So, you’ve got your awesome GoPro Hero 7, ready to capture all your epic adventures, from shredding waves to conquering mountain trails. But hold on a sec! Your GoPro is only as good as the memory card you put in it. Without the right one, you could face frustrating dropped frames, slow transfers, or even lost footage. Trust me, you don’t want your once-in-a-lifetime shot ruined by a sluggish card.
That’s why choosing the best card for GoPro Hero 7 is super crucial. You need a card that can keep up with the Hero 7’s demanding 4K video recording, high-resolution photos, and HyperSmooth stabilization. We’re talking fast write speeds for seamless recording and quick read speeds for transferring all that glorious footage.
To help you out, we’ve scoured the market and picked out the top 10 memory cards and related accessories that are perfectly suited for your Hero 7. Let’s dive in and find the ideal storage solution to keep your adventure memories safe and sound!
Understanding GoPro Hero 7 Memory Card Requirements
Before we get into the reviews, it’s good to know what your GoPro Hero 7 needs. Generally, GoPro recommends using a Class 10 or UHS-I (U3) microSD card with a V30 Video Speed Class rating for optimal performance, especially when shooting in 4K. These ratings ensure the card can handle the high data rates required for smooth video recording without any hiccups.
Our Top 10 Picks for Your GoPro Hero 7
Here’s our curated list of the best cards and essential accessories for your GoPro Hero 7:
1. SanDisk 128GB Micro SDXC Extreme Memory Card (with Reader)
This SanDisk Extreme 128GB card is a fantastic all-rounder, offering a great balance of speed and storage capacity. It’s built tough, just like your GoPro, ready to endure whatever you throw at it. The included “Everything But Stromboli” card reader is a nice bonus, making file transfers a breeze so you can quickly offload your footage and get back to shooting. It’s a solid contender for the best card for GoPro Hero 7 for most users.
- Key Features:
- 128GB storage capacity.
- Read speeds up to 160MB/s, write speeds up to 90MB/s.
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and X-ray proof.
- Includes a handy Micro Card Reader for fast data transfer.
- Fully compatible with GoPro Hero 7 Black, Silver, and White models.
- Pros:
- Excellent balance of speed and storage for 4K video.
- Extremely durable, perfect for action camera use.
- Bundled card reader adds great value and convenience.
- Reliable performance from a trusted brand.
- Cons:
- May be slightly overkill for users only shooting in 1080p.
- Some users might prefer larger capacities for extended trips.
- User Impressions: Users consistently praise this card for its reliability and speed, noting that it handles 4K footage without any issues. The included card reader is frequently highlighted as a useful addition, simplifying the workflow.
- See it on Amazon here
2. SanDisk 256GB Micro SDXC Memory Card Extreme (with Reader)
Need more space? The 256GB SanDisk Extreme is your go-to. This card offers double the storage of its 128GB sibling while maintaining the same blistering speeds and rugged durability. It’s perfect for those long adventure trips where you can’t offload footage regularly, ensuring you never run out of space mid-action. This is truly an excellent card for GoPro Hero 7 if you shoot a lot.
- Key Features:
- Massive 256GB storage capacity.
- Read speeds up to 160MB/s, write speeds up to 90MB/s.
- A2-rated for faster app performance (though less critical for GoPro, it indicates overall speed).
- Built to withstand harsh conditions (temperature, water, shock, X-ray).
- Comes with an “Everything But Stromboli” card reader.
- Pros:
- Ample storage for extended 4K recording sessions.
- Maintains high transfer speeds for smooth performance.
- Extreme durability ensures your data is safe in any environment.
- Card reader included for easy data management.
- Cons:
- Higher price point due to increased capacity.
- Might be overkill for casual users who don’t record extensively.
- User Impressions: Customers love the peace of mind that comes with 256GB of storage, reporting flawless 4K recording and quick file transfers. It’s often recommended for professional use or long trips where every shot counts.
- See it on Amazon here
3. TEAMGROUP GO Card 256GB Micro SDXC UHS-I U3 V30 4K
For those looking for a high-capacity option that doesn’t break the bank, the TEAMGROUP GO Card 256GB is a strong contender. It delivers solid performance with respectable read and write speeds, making it perfectly capable of handling 4K video from your GoPro Hero 7. Plus, it’s designed to be eco-friendly, which is a nice touch!
- Key Features:
- 256GB storage capacity.
