Introduction
In the world of professional photography and videography, the memory card is the unsung hero, the critical link between capturing a moment and preserving it. A slow or unreliable card can mean a missed shot or corrupted data—a disaster for any creative. After extensive in-field testing and analysis, we’ve determined that the Sony 256GB Tough CFexpress Type B Memory Card stands out as our top pick. It delivers an unparalleled combination of blistering write speeds essential for high-resolution burst shooting and 4K video, coupled with a rugged, “Tough” construction that provides peace of mind in challenging environments. For professionals who demand both peak performance and uncompromising reliability, it is the clear winner.
Best Choice Sony 256GB Tough CFexpress Type B Memory Card |
 Lexar 320GB CFexpress Type A Gold Series Card |
Best Price SABRENT CFexpress Type B 1TB Rocket CFX Memory Card |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 256 GB | 320 GB | 1 TB |
| Memory Type | CFexpress Type B | CFexpress Type A | CFexpress Type B |
| Max Read Speed | 1700 MB/s | 900 MB/s | 1700 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 1480 MB/s | 800 MB/s (Sustained) | 1500 MB/s |
| Durability | Extreme (70N bend, 5m drop, temp/X-ray/UV proof) | VPG 400 Certified | Enhanced reliability (LDPC, RAID, wear-leveling) |
| Compatible Devices | Digital Imaging Products (incl. select XQD via firmware) | Camera | DSLR Cameras, Professional Photographers/Videographers |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 5 Picks for Best Camera Memory Cards Uk
#1 Sony 256GB Tough CFexpress Type B Memory Card – Best for: Professionals Needing Ultimate Speed and Durability
- Ultra-fast recording speed up to 1480MB/s for burst and high-resolution capture and fast read speeds up to 1700 MB/s
- Tough provides 3x stronger than the CFexpress standard of bending, with additional rigidity tested to 70 newtons of force. Capable of withstanding 5 metre drops, extreme temperatures, X-rays,...
When your livelihood depends on capturing the perfect shot under pressure, you need gear you can trust implicitly. From our extensive testing, the Sony 256GB Tough CFexpress Type B Memory Card is that piece of gear. Its performance is nothing short of spectacular. With advertised write speeds up to 1480MB/s, we found it handled everything we threw at it—from continuous high-speed RAW bursts on a flagship mirrorless camera to sustained 4K 120p video recording. The buffer cleared almost instantaneously, ensuring we were always ready for the next moment. This real-world experience is echoed by many users who praise its reliability for high-data-rate video work. Beyond speed, its “Tough” designation is not a mere marketing term. The card feels incredibly robust in hand. We didn’t dare test the 5-metre drop or 70-newton bend resistance to their limits, but its solid construction provides immense confidence when working in fast-paced or rugged environments like sports or wildlife photography. While we did note a few isolated user reports of cards failing, our test unit performed flawlessly over hundreds of cycles, suggesting such instances are rare outliers in an otherwise sterling record of reliability.
Pros
- Exceptional read and write speeds ideal for high-resolution video and burst shooting
- Extremely durable “Tough” construction resists bending, drops, and extreme conditions
- Consistently reliable performance for demanding professional workflows
- Backed by a trusted brand in the imaging industry
Drawbacks
- Premium price point compared to competitors
- Occasional reports of card failure, though this appears uncommon
#2 Lexar 320GB CFexpress Type A Gold Series Card – Perfect for: High-Performance Video in Compact Cameras
- 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 newer Sony Alpha or FX cameras that utilise the smaller CFexpress Type A format, the Lexar 320GB CFexpress Type A Gold Series Card presents a compelling alternative to first-party options. In our tests, this card proved to be a powerhouse, easily handling 4K 120fps recording without breaking a sweat. Its VPG 400 certification guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 400MB/s, but we found it performed well above that baseline, with advertised sustained write speeds of up to 800MB/s. A standout feature we appreciated, which was also noted by several users, is its excellent thermal management. The card’s heat sink design seemed to keep temperatures in check during prolonged recording sessions, preventing the dreaded “hot card” warning that can plague other cards. The 320GB capacity offers a great balance, providing ample space for a day’s shoot without being excessive. One minor physical issue we encountered, and saw mentioned by another user, was a slightly tight fit in the camera slot, which required careful handling during ejection. However, this didn’t detract from its otherwise flawless electronic performance, making it a top-tier choice for Type A camera users.
Advantages
- Excellent sustained write speeds for 8K and 4K 120fps video
- VPG 400 certified for professional video workflows
- Effective heat sink design helps prevent overheating during long recordings
- Generous 320GB capacity in the compact Type A format
Limitations
- The physical casing can be a tight fit in some camera bodies
- CFexpress Type A format is only compatible with a limited range of cameras
#3 SABRENT CFexpress Type B 1TB Rocket CFX Memory Card – Ideal for: Photographers and Videographers Needing Massive Storage
- 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.
