So, you’ve got yourself a Yi 4K action camera – awesome choice! It’s a fantastic little device capable of capturing stunning 4K footage, but to truly unlock its potential, you need the right sidekick: a high-quality microSD card. Skimping on this crucial accessory can lead to dropped frames, corrupted files, and a whole lot of frustration. Nobody wants that, right?
Choosing the best SD card for Yi 4K action camera isn’t just about picking the biggest capacity; it’s about speed, reliability, and durability. Your Yi 4K spits out a lot of data when recording in high resolution, so you need a card that can keep up without breaking a sweat. In this guide, we’ll dive into what makes a great action camera memory card and review five top contenders that will pair perfectly with your Yi 4K.
Why the Right SD Card Matters for Your Yi 4K
Think of your microSD card as the hard drive for your action camera. When you hit record, the camera is constantly writing video data to the card. If the card isn’t fast enough, it simply can’t handle the influx of information, leading to stuttering video, dropped frames, or even recording failures. For 4K video, you’ll specifically want cards with a high write speed, typically indicated by a “U3” or “V30” rating. These ensure the sustained write speeds needed for smooth, uninterrupted 4K footage.
Investing in the best SD card for Yi 4K action camera also means better peace of mind. Durable cards can withstand the bumps, splashes, and temperature changes that come with action camera adventures. Let’s explore some top picks that offer the performance and reliability you need.
TEAMGROUP GO Card 256GB Micro SDXC UHS-I U3 V30 4K
The TEAMGROUP GO Card is a fantastic all-rounder for your Yi 4K, built to perform reliably even when you’re pushing your action camera to its limits. This card is engineered with both speed and resilience in mind, ensuring your precious 4K footage is captured smoothly and stays safe, no matter where your adventures take you. It’s an eco-friendly option too, which is a nice bonus!
- Outstanding Preserve & Transfer Performance: Read/write speeds up to 100MB/s and 50MB/s respectively.
- Built for Extreme Environments: Designed to last, offering 4 trustworthy protections.
- Robust Protections: Waterproof, dustproof, X-ray proof, and cold resistant.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Adopts new printing technology for a greener product.
Pros:
– Excellent write speed (50MB/s) for smooth 4K video recording.
– Highly durable with multiple layers of protection.
– Good read speed for quick file transfers.
– Environmentally conscious manufacturing process.
Cons:
– Not the absolute fastest read speed compared to some premium competitors.
– Brand might be less familiar to some users than bigger names.
User Impressions: Users generally praise this card for its consistent performance and surprising durability, especially given its competitive price point. It holds up well in various conditions, and the speeds are more than adequate for 4K action camera use, making it a reliable choice for adventurers.
SanDisk 256GB Extreme microSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter
SanDisk is a household name in memory solutions, and their Extreme series is practically synonymous with high performance, especially for demanding applications like 4K action cameras. This 256GB card is a powerhouse, offering blazing-fast speeds thanks to SanDisk’s QuickFlow Technology, making it an excellent choice for anyone serious about their Yi 4K video quality and workflow.
- Blazing Fast Offload Speeds: Up to 190MB/s read speeds powered by SanDisk QuickFlow Technology.
- High Write Speeds for Fast Shooting: Up to 130MB/s write speeds, ideal for burst mode photos and 4K/5K UHD video.
- 4K and 5K UHD-Ready: Features UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) for sustained video recording.
- A2-Rated Performance: Designed for faster loading of apps and enhanced in-app performance.
- Broad Compatibility: Works with microSDHC, microSDXC, UHS-I supporting host devices.
Pros:
– Exceptionally high read and write speeds, significantly reducing transfer times.
– U3 and V30 ratings guarantee excellent 4K/5K video recording capabilities.
– A2 rating enhances overall user experience, though less critical for action cameras.
– Renowned SanDisk reliability and brand trust.
Cons:
– Premium price tag compared to some other options.
– Max speeds require compatible devices (e.g., SanDisk Professional PRO-READER).
User Impressions: This card consistently receives rave reviews for its speed and reliability. Users report smooth 4K recording, quick transfers to computers, and robust performance even in challenging conditions. It’s often considered a go-to choice for high-end action cameras.
GIGASTONE 64GB Micro SD Card 2-Pack, 4K UHD Video
If you’re looking for value and don’t necessarily need the absolute highest capacity, the GIGASTONE 64GB Micro SD Card 2-Pack is a fantastic option. Getting two cards means you can always have a spare, or easily swap out cards during longer shooting sessions. While the speeds aren’t the absolute fastest on this list, they’re perfectly adequate for recording Full HD and even most 4K UHD video on your Yi 4K, especially for casual users.
- Full HD/4K UHD Video Support: Read/Write up to 90/30 MB/s, great for high-resolution video and images.
- Memory Secured: Comes with an SD adapter and a mini case for protection and convenience.
- Wide Compatibility: Works with various devices including laptops, tablets, smartphones, and action cameras.
- Environmental Protection: Waterproof, shockproof, temperature-proof, and X-Ray proof.
- 5-Year Limited Warranty: Provides peace of mind.
Pros:
– Excellent value with a 2-pack, offering a spare or extended storage.
– Good enough write speed (30MB/s) for 4K UHD video (V30 equivalent).
– Includes useful accessories like an SD adapter and mini case.
– Durable against common environmental hazards.
Cons:
– 64GB might fill up quickly if you’re shooting a lot of 4K footage.
