Can 64gb Cards Be Used In Gopro Hero Cameras?

I recently upgraded my GoPro, and the question of storage capacity immediately popped up. I had a spare 64GB microSD card lying around, but I wasn’t sure if it was compatible. This led me down a rabbit hole of research, and I discovered some crucial information about using a 64GB card in a GoPro Hero. This post will help you understand GoPro memory card compatibility, providing the answers you need to choose the right card for your action camera and avoid frustrating storage issues. You’ll learn about storage capacity limits, recommended card types, and how to prevent data loss.

GoPro Hero Compatibility and Storage

This section covers the compatibility of different GoPro Hero models with 64GB microSD cards. We’ll explore what to consider when selecting a memory card for your action camera, such as speed and capacity limits. Understanding these factors will ensure smooth operation and prevent data loss.

GoPro Hero Models and 64GB Card Support

• Most modern GoPro Hero models (Hero 7 Black onwards) officially support microSD cards up to 256GB. This means a 64GB card is almost certainly compatible. However, always check your specific GoPro model’s specifications in your user manual or on GoPro’s website for confirmed support.
• Older models may have lower storage capacity limits. For instance, the GoPro Hero 5 Black might have a maximum capacity of 128GB. Check your model’s specifications for guaranteed compatibility.
• Using a card beyond the manufacturer’s recommended maximum is not advised. While a 64GB card might work in older models, it’s crucial to check the device’s specifications.

Choosing the Right microSD Card

• Speed Class: GoPro recommends using microSD cards with a minimum speed class of V30 or UHS-I U3. These classes ensure sufficient data transfer speeds for recording high-resolution videos and preventing buffer issues. A slower card might result in dropped frames or video corruption.
• Card Brand: While various brands offer microSD cards, reputable brands like SanDisk, Lexar, and Samsung are known for their reliability and performance. Choosing a well-known brand can reduce the risk of encountering faulty cards.
• Capacity: While a 64GB card is sufficient for many users, consider your needs. High-resolution videos and extended recording sessions will fill up a 64GB card quickly. If you frequently record long videos or shoot in 4K, a larger capacity card might be beneficial.

Troubleshooting and Data Loss Prevention

This section addresses common issues users encounter when using microSD cards in their GoPro cameras. It will guide you on preventing data loss and handling potential problems.

Formatting the microSD Card

• Always format your microSD card in your GoPro camera before using it. Formatting erases all existing data and prepares the card for optimal performance. Never format a card using a computer’s operating system, as this can result in compatibility issues. Format the card within the GoPro’s settings menu.
• Choose the correct file system (usually FAT32 for best compatibility) when formatting. GoPro cameras generally handle FAT32 file systems smoothly.
• After formatting the card, immediately test it to confirm it functions correctly. Shoot a short video and check whether it is correctly saving.

Dealing with Corrupted Files

• Corrupted files can result from a number of factors, including using a low-quality or incompatible card, a card nearing the end of its life, or severe temperature conditions while recording.
• If you encounter corrupt videos, check your GoPro’s firmware. Outdated firmware can sometimes cause compatibility problems. Update your GoPro to the latest firmware if a newer version is available.
• In some cases, you might be able to recover corrupted files using data recovery software, but success is not always guaranteed. Regular backups are crucial.

Importance of Regular Backups

Regularly backing up your GoPro footage is essential to prevent permanent data loss. Unexpected events, such as card failure or accidental deletion, can result in irreplaceable data loss if no backup is made. Consider backing up to your computer, cloud storage (like Google Drive or Dropbox), or an external hard drive.

Understanding microSD Card Specifications

This section will delve into the technical details of microSD cards, helping you understand the terminology and make informed choices when buying a card for your GoPro.

Understanding Speed Classes (V30 and UHS-I U3)

The speed class designation on microSD cards, such as V30 and UHS-I U3, indicates the minimum sustained write speed. V30 signifies a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s, while UHS-I U3 guarantees a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s. For smooth 4K recording, a card with at least a V30 or UHS-I U3 rating is recommended. Slower cards can lead to dropped frames or recording interruptions.

A Deep Dive into UHS Speed Classes

UHS (Ultra High Speed) is a standard that specifies the bus interface speed of a microSD card. UHS-I is a common standard, while UHS-II and UHS-III represent faster interfaces. GoPro Hero cameras typically support UHS-I cards. Higher UHS classes (like UHS-II) might offer faster read/write speeds, but GoPro cameras don’t fully leverage the increased speed, so it might be an unnecessary expense.

