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The best microSD cards you can buy for extra space and security
It's easy for all of our digital content to build up over the years. But our devices only offer a limited capacity to store our files and data. So, what do you do when you have files you need to store but no more space on your device?
A microSD card could be the answer. These tiny cards help with transferring and storing files, and provide a safe, secure place for your files to live -- off of your other devices' internal storage. But not all microSD cards are created the same, which is why it's key to find the best microSD card to trust with your files that also fits your needs.
Also: The best external hard drives
ZDNET rounded up the best microSD cards based on storage capacity, price, and transfer speed to ensure you can find a viable microSD option for you. Our top pick is Samsung's Evo Plus microsSD card for its reliable performance, quick speeds, and durability. See more of our other microSD picks for gaming, larger storage needs, and more below.
The best microSD cards of 2023
- Great read and write speeds
- Fast transfers
- 4-year warranty
- Low speed grade
Samsung Evo Plus microSD card Tech specs: Read speed: 100MB/s | Write speed: 60 MB/s | SD Class: 10 | Capacity: 64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB
The Samsung Evo Plus microSD card is the overall best microSD card, thanks to its reliable performance and tough, durable build. This is a well-protected microSD card with four-proof protection; it is waterproof and can stand up to varying temperatures with both an X-ray and magnet-proof design. It is a reasonably priced card which offers quick read and write speeds with 4K UHD support for all of your important videos and files.
- Ultra fast
- Affordable
- Reliable performance
- Smaller than the Pro
- Best for smaller devices
Lexar Professional 1066x microSDXC card Tech specs: Read speed: 160MB/s | Write speed: 120 MB/s |
SD Class: A2| Capacity: 64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB
The Lexar Professional 1066x microSDXC card is perfect for video storage. With UHS-I technology, transfers are super fast -- one of the fastest on our list -- with support for Full HD and 4K UHD content. This card is compatible with a series of devices, including your smartphone, tablet, and camera, as well as drones and other action cameras. It is water-, shock-, vibration-, and X-ray-proof, for a reliable build that you can take with you on the go.
- Fantastic compatibility
- Long warranty
- IPX7 rating
- Limited capacities
- Not as fast as other microSD cards
Samsung EVO Select microSD memory card Tech specs: Read speed: Up to 100MB/s | Write speed: 90 MB/s | SD Class: 10 | Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB
The Samsung EVO Select MicroSD Memory card also supports 4K UHD content. Another class 10 card, it comes with a full-size SD adapter so you can begin saving right away. Benefit from both SD and microSD compatibility for greater flexibility. The Samsung EVO is fast, too. You have the ability to transfer a 3GB video in 38 seconds and it is equipped to store up to 20 hours of full HD video or 37,600 photos.
- Reliable performance
- Super affordable
- IP55-rated
- Slower speeds
Sandisk Extreme SSD V2 Tech specs: Read speed: Up to 90MB/s | Write speed: 40 MB/s | SD Class: 10 | Capacity: 500 GB, 1 TB, 2 TB, 4 TB
The Sandisk Extreme SSD V2 comes in very high capacities, with as much as 4TB of storage. Transfer speeds are slower than the other options on our list, but this cards' large storage range helps make up for it. It is twice as fast as its previous model, using NVMe™ solid state technology to store and transfer your files. The portable design brings extra peace of mind with a build that is both IP55 water and dust resistant and can withstand a two-meter drop.
- Large capacity
- Waterproof
- X-ray-proof
- Not compatible with all devices
- Pricier than the SanDisk Extreme
Sandisk Extreme Pro microSDXC card Tech specs: Read speed: Up to 200MB/s | Write speed: 140 MB/s | SD Class: 3 | Capacity: 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB
The Sandisk Extreme Pro MicroSDXC card has the fastest speeds of all the microSD cards ZDNET rounded up. While this card can be utilized for traditional storage, it is also an excellent fit for those looking to use a microSD card in their smartphones, as it is equipped with an A2 rating. Sandisk QuickFlow Technology means 4K UHD video recording and full HD video, plus delivery of those photos in high resolution.
