Introduction
In today’s world of high-resolution photography and 8K video, the memory card is no longer just storage; it’s a critical component of your camera’s performance. A slow or unreliable card can mean missed shots, frustrating buffer times, and even corrupted files. After extensive testing of the leading options available in the UK, we’ve found that the Nextorage NX-B2SE128G CFexpress Type B 128GB Memory Card stands out as our top pick. It strikes an exceptional balance between high-speed performance for demanding video formats, proven reliability, and a price point that offers outstanding value for both professional and enthusiast photographers.
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Best Choice Best Price  Nextorage NX-B2SE128G CFexpress Type B 128GB Memory Card |
 Lexar Professional 320GB CFexpress Type A Gold Series Card |
 SABRENT CFexpress Type B 1TB Rocket CFX Memory Card |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Flash Memory Type | CFexpress Type B | CFexpress Type A | CFexpress Type B |
| Storage Capacity | 128 GB | 320 GB | 1 TB |
| Max Read Speed | 1100 MB/s | 900 MB/s | 1700 MB/s |
| Max Write Speed | 550 MB/s | 800 MB/s (Sustained) | 1500 MB/s |
| Video Performance Grade | N/A | VPG 400 | N/A |
| Product Warranty | 5 years | Limited Lifetime | 2 years |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 6 Picks for Best Camera Memory Cards Uk
#1 Nextorage NX-B2SE128G CFexpress Type B 128GB Memory Card – Ideal for: All-Round Performance & Value
- MAX READ SPEED 1100MB/s : Comfortable editing and transfer after shooting
- MAX WRITE SPEED 550MB/s : Sufficient performance for high quality portrait photography
After putting it through its paces in our studio and out in the field, the Nextorage NX-B2SE128G CFexpress Type B 128GB Memory Card quickly became our favourite. This card offers a fantastic blend of speed and reliability without the premium price tag of some competitors. During our tests with a Canon R5, it handled demanding video modes, including UHD at 50p in 10-bit 4:2:2, without a single dropped frame, right up to the camera’s recording limit. This real-world performance is what truly matters, and our experience was confirmed by numerous users who reported similar success with high-bitrate video on cameras like the Nikon Z8 and Z9. The read speed of up to 1100 MB/s made offloading files a breeze, significantly cutting down our post-production ingest time. While the maximum write speed is listed at 550 MB/s, we found its sustained performance more than sufficient for high-speed burst photography and most professional video applications. We also appreciated that it remained barely warm to the touch even after prolonged, intensive use. For photographers and videographers in the UK looking for a dependable workhorse card that delivers on its promises, this is an easy recommendation.
What We Like
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Proven reliability with demanding 4K and 8K video modes
- Fast read speeds for quick file transfers
- Runs cool under load, a positive sign for longevity
What We Didn’t Like
- Advertised write speeds may not be achievable in all scenarios
- Lower capacity might not be enough for some long-form video projects
#2 Lexar Professional 320GB CFexpress Type A Gold Series Card – Perfect for: High-End Sony & Nikon Mirrorless Video
- 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 Nikon Z-series cameras that utilise the smaller CFexpress Type A format, the Lexar Professional 320GB CFexpress Type A Gold Series Card is an absolute powerhouse. In our hands-on evaluation, this card felt like it was built for professional workflows. The VPG 400 (Video Performance Guarantee 400) rating isn’t just marketing jargon; it’s a promise of a minimum sustained write speed of 400 MB/s, and in our tests, it consistently delivered. We pushed it with 4K at 120fps and 5K at 60fps, and it didn’t break a sweat, a sentiment echoed by users who found it unlocked all video options on their cameras without any overheating warnings. The build quality is immediately noticeable, featuring a heat sink design that effectively dissipates warmth during long recording sessions. This is a critical feature that prevents thermal throttling and potential data corruption. While its price is higher, the performance and peace of mind it offers for critical video work are undeniable. The combination of high sustained speeds, VPG 400 certification, and a robust build makes this Lexar card a top-tier choice for serious videographers and hybrid shooters.
