Introduction
For photographers, the SD card is the unsung hero of every shoot. It’s the silent, reliable vault where your creative vision is stored, from fleeting moments captured in street photography to meticulously composed landscapes. Choosing the right 64GB card is a critical decision that balances speed, reliability, and value. A poor choice can lead to a frustrating buffer lock at the worst possible moment or, even worse, the heartbreak of lost images.
This guide cuts through the noise to present the best 64GB SD cards available. We’ve analyzed performance specs, reliability ratings, and real-world use cases to help you find the perfect match for your camera and shooting style, whether you’re a casual hobbyist or a demanding professional.
Our Top Picks for 64GB SD Cards
- SanDisk 64GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
- PNY 64GB Elite-X Class 10 U3 V30 SDXC Card (3-Pack)
- SanDisk 64GB Extreme SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
- SanDisk 64GB Ultra SD Card 5 Pack with Reader
- Lexar 64GB Professional 1667x SD Card (2-Pack)
- PNY 64GB Elite-X Class 10 U3 V30 microSDXC Card
- SanDisk Ultra 64GB 2-pack SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
- 2Pack SD Card 64GB Memory Card with Adapter
- 5-Pack of EASTBULL 64GB Class 10 SD Cards
- SanDisk Extreme PRO 64GB SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
SanDisk 64GB Ultra SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
An excellent all-rounder, the SanDisk Ultra is a fantastic choice for photographers using compact to mid-range DSLR cameras. With read speeds up to 140MB/s, it facilitates quick file transfers to your computer, saving you valuable time after a shoot. This card is engineered to handle full HD video recording and continuous shooting modes with ease.
Its widespread availability and proven reliability make it a go-to option for everyday photography. The 64GB capacity provides ample space for thousands of high-resolution photos, making it ideal for travel, events, and general use where consistent performance is key.
PNY 64GB Elite-X Class 10 U3 V30 SDXC Card (3-Pack)
This three-pack from PNY offers tremendous value for photographers who need multiple reliable cards. The Class 10, U3, and V30 speed ratings ensure the performance needed for burst mode photography and 4K Ultra HD videography without dropping frames. With read speeds up to 100MB/s, you can expect smooth operation in a variety of cameras.
It’s an ideal solution for enthusiasts who shoot both photos and video, or for anyone who wants to have backup cards on hand without a significant investment. Having multiple cards also allows for better organization, such as separating projects or shoot days.
SanDisk 64GB Extreme SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
Step up your performance with the SanDisk Extreme, a card built for more demanding shooting conditions. It boasts impressive read speeds up to 170MB/s, powered by SanDisk QuickFlow Technology to minimize the time spent waiting for files to transfer. More importantly, it offers write speeds up to 80MB/s, which is crucial for fast continuous shooting and 4K video recording.
This card is a strong candidate for advanced amateurs and professionals using higher-end DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. Its robust performance profile makes it reliable for capturing fast action and high-resolution video content.
SanDisk 64GB Ultra SD Card 5 Pack with Reader
This comprehensive bundle is the ultimate solution for multi-camera setups or for photographers who heavily use trail cameras and hunting cams. You receive five reliable SanDisk Ultra cards, each offering transfer speeds up to 100MB/s, along with protective cases and a versatile card reader.
The inclusion of the Everything But Stromboli card reader is a significant benefit, ensuring you have a reliable way to offload your images from various card types. This package eliminates the need for separate purchases and provides a complete storage and transfer ecosystem.
Lexar 64GB Professional 1667x SD Card (2-Pack)
For professionals and serious enthusiasts, the Lexar Professional 1667x leverages UHS-II technology for top-tier performance. It delivers exceptional read speeds up to 250MB/s, which dramatically accelerates workflow when transferring large batches of high-resolution photos and 4K video files to your computer.
This two-pack is perfect for photographers who never want to miss a shot due to a slow card. The high-speed sustained write performance is engineered to handle the demanding data rates of continuous raw file bursts and high-bitrate video, providing peace of mind during critical shoots.
PNY 64GB Elite-X Class 10 U3 V30 microSDXC Card
While a microSD card, this PNY Elite-X model comes with a full-size SD adapter, making it incredibly versatile. It shares the same Class 10, U3, and V30 ratings as its SD counterpart, ensuring smooth 4K video and burst mode performance. Its A1 rating means it can also efficiently run apps, making it a great choice for drones, action cameras, and Android devices.
This card is for the multi-device user. You can seamlessly move it from a drone or action camera to a traditional camera with the adapter, offering a flexible storage solution for all your gear without compromising on speed.
SanDisk Ultra 64GB 2-pack SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
This simple two-pack of SanDisk Ultra cards provides a straightforward and reliable storage upgrade. It’s a practical purchase for anyone needing an immediate backup card or a second card for a two-camera setup. You benefit from the trusted SanDisk performance and quality in a cost-effective multi-pack.
Having a second identical card is a fundamental best practice in photography. It allows you to keep shooting when one card is full and provides a crucial backup if a card fails. This pack makes that essential practice easy and affordable.
