Tools · Video
Memory card calculator for video.
Choose how you are going to record and we will tell you how many GB each hour takes, what minimum speed the card needs (V30, V60, V90 or CFexpress) and which one to buy from our catalog, with a direct link to the product page.
How much an hour of video takes (reference)
| Format | Bitrate | MB/s | GB per hour |
|---|---|---|---|
| H.265 · 4K 30p | 100 Mbps | 12.5 | 45 |
| H.265 · 4K 60p | 200 Mbps | 25 | 90 |
| All-Intra · 4K 30p | 300 Mbps | 37.5 | 135 |
| All-Intra · 4K 60p | 600 Mbps | 75 | 270 |
| ProRes 422 HQ · 4K 30p | ≈ 880 Mbps | ≈ 110 | ≈ 396 |
| Blackmagic RAW 3:1 · 4K DCI 24p | ≈ 850 Mbps | ≈ 106 | ≈ 382 |
Reference values. The real bitrate depends on the camera and the mode; consult your equipment manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does 1 hour of 4K video take?
It depends on the codec and the bitrate, not just the resolution. With H.265 at 100 Mbps it is about 45 GB per hour; in All-Intra at 300 Mbps, about 135 GB; and in All-Intra 4K 60p at 600 Mbps, about 270 GB.
What do V30, V60 and V90 mean?
They are the video speed classes of the SD Association and indicate the minimum sustained write speed: V30 guarantees 30 MB/s, V60 guarantees 60 MB/s and V90 guarantees 90 MB/s.
Do I need a UHS-II slot for a V60 or V90 card?
Yes. V60 and V90 require a UHS-II SD slot. In a UHS-I slot the camera only takes advantage of the performance of that bus, which in practice is equivalent to V30.
When do I need CFexpress instead of SD?
When the bitrate exceeds 90 MB/s sustained (high-quality ProRes, high-resolution RAW) or when the camera requires it for a specific mode. UHS-II SD cards have their sustained write ceiling at V90.
Why do you recommend one step above the minimum?
The real bitrate has peaks and cards lose some performance with use. That margin prevents recording stops and lost frames.