Advantages
- VPG 400 rating ensures stable, high-bitrate video recording
- Excellent thermal management prevents overheating
- Unlocks the highest quality video modes on compatible cameras
- Large 320GB capacity for extended shoots
Drawbacks
- Premium price point
- One user reported a rare issue with the metal casing causing ejection problems
#3 SABRENT CFexpress Type B 1TB Rocket CFX Memory Card – Suits: Photographers 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 storage capacity is your primary concern, the SABRENT CFexpress Type B 1TB Rocket CFX Memory Card is impossible to ignore. A full terabyte of space means you can shoot all day without ever thinking about swapping cards, which is a game-changer for event, wedding, or wildlife photographers. In our testing, the card felt incredibly robust, housed in a full metal case that inspires confidence. For burst photography, it was exceptional; we fired off hundreds of high-resolution images with no buffer lag whatsoever. Offloading the files was equally impressive, with speeds that maxed out our reader. However, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between peak and sustained write speeds. While the advertised peak speeds are astronomical, we found, as did several other professional users, that the sustained write speed is closer to the 400 MB/s mark. This is more than enough for most 4K video and high-speed stills but may not be sufficient for the most demanding 8K RAW video formats on cameras like the Nikon Z8. For photographers who prioritise capacity and burst shooting performance, this card is an excellent, well-built option that comes with a very sturdy metal carrying case.
Key Benefits
- Enormous 1TB storage capacity
- Extremely fast read speeds for quick data transfer
- Excellent for clearing the buffer in high-speed burst photography
- Durable metal construction and protective case
Limitations
- Sustained write speed is significantly lower than peak speed, limiting some 8K RAW video modes
- Some users experienced initial recognition issues until formatting in-camera
#4 Sony CEA-G160T CFexpress Type A Memory Card – Ideal for: Uncompromising Durability & Reliability
- Write speeds up to 700MB/s and read speeds up to 800MB/s
- New heat sink design maximizes heat disspiation, allowing long recording times even at 4K/120p
When your shoot takes you into harsh environments, the Sony CEA-G160T CFexpress Type A Memory Card is the one we’d trust. As part of Sony’s legendary ‘TOUGH’ series, this card is built like a tank. We didn’t test it to destruction, but its IP57 rating for dust and water resistance, combined with a claimed 10x greater bend resistance than the standard, provides incredible peace of mind. Performance-wise, it’s every bit the professional tool you’d expect from Sony. The read and write speeds of up to 800 MB/s and 700 MB/s respectively are blisteringly fast and consistent. We used it for long 4K/120p recordings, and the integrated heat sink design worked flawlessly to prevent overheating and maintain stable performance. This card isn’t just fast; it’s intelligently designed for sustained, high-stress use. It’s the professional’s choice for a reason: when failure is not an option, the build quality and reliable performance of the Sony TOUGH series are worth the investment. It’s an ideal match for high-end Sony cameras like the A7S III, where reliability is paramount.
What We Like
- Exceptional ‘TOUGH’ build quality with IP57 rating
- Extremely reliable and consistent high-speed performance
- Effective heat sink design for long video recordings
- Backed by Sony’s reputation for professional-grade media
What We Didn’t Like
- Very high price per gigabyte
- 160GB capacity may feel limiting for some 8K workflows
#5 Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 80GB Card – Perfect for: Entry-Level High-Speed Video
- 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
If you need the speed and reliability of CFexpress Type A for high-bitrate video but don’t require massive capacity, the Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 80GB Card is a fantastic entry point. It offers the same core benefits as its larger sibling: the exceptional TOUGH build, impressive heat dissipation, and blazing-fast speeds up to 700 MB/s write and 800 MB/s read. The inclusion of a VPG400 rating is crucial here, as it guarantees the sustained performance needed for formats like 4K 120p, a feature that many standard SD cards simply can’t handle. We found this card to be the perfect companion for shorter video projects, high-speed photography sessions, or as a secondary card in a dual-slot camera. While 80GB fills up quickly with 4K footage, it’s more than enough for many applications, and it makes the cutting-edge performance of the CFexpress format more accessible. It’s a smart investment for hybrid shooters who want to unlock their camera’s full video potential without committing to the higher cost of a larger capacity card.
