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Identifying the right microSD card for your device can be quite a challenge, drawing from my personal experience. Each of these tiny storage wonders comes with a perplexing mix of letters and numbers, some holding crucial significance, while others might just add to the confusion. The market is flooded with numerous options, and it’s not made any simpler by the presence of no-name brands boasting unbelievably low prices.
If you’re lucky enough to own one of the top-notch Android smartphones still equipped with a microSD card slot, connecting it with the right microSD card becomes crucial. Opting for a card that is not only swift but also from a reputable brand ensures that your data remains secure and uncompromised. While it’s true that many of the latest flagship Android phones no longer feature a microSD card slot, there are still exceptions that support additional storage.
Take, for instance, the OnePlus Nord N300 5G, which stands out as one of the few smartphones allowing an increase in storage capacity through a microSD card. Once you confirm that your mobile device supports additional storage, like in the case of the OnePlus Nord N300 5G, you can then dive into the world of microSD cards, considering factors beyond just the brand and speed.
What is a microSD card, and why do I need one for my Android device?
A microSD card is a small, removable flash memory card commonly used to expand the storage capacity of electronic devices, including Android smartphones and tablets. It provides additional space for storing photos, videos, apps, and other data, supplementing the device’s built-in storage. Android devices often come with limited internal storage, and a microSD card offers a cost-effective way to increase capacity.
This is especially beneficial for users who capture a lot of media, download apps, or need extra space for files. The microSD card seamlessly integrates with the device, allowing users to manage and access their data efficiently.
Best microSD cards for Android: Comparison Table
Choose a microSD card based on your needs and preferences. I compared the Samsung EVO Select 128GB, SanDisk 200GB Ultra MicroSDXC, PNY 128GB PRO Elite, Samsung PRO Endurance 256GB, and Lexar Professional 1066x 256GB microSDXC based on my experience. Consider storage capacity, speed, and durability to make a custom choice.
| Feature | Capacity | Read Speed | Write Speed | Class | UHS Speed | Video Speed | Durability | Warranty | Check Deal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung EVO Select 128GB | 128GB | Up to 100MB/s | Up to 60MB/s | Class 10 | UHS-I | V30 | Waterproof, shockproof, magnet-proof, X-ray-proof | 10 years | Check Deal |
| SanDisk 200GB Ultra | 200GB | Up to 100MB/s | Up to 90MB/s | Class 10 | UHS-I | V10 | Waterproof, shockproof, magnet-proof, X-ray-proof | 10 years | Check Deal |
| PNY 128GB PRO Elite | 128GB | Up to 95MB/s | Up to 95MB/s | Class 10 | UHS-I | V30 | Waterproof, shockproof, magnet-proof, X-ray-proof | Lifetime | Check Deal |
| Samsung PRO Endurance 256GB | 256GB | Up to 100MB/s | Up to 60MB/s | Class 10 | UHS-I | V10 | Waterproof, shockproof, magnet-proof, X-ray-proof | 5 years | Check Deal |
| Lexar Professional 1066x | 256GB | Up to 160MB/s | Up to 120MB/s | A2 | UHS-I | U3 | Waterproof, shockproof, vibration-proof, X-ray-proof | Lifetime | Check Deal |
Best microSD cards for Android
Find microSD cards that boost your smartphone or Android tablet. These alternatives, personally tested, allow you to keep all your music and movies offline with best performance. Improve your mobile entertainment with trust:
Samsung EVO Select 128GB MicroSD Card
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Read speed | Up to 100MB/s |
| Write speed | Up to 80MB/s |
| Shockproof | Yes |
| Magnet-proof | Yes |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
| Check Price |
Storage expansion is easy with the Samsung EVO Select 128GB MicroSD Card. I use this large card to easily store my photographs, movies, and apps. The fast data transfer speeds allow easy file access. The Class 10 and UHS Speed Class 3 card performs well for 4K UHD video recording and playback. Its resistance to water, temperature changes, X-rays, and magnetic fields is impressive. For reliable storage and capacity expansion, I use the Samsung EVO Select 128GB MicroSD Card for my smartphone, camera, and other devices.
The Good
- Fast read and write speeds
- A1 performance for faster app launch and app loading
- Durable design
The Bad
- Not as fast as some other microSD cards on the market
- Limited storage capacity
SanDisk 200GB Ultra MicroSDXC
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Read speed | Up to 100MB/s |
| Write speed | Up to 90MB/s |
| UHS-I Class 10 | Yes |
| Magnet-proof | Yes |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty |
| Check Price |
I rely on the SanDisk 200GB Ultra MicroSDXC Card for top-notch storage, boasting a 200-gigabyte capacity. This high-performance card handles photos, movies, apps, and more seamlessly. With Class 10 speed ratings, it ensures swift data transfers, while the A1 certification enables launching apps directly from the card. Its durable build assures data security in various environments, making it my go-to storage solution.
