Tested in Camera: The Best Sony A1 Memory Cards

The Sony A1 features a stacked 50MP sensor capable of shooting up to 30 FPS and 8k video.

To keep up with the larger files and faster frame rate the Sony A1 supports the much faster CFexpress Type-A memory cards in both slots.

Fortunately UHS-I and UHS-II SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards are also supported because CFexpress Type A cards are not cheap but then neither is the A1.

The A1 supports the CFexpress 2.0 standard. CFexpress 4.0 cards will work because they are backwards compatible but you won’t get 4.0 speeds in camera unfortunately. Where you will benefit from 4.0 is when copying files to your computer, that is providing you are using a 4.0 reader.

Quick In-Camera Write Speed Comparison

Here’s a quick in-camera write speed comparison for all of the CFexpress Type-A and UHS-II SD cards that I’ve tested so far.

You’ll find my complete buffer test results a little further down or just click on the memory card name.

Best CFexpress Type-A Memory Cards for Sony A1

CFexpress Type A Memory Card	CFexpress Standard	* Max Burst	Buffer Clearing Time *	Price Check
Angelbird AV PRO SE	2.0	91	10.25s	Amazon | B&H | Memory Wolf UK
Novachips Express 4.0	4.0	90	10.51s	Amazon | Memory Wolf UK
Delkin Devices BLACK 4.0	4.0	88	10.75s	Amazon | B&H | Memory Wolf UK
Angelbird AV PRO 4.0	4.0	88	10.85s	Amazon | B&H | Memory Wolf UK
Lexar Professional Gold Series	2.0	88	10.85s	Amazon | B&H
OWC Atlas Pro 4.0	4.0	88	10.85s	Amazon | B&H
Lexar Professional Silver Series	2.0	88	10.85s	Amazon
ProGrade Digital 4.0 Iridium	4.0	88	10.85s	Amazon | B&H
Delkin Devices BLACK 2.0	2.0	88	11.05s	Memory Wolf UK
Delkin Devices POWER	2.0	88	11.05s	Amazon | B&H | Memory Wolf UK
Sony CEA-G Tough	2.0	87	11.45s	Amazon | B&H
ProGrade Digital Cobalt	2.0	87	11.46s	Obsolete
Nextorage NX-A1PRO	2.0	87	11.46s	Amazon | Memory Wolf UK
Pergear Standard	2.0	85	12.11s	Amazon
Sony CEA-M Tough	2.0	83	13.68s	Amazon | B&H
ProGrade Digital 2.0 Gold	2.0	89	16.18s	Amazon | B&H
Exascend Essential	2.0	89	16.35s	Amazon
Pergear Prime	2.0	87	16.95s	Amazon
Pergear Master 4.0	4.0	86	16.64s	Amazon
Nextorage NX-A1SE	2.0	76	19.45s	Amazon | Memory Wolf UK
Nextorage NX-A2SE	4.0	73	22.45s	Amazon
Lexar Professional GOLD 4.0	4.0	TBT	TBT	Amazon | B&H
Novachips Extreme 4.0	4.0	TBT	TBT	Amazon
Wise Advanced 4.0	4.0	TBT	TBT	B&H

Best UHS-II Memory Cards for Sony A1

Memory Card	* Max Burst	Buffer Clearing Time *	Price Check
1. Kingston Canvas React Plus	73	25.83s	B&H Photo | Amazon | Memory Wolf UK
2. Sony SF-G Tough	73	25.20s	B&H Photo | Amazon
3. ProGrade V90	72	26.63s	B&H Photo | Amazon
4. SanDisk Extreme Pro	70	25.50s	B&H Photo | Amazon
5. Delkin Devices POWER	71	27.56s	B&H Photo | Amazon | Memory Wolf UK
6. Angelbird AV Pro Mk 2 V90	70	27.11s	B&H Photo | Amazon | Memory Wolf UK
7. Sony SF-M Tough	70	46.87s	B&H Photo | Amazon
8. Sony SF-M	70	46.87s	B&H Photo | Amazon
9. Lexar Professional 2000X	70	50.49s	B&H Photo | Amazon
10. Transcend SD 700S	69	49.58s	B&H Photo | Amazon

Sony A1 Price Check at: B&H Photo

If you find this article helpful you may also find my Sony A1 Accessories Guide and Lenses Guide helpful.

Which Memory Cards are Compatible?

The Sony A1 supports CFexpress Type A memory cards in both slots. UHS-I and UHS-II (SD/SDHC/SDXC) cards are also supported in both card slots, but not at the same time as the CFexpress cards.

Both CFexpress 2.0 and 4.0 Type A memory cards can be used in camera, but you will not see any in-camera speed benefits from using the faster 4.0 cards.

CFexpress Type-A Memory Card Buffer Tests (30 FPS)

If you shoot a lot of continuous bursts at 30 FPS and demand the fastest buffer clearing times then these are the cards that you will probably want to be using in your Sony A1.

Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type A SE

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 820 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 730 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: 750 MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 650 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 160 GB / 330 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	91	10.25s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	159	9.21s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	106	6.08s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	165	5.43s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	149	6.91s

Novachips Express 4.0 CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1600 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1200 MB/s (800GB), 1300 MB/s (1.6TB)
• Max Sustained Read Speed: 1600 MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 1200 MB/s (800GB), 1300 MB/s (1.6TB)
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed:
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 800 GB / 1.6 TB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 1.6 TB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	90	10.51s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	152	8.46s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	106	5.01s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	162	5.51s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	142	5.38s

Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type A 4.0

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1830 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1710 MB/s (480GB) / 1740 MB/s (960GB)
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 500 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 480 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	10.75s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	9.25s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	106	6.09s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.53s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	149	6.69s

Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress 4.0 Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1650 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 800 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	10.85s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	10.46s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	105	6.12s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.58s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	148	6.69s

Lexar Professional CFexpress Type-A Gold Series

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 900 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: xx MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB / 320 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	10.85s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	10.48s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	104	6.10s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.38s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	148	6.70s

OWC Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1850 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 240 GB / 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 240 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	10.85s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	10.49s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	104	6.13s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	158	5.51s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	147	6.70s

Lexar Professional CFexpress Type A Silver Series

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 600 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 160 GB / 320 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 260 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	10.85s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	10.50s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	104	6.12s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.41s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	147	6.70s

ProGrade Digital CFexpress 4.0 Type A Iridium

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 800 MB/s (480 GB) / 1450 MB/s (960 GB)
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 480 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	10.85s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	10.52s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	103	6.32s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	161	5.55s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	147	6.90s

Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 880 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 790 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	11.05s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	155	9.61s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	106	6.51s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.46s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	151	6.83s

Delkin Devices POWER CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 880 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 790 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 80 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	88	11.05s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	155	9.63s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	106	6.52s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.46s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	151	6.82s

Sony CEA-G Tough CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB / 320 GB / 640 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 80 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	87	11.45s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	155	9.68s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	105	6.58s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	159	5.60s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	148	6.82s

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type-A Cobalt

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 160 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting the Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	87	11.46s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	152	10.02s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	105	6.11s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.46s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	148	6.23s

Nextorage NX-A1PRO CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 950 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 600 MB/s (40 GB) / 950 MB/s (80/160/320/640 GB)
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 550 MB/s (40 GB) / 850 MB/s (80/160/320/640 GB)
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 40 GB / 80 GB / 160 GB / 320 GB / 640 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	87	11.46s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	151	10.33s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	104	6.70s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.61s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	146	6.13s

Pergear Standard CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 780 MB/s (256GB) / 800 MB/s (512 GB)
• Max Write Speed: 780 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): NA
• Capacities: 256 GB / 256 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	85	12.11s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	10.88s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	104	6.90s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.65s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	146	6.13s

Sony CEA-M Tough CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 960 GB / 1920 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 960 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	83	13.68s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	13.28s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	102	8.51s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.73s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	136	6.95s

ProGrade Digital CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 900 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 450 MB/s (120 GB) / 600 MB/s (240GB/480GB/960GB)
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 120 GB / 240 GB / 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 120 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	89	16.18s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	14s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	93	10.33
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	156	5.48s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	133	7.05s

Exascend Essential CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 120 GB / 180 GB / 240 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 240 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting the Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	89	16.35s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	14.48s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	105	9.62s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	158	5.76s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	138	6.41s

Pergear Prime CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s (80GB / 1TB) / 880 MB/s (260GB / 520GB)
• Max Write Speed: 600 MB/s (80GB) / 400 MB/s (260GB / 520GB) / 700 MB/s (1 TB)
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): NA
• Capacities: 80 GB / 260 GB / 520 GB / 1 TB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 260 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting the Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	87	16.95s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	14.58s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	105	9.64s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	160	5.65s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	133	6.45s

Pergear Master 4.0 CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1780 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1600 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed:
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG):
• Capacities: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	86	16.64s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	154	15.66s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	103	10.23s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	158	5.58s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	145	7.21s

Nextorage NX-A1SE CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 950 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 950 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 480 GB / 960 GB / 1920 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 480 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	76	19.45s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	19.68
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	88	11.70s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	158	5.59s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	140	6.73s

Nextorage NX-A2SE CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1900 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s (256GB) / 850 MB/s (512GB) / 1500 MB/s (1024GB)
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1024 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	73	22.45s
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	148	24.18s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	80	13.95s
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	154	10.58s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	140	7.73s

UHS-II Memory Card Buffer Tests (30 FPS)

The Sony A1 also supports UHS-I and UHS-II SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. Here are my top 10 recommendations based on my in-camera speed/buffer tests:

1. Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II

Kingston have been in the memory business since 1987, so it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about memory!

Their Canvas React Plus UHS-II SDXC cards have a claimed read speed of 300MB/s and a write speed of 290MB/s. In-camera they write at the same speed (260MBs) as the Sony SF-G Tough cards but they are typically priced around 40% less for a 64GB card and also currently include a UHS-II card reader.