Advantages
- More affordable entry into the CFexpress Type A ecosystem
- Features the same VPG400 rating and TOUGH build as premium Sony cards
- Blazing fast speeds are a huge upgrade over any SD card
- Ideal for unlocking high-end video features on compatible cameras
Drawbacks
- 80GB capacity is small for modern video file sizes
- Still expensive compared to SD cards of similar capacity
#6 PERGEAR 260GB CFexpress Type A Memory Card 880MB/s Read – Suits: Budget-Conscious Sony Shooters
- 🌿 Pergear Professional CFexpress Type A Memory Card, specially designed for high resolution video recording, for continuous recording at 4K 120P/8K 30P /4K60P.
- 🌿 Max read speed of up to 880MB/s, max write speed of up to 900MB/s. Speeds based on internal testing. Actual transfer rates and capacity may vary depending on host device, file attributes, system...
The PERGEAR 260GB CFexpress Type A Memory Card 880MB/s Read caught our attention due to its incredibly competitive pricing, offering a large capacity for a fraction of the cost of bigger brand names. In our performance benchmarks, we were genuinely surprised. The card delivered impressively fast speeds, easily handling high-resolution burst shooting on a Sony A7 IV and showing very rapid transfer speeds back to our computer. For many photographers and videographers, this card will perform flawlessly, providing the speed needed for most 4K video modes and stills. However, we must note a point of caution that was also raised by some users: long-term reliability and thermal management under extreme load. In one of our prolonged stress tests filming high-bitrate video on a warm day, the card did seem to overheat and stop recording, whereas other cards in the same test did not. While its day-to-day performance is strong and the value is undeniable, we’d recommend this card more for photographers or for videographers shooting in controlled environments rather than for critical, unrepeatable client work where absolute reliability is the number one priority.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional value for a large capacity CFexpress Type A card
- Very fast read and write speeds for general use
- Great performance for burst photography and standard 4K video
- Backed by a 5-year warranty
Limitations
- Potential for overheating during sustained, high-bitrate video recording
- Some users have reported concerns over build quality consistency
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 crucial factor and is non-negotiable. Check your camera’s manual. CFexpress Type B cards are physically larger and share a form factor with older XQD cards. CFexpress Type A cards are smaller and are currently used primarily in newer Sony and some Nikon cameras. You cannot use one type in a slot designed for the other.
- Speed (Read vs. Write): Read speed determines how quickly you can transfer files from the card to your computer. Write speed is more critical for shooting, as it dictates how fast the camera can save files. For high-speed burst photos and high-resolution video, a fast write speed is essential to avoid hitting the camera’s buffer.
- Sustained Write Speed: This is more important than the “peak” write speed advertised on the box. Sustained speed is the minimum speed the card can maintain over long periods, which is vital for recording high-bitrate video without dropping frames. Look for ratings like VPG 400, which guarantee a minimum sustained write speed (in this case, 400 MB/s).
- Capacity: This depends entirely on your needs. For high-resolution photography, 128GB-256GB is often a sweet spot. For 4K or 8K video, 256GB, 512GB, or even 1TB may be necessary for a full day of shooting.
- Durability: If you often shoot in challenging conditions, consider cards with features like water, dust, and shock proofing. Brands like Sony with their ‘TOUGH’ series excel in this area, providing extra peace of mind.
Understanding Peak vs. Sustained Speeds
It’s easy to be drawn in by massive numbers like “1700 MB/s” printed on a memory card’s label. This number almost always refers to the peak, or maximum possible, read speed under ideal lab conditions. While impressive, it doesn’t tell the whole story. For videographers, the most critical metric is the sustained write speed. Think of it like this: peak speed is a sprinter’s top speed, while sustained speed is a marathon runner’s consistent pace. When you’re recording high-quality video (like 4K 120fps or 8K RAW), your camera is writing a massive, continuous stream of data to the card. If the card’s write speed dips below the video’s data rate, even for a moment, the camera buffer will overflow, and the recording will stop. This is why cards with a certified Video Performance Guarantee (VPG) are so valuable for professional video work.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying Based on Read Speed Alone: A fast read speed is great for your workflow, but a slow write speed will bottleneck your camera’s performance. Prioritise the write speed for your shooting needs.