SD Card vs. microSD Card

SD cards (Secure Digital cards) are larger and typically used in cameras and computers, while microSD cards are miniature versions, ideal for compact devices like GoPro cameras. A microSD card adapter is needed to use a microSD card in a device that has an SD card slot. This difference in size is a key factor in choosing the appropriate card for your GoPro.

Using a 64GB Card in Your GoPro Hero

This section provides practical advice and step-by-step instructions on using a 64GB card in your GoPro Hero camera.

Steps to Insert and Format a 64GB microSD Card

1. Power off your GoPro Hero camera.
2. Open the battery door and locate the microSD card slot.
3. Carefully insert the 64GB microSD card into the slot, ensuring it is correctly oriented.
4. Close the battery door securely.
5. Power on the GoPro and go to settings. Select the option to format the card.
6. Once the formatting is complete, start recording a test video to verify functionality.

Sample Scenarios: Using and Managing 64GB Card Storage

1. Scenario 1: You’re going on a week-long trip and want to capture all your adventures. A 64GB card can store a lot of footage, but you may need to regularly transfer files to your computer or cloud storage to avoid running out of space. Consider transferring files daily or every other day.
2. Scenario 2: You’re filming a high-resolution time-lapse. A 64GB card might fill up faster than anticipated due to the size of the files created. Monitoring storage space and deleting unneeded files are essential in this scenario.

Debunking Common Myths About GoPro Memory Cards

Myth 1: Only Expensive Cards Work

While high-end cards offer benefits like increased speeds and durability, it’s not necessarily true that only expensive cards will work reliably in a GoPro. Many reputable budget-friendly brands offer perfectly functional cards that meet GoPro’s speed requirements. Always check the specifications (speed class and UHS rating) to ensure compatibility.

Myth 2: Larger Cards are Always Better

Larger cards offer more storage, but they don’t always offer better performance. A 64GB card can be ample for many users, but excessively large cards might not offer significant advantages unless the GoPro’s performance is being bottlenecked by the card’s write speeds.

Myth 3: Formatting a Card Damages It

Formatting a card is a necessary process and doesn’t inherently damage it. In fact, formatting is often beneficial, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility. However, using poor-quality formatting software or attempting to format a damaged card may lead to problems.

FAQ

Can I use a 64GB microSD card in a GoPro Hero 8 Black?

Yes, the GoPro Hero 8 Black supports microSD cards up to 256GB, so a 64GB card is fully compatible. Make sure it meets the recommended speed requirements (V30 or UHS-I U3) for optimal performance.

What happens if I use a card that’s too slow?

Using a card slower than the recommended speed class (V30 or UHS-I U3) can lead to dropped frames, video corruption, and recording interruptions, especially when shooting high-resolution videos or time-lapses. The GoPro might also struggle to keep up with the data writing speed, resulting in poor performance.

How do I check my GoPro’s microSD card compatibility?

Consult the official GoPro website or your camera’s user manual for specific information about supported microSD card types and maximum capacity. This information is usually found in the technical specifications.

My GoPro isn’t recognizing my 64GB card. What should I do?

Try these steps: 1) Power cycle your GoPro. 2) Carefully re-insert the card, ensuring it’s correctly seated. 3) Try a different, known-good card. 4) Check if the card is physically damaged. 5) If the issue persists, contact GoPro support.

How often should I back up my GoPro footage?

The frequency of backups depends on your usage. For frequent shooters, consider backing up daily or after each significant recording session. For less frequent users, a weekly or bi-weekly backup might suffice. The goal is to avoid data loss due to card failure or other unforeseen events.

Will using a 64GB card affect my GoPro’s battery life?

Using a 64GB card itself shouldn’t significantly impact battery life. Battery life is more closely tied to recording settings (resolution, frame rate), environmental factors (temperature), and the age of the battery.

Final Thoughts

Understanding GoPro memory card compatibility, especially determining whether you can use a 64GB card in a GoPro Hero, is essential for smooth operation and preventing data loss. By choosing the right card and following proper usage practices, you can ensure your precious footage is safe and readily accessible. Don’t forget to regularly back up your videos to protect against unforeseen circumstances! Now, go capture those amazing moments with confidence.