small size allows for hybrid slots that can also accept standard SD cards.
- CFexpress Type B: The most common CFexpress format, used by Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and others. It uses the same physical size as XQD cards and offers the highest potential speeds, making it the new standard for flagship mirrorless cameras.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Sustained Speeds: Don’t be fooled by high peak read/write numbers. For video, the minimum sustained write speed (like the VPG rating) is the number that truly matters.
- Forgetting a Fast Reader: Buying a 1700MB/s card and using an old USB 2.0 card reader is a huge bottleneck. To take advantage of these speeds, you need a dedicated CFexpress card reader with a fast connection like USB-C (10Gbps or higher).
- Buying the Wrong Type: Double- and triple-check your camera’s specifications. A CFexpress Type B card will not fit in a Type A slot, and vice-versa.
- Not Formatting In-Camera: Always format a new memory card in the camera you intend to use it with. This sets up the correct file structure and can prevent potential data corruption issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CFexpress Type A and Type B cards?
The main differences are physical size and speed. Type A cards are smaller and have one PCIe data lane, leading to maximum theoretical speeds of around 1000MB/s. Type B cards are larger (the same size as XQD cards) and have two PCIe data lanes, allowing for much higher theoretical speeds, currently up to 2000MB/s.
Are CFexpress cards backwards compatible with XQD slots?
CFexpress Type B cards are physically identical to XQD cards. Many cameras that originally used XQD cards (like the Nikon Z6/Z7 and D850) can use CFexpress Type B cards after a firmware update from the manufacturer. However, an XQD card reader cannot read a CFexpress card. Always check for a firmware update for your specific camera model.
Which camera brands use CFexpress cards?
Most major camera manufacturers have adopted CFexpress. Canon (EOS R3, R5), Nikon (Z8, Z9), and Panasonic (Lumix S1/S1H) primarily use Type B. Sony is the main user of Type A in cameras like the A1, A7S III, and FX series.
How much faster is a CFexpress card compared to a V90 SD card?
Significantly faster. A top-tier V90 SD card has a maximum write speed of around 260-280MB/s and a guaranteed minimum sustained speed of 90MB/s. A mid-range CFexpress Type B card can have write speeds exceeding 1400MB/s and guaranteed sustained speeds of 400MB/s or more. This means CFexpress can handle much higher quality video and clears the camera’s photo buffer many times faster.
What does the VPG400 rating mean on a memory card?
VPG stands for Video Performance Guarantee. The number indicates the minimum guaranteed sustained write speed in megabytes per second. So, a VPG400 certified card guarantees that its write speed will not drop below 400MB/s during video recording, which is essential for capturing high-bitrate 4K and 8K video without dropped frames.
Is it worth upgrading to CFexpress for photography alone?
For most casual photographers, probably not. However, for professionals who shoot action, sports, or wildlife and rely on long, high-speed bursts of RAW images, it is absolutely worth it. The incredible write speed of a CFexpress card clears the camera’s internal buffer almost instantaneously, meaning you can keep shooting without being stopped by a full buffer.
How do I choose the right capacity CFexpress card for my needs?
Consider your file sizes. A 30-minute 4K 120fps video can easily exceed 200GB. A single 45-megapixel RAW photo is about 50-60MB. For a full day of hybrid photo/video shooting, 256GB or 512GB is a safe bet. If you are a dedicated videographer shooting in RAW formats, 1TB or more might be necessary to avoid changing cards mid-shoot.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
Choosing the right memory card is a crucial decision that impacts your entire workflow, from capturing the shot to final delivery. While the blistering speeds of CFexpress Type A and B are undeniably the future, the foundation of many professional kits is built on unwavering reliability. For this reason, our top recommendation is the SanDisk Extreme Pro 32GB Compact Flash Memory Card. It stands as a testament to a format that has served professionals faithfully for over a decade. Its performance is perfectly matched for a vast range of high-end DSLRs still in service, offering excellent speed for burst shooting and VPG-65 certified 4K video. Coupled with a lifetime warranty and a legacy of trust, it represents the smartest, most reliable choice for a huge number of working photographers and videographers today.
Last update on 2025-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API