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Buy this card only if your camera supports CFexpress Type B and its firmware supports the card generation and recording modes you plan to use. The original 512GB Lexar Professional DIAMOND Type B, announced March 14, 2023, is rated for up to 1900MB/s read, up to 1700MB/s write and 1600MB/s minimum write. Those are Lexar specifications, not independent test results for this card. Its VPG400 designation addresses a separate video-capture guarantee under compatible host and recording-media conditions.
What card is this, and what does it promise?
This review concerns the original 512GB Lexar Professional DIAMOND CFexpress Type B card announced in March 2023—not the newer DIAMOND CFexpress 4.0 Type B product. Lexar lists PCIe Gen 3×2 and NVMe protocols for the original card. Its announcement specifies up to 1900MB/s read, up to 1700MB/s write and a 1600MB/s minimum write speed. These are manufacturer ratings, not independently verified results for this exact card. Lexar’s launch announcement.
Lexar also identifies the card as VPG400. The Video Performance Guarantee designation is described as guaranteeing at least 400MB/s video capture when used with compatible host devices and recording media. It is not a promise that every camera will record at 400MB/s, nor should it be conflated with Lexar’s separately stated 1600MB/s minimum-write rating. The camera, firmware, recording format and media conditions determine what a workflow can sustain.
There is no independent benchmark in the cited material for this DIAMOND 512GB card. Digital Camera World’s published lab figures of 1691MB/s read and 1388MB/s write are for a different Lexar Gold card, so they cannot be used to predict this model’s measured performance. Digital Camera World’s CFexpress card guide.
#1 Best Overall
- Performance of up to 3600MB/s max read, 3000MB/s max write, and 2600MB/s sustained write speeds
- Boost your workflow efficiency – Pair it with the Lexar Professional Workflow CFexpress 4.0 Type B Card Reader to accelerate your productivity (reader sold separately)
- PCIe 4.0 and NVMe protocols enable performance that allows users to capture seamless 8K RAW video without frame drops
- Rugged design: temperature-proof, vibration-resistant, 12,000x wear-out resistant, dust-resistant (IP5X), 5m drop-proof, shock-resistant, bend-resistant, and 7x more compression-resistant than SD cards.
- Extensive compatibility with mainstream professional devices and backwards-compatible with XQD devices
Will it work in your camera?
Compatibility is the first buying test, not an assumption based on the Lexar name or the camera’s professional positioning. CFexpress Type B is physically and electronically distinct from Type A and SD; a Type B card is not a substitute for a camera that requires another format. Lexar says this card is for CFexpress-supported devices, and its launch announcement specifies firmware-enabled CFexpress cameras. Lexar’s launch announcement; Lexar’s DIAMOND product page.
- Check the camera maker’s current media compatibility list for your exact camera model. Confirm it names CFexpress Type B, not merely CFexpress.
- Check the maker’s firmware notes and any card-specific guidance. Lexar’s statement about firmware-enabled cameras makes firmware part of the compatibility check.
- Confirm the camera supports the recording mode you intend to use with this card. The card’s speed rating does not override limits imposed by the camera, firmware or recording format.
- Verify the product identity when purchasing: the original 512GB Type B DIAMOND is not a Type A card, another capacity, or the later CFexpress 4.0 DIAMOND.
Lexar’s 2025 Q1 comparison document does not provide sufficiently clear camera-row context to establish a dependable body-by-body compatibility list. A camera manufacturer’s current list and firmware guidance are the safer authority for a specific camera. Lexar’s 2025 Q1 compatibility comparison.
