Sandisk Micro Sd Card Hc Vs Xc: Whats The Difference?
What To Know
- To help you better understand the differences between Sandisk micro SD HC and XC cards, here’s a table summarizing their key specifications.
- When selecting a Sandisk micro SD card, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the right one for your device and usage.
- However, if you plan to record and store high-resolution videos or large files, an XC card is a better choice.
Sandisk micro SD cards are widely used in various electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, cameras, and drones. With the increasing demand for high-resolution photos, videos, and apps, choosing the right memory card is crucial to ensure optimal performance and storage capacity. This comprehensive guide compares Sandisk’s HC (High Capacity) and XC (eXtended Capacity) micro SD cards, providing insights into their key differences and helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.
Understanding Sandisk Micro SD Card Types
Sandisk micro SD cards come in two primary types: HC (High Capacity) and XC (eXtended Capacity). These types differ in terms of their storage capacity and compatibility with different devices.
Sandisk Micro SD HC Cards
Sandisk micro SD HC cards offer storage capacities ranging from 4GB to 32GB. They are designed for standard-definition (SD) and high-definition (HD) video recording, as well as storing photos, music, and other files. HC cards are compatible with devices that support the SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) standard.
Sandisk Micro SD XC Cards
Sandisk micro SD XC cards provide significantly higher storage capacities, ranging from 64GB to 1TB. These cards are suitable for recording and storing 4K Ultra HD videos, high-resolution photos, and large files. XC cards require devices that support the SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) standard.
Key Differences Between Sandisk Micro SD HC and XC Cards
To help you better understand the differences between Sandisk micro SD HC and XC cards, here’s a table summarizing their key specifications:
| Feature | Sandisk Micro SD HC | Sandisk Micro SD XC |
| — | — | — |
| Storage Capacity | 4GB to 32GB | 64GB to 1TB |
| Compatibility | Devices that support SDHC standard | Devices that support SDXC standard |
| File System | FAT32 | exFAT |
| Maximum File Size | 4GB | 32GB |
| Suitable for | Standard-definition (SD) and high-definition (HD) video recording, photos, music, and other files | 4K Ultra HD video recording, high-resolution photos, and large files |
Choosing the Right Sandisk Micro SD Card for Your Needs
When selecting a Sandisk micro SD card, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the right one for your device and usage:
Storage Capacity
Determine the storage capacity you need based on the type and quantity of files you intend to store. If you primarily use your device for basic tasks like storing photos, music, and documents, an HC card may suffice. However, if you plan to record and store high-resolution videos or large files, an XC card is a better choice.
Compatibility
Ensure that your device supports the type of micro SD card you choose. Check the device’s specifications or consult the manufacturer to confirm compatibility.
File System
HC cards use the FAT32 file system, which has a maximum file size limit of 4GB. XC cards use the exFAT file system, which supports files larger than 4GB. Consider the file system compatibility of your device before making a decision.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Sandisk Micro SD HC and XC Cards
Sandisk Micro SD HC Cards:
Advantages:
- Affordable: HC cards are generally more affordable than XC cards.
- Widely compatible: HC cards are compatible with a wide range of devices.
- Suitable for basic storage needs: HC cards are ideal for storing photos, music, and documents.
Disadvantages:
- Limited storage capacity: HC cards have a maximum storage capacity of 32GB, which may not be sufficient for high-resolution videos and large files.
- Not suitable for 4K Ultra HD video recording: HC cards cannot support the high data transfer rates required for 4K Ultra HD video recording.
Sandisk Micro SD XC Cards:
Advantages:
- High storage capacity: XC cards offer significantly higher storage capacities, up to 1TB, allowing you to store large files and high-resolution videos.
- Suitable for 4K Ultra HD video recording: XC cards support the high data transfer rates required for 4K Ultra HD video recording.
- Future-proof: XC cards are compatible with the latest devices and technologies.
Disadvantages:
- More expensive: XC cards are generally more expensive than HC cards.
- Not as widely compatible: XC cards may not be compatible with older devices that do not support the SDXC standard.
- Requires exFAT file system: XC cards use the exFAT file system, which may not be compatible with all devices.
Sandisk Micro SD HC vs XC: Which One Should You Choose?
Ultimately, the choice between a Sandisk micro SD HC and XC card depends on your specific needs and usage. If you need a basic storage solution for photos, music, and documents, an HC card is a cost-effective option. However, if you plan to store high-resolution videos, large files, or use your device for 4K Ultra HD video recording, an XC card is the better choice despite its higher cost.
Beyond HC and XC: Sandisk’s Latest Memory Card Technologies
In addition to HC and XC cards, Sandisk offers a range of advanced memory card technologies that provide even higher storage capacities and performance. These include:
Sandisk Ultra microSDXC UHS-I Cards:
These cards offer read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s, making them ideal for capturing high-quality photos and videos.
Sandisk Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Cards:
These cards provide even faster read and write speeds, up to 160MB/s and 90MB/s respectively, making them suitable for professional photographers and videographers.
Sandisk Extreme Pro microSDXC UHS-II Cards:
These cards offer the highest performance with read speeds of up to 300MB/s and write speeds of up to 260MB/s, enabling seamless 4K Ultra HD video recording and playback.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. What is the difference between Sandisk micro SD HC and XC cards?
Sandisk micro SD HC cards have storage capacities ranging from 4GB to 32GB and are compatible with devices that support the SDHC standard. Sandisk micro SD XC cards offer higher storage capacities, ranging from 64GB to 1TB, and require devices that support the SDXC standard.
2. Which type of Sandisk micro SD card should I choose?
The choice between an HC and XC card depends on your storage needs and device compatibility. HC cards are suitable for basic storage needs, while XC cards are ideal for storing high-resolution videos, large files, and using your device for 4K Ultra HD video recording.
3. Can I use an XC card in a device that supports HC cards?
No, XC cards are not backward compatible with devices that only support HC cards. You need a device that specifically supports the SDXC standard to use an XC card.
