Best SD Cards For Leica Q3
Expert recommendations based on Leica M11 specifications
Recommended SD Card
SD UHS-II (V60 or faster)
Leica's flagship digital rangefinder camera, featuring a high-resolution 60MP sensor.
Official Leica M11 SD Card Requirements
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Format: SD UHS-II
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Minimum Speed: V60 (60 MB/s write)
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Maximum Capacity: Up to No official limit
Why these requirements? Leica's flagship digital rangefinder camera, featuring a high-resolution 60MP sensor. A V60 speed class card is recommended to handle the large file sizes generated by its high-resolution stills and 4K video recording. The UHS-II slot provides fast buffer clearing and efficient data transfer.
Detailed Specifications
Type
SD UHS-II
Min Speed Class
V60
Write Speed
60 MB/s
Recommended Size
128GB, 256GB
Max Capacity
No official limit (512GB tested)
Top SD Card Recommendations
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| SD Card | Speed Class | Write Speed | Pros | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SanDisk Extreme PRO SD UHS-II
|
V90 | Up to 260 MB/s |
|
$$ Check Price |
Lexar Professional 1667x Silver SD (Legacy ID)
|
V60 | Up to 120 MB/s |
|
$ Check Price |
Featured Products on Amazon
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Kingston Canvas Go Plus 128GB microSD Card | Up to 200MB/s | Class 10, UHS-I, U3, V30, A2 | SDCG4/128GB
$19.99
View on Amazon
Kingston 128GB microSDXC Canvas Go Plus 170MB/s Read UHS-I, C10, U3, V30, A2/A1 Memory Card + Adapter (SDCG3/128GBCR)
$20.97
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Kingston 128GB Canvas Select Plus microSD Card | Up to 150MB/s | Class 10, UHS-I, U1, V10, A1 | SDCS3/128GB
$11.95
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Frequently Asked Questions
What SD Card Do I Need for Leica M11?
The Leica M11 requires a SD UHS-II card with V60 speed rating for reliable performance. We recommend 256GB capacity as the sweet spot balancing storage capacity with affordability. The device supports up to No official limit, though most users find 256GB sufficient for daily use. Always choose from trusted brands like SanDisk, Lexar, or Kingston to ensure consistent performance and avoid data loss.
Is the Leica M11 worth its considerable price tag?
For Leica purists, professional street photographers, and those who value exceptional craftsmanship and a unique shooting experience, the M11 is often considered worth the investment. It represents the pinnacle of modern digital rangefinder photography, delivering outstanding image quality and a distinctive tactile feel.
Is V60 required for Leica M11?
Yes, V60 is recommended for Leica M11. It guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 60 MB/s, which is necessary for stable professional recording without dropped frames or errors.
What storage capacity should I get for Leica M11?
We recommend 128GB or 256GB cards. A 128GB card is good for typical use, with No official limit as the maximum supported capacity (512GB tested and verified working). Larger sizes are useful if you shoot frequently and want to minimize card swaps.
Can I use older or slower cards with Leica M11?
Not recommended. Cards slower than V60 may cause dropped frames, corrupted files, or recording failures. Always use V60 minimum for reliability.
Do I need a UHS card for Leica M11?
UHS cards are recommended for best performance with Leica M11. Non-UHS cards will work but may have slower transfer speeds. For this device, UHS-II is optimal.
Should I use more than one card with Leica M11?
For professional use or extended shooting sessions, dual cards provide redundancy and backup. Using multiple cards ensures you won't lose footage if one card fails. This is especially important for valuable recordings.
Does the brand matter for Leica M11?
Yes, trusted brands like SanDisk, Lexar, and Kingston are recommended. Quality brands have better reliability and warranty support. Avoid unknown brands, especially for demanding devices.
What happens if I use the wrong card with Leica M11?
Using cards slower than V60 can cause: dropped frames during recording, corrupted files, or complete recording failure. Stick to V60 minimum to avoid data loss.
How long will an SD card last with Leica M11?
Quality SD cards typically last 3-5 years with normal use. Replace your card if you experience read/write errors, corrupted files, or if it's been dropped or exposed to extreme conditions.