Best SD Cards For Nikon Z8
Expert recommendations based on Nikon D850 specifications
Recommended SD Card
XQD + SD UHS-II (V30 (SD), V60 recommended or faster)
Nikon's professional full-frame DSLR workhorse, featuring a high-resolution 45MP sensor and 4K video recording.
Official Nikon D850 SD Card Requirements
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Format: XQD + SD UHS-II
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Minimum Speed: V30 (SD), V60 recommended (30 MB/s minimum, 60 MB/s recommended write)
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Maximum Capacity: Up to No official limit
Why these requirements? Nikon's professional full-frame DSLR workhorse, featuring a high-resolution 45MP sensor and 4K video recording. V30 SD cards handle standard recording, but V60 is recommended for consistent 4K video performance and sustained 9fps RAW bursts. Its primary slot supports XQD cards for maximum performance in demanding professional scenarios.
Detailed Specifications
Type
XQD + SD UHS-II
Min Speed Class
V30 (SD), V60 recommended
Write Speed
30 MB/s minimum, 60 MB/s recommended
Recommended Size
64GB, 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 |
|
$$ Check Price |
Lexar Professional 1667x Silver SD (Legacy ID)
|
V60 | Up to 120 MB/s |
|
$ Check Price |
Nikon XQD Memory Card
|
EB-Stream | Up to 400 MB/s |
|
$$ 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 Nikon D850?
The Nikon D850 requires a XQD + SD UHS-II card with V30 (SD), V60 recommended 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 Nikon D850 still relevant in 2024?
Absolutely, the Nikon D850 remains one of the best and most versatile all-around cameras ever made. It continues to deliver exceptional image quality, impressive battery life, and excellent ergonomics. Many professionals still prefer its robust build and reliable handling over newer mirrorless cameras, making it a highly valued workhorse.
Do I need XQD cards, or are SD cards enough for the D850?
While SD cards in the second slot work perfectly fine for most users, XQD cards in the primary slot (Slot 1) provide significantly faster write speeds crucial for sports photography and extended high-speed burst shooting. For general photography and casual video recording, a V60 SD card in both slots is perfectly adequate. XQD is for pushing the camera to its limits.
Can I use CFexpress cards in the XQD slot of the D850?
No, the D850's XQD slot is specifically designed for XQD cards and is not compatible with CFexpress cards. Although CFexpress Type B cards share a similar physical form factor with XQD, they require specific firmware support that the D850 does not possess. Only genuine XQD cards will function in that slot.
Is V30 required for Nikon D850?
Yes, V30 is recommended for Nikon D850. It guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 30 MB/s minimum, 60 MB/s recommended, which is necessary for stable professional recording without dropped frames or errors.
What storage capacity should I get for Nikon D850?
We recommend 64GB or 128GB or 256GB cards. A 64GB 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 Nikon D850?
Not recommended. Cards slower than V30 (SD), V60 recommended may cause dropped frames, corrupted files, or recording failures. Always use V30 (SD), V60 recommended minimum for reliability.
Do I need a UHS card for Nikon D850?
UHS cards are recommended for best performance with Nikon D850. 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 Nikon D850?
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 Nikon D850?
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 Nikon D850?
Using cards slower than V30 (SD), V60 recommended can cause: dropped frames during recording, corrupted files, or complete recording failure. Stick to V30 (SD), V60 recommended minimum to avoid data loss.
How long will an SD card last with Nikon D850?
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.