When choosing a micro SD card for your dash cam, there are several factors to consider to ensure reliability, durability, and performance. Dash cams operate under continuous recording conditions, often in extreme environments, making the choice of the right micro SD card critical.
Key Factors to Consider
1. Endurance and Durability
Dash cams continuously write data to the micro SD card, which can wear out standard cards quickly. Therefore, endurance-rated micro SD cards designed for high-intensity applications are crucial. These cards are built to withstand frequent read/write cycles and extreme temperatures, ensuring longevity and reliability.
2. Storage Capacity
Dash cam footage can consume significant storage space, especially if recording in high definition (HD) or 4K. Depending on your usage and the length of your trips, you should choose a card with sufficient capacity to store your footage. Common capacities range from 32GB to 256GB, with higher capacities offering longer recording times.
3. Speed Class and Performance
The speed of a micro SD card affects how quickly data can be written to and read from the card. For dash cams, a high write speed is essential to ensure smooth recording and quick file transfer. Look for cards with a high speed class, such as UHS-I U3 or V30. which indicate minimum sustained write speeds of 30MB/s.
4. Compatibility
Ensure that the micro SD card is compatible with your dash cam model. Some dash cams may have specific requirements or limitations on the maximum supported capacity or speed class.
Top Micro SD Cards for Dash Cams
1. Samsung PRO Endurance
Capacity: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Speed Class: UHS-I U3. Class 10
Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
Write Speed: Up to 30MB/s
The Samsung PRO Endurance series is specifically designed for continuous recording applications like dash cams and surveillance cameras. It offers exceptional endurance, with the 128GB model rated for up to 43.800 hours of continuous recording. The card is built to withstand harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, water, shock, and magnetic fields.
2. SanDisk High Endurance
Capacity: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Speed Class: UHS-I U3. Class 10
Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
Write Speed: Up to 40MB/s
SanDisk's High Endurance series is another excellent choice for dash cams. It is designed to deliver reliable performance and long-lasting durability. The card can handle up to 20.000 hours of continuous recording (for the 256GB model) and is resistant to temperature extremes, water, shock, and X-rays.
3. Kingston Canvas Go! Plus
Capacity: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
Speed Class: UHS-I U3. V30
Read Speed: Up to 170MB/s
Write Speed: Up to 90MB/s
The Kingston Canvas Go! Plus micro SD card offers impressive speeds and durability, making it suitable for dash cams. With a V30 speed class rating, it ensures a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s, providing smooth and reliable recording of HD and 4K video. The card is also designed to withstand harsh conditions, including temperature fluctuations, water, shock, and X-rays.
4. Lexar High-Endurance
Capacity: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
Speed Class: UHS-I U3. V30
Read Speed: Up to 100MB/s
Write Speed: Up to 45MB/s
The Lexar High-Endurance micro SD card is engineered for high-intensity applications such as dash cams. It provides reliable performance with a focus on durability, ensuring a long lifespan even with continuous recording. The V30 speed class ensures a minimum sustained write speed of 30MB/s, suitable for HD and 4K video recording.
5. Transcend High Endurance
Capacity: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB
Speed Class: UHS-I U1. Class 10
Read Speed: Up to 95MB/s
Write Speed: Up to 45MB/s
Transcend's High Endurance micro SD card is designed to meet the demands of continuous recording applications. It offers reliable performance and durability, with the ability to withstand extreme temperatures, water, shock, and X-rays. The card is available in various capacities, providing options for different recording needs.
By selecting a high-quality, endurance-rated micro SD card, you can ensure that your dash cam operates smoothly and reliably, capturing crucial footage when you need it most.