- Largest capacity
- Fast read speed
- Reliable
- Expensive
Sandisk Extreme Plus 1TB microSDXC memory card Tech specs: Read speed: Up to 200MB/s | Write speed: 90 MB/s | SD Class: 10 | Capacity: 1 TB
If you're looking for a reliable high-storage microSD card, the Sandisk Extreme Plus offers 1TB of storage capacity -- an absolute monster amount for the average person. With a video speed class rating of 30 and UHS support, the Sandisk Extreme Plus captures high-quality 4k UHD and Full HD video and allows for high-speed transfers.
- Fun design
- Multiple storage options
- Easy to add to Nintendo Switch
- Lacks versatility
- A slight gimmick
Sandisk microSDXC memory card for Nintendo Switch Tech specs: Read speed: Up to 100MB/s | Write speed: 90 MB/s | SD Class: 10 | Capacity: 256GB, 400GB, 512GB
With incredible speed, this Sandisk microSDXC card designed for the Nintendo Switch console lets you add 256GB of space to your system. With read and write up speeds of up to 100MB/s and 90MB/s respectively, you can spend more time gaming. Plus, this microSD card is backed by a lifetime warranty, so don't worry about anything going awry.
What is the best microSD card?
The Samsung Evo Plus microSD card is affordable with reliable performance and tons of positive user reviews. Other options may have faster read and write speeds, but the user experience for this microSD card is fantastic. To see how it compares, these are the other best microSD cards you can buy:
| Best microSD card | Cost (Base capacity) | Read speed | Write speed |
| Samsung Evo Plus microSD card | $19 | 100 MB/s | 60 MB/s |
| Lexar Professional 1066x microSDXC card | $19 | 160 MB/s | 120 MB/s |
| Samsung EVO Select MicroSD card | $20 | 100 MB/s | 90 MB/s |
| SanDisk Extreme microSD card | $13 | 90 MB/s | 40 MB/s |
| SanDisk Extreme Pro MicroSDXC card | $25 | 170 MB/s | 90 MB/s |
| Sandisk Extreme Plus 1TB microSDXC card | $170 | 200 MB/s | 90 MB/s |
| Sandisk microSDXC microSD card for Nintendo Switch | $38 | 100 MB/s | 90 MB/s |
Which is the best microSD card for you?
While the Samsung Evo Plus microSD card is ZDNET's top pick, its best to consider your needs before making a selection.
| Chose this best microSD card ... | If you want ... |
| Samsung Evo Plus microSD card | Excellent value and performance |
| Lexar Professional 1066x microSDXC card | To store a lot of videos |
| Samsung EVO Select MicroSD card | A versatile microSD card at a great price |
| Sandisk Extreme microSD card | To store a ton of files affordably |
| Sandisk Extreme Pro MicroSDXC card | To use your phone for file transfers |
| Sandisk Extreme Plus 1TB microSDXC card | For maximum storage |
| Sandisk microSDXC microSD card for Nintendo Switch | For extra Nintendo Switch storage |
How did we choose these best microSD cards?
ZDNET considered several factors while researching and selecting the best microSD cards:
- Capacity: If you do have a lot of photos and videos, a smaller microSD card will not be enough to store all your items, so you would want to look for a larger microSD card, like one with 128 GB or even 1 TB if you need it.
- Speed: Most devices are compatible with a Class 10 or U1-rated card. However, if your device requires a lower speed class, shop for microSD cards that have a Class 2, 4, or 6 classification.
- Cost: The price of a microSD card is a major consideration because budgets can vary significantly. We look for microSD cards that suit a number of budgets, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
What is a microSD card?
A microSD card is designed to be used with smaller devices, such as your phone or camera. It is the smaller version of a standard SD card, offering space for your photos and videos in a more compact presentation.
How does a microSD card work?
A microSD card is simple and straightforward to use. It works with the SD card slot in your device when you use an adapter. microSD cards can also be used with video game systems, cameras, drones, and smartphones.
How much do the best microSD cards cost?
microSD cards are generally very affordable, and most range between $15-60 depending on the size and model that you choose. Larger microSD cards, such as 1TB models, can cost upwards of $100-plus or more.
Are there alternative microSD cards worth considering?
These microSD cards may be worth a second look.
Best microSD card for professionals
Samsung PRO Plus
A great alternative option for saving work files and data.
Best alternative microSD card for smartphones
Sandisk Ultra MicroSDHC
Perfect for expanding the storage of your smartphone.