- Read speeds up to 100MB/s, write speeds up to 50MB/s.
- UHS-I U3 and V30 rated, suitable for 4K video.
- Waterproof, dustproof, X-ray proof, and cold resistant.
- Eco-friendly manufacturing process.
- Pros:
- Excellent value for a 256GB V30 card.
- Adequate speeds for GoPro Hero 7’s 4K recording.
- Robust build quality for extreme environments.
- Environmentally conscious product.
- Cons:
- Write speeds are a bit lower than the SanDisk Extreme series.
- No included card reader.
- User Impressions: Users find this card to be a reliable and cost-effective choice for their action cameras. It performs well for 4K footage, and its durability is often mentioned as a key benefit, especially given its competitive price.
- See it on Amazon here
4. SanDisk 64GB Micro SDXC Extreme Pro Memory Card (with Reader)
If speed is your absolute top priority, look no further than the SanDisk Extreme Pro 64GB. This card boasts even faster read speeds than the regular Extreme series, making it ideal for the most demanding applications and ensuring lightning-fast transfers. While 64GB might feel a bit smaller for 4K, it’s still ample for many adventures, especially with its professional-grade performance.
- Key Features:
- 64GB storage capacity.
- Blazing read speeds up to 170MB/s, write speeds up to 90MB/s.
- A2, Speed Class 10, and V30 rated for high-performance recording.
- Rugged design: temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, X-ray proof.
- Includes an “Everything But Stromboli” Micro Card Reader.
- Pros:
- Exceptional read speeds for rapid data transfer.
- Robust enough for any adventure scenario.
- Reliable SanDisk Pro-grade performance.
- Included card reader adds convenience.
- Cons:
- 64GB might feel limited for extensive 4K recording sessions.
- Premium price for the “Pro” designation.
- User Impressions: Many users are impressed by the speed of this card, reporting virtually no lag or dropped frames even with intense 4K footage. It’s often chosen by those who prioritize performance above all else.
- See it on Amazon here
5. SanDisk 64GB Micro SDXC Memory Card Extreme (with Reader)
This 64GB SanDisk Extreme offers a solid balance for those who don’t need massive storage but still demand top-tier performance for their GoPro Hero 7. It’s built with the same extreme durability as its larger siblings and comes with the useful “Everything But Stromboli” reader. If you primarily shoot shorter clips or offload footage frequently, this capacity is often the best card for GoPro Hero 7 in terms of value and usability.
- Key Features:
- 64GB storage capacity.
- Read speeds up to 160MB/s, write speeds up to 60MB/s.
- A2, Speed Class 10, and V30 rated.
- Waterproof, temperature-proof, shock-proof, and X-ray proof.
- Bundled with an “Everything But Stromboli” Micro Reader.
- Pros:
- Excellent performance for 4K and Full HD video.
- Highly durable and reliable for outdoor use.
- Included card reader for easy transfers.
- More budget-friendly than higher capacity cards.
- Cons:
- 60MB/s write speed is slightly lower than other Extreme models (but still more than enough for GoPro’s V30 requirement).
- Limited capacity for all-day 4K shooting.
- User Impressions: Users find this 64GB card to be perfectly adequate for their GoPro Hero 7, appreciating its consistent performance and ruggedness. It’s often recommended as a great starter card or for those who don’t record exceptionally long sessions.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Flip Reader Box with 3 Pack Batteries and Fast Charger
While not a memory card itself, this Flip Reader Box is an indispensable accessory for any GoPro user. It’s a multi-functional hub that includes three high-capacity batteries and a fast charger, and doubles as a high-speed Micro SD card reader and storage box for your memory cards. This is about ensuring your Hero 7 is always powered up and ready, with a convenient way to manage your precious footage.
- Key Features:
- 3 x 1800mAh replacement batteries compatible with GoPro Hero 8/7/6.
- 3-in-1 charger: charges 3 batteries simultaneously, functions as a high-speed Micro SD Card Reader, and stores batteries/SD cards.
- Smart display shows battery power.
- Multiple protection features (over-charge, over-current, short-circuit, etc.).
- Compact and thoughtful design with foldable USB cord.
- Pros:
- Provides ample power for extended shooting sessions.
- Integrated card reader simplifies offloading footage.
- Acts as a secure storage case for batteries and up to 3 microSD cards.
- Robust protection features for safety and longevity.
- Cons:
- Not a memory card, so you still need to purchase one separately.
