Best Memory Cards for Nikon Z5
Searching for the best memory cards for Nikon Z5? Here is our full list of top recommended SD cards for Nikon Z5 mirrorless camera.
Compact and capable, the Nikon Z5 (Amazon, B&H, Adorama) is an entry-level FX-format mirrorless camera with a well-rounded feature-set to suit both photo and video needs. Featuring a 24.3MP FX-Format CMOS Sensor and an EXPEED 6 image processor, the Nikon Z5 supports a native sensitivity range from ISO 100-51200 (ISO 102400), UHD 4K video recording at up to 30 fps and Full HD recording at up to 60 fps, a top full-resolution continuous shooting rate of 4.5 fps as well as the ability to take 8MP when recording video. The built-in 5-axis sensor-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) mechanism that compensates for up to five stops of stabilization regardless of the lens in use. In addition, a high-resolution 3.6m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder allows for high-res eye-level viewing while a rear 3.2″ 1.04m-dot tilting touchscreen LCD accommodates working from high and low angles. For those new to mirrorless or creators looking to push the limits of their craft with the power of full-frame, the compact Nikon Z5 will exceed expectations.
Want to get the best memory cards for the Nikon Z5? In this post, we are going to go through absolutely everything you need to know before buying the best memory card for the Nikon Z5.
First off… What kind of memory card do you need?
Before buying a memory card, make sure it complies with your Nikon Z5 camera. This is what Nikon Z5 requires:
- Memory Card Slot: 2 x SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
- Memory Card Type: SD Card
- Memory Card Speed: UHS-II
- Recommended Capacity: 64GB-512GB
So, the Nikon Z5 has two SD memory cards slots that both support UHS-II standard for fast read/write speeds and enable more flexible file storage, such as overflow recording and in-camera file duplication. That means you can take full advantage of the write speeds and read speeds of UHS-II cards to get the best out of your Nikon Z5 camera.
Why Do You Need a High-Speed SD Card?
Not every memory card will work well with your Nikon Z5 camera. If the card is too slow, you may have to wait longer for the buffer to clear or end up with recording errors and loose all your footage. So, buying a fast card is always worth it:
- Fast write speed provides fast buffer clearing time between burst shots optimizing your shooting experience.
- Fast read speed can let large files such as 4K video or a bunch of high-resolution images by continuous shooting transfer to PC in seconds.
Reminder: if you plan to shoot videos, stick to 64GB (or larger) cards for the best video codex.
So, what’s the best SD card for Nikon Z5?
The Nikon Z5 supports up to 4.5 fps continuous shooting and UHD 4K30p and Full HD 60p video recording. This requires a fast SD card at least U3 or V30 (writing speed of 30MB/s). UHS stands for “Ultra High Speed”. The chart below can help you figure out what speed class you need for each video format.
Graphic via SD Association
Recommended SD Cards for Nikon Z5
If you’re looking for the quick and easy solution, our top picks for SD cards for your Nikon Z5 camera are right here – any of these make for a great option. If you need more details though, check out the suggestions below.
- Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II Card (V90)
- SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
- Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
- Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
- ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
Best Memory Cards for Nikon Z5
1. Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 260 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
For your Nikon Z5 needs, our top pick is the Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SD card – perfect for capturing stunning stills and stunning videos alike. In our tests, this memory card tied with the Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II card for top speed/buffer performance, but what really makes the Kingston card stand out is its unbeatable value; you can get a whopping 256GB for a price 40% lower than the Sony, and it comes with a lifetime warranty plus protection from temperatures ranging from -13 to 185°F. If you need a swift, dependable and cost-effective UHS-II SD card for your camera, then the Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SD Card is the answer you’ve been searching for!
Buy Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SDXC Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
2. PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 280 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
If the Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SDXC cards are sold out, or you’re in the mood to try something faster, why not give the PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90) a go? Our tests revealed it has nearly identical performance to the Kingston Canvas React Plus, and is a little more expensive – but well worth it for anyone seeking ultra-high speed UHS-II SD card action!
Buy PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90) at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
3. Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II Card (300 MB/s, V90)
- UHS-II / V90 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 299 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB
For those who are looking for a fast, reliable, and durable SD card, the Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SD Card (V90) is a great choice. This card is designed to handle drops up to 16.4 feet, immersion in up to 16.4 feet of water for up to 72 hours, and is resistant to dust, X-rays, magnets, and anti-static, making it an ideal choice for tough conditions. Although it may be a bit pricier than some other cards, you can be sure that your data will be secure, and you will never have to worry about any failure. If money isn’t an obstacle, why not take the plunge and get it?
Buy Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SDXC Cards at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
4. SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- UHS-II / V90 / U3 / Class 10
- Max. Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max. Write Speed: 260 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB
The SanDisk Extreme Pro SDXC UHS-II card is a top pick for those seeking UHS-II SD cards. From capturing flawless RAW images and continuous shutter bursts to recording stellar 8K, 4K, and Full HD video, it is the perfect companion for creative visionaries. Furthermore, it’s x-ray, shock and water-resistant, and comes with a lifetime limited warranty – that’s a guarantee of superior performance!
Buy SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Cards at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
5. ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
- UHS-II / V90 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 250 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Our testing revealed that the ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V90) is a superb choice for capturing 6K, 5K, 4K, UHD 4K, and high bit rate MPEG-4 video, as well as raw images and rapid-fire bursts. Its 512GB capacity makes it a must-have for any photographer looking for speed and reliability.
Buy ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
6. Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card V90)
- UHS-II / V90 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 250 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
The Delkin Devices UHS-II SD card is an outstanding selection and remarkable value, boasting read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds of 250 MB/s. Not only that, but Delkin cards are renowned for their reliability thanks to their error correction technology, and are supported by a lifetime warranty with a 48-hour replacement – truly unbeatable!
Buy Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
7. Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
- UHS-II / V60 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 277 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 150 MB/s
If you need a lot of storage without breaking the bank, then you could save some cash by buying a slower V60 memory card, which should still support all of the Nikon Z5’s bitrates, such as the Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SDXC Card.
Buy Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SDXC Memory Card at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
8. ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
If you’re looking to save money, the ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) is an excellent budget choice. Not only does it have a rugged design – withstanding temperatures from -13 to 185°F, X-ray proof and shockproof – but it also comes with a limited 3-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Buy ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) at Amazon, B&H, Adorama.
Read more: Best Lenses for Nikon Z5.