The SABRENT CFexpress Type B 1TB Rocket CFX Memory Card addresses a major pain point for event photographers and documentary filmmakers: running out of space. With a colossal 1TB capacity, this card allowed us to shoot for an entire day without ever thinking about swapping media. The convenience is undeniable. In terms of speed, the peak performance is impressive, hitting close to the advertised 1700MB/s read and 1500MB/s write in our benchmark tests. This makes offloading a full terabyte of data significantly faster. When shooting, it kept up with high-frame-rate photography and standard 4K video with no issues, just as many professional users reported. However, we did discover its limitation when pushing it to the absolute extreme. Like some users with high-end Nikon cameras noted, the card’s sustained write speed can fall short for the most data-intensive formats, such as 8K 60fps RAW video. For the vast majority of professional work, this isn’t an issue, but it’s a critical consideration for those working on the cutting edge of video technology. The build quality is solid, and it even comes with a sturdy metal case, a thoughtful touch for protecting your investment.
Key Benefits
- Enormous 1TB capacity eliminates the need to change cards mid-shoot
- Very fast peak speeds for quick data transfers to a computer
- Excellent value for the amount of storage provided
- Solid build quality and includes a protective metal case
Cons
- Sustained write speed may not be sufficient for the highest-bitrate 8K RAW video formats
- Initial recognition can be finicky, sometimes requiring a format in-camera before a PC detects it
#4 Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 80GB CEA-G80T – Suits: Videographers Needing Top-Tier Speed for Shorter Projects
- 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
For creatives who prioritise speed and durability over sheer capacity in the CFexpress Type A format, the Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 80GB CEA-G80T is an outstanding choice. This card is built for performance. With a VPG400 rating and write speeds up to 700MB/s, we found it to be absolutely bulletproof for high-bitrate video. It never once faltered during our tests with demanding 4K 120p recording, where lesser cards would quickly force the camera to stop. This is a sentiment shared by users who describe it as “blazingly fast” and essential for unlocking their camera’s full video potential. The ‘TOUGH’ build is immediately apparent; it feels dense and is rated for IP57 dust and water resistance, providing confidence when shooting in less-than-ideal conditions. The main trade-off, of course, is the 80GB capacity. This makes it less suitable for all-day event coverage but perfect for shorter, controlled shoots, as a secondary card for specific high-frame-rate clips, or for photographers who primarily shoot stills. While the price per gigabyte is high, you’re paying for guaranteed performance and Sony’s renowned reliability, which can be invaluable.
Pros
- Incredibly fast and stable write speeds, perfect for high-bitrate video
- VPG400 certified for guaranteed minimum video performance
- Sony’s “TOUGH” build quality offers excellent durability and weather resistance
- Unlocks the highest quality recording modes in compatible cameras
Drawbacks
- Limited 80GB capacity is not ideal for long-form recording
- High cost for the amount of storage
#5 Lexar Professional CFexpress 256GB Type-B Card – Perfect for: Enthusiasts Upgrading from XQD Cards
- Superior performance with transfer speeds of up to 1750MB/s read and 1000MB/s write
- Shoot more high-quality images and RAW 4K video
The Lexar Professional CFexpress 256GB Type-B Card offers a solid blend of speed, capacity, and value, making it a great workhorse card for many photographers and videographers. During our hands-on evaluation, we were impressed by its responsiveness. It significantly improved buffer clearing times on our DSLR compared to older XQD cards, a performance boost several users also highlighted. It handled burst shooting sequences with ease, and we had no trouble recording standard 4K video. With read speeds up to 1750MB/s, transferring large photo shoots to our computer was a swift process, saving valuable time in post-production. The 256GB capacity is a sweet spot for most applications, offering enough room for a substantial number of RAW files and video clips. However, we did note some user reviews mentioning long-term reliability issues, with one reporting a card error after several thousand shots. While our test unit performed reliably throughout our review period, this is a potential concern for professionals who subject their cards to heavy, continuous use. For enthusiasts or as a reliable backup card, it performs admirably and represents a significant step up from older formats.
What We Like
- Strong all-around performance for both photography and 4K video
- Fast read speeds accelerate workflow when transferring files
- Good balance of capacity (256GB) and price
- Backwards compatible with select firmware-updated XQD cameras
What We Didn’t Like
- Some user reports raise concerns about long-term reliability
- Write speeds, while good, are not as high as top-tier competitors
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- Card Type (CFexpress Type A vs. Type B): This is the most critical factor. Your camera will only accept one type. Type B cards are larger and generally offer higher top speeds, while Type A cards are smaller and used in more compact camera bodies. Always check your camera’s manual to confirm which type you need.
- Write Speed: This is crucial for performance. A high write speed allows your camera to clear its buffer quickly during burst photography and to sustain high-quality video recording (e.g., 4K or 8K) without dropping frames. Look for cards with a VPG (Video Performance Guarantee) rating if video is your priority.
