Best UHS-II SD Card for 4K Video Recording

Capturing professional-grade 4K video demands more than just a high-end camera—it requires a SD memory card that can keep up with extreme data flow. From fast write speed and video speed class ratings to rugged durability and sufficient storage space, the right UHS-II SD card can make or break a production.

In this article, we explain why UHS-II cards are essential for high video resolution, how to compare options, and which Digiera UHS-II cards are best suited for various video applications.

Best UHS-II SD Card for 4K Video Recording: Why It Matters

When filming in 4K, your camera writes large video files in real-time. Without a card capable of maintaining a minimum sustained write speed, your footage may suffer from buffering, dropped frames, or even data corruption.

UHS-II SD cards, equipped with an extra row of pins, allow read and write speeds far beyond traditional UHS-I cards. They are also rated using the Video Speed Class system (V30, V60, V90), indicating the minimum write speed guaranteed during recording—critical for high-bitrate content and real time video recording.

These cards are essential for maintaining stable performance during high resolution video shoots, especially in professional workflows and HD video capture scenarios.

Memory Cards and Real-Time Video Performance

Not all SD memory cards are created equal. Many advertise peak speeds that drop significantly during actual video recording. Digiera cards are internally tested for consistent, real-world performance, ensuring reliable capture in formats like:

• 4K Ultra HD

• 1080p Full HD video

• 3D video

• High-speed continuous shooting in RAW + JPEG

To maintain such performance, choosing cards rated UHS-II, U3, and V60 or above is essential. We actively test memory cards to ensure optimal performance across multiple camera systems and recommend professionals test memory cards before production to prevent issues.

HD Video and the Limits of UHS-I Cards

While HD video (1280×720) and Full HD (1920×1080) place lighter demands on storage, modern workflows often involve:

• Simultaneous RAW file and video capture

• Multi-cam syncing at variable frame rates

• Rapid card-to-computer offloading with high read speeds

Even in these cases, UHS-II SD cards like Digiera’s LSU100 and LSU200 outperform the limitations of UHS-I and deliver higher reliability. They're also engineered to reduce risks of using a faulty card in time-sensitive environments.

4K Video Requires Sustained Write Speed, Not Just Peaks

The data rate of 4K video can exceed 400Mbps, especially when shooting in 10-bit or ProRes formats. A common mistake is selecting a card based on peak write speed, instead of minimum sustained write speed.

This is where the Digiera LSU200 stands out. Rated V90, it guarantees 90MB/s minimum sustained performance—perfect for cinema-grade footage. Meanwhile, the LSU100 is rated V60, making it a solid choice for DSLR and mirrorless 4K workflows.

In testing, both cards performed reliably even under stress, ensuring no frame loss during real time video recording.

Full HD Video Recording: Is UHS-II Still Worth It?

Even if you're not shooting in 4K, UHS-II cards are still relevant:

• Quicker offloading of large video files thanks to high read speeds

• Reliable operation during extended Full HD interviews or live events

• No dropped frames during long-form recording at variable frame rates

While a V30 card may technically support Full HD, professionals opt for V60 or V90 cards to avoid any margin for error—and to future-proof their workflows.

Memory Card Capacity: How Much Storage Space Do You Really Need?

Choosing the right storage space depends on your video resolution, bitrate, and shooting length. Here’s a simplified guide:

The Digiera LSU100 offers up to 1TB, making it ideal for long productions. The LSU200, with up to 512GB, is preferred for short bursts of high-intensity content at the fastest write speed available.

CFexpress Type B Cards vs. UHS-II SD Cards

While CFexpress Type B cards support extreme bandwidths (1000MB/s+), they are expensive, draw more power, and are compatible only with a limited range of high-end cameras.

UHS-II cards like the LSU100 and LSU200 are more versatile, affordable, and sufficient for most 4K and Full HD needs, especially for DSLRs, mirrorless, and broadcast systems. They're among the fastest SD cards available that don’t require specialized workflows. In contrast, CFexpress cards are often reserved for niche, ultra-high-end workflows.

microSD Cards: Not Built for Professional 4K Work

Some microSD cards claim UHS-II support, but most lack the thermal endurance and fast write speed required for professional-grade video. Using a full-size SDXC card like Digiera’s ensures more reliability, especially in demanding weather or high-motion environments.

Extreme Pro-Level Performance with Digiera

Both models are engineered to perform under pressure and prevent the risks of using a faulty card in critical recording environments.

Full HD Performance Under Pressure

Professional videographers still rely on Full HD video for interviews, educational content, and live events. With UHS-II speed classes, Digiera ensures even extended periods of recording remain smooth and free from corruption.

Final Thoughts

If you're producing 4K video, cinematic productions, or high bitrate content, a UHS-II SD card isn't optional—it's essential. The LSU200 provides V90-certified performance for top-tier productions, while the LSU100 offers pro-level reliability with greater storage space for long-form workflows.

Whichever you choose, you benefit from:

• Industry-leading read and write speeds

• Stable real time video recording at professional frame rates

• Full UHS-I backward compatibility

• Durable, weather-resistant builds tested for reliability

Choose Digiera—and never miss a frame.