Best SD Cards For Nikon Z8
Expert recommendations based on Nikon Z9 specifications
Recommended SD Card
CFexpress Type B and XQD (V90 or faster)
Professional flagship 8K camera.
Official Nikon Z9 SD Card Requirements
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Format: CFexpress Type B and XQD
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Minimum Speed: V90 (90 MB/s write)
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Maximum Capacity: Up to 512GB
Why these requirements? Professional flagship 8K camera. Requires CFexpress Type B for maximum performance or XQD as a legacy option. Dual card slots for backup and redundancy.
Detailed Specifications
Type
CFexpress Type B and XQD
Min Speed Class
V90
Write Speed
90 MB/s
Recommended Size
128GB, 256GB
Max Capacity
512GB
Top SD Card Recommendations
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| SD Card | Speed Class | Write Speed | Pros | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SanDisk Extreme PRO CFexpress Type B
|
VPG-400 | Up to 1400 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 Z9?
The Nikon Z9 requires a CFexpress Type B and XQD card with V90 speed rating for reliable performance. We recommend 256GB capacity as the sweet spot balancing storage capacity with affordability. The device supports up to 512GB, 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.
Do I need two cards?
Yes, the Nikon Z9 has dual card slots and using two cards is strongly recommended. Dual cards provide automatic backup recording and extended shooting capacity, critical for professional workflows where card failure cannot be tolerated.
Are CFexpress and XQD compatible?
No, CFexpress Type B and XQD cards are not compatible. The Nikon Z9 supports both formats but uses different card slots for each type, allowing you to choose either format for your specific workflow needs.
Is V90 required for Nikon Z9?
Yes, V90 is recommended for Nikon Z9. It guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 90 MB/s, which is necessary for stable professional recording without dropped frames or errors.
What storage capacity should I get for Nikon Z9?
We recommend 128GB or 256GB cards. A 128GB card is good for typical use, with 512GB as the maximum supported capacity. Larger sizes are useful if you shoot frequently and want to minimize card swaps.
Can I use older or slower cards with Nikon Z9?
Not recommended. Cards slower than V90 may cause dropped frames, corrupted files, or recording failures. Always use V90 minimum for reliability.
Should I use more than one card with Nikon Z9?
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 Z9?
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 Z9?
Using cards slower than V90 can cause: dropped frames during recording, corrupted files, or complete recording failure. Stick to V90 minimum to avoid data loss.
How long will an SD card last with Nikon Z9?
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.