– Write speed, while good, isn’t as high as the premium cards on this list.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate the affordability and the convenience of getting two cards. They find them reliable for everyday use and report no issues with 4K recording, especially for shorter clips. The included case and adapter are also frequently highlighted as useful extras.
AKASO 128GB microSDXC U3 Memory Card with Adapter
While AKASO is primarily known for its action cameras, their memory card offering is a solid choice that pairs well with many U3-compatible cameras, including your Yi 4K. This 128GB card provides a good balance of storage and performance, ensuring you have ample space for your adventures and the speed needed to capture detailed 4K footage without a hitch. It’s a no-fuss, reliable option for everyday action camera use.
- U3 Speed Class: Guarantees sustained write speeds suitable for 4K video recording.
- 128GB Capacity: Ample space for hours of high-resolution video and thousands of photos.
- Includes SD Adapter: For easy transfer to computers and compatibility with other devices.
- Designed for Action Cameras: Engineered to meet the demands of high-speed video capture.
Pros:
– Sufficient capacity for most users’ 4K recording needs.
– U3 rating ensures reliable 4K video performance.
– Good value for a 128GB U3 card.
– Comes with an SD adapter for versatility.
Cons:
– Specific read/write speeds aren’t explicitly listed, making direct comparison harder.
– Less emphasis on extreme durability features compared to some competitors.
User Impressions: Users report this AKASO card works well with a variety of action cameras, delivering consistent 4K recording without errors. It’s seen as a dependable, budget-friendly option that gets the job done for most casual and enthusiastic users alike.
SanDisk 128GB High Endurance Video MicroSDXC Card with Adapter
If your primary concern is recording for extended periods, perhaps as a dash cam or for continuous monitoring, the SanDisk High Endurance card is your go-to. While your Yi 4K is an action camera, this card’s design for longevity translates directly to reliability for any extended recording session. It’s built to withstand constant overwriting cycles and harsh conditions, making it incredibly durable for your Yi 4K adventures.
- Designed for High Endurance: Record for up to 10,000 hours with peace of mind (for 128GB capacity).
- Extreme Durability: Tested in harsh conditions; temperature proof, waterproof, shock proof, humidity proof, and magnet proof.
- Record More Full HD or 4K Videos: Ample capacity for extensive footage.
- Includes SD Adapter: For easy transfer and compatibility.
Pros:
– Unmatched durability and longevity, ideal for continuous recording.
– Built to withstand extreme environmental conditions.
– Reliable performance for both Full HD and 4K video.
– SanDisk’s trusted brand quality.
Cons:
– Read/write speeds are optimized for endurance rather than peak performance, so might not be as fast for burst photos or quick offloads as the ‘Extreme’ line.
– May be overkill if you only record short clips occasionally.
User Impressions: This card is highly praised by users who need a memory card that just keeps on working. They report it holding up exceptionally well in dash cams and security cameras, and these characteristics translate perfectly to a reliable, long-lasting best SD card for Yi 4K action camera for those who push their gear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What SD card speed class do I need for my Yi 4K action camera?
A1: For optimal 4K recording with your Yi 4K, you’ll want a card with a UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) or Video Speed Class 30 (V30) rating. These classifications guarantee a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s, which is crucial for smooth 4K video capture without dropped frames.
Q2: What capacity should I choose for my Yi 4K action camera?
A2: The ideal capacity depends on how much 4K footage you plan to record. For casual use, a 64GB card might suffice. However, for extended shooting sessions or if you don’t want to offload footage frequently, 128GB or 256GB is highly recommended. 4K video files are very large!
Q3: Is there a maximum SD card size the Yi 4K can handle?
A3: The Yi 4K action camera officially supports microSD cards up to 128GB. While some users report success with 256GB cards, sticking to the officially supported 128GB ensures optimal compatibility and stability.
Q4: What’s the difference between UHS-I and UHS-II? Does my Yi 4K need UHS-II?
A4: UHS-I and UHS-II refer to different interface speeds. UHS-II cards are much faster but also more expensive. The Yi 4K only supports the UHS-I interface, meaning it won’t be able to take full advantage of the higher speeds offered by UHS-II cards. A good UHS-I (U3/V30) card is all you need for your Yi 4K.
Q5: What does “A2” rating mean on an SD card? Is it important for action cameras?
A5: The A2 (App Performance Class 2) rating indicates that a card is optimized for faster loading and running of applications on Android devices. While it’s a good indicator of overall card performance, it’s not strictly necessary for an action camera like the Yi 4K, as its primary function is continuous video recording, not running apps.
Q6: My Yi 4K footage is choppy or stops recording. Is it my SD card?
A6: Most likely, yes! Choppy footage, dropped frames, or unexpected recording stops are common symptoms of using an SD card that’s too slow for 4K video. Ensure your card is a U3 or V30 rated microSDXC card. Also, make sure to format the card within the camera periodically.
Q7: How do I format my SD card for the Yi 4K?
A7: It’s always best to format your SD card using the camera itself. Insert the card, go into the camera’s settings menu, and look for a “Format SD Card” or similar option. This ensures the card is correctly configured for your Yi 4K’s file system.
Choosing the best SD card for Yi 4K action camera is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your recording setup. It directly impacts the quality and reliability of your footage. By opting for a U3/V30 rated card from a reputable brand like those reviewed above, you’re setting yourself up for successful, frustration-free 4K video capture. Happy shooting!