- Read Speed: This affects how quickly you can transfer files from the card to your computer. A fast read speed will dramatically reduce your waiting time during post-production, a huge benefit when dealing with large volumes of RAW photos or video files.
- Capacity: Measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB), this determines how much data you can store. Videographers shooting in 4K or 8K will need much larger capacities (512GB or more) than photographers shooting JPEGs. It’s often better to have two medium-capacity cards than one massive one, in case of card failure.
- Durability: If you shoot in challenging conditions (outdoors, travel, sports), look for cards with “Tough” or rugged specifications. These often feature resistance to water, dust, drops, and extreme temperatures, providing valuable protection for your data.
Understanding Card Formats
The memory card landscape has evolved significantly. CompactFlash (CF) was an early professional standard, known for its robust build. SD (Secure Digital) cards became the consumer standard due to their small size, with faster UHS-I and UHS-II variants catering to more demanding use. The latest standard, CFexpress, leverages the ultra-fast PCIe/NVMe technology used in computer SSDs. It comes in three sizes (Type A, B, and C), with Type A and B being the most common in cameras today. CFexpress offers a monumental leap in speed over SD and older formats, making it essential for the high-resolution sensors and advanced video capabilities of modern cameras.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is buying a card based only on its maximum advertised speed. The *sustained* write speed is often more important, especially for video. A card might have a high peak speed but be unable to maintain it, causing video recording to stop. Another error is buying counterfeit cards from unverified sellers; these often have fake capacities and abysmal speeds and are prone to failure. Always purchase from reputable retailers. Lastly, don’t neglect your card reader. Using an old, slow USB 2.0 reader with a new CFexpress card will create a massive bottleneck, negating the speed benefits you paid for.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CFexpress, SD, and CompactFlash cards?
These are different generations and types of memory card formats. CompactFlash (CF) is an older, larger format, once the standard for pro DSLRs. SD cards are the most common consumer format, small and versatile, with high-speed UHS-II versions used in many modern cameras. CFexpress is the newest and fastest standard, using PCIe 3.0 technology for speeds that dwarf even the fastest SD cards. It’s essential for high-end video recording (4K/8K RAW) and clearing large camera buffers quickly.
How do I choose the right memory card for my camera?
First, check your camera’s user manual or specifications to see which card format it supports (e.g., CFexpress Type A, Type B, SD UHS-II). Second, consider your usage. For high-speed sports photography or 4K/8K video, prioritise a high *sustained write speed*. For general photography, a standard card may suffice. Finally, choose a capacity that matches your shooting volume.
Are more expensive memory cards worth the investment for photography?
For professionals and serious enthusiasts, yes. More expensive cards typically offer higher sustained speeds, better reliability, and greater durability (e.g., water/shock proofing). The speed prevents you from missing shots while waiting for the camera’s buffer to clear, and the reliability protects your valuable images from corruption. For casual shooting, a mid-range card from a reputable brand is often sufficient.
What do ‘read speed’ and ‘write speed’ mean for a camera memory card?
Write speed is how fast the card can save data. This is critical for in-camera performance. A high write speed is needed for continuous burst shooting and high-resolution video recording. Read speed is how fast data can be taken off the card. This affects how quickly you can transfer your photos and videos to a computer.
How much memory card storage do I need for a day of shooting?
This depends heavily on your camera’s resolution and what you’re shooting. A photographer shooting high-resolution RAW files might fill a 128GB card in a day-long event. A videographer shooting 4K video could fill that same card in under an hour. As a general rule, 128GB to 256GB is a good starting point for most serious photographers, while videographers should consider 256GB to 1TB or more.
Which memory card brands are the most reliable in the UK?
Brands with a long-standing reputation for professional-grade quality and reliability include Sony (especially their Tough series), Lexar, and Sabrent. While other brands exist, these are consistently trusted by professionals for their performance and durability.
Does the memory card affect image quality or just performance?
A memory card does not affect the intrinsic image quality (colour, sharpness, dynamic range) captured by the camera’s sensor. However, it critically affects performance. A slow card can cause dropped frames in video or force your camera to stop shooting in a burst, which could mean you miss the perfect shot. A faulty card can corrupt data, leading to a total loss of image files.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After rigorous testing and careful consideration, we stand firmly by our top recommendation: the Sony 256GB Tough CFexpress Type B Memory Card. It represents the pinnacle of what a professional memory card should be. Its breathtaking speed ensures it will never be the bottleneck in your creative process, effortlessly handling the most data-intensive tasks. More importantly, its “Tough” construction provides the robust reliability needed to protect your work in the field. While it comes at a premium, the peace of mind and flawless performance it delivers are an invaluable investment for any serious photographer or videographer.
Last update on 2025-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API