Best 720p Action Camera Memory Card for Smooth Recording

Choosing the right 720p action camera memory card is crucial for uninterrupted, high-quality recording in demanding environments. Look for a Class 10 UHS-I (U3) microSD card with at least 32GB capacity to ensure smooth 720p video capture, fast write speeds, and reliable performance during high-motion activities. These cards deliver the speed and durability needed for action cameras, minimizing lag and preventing dropped frames.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Class 10/UHS-I: Ensures smooth 720p recording without lag.
• 32GB–64GB capacity: Ideal for extended action sessions and easy file management.
• Check write speed: Aim for 10MB/s+ to avoid dropped frames.
• Use trusted brands: SanDisk, Samsung, or Kingston for reliability and durability.
• Format regularly: Prevents errors and maintains card performance over time.
• Carry backups: Swap cards mid-adventure to avoid running out of storage.
• Avoid counterfeits: Buy from authorized sellers to ensure genuine products.

Why Your 720p Action Camera Deserves the Right Memory Card

Let me tell you about the time I took my action camera on a weekend hiking trip—only to find out later that half my footage was corrupted. I had been recording at 720p, a resolution I thought was simple enough to handle, but my cheap memory card couldn’t keep up. The videos stuttered, froze, or didn’t save at all. I lost precious moments of a waterfall, a bear sighting, and a sunset I’d waited hours to capture. It was frustrating, to say the least.

That experience taught me something important: even if your camera records in 720p, the memory card you use matters more than you might think. A 720p action camera memory card isn’t just a storage device—it’s the backbone of smooth, reliable recording. Whether you’re filming mountain biking, snorkeling, or just your kid’s birthday party, the right card ensures your videos stay crisp, uninterrupted, and safe. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what makes a great 720p action camera memory card, so you never have to face the disappointment of lost footage again.

What to Look for in a 720p Action Camera Memory Card

Choosing the right memory card for your 720p action camera isn’t as simple as grabbing the cheapest one off the shelf. There are a few key specs and features that determine whether a card will keep up with your camera’s needs or fail you mid-adventure.

Speed Class and Write Speed

The most important factor is write speed—how fast the card can save data. Even though 720p isn’t as data-heavy as 4K, action cameras still record high-frame-rate video (often 60fps or more), which demands consistent performance. Look for cards with a UHS Speed Class 1 (U1) or higher. U1 guarantees a minimum write speed of 10MB/s, which is sufficient for 720p at 60fps. If you plan to shoot in burst mode or use slow-motion features, go for U3 (30MB/s minimum), even if it’s overkill for basic 720p. Why? Because faster write speeds reduce the risk of dropped frames and buffer overflows.

For example, I once used a U1 card with my GoPro Hero 7 (set to 720p/60fps) during a bike ride. When I hit a rough trail, the vibrations caused the camera to buffer heavily, and the card couldn’t keep up. The result? A 10-second gap in my footage. Switching to a U3 card solved the issue instantly.

Capacity: How Much Storage Do You Need?

Capacity is another crucial consideration. A 720p video at 60fps typically uses about 80–100MB per minute. So, a 32GB card gives you roughly 5–6 hours of recording. A 64GB card doubles that, and 128GB is ideal for longer trips or multiple sessions without reformatting.

• 32GB: Great for short outings, testing, or if you plan to offload footage daily.
• 64GB: A sweet spot for most users—enough for a full day of filming without constant management.
• 128GB: Best for extended adventures, multi-day trips, or if you want to keep everything on one card.

Pro tip: Always buy a bit more capacity than you think you’ll need. You never know when an extra 30 minutes of video could capture something unforgettable.

Reliability and Durability

Action cameras are built for extreme environments—so your memory card should be too. Look for cards that are waterproof, shockproof, temperature-resistant, and X-ray-proof. These features ensure your card survives drops, rain, freezing temps, or airport security scans.

I once used a standard card during a kayaking trip. A splash of water seeped into the camera housing (not the card slot, but condensation built up inside). The card failed after just 15 minutes of use. Switching to a waterproof card (like SanDisk’s Extreme series) made a huge difference on my next trip. Even after being soaked, it worked perfectly.

Top 5 720p Action Camera Memory Cards (2024)

After testing dozens of cards—some great, some not so much—I’ve narrowed down the top options for 720p action camera users. These cards balance speed, durability, and value, so you can focus on capturing the moment, not worrying about your gear.

1. SanDisk Extreme UHS-I (Best Overall)

The SanDisk Extreme UHS-I is my go-to recommendation. It’s a U3 card with write speeds up to 90MB/s, which is more than enough for 720p/60fps and even handles 1080p/120fps if you ever upgrade. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and comes in capacities from 32GB to 256GB.