The Good
- Fast read and write speeds
- A1 performance for faster app launch and app loading
- Durable design
The Bad
- Not as fast as some other microSD cards on the market
PNY 128GB PRO Elite Class 10 U3 microSDXC
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Read speed | Up to 100MB/s |
| Write speed | Up to 90MB/s |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Shockproof | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Check Price |
Transform your storage game with the PNY 128GB PRO Elite Class 10 U3 microSDXC Card – my go-to for unparalleled performance and ample space. It’s a powerhouse for capturing breathtaking 4K videos, safeguarding high-res photos, and effortlessly transferring hefty files. Tailored for action cameras, drones, and Android devices, this card smoothly tackles demanding tasks. Trust in its reliable storage and swift data access to enhance your personal digital journey. Elevate your storage experience with the PNY PRO Elite microSDXC Card.
The Good
- Fast read and write speeds
- A1 performance for faster app launch and app loading
- Durable design
The Bad
- Not as fast as some other microSD cards on the market
Samsung PRO Endurance 256GB MicroSDXC Memory Card
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Read speed | Up to 100MB/s |
| Write speed | Up to 90MB/s |
| UHS-I Class 10 | Yes |
| A1 performance | Yes |
| Warranty | 10-year limited warranty |
| Check Price |
Having used the Samsung PRO Endurance 256GB MicroSDXC Memory Card personally, I can vouch for its reliability and durability. This card proved to be an ideal storage solution for my dash cam and security cameras, enduring tough conditions without a hitch. It not only provides ample storage but also ensures a long-lasting performance, making it a top-notch choice for anyone in need of a dependable memory card for extended filming.
The Good
- Fast read and write speeds
- A1 performance for faster app launch and app loading
- Durable design
- 10-year limited warranty
The Bad
- Not as fast as some other microSD cards on the market
Lexar Professional 1066x 256GB microSDXC
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Read speed | Up to 160MB/s |
| Write speed | Up to 120MB/s |
| UHS-I Class 1 | Yes |
| UHS-II Class 10 | Yes |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Check Price |
Capture and cherish your precious moments in stunning detail with the Lexar Professional 1066x 256GB microSDXC Card. I’ve personally experienced its exceptional performance, seamlessly storing high-quality photos and recording 4K videos. The lightning-fast read transfer speed of up to 160MB/s ensures a swift and smooth data transfer process. With its massive 256GB capacity, this card offers abundant space to house my extensive collection of memories. It’s not just a storage solution; it’s a reliable companion in preserving life’s unforgettable moments.
The Good
- Very fast read and write speeds
- UHS-II Class 10 for high-performance cameras and drones
- V60 video speed for professional video recording
- A2 performance for faster app launch and app loading
The Bad
- Most expensive microSD card on the list
How do I choose the best microSD card for my Android device?
- Check Device Compatibility: Verify the maximum capacity of your Android smartphone and make sure it supports microSD cards.
- Determine Storage Needs: You need to figure out how much space you need for all of your stuff, including programmes, images, movies, and more.iles.
- Speed Class Matters: Choose If you want your apps and videos to run smoothly, make sure your card has a good Speed Class (at least Class 10).
- Consider UHS Speed: If you want your data transferred quickly, get a UHS-I or UHS-II card.
- Video Speed Class: Choose a card with an appropriate Video Speed Class (such V30) if you’re shooting videos at a high resolution.
- Brand Reputation: Always choose with trusted names in reliability, like as Kingston, SanDisk, or Samsung.
- Evaluate Durability: Cards that are both waterproof and shockproof are a good investment for long-term use.
Questions and Answers
Though microSD cards are compatible with a wide range of devices, you should always double-check the specs of your own device to be sure it supports the card type, maximum capacity, and speed ratings you’re looking for. For optimum performance, some high-performance apps may necessitate particular speed classes.
You should always use your device’s settings to carefully unmount the microSD card before removing it physically. Damage to data could occur if you remove the card too quickly without first mounting it.
Proceed to the “Storage” or “Storage & USB” section of your device’s settings, then choose the microSD card. To make room on the microSD card, you can choose which applications or files to transfer.