Rank #2
- Blazing-Fast CFexpress 4.0 Performance: CF express Type B Silver 4.0 performs up to 3600MB/s max read, 3000MB/s max write and 2600MB/s sustained write
- Seamless Frames for 8K Video: PCIe 4.0 and NVMe protocols enable performance that allows you to capture 8K RAW video without dropping frames
- Robust Design: CFexpress 4.0 Type B Silver is resistant to temperatures, vibrations, wear and tear 12,000 times, dust (IP5X), 5m drop, shock, flex and compression resistant 7 times stronger than SD cards
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with major professional devices such as digital cameras, camcorders, DSLR, CFexpress, mirrorless cameras and backwards compatible with XQD devices
- Lexar Recovery Tool: CFexpress Type B Silver 4.0 includes access to the Lexar Recovery Tool software and a limited lifetime warranty for extra peace of mind
How to interpret the speed ratings
Read speed is mainly an offload figure
The up-to-1900MB/s read specification can matter when copying footage or images to a computer. Reaching the card’s maximum transfer speed requires a CFexpress Type B reader, and the reader, connection and host computer must also be capable enough. A faster reader affects file transfer to the computer; it does not raise the camera’s recording speed. Lexar’s DIAMOND product page.
Write speed matters in the camera
For long bursts and high-bitrate recording, sustained write capability is more relevant than peak read speed. Lexar rates this model at up to 1700MB/s write and 1600MB/s minimum write, but those figures do not establish the sustained rate of every camera workflow. A camera’s own limits, firmware, codec, resolution and recording conditions remain decisive.
Rank #3
- Cutting-Edge CFexpress 4.0 Performance for Videography
- Boosting Commercial Creative Excellence 8K RAW video
- 3000MB/s Stunning Sustained Write Speeds
- Impressive Pro Performance - Read Speed Up To 3600MB/s, Write Speed Up To 3300MB/s
- Built to Withstand Harsh Environments
CFexpress generation affects the host-card ceiling
This is the original DIAMOND Type B, not the newer CFexpress 4.0 DIAMOND. Digital Camera World describes the earliest Type B and Type A cards as CFexpress 2.0 and reports that the newer Type B 4.0 interface can reach roughly twice the speed of the original generation. That is a generation-level comparison, not evidence that a 4.0 card will run at its maximum in every 2.0 camera. Confirm what your camera and reader support before paying for a generation whose headline speed your equipment may not use. Digital Camera World’s CFexpress card guide.
Durability claims and warranty
Lexar advertises 70N compression resistance, a 5-meter drop rating and IP5X dust protection for the card, as well as resistance to shock, vibration and temperature. These are manufacturer claims; Lexar says internal tests and actual performance can vary. IP5X is a dust-protection rating, not a claim that the card is waterproof or safe to submerge. Lexar’s DIAMOND product page.
Rank #4
- 【PERGEAR 512GB Cfexpress 4.0 Type B Memory Card(Master Series)】——Newly Upgraded 4.0 Cfexpress Type B Card.
- 【Ultra-High-Speed Performance for 8K & 4K】— Capture ultra-high-resolution 8K and 4K video without dropped frames, thanks to read speeds up to 3500 MB/s and write speeds up to 3400 MB/s. Ideal for professional videographers and content creators. (Speeds may vary based on device and usage.)
- 【Seamless Recording for High-Bitrate Video】— Designed for continuous recording, this CFexpress Type B card ensures smooth, drop-free footage—perfect for 6K, 8K, and high-frame-rate 4K video. Never miss a critical moment.
- 【Built Tough for various Extreme Conditions】— Engineered to withstand harsh environments, this card is shock-resistant, temperature-resistant, and X-ray resistant. Your data stays protected whether you’re shooting indoors or outdoors.
- 【Pro-Grade Compatibility & Performance】— Works seamlessly with the latest CFexpress Type B cameras and devices, delivering top-tier performance for high-resolution photography and videography. Compatible with Canon C300 Mark III, C500 Mark III, 1DX Mark III, EOS R5; EOS R5C; Nikon Z6, Z7, Z6 II, Z6 III, Z7 II, Z9,Z8, D5, D6, D500, D850; Panasonic DC-S1; Ronin 4D
Lexar’s Americas warranty table lists the DIAMOND Type B as a limited lifetime warranty for the original purchaser. On its product page, Lexar says that in Germany and regions that do not recognize lifetime warranties, coverage is limited to 10 years from purchase. Warranty rights and terms can vary by region, so consult the terms applicable where you bought the card and retain proof of purchase. Lexar warranty information; Lexar’s DIAMOND product page.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who should consider the 512GB DIAMOND?