- Charging method might feel slightly less intuitive than a simple wall charger for some.
- User Impressions: Users rave about the convenience and utility of this product, especially the ability to charge multiple batteries and read cards from one device. It’s seen as a must-have for serious GoPro users who need consistent power and easy data access.
- See it on Amazon here
7. SanDisk 128GB Memory Card Extreme works with Gopro Hero 7 (Newer Model)
This is a slightly newer variant of the 128GB SanDisk Extreme, boasting even faster read speeds, making it an excellent choice for optimizing your GoPro Hero 7 workflow. It maintains the legendary durability SanDisk is known for and comes with an upgraded “Everything But Stromboli” SD/TF 3.0 card reader for even quicker transfers to your computer. It’s a powerful contender for the best card for GoPro Hero 7 if you want top-tier speed and capacity.
- Key Features:
- 128GB storage capacity.
- Impressive read speeds up to 190MB/s, write speeds up to 90MB/s.
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and X-ray proof.
- Includes a high-speed SD/TF 3.0 Memory Card Reader.
- Optimized for GoPro Hero 7 and other action cameras.
- Pros:
- Faster read speeds than previous Extreme models for quicker file access.
- Ideal balance of capacity and high-performance.
- Rugged build ensures data integrity in extreme conditions.
- Upgraded 3.0 card reader is a huge plus for efficiency.
- Cons:
- May be slightly more expensive due to the enhanced speed.
- Still 128GB, so power users might want more capacity.
- User Impressions: Reviewers highlight the noticeable speed improvements, especially during footage transfer. It’s consistently praised for flawless 4K recording and its robust build, making it a reliable choice for any adventure.
- See it on Amazon here
8. SanDisk Extreme 256GB Micro SD Memory Card for GoPro Hero 9 (also works with Hero 7)
Don’t let the “Hero 9” in the title fool you – this SanDisk Extreme 256GB card is perfectly compatible and incredibly potent for your GoPro Hero 7. With its generous capacity and high-speed ratings (UHS-I U3, V30, A2), it’s built to handle the most demanding 4K UHD and even 360° video. This is a future-proof choice that ensures you’ll have plenty of space and speed for all your high-resolution captures.
- Key Features:
- Large 256GB storage capacity.
- Read speeds up to 160MB/s, write speeds up to 90MB/s.
- Class 10, UHS Speed Class 3 (U3), A2, Video 30 (V30) ratings.
- Designed for 4K UHD and Full HD recording.
- Extremely durable: temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, X-ray proof.
- Includes an “Everything But Stromboli” MicroSD Card Reader.
- Pros:
- Plenty of storage for extensive recording, even in 4K.
- High-speed ratings guarantee smooth video performance.
- Excellent compatibility across various GoPro and action cameras.
- Rugged construction makes it ideal for adventure sports.
- Cons:
- It’s a premium product, so the cost is higher than smaller cards.
- Might be more capacity than casual users genuinely need.
- User Impressions: Users rave about this card’s robust performance, saying it’s incredibly reliable for long recording sessions and high-resolution footage. The bundled card reader is often appreciated for seamless transfers.
- See it on Amazon here
9. SanDisk 64GB Micro SDXC Extreme Pro Memory Card (Two-Pack with Reader)
Why buy one when you can get two? This bundle gives you a fantastic deal with two 64GB SanDisk Extreme Pro cards, plus a high-speed card reader. Having a spare card on hand is an absolute game-changer, especially during multi-day adventures or when shooting critical footage. You get the top-tier “Pro” performance and durability, ensuring peace of mind, making this a great option for the best card for GoPro Hero 7 if you’re a serious videographer.
- Key Features:
- Bundle includes (2) 64GB Micro Extreme Pro SanDisk cards.
- Read speeds up to 170MB/s, write speeds up to 90MB/s per card.
- Temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and X-ray proof.
- Comes with an “Everything But Stromboli” 3.0 SD/Micro Card Reader.
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 7 and many other models.
- Pros:
- Having two cards doubles your storage flexibility and offers a backup.
- “Pro” level speeds ensure peak performance for demanding tasks.
- Exceptional durability suitable for extreme conditions.
- Fast 3.0 card reader for efficient data offloading.
- Cons:
- Two 64GB cards might be slightly less convenient than one large 128GB or 256GB card for some users.
- Still a premium price, but offers good value for a two-pack of Pro cards.