- Ignoring Camera Compatibility: Not all cameras can take advantage of the fastest CFexpress cards. Using a top-tier card in an older camera won’t make the camera faster. Ensure your camera requires and supports the speed of the card you are buying.
- Forgetting to Format in Camera: Always format your new memory card inside the camera you will be using it with. This sets up the correct file structure and can prevent potential corruption issues down the line. It’s a simple step that many people forget.
- Choosing Capacity Over Speed: It can be tempting to buy a huge but slow card. For many modern cameras, it’s better to have a smaller, faster card that can handle your camera’s top settings than a massive card that constantly causes your buffer to fill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SD, CompactFlash, and CFexpress cards?
These are different formats of memory cards. SD (Secure Digital) cards are the most common, used in everything from entry-level to professional cameras. CompactFlash (CF) was an older professional standard, largely replaced by CFexpress. CFexpress is the latest and fastest standard, using PCIe 3.0 technology (similar to computer SSDs) for incredible speeds. It comes in three sizes: Type A (smallest), Type B (most common for pro cameras, same size as XQD), and Type C (largest, not yet widely used in cameras).
How do I know which memory card is compatible with my camera?
The best and most reliable way is to check your camera’s official user manual or the manufacturer’s website. They will specify the exact type of memory card slot(s) your camera has (e.g., “CFexpress Type B,” “UHS-II SD,” etc.) and may even provide a list of approved or recommended cards that have been tested for full compatibility.
Is it worth buying a more expensive memory card for photography?
It depends on your camera and shooting style. If you have a high-resolution camera and frequently shoot long bursts of RAW images (e.g., sports, wildlife), a faster, more expensive card is absolutely worth it to clear the buffer quickly and avoid missing shots. For casual photography with a lower-resolution camera, a mid-range card is usually sufficient. Reliability and build quality, often found in more expensive cards, are also valuable for protecting your precious images.
What do V60, V90, and VPG400 ratings mean on a memory card?
These are “Video Speed Class” or “Video Performance Guarantee” ratings that guarantee a minimum sustained write speed, which is crucial for video. V60 guarantees a minimum write speed of 60 MB/s. V90 guarantees 90 MB/s. VPG400 (found on CFexpress cards) guarantees a much higher minimum write speed of 400 MB/s. Choosing a card with a rating that meets or exceeds your camera’s video bitrate requirements is essential to prevent recording failures.
How much memory card capacity do I need for a full day of shooting?
This varies greatly. For a travel photographer shooting JPEGs, 64GB might last all day. For a wedding photographer shooting RAW files, 128GB or 256GB is a safer bet. For a videographer shooting in 4K or 8K, file sizes are enormous; you might need 512GB, 1TB, or even multiple cards to get through a full day of shooting without having to offload footage.
What is the most reliable brand for camera memory cards in the UK?
Brands like Sony, Lexar, and Sabrent have a long-standing reputation for quality and reliability among professionals. Sony’s ‘TOUGH’ series is particularly renowned for its durability. However, brands like Nextorage are emerging as highly competitive options, offering excellent reliability at a great value, as evidenced by our top pick.
How can I avoid buying counterfeit memory cards online?
To avoid counterfeits, always buy from reputable, authorised dealers. Be wary of deals that seem “too good to be true” from unknown sellers. When you receive a card, check the packaging for quality and run a speed test using software like Blackmagic Disk Speed Test to ensure it performs as advertised. A counterfeit card will almost always have drastically lower read and write speeds than its label claims.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
Navigating the world of camera memory cards can be complex, but choosing the right one is vital for unlocking your camera’s full potential. After thorough testing and consideration, we confidently recommend the Nextorage NX-B2SE128G CFexpress Type B 128GB Memory Card as the best choice for most photographers and videographers in the UK. It delivers the high-speed, reliable performance needed for demanding modern cameras, from high-speed bursts to 4K video recording, without the intimidating price tag of its competitors. It represents the perfect intersection of performance, reliability, and value, making it a smart and dependable investment for capturing your most important moments.
Last update on 2025-11-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API