How to choose a memory card for your drone

Start with the aircraft’s supported-card list

A memory card is part of the recording system. Before choosing capacity or brand, open the manufacturer’s specifications for your exact aircraft and recording mode. Record the supported card format, maximum capacity, required speed-class symbols and any recommended card models. If your drone has internal storage, check its usable capacity and how you will transfer files.

Do not infer compatibility from another drone in the same range. A card that fits the slot can still be a poor choice for the recording settings you intend to use.

Read speed-class symbols, not just the biggest number

The SD Association distinguishes different speed-class systems, including Video Speed Class. Its guidance describes V30 as supporting 30 MB/s capture using the Video Speed Class protocol. This is a minimum performance classification under the standard’s conditions, not a guarantee for every device or recording mode.

A large advertised transfer-speed number may describe peak read performance. It should not replace the camera manufacturer’s recording requirements. Compare the required symbol with the card’s actual markings, and check the card model against the supported list.

Choose capacity around your file workflow

Decide how often you can copy and check your footage. A larger card may reduce card changes, while multiple smaller cards let you separate sessions. Neither approach replaces a backup. Avoid recording-time promises based solely on resolution: the actual bitrate and recording settings determine how quickly storage is used.

For planning only, 100 Mb/s is 12.5 MB/s because there are eight bits in a byte. At that constant bitrate, an hour would be about 45 GB before allowing for other files and capacity differences. This is a worked example, not an estimate for a particular drone. Check the actual mode’s published bitrate.

Compare suitable options

DAA lists the SanDisk Extreme PLUS microSDXC 128GB and SanDisk Extreme PLUS microSDXC 512GB. Compare them only after confirming your aircraft supports the exact card specification and capacity. The larger option is not automatically the better purchase.

A simple recording checklist

1. Confirm compatibility and use the manufacturer’s formatting instructions.
2. Make a short test recording at your intended settings before an important session.
3. Copy the files, open a sample and confirm the transfer succeeded.
4. Keep a second copy of important footage before deleting the original.

Read the SD Association’s speed-class guidance and your aircraft manual together. Use our kit checklist to remember readers, cables and charging equipment.