2Pack SD Card 64GB Memory Card with Adapter
This value-oriented two-pack is designed for general use across a wide range of devices. With a read speed of 60MB/s and a write speed of 30MB/s, it is capable of handling full HD video recording and everyday photography needs for smartphones, tablets, and basic digital cameras.
The inclusion of an SD adapter increases its versatility, allowing it to be used in standard camera slots. It’s a solid, budget-friendly option for expanding storage on multiple devices without a need for top-tier speed specifications.
5-Pack of EASTBULL 64GB Class 10 SD Cards
EASTBULL’s five-pack is the ultimate bulk solution for applications where multiple cards are a necessity. Ideal for security camera systems, trail cameras, or multi-camera operations, this pack emphasizes quantity and baseline reliability. The cards offer a Class 10 rating and read speeds that are sufficient for continuous full HD recording.
Each card is backed by a stated quality control process using A+ chips. The pack also includes five mini cases, providing essential protection and organization for your collection of cards, which is vital when managing several at once.
SanDisk Extreme PRO 64GB SDXC UHS-I Memory Card
The SanDisk Extreme PRO represents the peak of the UHS-I format, built for maximum performance and endurance. It is designed to meet the needs of professional photographers who require fast and consistent write speeds to capture long bursts of raw images or high-bitrate 4K video.
This card is rated for extreme conditions, offering resistance against temperature, water, and shock. Its robust construction and top-tier speed specifications make it a dependable workhorse for assignment and adventure photographers who push their equipment to the limits.
What to Look For in a 64GB SD Card for Photography
As a photographer, my memory card is my lifeline. It’s the tiny piece of tech that holds all my work, so choosing the right one is non-negotiable. When I’m looking for a 64GB SD card, I focus on a few key specs that directly impact my shooting experience. Let’s break down what actually matters.
First, you need to understand speed classes. This is where most people get confused. You’ll see a bunch of symbols like V30, V60, V90, and UHS-I or UHS-II. For most photographers, a V30 card is a solid starting point. The “V” stands for Video Speed Class, and V30 means the card has a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s. This is perfectly fine for photographing in RAW+JPEG, even in short bursts. If you shoot a lot of rapid-fire action or use a high-megapixel camera, you might want to step up to a V60 or V90 card to avoid your camera’s buffer filling up too quickly.
Next, consider the bus interface: UHS-I vs. UHS-II. You can tell them apart physically—UHS-II cards have a second row of pins. UHS-I is more common and cheaper, with a theoretical max speed of around 104MB/s. UHS-II is significantly faster, with a max of around 312MB/s, but you need a camera that supports it to benefit from those speeds. For many, a good UHS-I card is more than enough.
Durability is another huge factor for me. I’m often shooting outdoors, so I look for cards that are built to last. Features like water-proof, temperature-proof, shock-proof, and especially X-ray proof are important for travel. A sturdy card gives me peace of mind when I’m on the move.
Finally, think about your specific needs. A 64GB card is a great balance of capacity and value. It can hold hundreds, even thousands, of high-resolution photos, depending on your camera’s sensor. It’s a manageable size that doesn’t put all your eggs in one basket. When you’re picking from the 10 best 64GB SD cards for photography in 2025, matching the card’s performance to your camera’s capabilities and your shooting style is the most important step.
FAQ
Is 64GB enough for a professional photographer?
It can be, but it depends entirely on your workflow. For a single shoot or as a backup card, 64GB is often sufficient. It can hold a respectable number of RAW files. However, many professionals prefer larger capacities like 128GB or 256GB for weddings or long events to avoid changing cards frequently. I use several 64GB cards instead of one massive one; it’s a safety measure so I don’t risk losing all my images if a single card fails.
What is the difference between V30 and V90 SD cards?
The main difference is the guaranteed minimum sustained write speed. A V30 card promises to write at a minimum of 30MB/s, while a V90 promises 90MB/s. For stills photography, a V30 is adequate for most situations. You would only need the speed of a V90 card if you are shooting high-speed bursts with a high-resolution camera or recording high-bitrate 4K or 8K video.
Do I need a UHS-II card for my camera?
You only need a UHS-II card if your camera has a UHS-II card slot and you regularly push its limits. Check your camera’s manual. If you shoot fast action and notice your camera’s buffer takes a long time to clear, a UHS-II card could help. For everyday photography, a high-quality UHS-I card will perform perfectly and save you money.
How many photos can a 64GB SD card hold?
This varies a lot. On my 24-megapixel camera, a 64GB card can hold roughly 1,600 RAW files. If you shoot in JPEG, you could fit thousands. Higher megapixel cameras, like 45MP or 60MP models, will produce larger files, so the total number will be lower. It’s always a good idea to test how many images your specific camera settings will allow on a card.
Are all 64GB SD cards the same?
Absolutely not. This is a critical point. Two cards can both say 64GB but have vastly different read and write speeds, durability ratings, and warranties. A cheap, no-name card is a huge risk with your photos. I always stick with reputable brands like SanDisk, Sony, or Lexar that offer reliability and customer support. When selecting from the 10 best 64GB SD cards for photography in 2025, you are paying for that proven performance and peace of mind.