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Usually, you should not count on a memory card being included with a Nikon camera. Nikon’s package lists for the Z 8, Z fc, and Z 9 say that “Memory cards are sold separately.” The exact answer depends on the model, region, and retailer bundle, so check the in-box list for the camera you are buying and the seller’s included-items list.
What Nikon’s package lists say
Nikon’s standard package documentation explicitly says memory cards are sold separately for these models:
- Nikon Z 8: The package list covers the camera body, battery, charger, strap, cables, and other items, then states that memory cards are sold separately. Nikon’s Z 8 accessories page lists a Type B CFexpress card as an optional accessory.
- Nikon Z fc: Its package list includes the camera, battery, charger, strap, warranty, and manual, and says memory cards are sold separately. Nikon also notes that some package contents vary by country or region. See Nikon’s Z fc package details.
- Nikon Z 9: Nikon’s package contents likewise say memory cards are sold separately. Check the Z 9 package list.
These examples establish what Nikon states for those models’ standard packages; they do not prove that every Nikon camera ships without a card. Retailers may add a card to a bundle, and package contents can differ by region.
Check the exact camera and seller before checkout
- Identify the full model name. Include the generation, such as Z 6 or Z 6II; related models may not use the same media.
- Open the manufacturer’s package list for your region. Look for the included-items or package-contents section and confirm whether it names a memory card.
- Read the retailer’s bundle list. Confirm that the card is explicitly listed as included in the offer, rather than appearing only in a product photo, accessory carousel, or suggested add-on.
- Check the camera’s supported card format and compatibility guidance. Use Nikon’s memory-card compatibility information and the manual for your exact model before purchasing.
Which memory card type does a Nikon camera use?
Nikon cameras do not all use one card format. For example, Nikon lists SD, SDHC, and SDXC as supported media formats for the Z 30. For the Z 8, Nikon lists a Type B CFexpress card as an optional accessory. Those examples are not interchangeable recommendations: confirm the supported format for your specific camera and slot.
#1 Best Overall
- Save time with card offload speeds of up to 200MB/s powered by SanDisk QuickFlow Technology (Up to 200MB/s read speeds, engineered with proprietary technology to reach speeds beyond UHS-I 104MB/s, require compatible devices capable of reaching such speeds. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes. X = 150KB/sec. SanDisk QuickFlow Technology is only available for 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB and 1TB capacities. 1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. 1TB=1,000,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Pair with the SanDisk Professional PRO-READER SD and microSD to achieve maximum speeds (sold separately)
- Shot speeds up to 90MB/s (Write speed up to 90MB/s. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending upon host device. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes. X = 150KB/sec.)
- Perfect for shooting 4K UHD video and sequential burst mode photography (Full HD (1920x1080) and 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) video support may vary based upon host device, file attributes and other factors. See HD page on SanDisk site.)
- UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) (UHS Speed Class 3 designates a performance option designed to support 4K UHD video recording with enabled UHS host devices. UHS Video Speed Class 30 (V30), sustained video capture rate of 30MB/s, designates a performance option designed to support real-time video recording with UHS enabled host devices. See the SD Association’s official website.)
After confirming the format, match capacity and sustained write performance to your camera’s compatibility guidance and the way you shoot. The available specifications do not establish one capacity or speed that is right for every Nikon model or workload.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to buy if no card is included
Search for a memory card compatible with the exact model, then verify the card against Nikon’s compatibility information and the camera manual. For a camera that supports SD-family cards, check whether it accepts SD, SDHC, or SDXC and any relevant speed requirements. For a compatible Z 8 setup, Type B CFexpress is an option Nikon identifies. Do not assume that a microSD card with an adapter, a particular capacity, or a single speed rating will work across Nikon cameras.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Great choice for compact to mid-range point-and-shoot cameras
- Quick transfer speeds up to 140MB/s (Up to 140MB/s read speed engineered with proprietary technology to reach speeds beyond UHS-I 104MB/s, requires compatible devices capable of reaching such speeds. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device, interface, usage conditions and other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.)
- Up to 128GB to store tons of pictures (1GB=1,000,000,000 bytes. Actual user storage less.)
- Exceptional video recording performance with UHS Speed Class 1 (U1) Class 10 rating for Full HD video (1080p) (UHS Speed Class 1 (U1) designates a performance option designed to support real time video recording with UHS enabled host devices. See consumers speed page on SanDisk site. Full HD (1920x1080) video support may vary based upon host device, file attributes, and other factors. Visit the SanDisk Video Knowledge Base for more information.)
- Compatible with SanDisk SD UHS-I card reader (sold separately)
Rank #4
- 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
Rank #3
- Brand: Sandisk
Rank #2
- 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.
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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