It is a plausible option for a photographer or videographer whose camera explicitly supports CFexpress Type B and whose demanding burst or video work benefits from a high-write-class card. The 512GB capacity may suit long shoots, but runtime and shot count depend on the camera’s file sizes, bitrate and shooting pattern. The card’s top offload speed is useful only if the reader and computer connection can take advantage of it.
Best Value
- Lightning-Fast Speed for Flawless Frames: Our CFexpress 4.0 Gold memory cards were engineered with a sustained write speed of 850MB/s, allowing your burst of shots to be as clear and breathtaking as ever. Optimized for 4K, 6K, 8K, and beyond, make every frame a work of art with these deluxe memory cards. Plus, its extreme speed alleviates you from the frustration of dropped frames.
- Advanced Technology that Uses Less Camera Battery: Now even your storage accessories can help protect your camera from flatlining in mid-shot. You might already know of the Prograde Digital reputation for high-end digital products, but our Gold and Cobalt series SD cards were optimized above and beyond to keep your camera's battery running longer so you can capture more. Not too shabby considering these large SD storage cards were also designed for continuous video shots.
- The Fastest Data Transfer Speeds Available - Not only do these cards have a supercharged read speed of 3400MB/s, but they're also backward compatible with your XQD devices. Using your device’s latest firmware update, it’s optimized for accelerated data transfer utilizing PCIe 1.4c and NVMe. BONUS - Our Prograde Digital Refresh Pro software is available separately to help maintain your card speed for years to come and restore corrupted files!
- Exceptional Cards that Go Beyond the Duty of Normal Accessories: Whether your photography is your livelihood or life’s passion, you invested your time and money into it. Starting with your camera and blossoming to your flash, your stand, and your memory card. Make sure the accessories you surround yourself with match the passion you've poured into capturing your art. Wow your clients, friends and family with quality they've never seen before, thanks to your CFexpress camera card by ProGrade.
- Triple The Protection Creates Ease on Every Level - At ProGrade, we set out to do one thing which is to deliver the best camera accessories on the market. Our CFexpress storage cards took that promise to a whole new level. So we've also backed every memory card with a (1) 3-year warranty, (2) a custom, laser-etched serial number to keep counterfeits at bay, and (3) created additional Advanced Recovery Pro Software to restore damaged files. These cards carry our triple-threat, ultimate guarantee.
Compare alternatives against the equipment and work you actually have:
- Format and camera support: Choose the card format your exact camera supports, and verify firmware requirements.
- Recording needs: Match the camera’s requirements for your intended bitrate, codec, resolution and burst length; do not assume a headline card rating guarantees a camera’s maximum mode.
- Capacity and workflow: Decide whether 512GB fits your shoot duration, budget, offload schedule and backup plan.
- Generation and transfer chain: Account for the camera, card generation, Type B reader, connection and host computer as a system.
- Warranty and protection: Check the warranty terms in your region and treat durability figures as manufacturer claims rather than a guarantee against damage.
- Price: Lexar’s March 2023 launch announcement gave a $529.99 MSRP. That is a historical launch price, not a current price recommendation. Lexar’s launch announcement.
Verdict: The original 512GB DIAMOND Type B has strong vendor-rated write specifications and a VPG400 designation, but neither resolves the key question: whether your specific camera and firmware support it for the modes you need. Confirm that first. Treat Lexar’s speeds as specifications rather than independently demonstrated results for this card, and include a capable Type B reader and host if fast offload is part of your reason for buying.
Quick Recap
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