Got a trusty GoPro Hero 3 and looking to get the most out of your adventures? You’ve landed in the right spot! While the Hero 3 might be an older model, it’s still a fantastic little camera capable of capturing some great footage. But to truly unlock its potential, you need the right memory card. Using an unsuitable or slow card can lead to frustrating issues like dropped frames, corrupted files, or the dreaded “SD ERR” message.
Choosing the best card for GoPro Hero 3 isn’t just about capacity; it’s about speed, reliability, and compatibility. We’re here to cut through the tech jargon and help you pick a microSD card that keeps up with your action, ensuring your precious memories are safely stored.
Let’s dive into our top recommendations, hand-picked to ensure your GoPro Hero 3 performs like a champ!
1. SanDisk Professional Ultra 64GB MicroSDXC GoPro Hero 3 Card
This SanDisk Professional Ultra 64GB card truly stands out for its specific design focus. While many cards are general-purpose, this one makes a point of being tailored for devices like your GoPro Hero 3+, aiming to provide seamless performance right out of the box. It’s perfect for those who want a reliable card that’s also great for easily sharing their captured moments across different devices.
Key Features:
– Specifically designed for the GoPro Hero 3+ (and compatible with Hero 3)
– Facilitates easy sharing of content collections
– Ultra-small size for mobile and portable devices
– Consumes minimal power, potentially extending battery life
– Allows instant transfer of pictures between multiple devices
Pros:
– Optimized for GoPro Hero 3 models, ensuring good compatibility
– Great for users who frequently move content between devices
– Energy-efficient design helps preserve camera battery
– Reputable SanDisk brand for reliability
Cons:
– 64GB might be limiting for extended 4K recording sessions (though Hero 3 4K is limited)
– Specific speed class (e.g., U1/U3) not explicitly listed
User Impressions:
Users often praise this card for its consistent performance with older GoPro models, appreciating the hassle-free experience it offers. Many find it perfectly suitable for capturing Full HD video without hiccups, highlighting its reliability for everyday use and straightforward content sharing.
2. TEAMGROUP GO Card 256GB Micro SDXC UHS-I U3 V30 4K
The TEAMGROUP GO Card is a robust contender, offering a generous 256GB capacity combined with impressive speeds and extreme durability. This isn’t just a card for your GoPro; it’s built to withstand the elements, making it an excellent companion for any adventurer. If you’re looking for a card that offers plenty of space and can take a beating, this one’s definitely worth a look.
Key Features:
– Outstanding preserve & transfer performance
– Read speed up to 100MB/s and write speed up to 50MB/s
– Built for use and to last in extreme environments
– Offers 4 trustworthy protections: waterproof, dustproof, x-ray proof, and cold resistant
– Adopts new printing technology for an eco-friendly design
Pros:
– High read/write speeds suitable for Full HD and even 4K recording (if your device supports it)
– Excellent durability for use in harsh conditions
– Large 256GB capacity for extended shooting sessions
– Eco-friendly production adds a nice touch
Cons:
– 256GB might be more than some Hero 3 users need, potentially increasing cost
– While compatible, it’s not specifically “GoPro Hero 3” branded
User Impressions:
Customers frequently commend the TEAMGROUP GO card for its reliable performance even in challenging environments. Its robust build quality and consistent speeds are often highlighted as major plusses, making it a popular choice for drones, action cameras, and outdoor activities.
3. GIGASTONE 1TB Micro SD Card with 5-Yrs Free Data Recovery
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Ready to never worry about running out of space again? The GIGASTONE 1TB Micro SD Card is an absolute beast when it comes to storage, offering an unprecedented 1TB capacity! But it’s not just about space; this card boasts impressive speeds for 4K video and even includes a fantastic 5-year limited warranty with free data recovery services. Talk about peace of mind! If you record a lot of footage or just hate swapping cards, this is a top-tier choice for the best card for GoPro Hero 3.
Key Features:
– Read/Write speeds up to 150/130 MB/s
– V30 speed grade, ideal for Ultra HD (UHD) 4K video recording
– A2 grade for faster App loading performance on smartphones & tablets
– Massive 1TB storage to expand internal storage space on various devices
– Wide compatibility with devices like Nintendo Switch, GoPro, Android, DSLR, Drones, and more
– Includes a 5-year limited warranty and free data recovery service
Pros:
– Unmatched 1TB storage capacity
– Extremely fast speeds for high-resolution video
– A2 rating enhances performance for apps (though less relevant for Hero 3)
– Incredible data recovery service provides immense value and security
– Wide compatibility makes it versatile for many gadgets
Cons:
– Likely overkill in terms of capacity for many GoPro Hero 3 users, potentially leading to a higher price point
– Hero 3 models technically only supported up to 64GB or 128GB, so while it often works, some users might prefer smaller capacities for strict compatibility.
User Impressions:
Users are often blown away by the sheer storage capacity and the included data recovery service, calling it a game-changer. Reviews frequently highlight its reliable performance for 4K video recording and general use across multiple devices, praising the peace of mind that comes with Gigastone’s support.
4. Professional Ultra SanDisk MicroSDHC 32GB (32 Gigabyte)
Sometimes, simplicity and reliability are all you need. The Professional Ultra SanDisk MicroSDHC 32GB card is a classic choice for a reason. SanDisk is a trusted name in memory cards, and this 32GB offering is a solid, no-frills option that gets the job done. If your GoPro Hero 3 is primarily used for shorter clips or you don’t need tons of storage, this card offers excellent value and dependable performance.