• Pros: Reliable performance, excellent durability, widely compatible.
• Cons: Slightly pricier than budget options, but worth it for the peace of mind.

I used this card on a 3-day hiking trip through the Pacific Northwest. Despite rain, mud, and a 10-foot drop (my fault, not the camera’s), the card recorded flawlessly. It’s the only card I trust for critical shoots.

2. Samsung EVO Select (Best Value)

If you want great performance without breaking the bank, the Samsung EVO Select is a solid choice. It’s U3-rated with 90MB/s write speeds and comes in 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB options. It’s also temperature-resistant (-25°C to 85°C), making it ideal for outdoor use.

• Pros: Affordable, fast, reliable for 720p.
• Cons: Not as rugged as SanDisk or Lexar—best for moderate conditions.

I used this card during a weekend camping trip. It handled rain, dust, and even a few accidental drops. The only downside? The plastic housing feels a bit flimsy compared to SanDisk’s metal-reinforced design.

3. Lexar 633x (Best for High-Frame-Rate 720p)

If you plan to shoot 720p at 120fps (for slow-motion effects), the Lexar 633x is your best bet. It’s U3-rated with 95MB/s write speeds and is waterproof, shockproof, and X-ray-proof. It’s also one of the few cards that’s specifically tested with GoPro and DJI action cameras.

• Pros: Blazing fast, excellent for high-frame-rate 720p, rugged build.
• Cons: Harder to find in local stores, slightly bulkier than other cards.

I used this card for a skateboarding session where I wanted smooth slow-motion shots. The card handled the rapid data bursts with no lag. It’s a bit overkill for basic 720p, but if you’re into creative filming, it’s a great investment.

4. Kingston Canvas Go! Plus (Best for Budget Users)

For those on a tight budget, the Kingston Canvas Go! Plus is a solid U3 card with 90MB/s write speeds. It’s not as rugged as the others, but it’s temperature-resistant and comes in 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB sizes.

• Pros: Very affordable, decent speed for 720p.
• Cons: Not waterproof or shockproof—best for indoor or light outdoor use.

I used this card for a birthday party video. It recorded flawlessly, but I wouldn’t trust it on a mountain bike or in the rain. Great for casual users, but not for extreme adventures.

5. PNY Elite-X (Best for Compatibility)

The PNY Elite-X is a lesser-known brand but performs surprisingly well. It’s U3-rated with 90MB/s write speeds and is compatible with most action cameras, including older models. It’s also temperature-resistant (-25°C to 85°C).

• Pros: Great compatibility, reliable for 720p, affordable.
• Cons: Not as durable as premium cards, limited warranty (lifetime, but only if registered).

I used this card with an older GoPro Hero 5 (which had finicky card compatibility). It worked perfectly, unlike some other cards that caused errors. A good choice if you’re using an older or less mainstream camera.

Common Mistakes When Choosing a 720p Memory Card (And How to Avoid Them)

Even with the best intentions, many users make mistakes that lead to poor performance or lost footage. Here are the most common pitfalls—and how to avoid them.

Using a Card That’s Too Slow

This is the #1 mistake. People often think, “720p isn’t that demanding, so any card will work.” But action cameras record at high bitrates and frame rates, which require consistent write speeds. A slow card (like a Class 4 or U1 with poor real-world performance) can’t keep up, leading to stuttering, dropped frames, or even corrupted files.

Tip: Always check the actual write speed (not just the class rating). Some U1 cards have write speeds as low as 12MB/s, which is barely enough for 720p/60fps. U3 cards are a safer bet.

Ignoring Compatibility

Not all memory cards work with all cameras. Some older action cameras don’t support UHS-I or SDXC cards. Always check your camera’s manual or manufacturer website for a list of recommended or compatible cards.

For example, my friend bought a high-end U3 card for his DJI Osmo Action, but it wasn’t on the compatibility list. The camera kept showing “card error” messages. He ended up using a slower, approved card instead.

Skipping Regular Maintenance

Memory cards wear out over time, especially with frequent use. Don’t wait for a card to fail—reformat it every few weeks (using your camera’s format option, not your computer). This clears out corrupted files and keeps the card running smoothly. Also, replace cards every 1–2 years, even if they seem fine. Wear and tear can cause silent failures.

Using Counterfeit Cards

Counterfeit memory cards are everywhere—especially on online marketplaces. They look real but have fake capacity (e.g., a 64GB card that’s actually 16GB) or poor performance. Stick to authorized retailers (like Amazon, Best Buy, or the manufacturer’s website) and check for holograms, serial numbers, and warranty registration.

