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A full-size SD card is the standard physical form of an SD memory card—not a description of its storage capacity. It measures 32 × 24 × 2.1 mm (length × width × thickness), according to the SD Association. It is larger than a microSD card, and whether it works in a particular device depends on that device’s slot and supported card standards.
What does “full-size SD card” mean?
“Full-size SD card” refers to the standard SD card’s physical shape. The SD Association identifies three SD form factors: standard SD, miniSD, and microSD. MiniSD has largely been replaced in common use by microSD, but the distinction matters: a microSD card remains a microSD card even when placed in a passive SD adapter. The adapter changes the outside shape to fit a standard SD slot; it does not change the card’s underlying form factor.
The Association describes SD standards as serving many device segments, but that does not mean every card fits or works in every device. SD Association overview of SD standards
What size is a full-size SD card?
The SD Association lists standard SD dimensions as 32 × 24 × 2.1 mm, in length × width × thickness order. These measurements describe the card’s physical dimensions, not its capacity or performance. SD Association capacity and form-factor overview
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- Fast for better pictures and Full HD video. Full HD (1920x1080) video support may vary based upon host device, file attributes, and other factors
- Great choice for compact to mid-range point-and-shoot cameras
- From 32GB to 256GB(1) to store tons of pictures and even more Full HD video(2). (1)1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes Actual user storage less
- Exceptional video recording performance with UHS Speed Class 1 (U1)(5) and Class 10 rating for Full HD video (1080p)(2). (5)UHS Speed Class 1 (U1) designates a performance option to support real time video recording with UHS enabled host devices
- Quick transfer speeds up to 100MB/s. Up to 100MB/s[64GB-256GB; 90MB/s for 32GB] read speed; write speed lower Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, usage conditions, and other factors 1MB=1,000,000 bytes
How is card size different from capacity?
Physical form factor and capacity family are separate classifications. A standard-size card may belong to a different capacity family depending on how much data it stores. The SD Association gives these standard ranges:
| Capacity family | Stated capacity range |
|---|---|
| SD | Up to 2 GB |
| SDHC | More than 2 GB through 32 GB |
| SDXC | More than 32 GB through 2 TB |
| SDUC | More than 2 TB through 128 TB |
These are the Association’s standard ranges; they do not mean every capacity within each range is available in every market. “Full-size” does not mean “large capacity.” SD Association capacity overview
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What else distinguishes standard SD cards?
Beyond physical dimensions, form factors differ in details such as pin count and whether the card has a write-protect switch. Standard SD cards have a write-protect switch. High Speed and UHS-I full-size cards use nine pins; newer interfaces have additional contact layouts. Those details matter when a device specifies a required interface, but the card’s shape alone does not tell you its speed or compatibility. SD Association standard overview
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Before buying, check the manual or manufacturer specifications for the exact camera, laptop, or other host device. Confirm all three of these points:
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- Full-size SD card, 32GB SDHC flash memory card 2 pack. Not compatible with mobile phones due to physical dimensions
- SDHC card Read speed: 60MB/s, Write speed: 10MB/s, allowing quick picture shooting and file transfer
- Class 10 speed rating ensures even and sustained video recording performance for full HD videos
- SDHC supporting devices ONLY. Not backwards compatible, legacy devices may not be supported. Consult your device specifications for compatibility
- 3-Year Limited Warranty. Rugged construction to resist damage. SDHC memory cards can ONLY be used with SDHC / SDXC host devices, will NOT work with SD host devices. Look for the SDHC / SDXC logo on host devices to ensure compatibility
- Slot shape: Does the device accept a standard SD card, or does it have a microSD slot?
- Capacity family: Does it support the card’s SD, SDHC, SDXC, or SDUC standard and capacity?
- Speed and interface: Does the card meet the bus or speed requirements the device documents?
A card that physically fits is not necessarily supported at its full capacity or interface. If a computer has no compatible built-in slot, a suitable USB SD card reader may provide a way to read a standard SD card; it is not required when the device already has a compatible slot.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How long does a full-size SD card last?
The SD Association says service life depends on how the card is manufactured and that current technology, under normal usage, typically gives a lifespan of 10 years or more. That is a qualified general statement, not a warranty or a guarantee that a card is suitable for long-term archiving. SD Association FAQ
Quick Recap
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- CAPTURE LARGER THAN LIFE. Unlock 4K UHD(3) brilliance and pristine high res stills with video speed class ratings of U3 and V30(4).
- SPEED BARRIERS SHATTERED. Save precious moments with blazing read speeds up to 250MB/s(2) and write speeds up to 170MB/s(2) [256GB-1TB capacities(1)].
- MAXIMIZE WITH MASSIVE CAPACITY. Capture for longer and store more with up to 2TB(1) of storage that can hold up to 2,808 minutes of 4K UHD video recorded at 30 fps (641MB/minute)(9).
- DEFY THE ELEMENTS. Unrelentingly resilient, Sandisk SD memory cards are engineered to perform in extreme conditions, despite rough handling and constant use.(6)
- CONTENT MANAGEMENT, SIMPLIFIED. Back up, organize, and transfer everything easily with the Sandisk Memory Zone desktop app,(7) whether you use an SD card slot or a card reader.
Rank #4
- Full-size SD card, 32GB SDHC flash memory card 10 pack. Not compatible with mobile phones due to physical dimensions
- SDHC card Read speed: 60MB/s, Write speed: 10MB/s, allowing quick picture shooting and file transfer
- Class 10 speed rating ensures even and sustained video recording performance for full HD videos. Great compatibility with a trail camera, hunting camera, as well as other photo and video camera devices
- SDHC supporting devices ONLY. Not backwards compatible, legacy devices may not be supported. Consult your device specifications for compatibility
- 3-Year Limited Warranty. Rugged construction to resist damage. SDHC memory cards can ONLY be used with SDHC / SDXC host devices, will NOT work with SD host devices. Look for the SDHC / SDXC logo on host devices to ensure compatibility
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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