Key Features:
– Reliable SanDisk Professional Ultra series performance
– 32GB capacity, suitable for hours of Full HD video
– MicroSDHC format, widely compatible with older devices
– Ideal for everyday recording and casual use
Pros:
– Extremely reliable brand reputation (SanDisk)
– Cost-effective solution for basic recording needs
– Good capacity for typical action camera use without breaking the bank
– Less likely to encounter compatibility issues with older devices like the Hero 3
Cons:
– Lower capacity compared to other options, requiring more frequent transfers
– Speed class isn’t explicitly detailed, so it might not be the fastest for high-bitrate recording (though generally sufficient for Hero 3’s capabilities)
User Impressions:
This card consistently receives positive feedback for its “just works” reliability. Users appreciate its affordability and the trust associated with the SanDisk brand. It’s often recommended for those who need a dependable card for their older cameras or as a backup, noting its consistent performance for Full HD video.
5. SanDisk 256GB Micro SDXC Extreme Memory Card (2-Pack Bundle)
For the serious enthusiast who demands top-tier performance and wants a backup, this SanDisk 256GB Micro SDXC Extreme Memory Card 2-Pack is a fantastic bundle. You’re not just getting one high-capacity, high-speed card, but two, plus a card reader – making it an incredible value. These cards are built to withstand practically anything, ensuring your footage is safe no matter where your adventures take you. This is undoubtedly a strong contender for the best card for GoPro Hero 3 if you prioritize both capacity and performance.
Key Features:
– Includes two (2) 256GB Micro SD SanDisk Extreme Memory cards
– Comes with one (1) Everything But Stromboli MicroSD Card Reader
– Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and x-ray proof – built for tough conditions
– Transfer speeds of up to 160MB/s read and 90MB/s write speeds
– Featured specs include Class 10, UHS Speed Class 3 (U3), A2, Video 30 (V30)
– Ready for 4K UHD, Full HD, virtual reality, and 360° video recording
Pros:
– Dual cards provide excellent value and backup
– Extremely high read/write speeds for flawless video recording
– Superior durability ensures your data is protected in harsh environments
– Included card reader adds convenience
– Future-proof specs (U3, V30, A2) ensure compatibility with future devices
Cons:
– Higher price point due to being a bundle of high-spec cards
– 256GB might be more capacity than the average Hero 3 user requires
– The Hero 3 doesn’t fully utilize all the cutting-edge features like A2 for app performance or the highest 4K capabilities
User Impressions:
Users absolutely love this bundle for its incredible value and the peace of mind that comes with having two high-performance, durable cards. The included card reader is a frequent highlight, and customers rave about the consistent, high-speed performance for demanding video capture across various devices, including action cameras.
Wrapping Up: Choosing Your Ideal GoPro Hero 3 Card
Finding the best card for GoPro Hero 3 really comes down to your personal shooting habits and budget. For everyday use and solid reliability, the SanDisk Professional Ultra 64GB or the 32GB SanDisk MicroSDHC are great, dependable choices. If you’re an adventurer who needs serious storage and unparalleled durability, the TEAMGROUP GO Card or the SanDisk Extreme 2-Pack are fantastic. And for the ultimate in storage and data protection, the GIGASTONE 1TB is a standout.
No matter which one you pick, making sure your GoPro Hero 3 has a high-quality, compatible microSD card will ensure you capture every epic moment without a hitch!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What type of SD card does the GoPro Hero 3 use?
A1: The GoPro Hero 3, including the White, Silver, and Black editions, uses a microSD card. Specifically, it supports microSDHC (High Capacity) and microSDXC (Extended Capacity) cards.
Q2: What speed class is recommended for the GoPro Hero 3?
A2: For optimal performance with the GoPro Hero 3, it’s highly recommended to use a microSD card with a Class 10 or UHS Speed Class 1 (U1) rating at a minimum. For the Hero 3 Black Edition, which can record at higher resolutions and frame rates, a UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) card is even better to ensure smooth recording without dropped frames, especially if using Protune.
Q3: Can I use a 256GB or 1TB card with my GoPro Hero 3?
A3: Officially, the GoPro Hero 3 models typically supported capacities up to 64GB or 128GB. However, many users have successfully used 256GB and even 1TB microSDXC cards without issues after properly formatting them in the camera. While it might work, always test it thoroughly before a critical shoot. The camera’s firmware might not be optimized for such large capacities, but usually, it handles them fine.
Q4: What’s the difference between microSDHC and microSDXC?
A4: The main difference lies in their capacity. MicroSDHC (High Capacity) cards range from 4GB to 32GB. MicroSDXC (Extended Capacity) cards start from 64GB and can go up to 2TB. Your GoPro Hero 3 is compatible with both types.
Q5: How do I format my SD card for my GoPro Hero 3?
A5: It’s always best to format your SD card using the GoPro Hero 3 itself. To do this, insert the card into the camera, turn it on, and navigate through the settings menu until you find the “Delete All” or “Format” option. This ensures the card is properly configured for your camera, which helps prevent errors and ensures optimal performance.
Q6: Why are read and write speeds important for a GoPro SD card?
A6: Write speed is crucial because it dictates how quickly the camera can save video data to the card. If the write speed isn’t fast enough, your camera might drop frames, leading to choppy video or even corrupted files. Read speed is important for quickly transferring your footage from the card to your computer.
Q7: What do V30, U3, and A2 ratings mean?
A7:
– V30 (Video Speed Class 30): Guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 30 MB/s, ideal for 4K video recording.
– U3 (UHS Speed Class 3): Guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 30 MB/s, also excellent for 4K. U1 guarantees 10 MB/s.
– A2 (Application Performance Class 2): Designed for smartphone and tablet users, indicating minimum random read/write speeds for faster app loading and performance. While not directly relevant for the GoPro Hero 3’s recording function, it indicates a high-performance card overall.