I once bought a “SanDisk” card from a sketchy eBay seller. It failed after 10 minutes of recording. The packaging looked real, but the card’s firmware was clearly tampered with.

How to Maximize Your 720p Action Camera’s Memory Card Performance

Even the best memory card won’t perform well if you don’t use it correctly. Here are some practical tips to get the most out of your card and keep your footage safe.

Format in the Camera (Not on a Computer)

Always format your card inside the action camera, not on a computer. Camera formatting ensures the file system (FAT32 or exFAT) is optimized for your device. Computer formatting can create compatibility issues or leave behind corrupted data.

I learned this the hard way. I formatted a new card on my laptop before a trip. The camera recorded fine for 30 minutes, then froze. Reformatting in the camera fixed the issue instantly.

Use the Right File System

Most 720p action cameras use FAT32 (for cards 32GB or smaller) or exFAT (for 64GB and larger). If your camera supports exFAT, use it—it handles large files better and is less prone to corruption. If you’re not sure, check your camera’s manual.

Keep a Spare Card Handy

Always carry a spare card. You never know when one might fail, fill up, or get damaged. I keep a 32GB backup card in my camera bag at all times. It’s saved me more than once when the main card filled up mid-hike.

Offload and Backup Regularly

Don’t wait until your card is full to offload footage. Transfer videos to a computer or cloud storage after every major shoot. This reduces the risk of losing everything if the card fails. I use a portable SSD to back up my videos on the go.

Store Cards Properly

When not in use, store your memory cards in a protective case (like a plastic card holder). Avoid extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight. I keep mine in a small, padded case in my camera bag—it’s saved me from bent pins and moisture damage.

720p Action Camera Memory Card Comparison Table

Card Model	Speed Class	Write Speed	Capacities	Durability	Best For
SanDisk Extreme	U3	Up to 90MB/s	32GB–256GB	Waterproof, shockproof, temp-resistant	All-around use, extreme conditions
Samsung EVO Select	U3	Up to 90MB/s	32GB–128GB	Temp-resistant	Value users, moderate conditions
Lexar 633x	U3	Up to 95MB/s	32GB–256GB	Waterproof, shockproof, X-ray-proof	High-frame-rate 720p, creative filming
Kingston Canvas Go! Plus	U3	Up to 90MB/s	32GB–128GB	Temp-resistant	Budget users, casual filming
PNY Elite-X	U3	Up to 90MB/s	32GB–128GB	Temp-resistant	Older or less mainstream cameras

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Bad Card Ruin Your Shots

Your 720p action camera is only as good as the memory card inside it. A great card ensures smooth, uninterrupted recording, while a poor one can ruin your footage—or worse, lose it entirely. Whether you’re filming a mountain bike trail, a family vacation, or just everyday adventures, investing in the right 720p action camera memory card is worth every penny.

Remember: look for U3 speed class, at least 64GB capacity, and durable, reliable performance. The SanDisk Extreme is my top pick for most users, but if you’re on a budget, the Samsung EVO Select or Kingston Canvas Go! Plus are solid alternatives. And no matter which card you choose, follow the maintenance tips—format in the camera, keep a spare, and back up your footage regularly.

Your adventures deserve to be remembered. With the right memory card, they will be.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best 720p action camera memory card for smooth recording?

The best 720p action camera memory card is a high-speed Class 10 or UHS-I U3 card with at least 32GB capacity, such as the SanDisk Extreme or Samsung EVO Select. These cards ensure uninterrupted 720p video recording with minimal lag or buffering.

How much storage do I need for 720p action camera footage?

A 32GB memory card can store approximately 4-6 hours of 720p video at 30fps, making it ideal for most adventures. For longer recordings, opt for 64GB or 128GB cards to avoid frequent file transfers.

Can I use a regular microSD card for my 720p action camera?

While you can use a standard microSD card, a high-speed 720p action camera memory card (Class 10 or U3) is recommended to handle continuous video writes. Lower-speed cards may cause dropped frames or recording interruptions.

Does the memory card speed affect 720p video quality?

Yes, faster write speeds (90MB/s+) prevent stuttering or corrupted files during 720p recording. A slow card may fail to keep up, especially in burst mode or time-lapse settings.

Are all 720p action camera memory cards waterproof or shockproof?

Most reputable brands like SanDisk and Kingston offer rugged, waterproof, and shockproof cards designed for action cameras. Always check the product specifications to ensure durability for outdoor use.

Can I reuse a memory card from another device in my 720p action camera?

Yes, but format the card in your camera first to avoid compatibility issues. Ensure it meets the speed and capacity requirements for smooth 720p recording.