A “regular SD card” usually means the full-size Secure Digital memory card, as opposed to a microSD card. Less often, “SD” is used as a capacity label for the original standard-capacity type, which holds up to 2GB. “Regular” is informal, so the meaning depends on whether you are talking about size or capacity.
What an SD card is
The SD Association (SDA), the standards body behind the format, classifies SD memory cards as removable nonvolatile memory. They keep data without power and can be moved between devices such as cameras and computers.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Meaning 1: the full-size card
In everyday speech, “regular SD” means the larger physical card. The SDA lists these dimensions:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →| Form factor | Dimensions | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Full-size SD | 32 x 24 x 2.1 mm | One of the two common shapes |
| microSD | 11 x 15 x 1.0 mm | One of the two common shapes |
| miniSD | Not listed here | Defined, but the SDA says microSD replaced it |
Meaning 2: the standard-capacity “SD” class
The SDA also uses “SD” for the original capacity standard. Capacity labels describe which standard a card follows. They do not describe its shape. The SDA’s current capacity descriptions are:
#1 Best Overall
- Brand: Sandisk
| Label | Capacity range | File system named by SDA |
|---|---|---|
| SD | Up to 2GB | FAT 12/16 |
| SDHC | More than 2GB through 32GB | FAT32 |
| SDXC | More than 32GB through 2TB | exFAT |
| SDUC | More than 2TB through 128TB | exFAT |
These are specification limits, not typical real-world capacities. Any of these standards can come in full-size or microSD form, so a “regular” full-size card may be SD, SDHC, SDXC or SDUC.
Compatibility: which cards a device accepts
According to the SDA’s compatibility chart, a host device accepts cards from its own capacity standard and the earlier ones:
Rank #2
- This version has been discontinued by manufacturer
- Great choice for compact to mid-range point-and-shoot cameras
- Quick transfer speeds up to 120MB/s(1) to back up those moments.
- (1)Up to 120MB/s read speed, engineered w/ proprietary technology to reach speeds beyond UHS-I 104MB/s, compatible device required. Based on internal testing; performance may be lower depending on host device & other factors. 1MB=1,000,000 bytes.
- Up to 32GB to store tons of pictures and even more Full HD video(2).
- SD-only hosts: SD cards only.
- SDHC hosts: SD and SDHC.
- SDXC hosts: SD, SDHC and SDXC.
- SDUC hosts: SD, SDHC, SDXC and SDUC.
A newer-standard card is not automatically supported by an older device. The SDA advises: “Before inserting your SD memory card, confirm the device is compatible with the SD standard by locating an SD logo and other symbols on the device or referring to the device’s user manual or manufacturer information.”
What “SD” does not tell you: speed
Capacity type, speed and interface are separate markings. SDA materials list Speed Class groups C, U, V and E, and bus modes Normal, High, UHS and SD Express. If a device needs a certain speed class, such as for video recording, follow its manual rather than the capacity label.
Rank #3
- 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
How to choose
- Pick the form factor your device’s slot takes: full-size or microSD.
- Check the capacity standard the device supports (SD, SDHC, SDXC or SDUC).
- Match the speed class or bus interface the manual requires.
If a computer has no SD slot, or only supports an earlier standard than your card, a USB card reader is an optional workaround. It is not part of the definition.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Class 10, U1 speed rating, with read speeds up to 100MB/s
- Class 10 - UHS-I, U1 speed class performance allows for fast and smooth continuous HD shooting and full HD video recording
- Record and transfer videos, photos, music, files and more from Micro SD enabled host devices such as Android smartphones and tablets, action and surveillance cameras, drones, computers and more
- Includes (1) SD Adapter for compatibility with SD enabled host devices, including DSLR cameras, video cameras, desktops, and laptops
- Reliable & DURABLE: Magnet proof, shock proof, temperature proof, waterproof
Rank #4
- Sequential read speed of up to 100MB/s
- Class 10, U1 rating delivers speed and performance for full HD photography and HD videography
- V10 video speed rating to capture uninterrupted HD video at 1920x1080 format
- Compatible with point & shoot cameras, DSLR cameras, standard & advanced HD-enabled video cameras, and more
- Reliable & Durable: Magnet Proof, Shock Proof, Temperature Proof, Waterproof
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.