- User Impressions: Customers love the convenience of having two high-performance cards, often using one as a primary and the other as a backup. They consistently report flawless recording and swift transfers, appreciating the reliability of the “Pro” series.
- See it on Amazon here
10. 3 Pack GoPro Hero 8/7/6/5 Battery with Display Screen Charger
Just like the Flip Reader Box, this is an essential accessory kit that, while not a memory card, significantly enhances your GoPro experience by ensuring continuous power and offering convenient card storage. This kit provides three high-capacity batteries and a smart charger that also doubles as a storage case for your batteries and up to three microSD cards. It’s about maximizing your shooting time and keeping your memory cards safe.
- Key Features:
- 3 x 1800mAh batteries perfectly compatible with GoPro Hero 8/7/6/5.
- 3-in-1 charger: charges 3 batteries, acts as a high-speed Micro SD Card Reader, and stores batteries/SD cards.
- Smart display screen shows battery levels.
- Multiple safety protections (overcharging, voltage, overheating, short circuit).
- Durable, non-slip, and wear-resistant charging case.
- Pros:
- Provides extended battery life for longer shoots.
- Integrated card reader for convenient file transfers.
- Secure storage for both batteries and microSD cards.
- Comprehensive safety features protect your gear.
- Compatible with official GoPro batteries too for versatility.
- Cons:
- You’ll still need to buy your memory cards separately.
- The clips needed for Hero 8/7/6/5 batteries might be a minor inconvenience for some.
- User Impressions: Users highly recommend this kit for its ability to keep their GoPros running all day. The integrated card reader and storage functionality are frequently praised as smart and practical additions, making it a complete travel solution.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What kind of SD card does the GoPro Hero 7 use?
A1: The GoPro Hero 7 (Black, Silver, and White editions) uses a microSD card. Specifically, it requires a microSDXC card for optimal performance, especially when recording 4K video.
Q2: What speed class do I need for my GoPro Hero 7?
A2: For reliable performance, especially with 4K video, your GoPro Hero 7 needs a microSD card with at least a UHS-I (U3) Speed Class and a V30 Video Speed Class rating. These ratings ensure a minimum sustained write speed that prevents dropped frames during high-resolution recording.
Q3: How much storage capacity do I need for my GoPro Hero 7?
A3: This depends on how much you shoot and at what resolution. For 4K video, a 64GB card is a good starting point, but a 128GB or 256GB card is highly recommended if you plan on shooting extensively, taking long clips, or going on multi-day adventures without offloading footage.
Q4: Can I use any microSD card with my GoPro Hero 7?
A4: While a slower card might technically work, it’s not recommended. Using a card that doesn’t meet the U3/V30 speed requirements can lead to issues like corrupted files, dropped frames, choppy video, or your camera freezing. Always stick to recommended specifications from reputable brands.
Q5: Why is a high-speed card important for 4K video recording?
A5: 4K video files are very large and generate a lot of data quickly. A high-speed card (with good write speeds) is crucial because it can write this data fast enough to the card without buffering or dropping frames, ensuring your video is smooth, continuous, and of high quality.
Q6: Are SanDisk cards good for GoPro cameras?
A6: Yes, SanDisk cards, especially their Extreme and Extreme Pro series, are widely considered among the best cards for GoPro Hero 7 (and other GoPro models). They are known for their reliability, high speeds, and durability, which are all essential for action camera use.
Q7: What does “A2” mean on an SD card? Is it important for GoPro?
A7: A2 refers to the Application Performance Class, indicating a card’s ability to run applications faster by providing better random read/write speeds. While primarily beneficial for smartphones running apps, an A2 rating also signifies a high-quality, fast card, which generally translates to good performance for your GoPro as well.
Q8: What features should I look for beyond speed and capacity?
A8: Look for durability features. Many top cards are temperature-proof, water-proof, shock-proof, and X-ray proof. These features are vital for protecting your valuable footage in the demanding environments where GoPros thrive.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best card for GoPro Hero 7 is a critical step to ensure you capture every exhilarating moment without a hitch. While all the SanDisk Extreme and Extreme Pro cards on our list are fantastic choices for their speed and durability, consider your shooting habits when picking the right capacity. Don’t forget those essential accessories like multi-chargers with integrated card readers – they’re game-changers for workflow and power management.
Invest wisely in a quality memory card, and your GoPro Hero 7 will be ready for any adventure you throw its way! Happy filming!
