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Sony a6400 SD card requirements

Best SD Card for Sony a6400

Expert recommendations based on Sony a6400 specifications

Recommended SD Card

SD UHS-I (V30 or faster)

The a6400 shoots high-bitrate 4K video (XAVC S).

Official Sony a6400 SD Card Requirements

  • Format: SD UHS-I
  • Minimum Speed: V30 (30 MB/s write)
  • Maximum Capacity: Up to No official limit (512GB+ tested)
Why these requirements? The a6400 shoots high-bitrate 4K video (XAVC S). To record at the highest quality (100Mbps), Sony requires a U3/V30 speed class card to prevent recording from stopping unexpectedly.

Detailed Specifications

Type
SD UHS-I
Min Speed Class
V30
Write Speed
30 MB/s
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-I V30 SD card - 100USD
SanDisk Extreme PRO SD UHS-I
V30 Up to 140 MB/s
  • Fastest UHS-I card available.
$$ Check Price
Lexar Professional 1667x Silver SD (Legacy ID) V60 SD card - 45USD
Lexar Professional 1667x Silver SD (Legacy ID)
V60 Up to 120 MB/s
  • Cheapest entry into UHS-II.
$ Check Price

Frequently Asked Questions

What SD Card Do I Need for Sony a6400?
The Sony a6400 requires a SD UHS-I card with V30 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 (512GB+ tested), 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 a V30 card really necessary for the a6400?
Yes, for 4K video. If you plan to shoot in the highest quality 4K XAVC S format, the camera will refuse to record unless a U3/V30 card is inserted. For photos only, a slower card will work, but a V30 card is essential for video shooters.
Is V30 required for Sony a6400?
Yes, V30 is recommended for Sony a6400. It guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 30 MB/s, which is necessary for stable recording without dropped frames or errors.
What storage capacity should I get for Sony a6400?
We recommend 64GB or 128GB or 256GB cards. A 64GB card is good for typical use, with No official limit (512GB+ tested) 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 Sony a6400?
Not recommended. Cards slower than V30 may cause dropped frames, corrupted files, or recording failures. Always use V30 minimum for reliability.
Do I need a UHS card for Sony a6400?
UHS cards are recommended for best performance with Sony a6400. Non-UHS cards will work but may have slower transfer speeds. For this device, UHS-II is optimal.
Does the brand matter for Sony a6400?
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 Sony a6400?
Using cards slower than V30 can cause: dropped frames during recording, corrupted files, or complete recording failure. Stick to V30 minimum to avoid data loss.
How long will an SD card last with Sony a6400?
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.

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