They receive very positive reviews and appear to be just as reliable as the Sony and SanDisk cards. They are V90 rated and available in 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	73	25.83
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	26.55
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	82	14.26
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	154	12.19
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	164	5.41

These cards are only marginally faster than the Sony SF-G Tough memory cards but in the US and the UK they are around 40 percent cheaper. Unless you need the tougher construction of the Sony Tough cards then these are the UHS-II cards that I would recommend for the A1.

2. Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II

The Sony SF-G Tough cards have a claimed read speed of 300MB/s and a write speed of 299MB/s. They are V90 rated and available in 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

The Sony Tough series of memory cards are 18 times stronger than traditional SD cards, bend proof to 180N, drop-proof to 5 meters, waterproof to a depth of 5 meters for up to 72 hours (IPX8 rating) and dust proof with an IP6X rating.

Tough cards feature a one-piece ribless structure and don’t have the common lock switch, they are also X-ray proof, magnet proof, anti-static and temperature proof.

Very Important Note: Old versions of these cards do not work with the A1. I get a message that says: “Unable to use Memory Card. Slot 1″. Sony has a replacement program for older versions of these cards due to VSC mode (Video Speed Class) issues where recorded footage on the card may be damaged or may not be recorded optimally. You can find out if your cards are affected by checking this article.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	73	25.20
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	27.30
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	81	15.33
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	129	14.02
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	159	6.26

3. ProGrade V90 UHS-II

The ProGrade V90 cards have a claimed read speed of 300MB/s and a write speed of 250MB/s. They are V90 rated and available in 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	72	26.63
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	149	27.66
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	80	15.37
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	141	13.83
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	159	5.70

4. SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-II

The SanDisk Extreme Pro cards have a claimed read speed of 300MB/s and a write speed of 260MB/s. They are V90 rated and available in 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	70	25.50
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	145	27.91
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	81	15.57
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	137	14.28
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	160	6.48

Very Important Note: Older versions of this card are not V90 rated and therefore will not work in certain video modes. See the video section of this guide for details on which video file formats require V90 rated cards.

5. Delkin Devices 64GB POWER UHS-II

The Delkin Devices 64GB POWER UHS-II SDXC memory cards support read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds of 250 MB/s. They are also V90 rated for video. They are available in 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	71	27.56
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	150	29.43
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	76	17.53
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	124	17.08
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	144	8.86

6. Angelbird AV Pro Mk 2 V90

The Angelbird AV Pro Mk 2 V90 UHS-II memory cards support read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds of 280 MB/s. They are also V90 rated so they guarantee a minimum write speed of 90 MB/s. They are available in 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	70	27.11
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	148	28.46
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	79	16.08
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	130	15.13
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	159	5.60

7. Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II

Sony’s SF-M Tough Series are similar to the more expensive SF-G version but these are only rated V60 for video and their read time has been cut to 277MB/s and the write time to 150MB/s. They are available in 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

Very Important Note: Old versions of these cards do not work with the A1. I get a message that says: “Unable to use Memory Card. Slot 1″. Sony has a replacement program for older versions of these cards due to VSC mode (Video Speed Class) issues where recorded footage on the card may be damaged or may not be recorded optimally. You can find out if your cards are affected by checking this article.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	70	46.87
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	140	48.48
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	73	27.16
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	126	26.52
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	134	11.37

8. Sony SF-M UHS-II

Sony’s SF-M Series are identical to the SF-M Tough Series just without the added toughness so they cost a little less. The Sony SF-M cards have a claimed read speed of 277MB/s and a write speed of 150MB/s. They are V60 rated and available in 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) and 256GB (SDXC) sizes.

Very Important Note: Old versions of these cards do not work with the A1. I get a message that says: “Unable to use Memory Card. Slot 1″. Sony has a replacement program for older versions of these cards due to VSC mode (Video Speed Class) issues where recorded footage on the card may be damaged or may not be recorded optimally. You can find out if your cards are affected by checking this article.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	70	46.87
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	140	48.48
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	73	27.16
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	126	26.52
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	134	11.37

9. Lexar Professional 2000X UHS-II

The Lexar Professional 2000X cards have a claimed read speed of 300MB/s and a write speed of 260MB/s. They are V90 rated and available in 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC), 128GB (SDXC) sizes.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	70	50.49
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	137	54.57
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	69	30.51
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	121	33.15
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	120	15.63

Based on these results it looks like the Lexar Professional 2000X is underperforming in the A1 for some reason, as they should be capable of writing faster than the results we see here.

10. Transcend SD 700S UHS-II

The Transcend SD 700S cards have a claimed read speed of 285MB/s and a write speed of 180MB/s. They are V90 rated and available in 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC) sizes.

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (108.3MB) – 20 fps	69	49.58
Compressed RAW (54.2MB) – 30 fps	139	53.25
Lossless Compressed RAW L (59.5MB) – 20 fps	72	28.61
JPEG Extra Fine (26MB) – 30 fps	129	24.23
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (18 MB) – 30 fps	133	11.30

APS-C Mode Buffer Tests

If you shoot in APS-C mode (21MP) then you might be interested in how many shots you can take before hitting the buffer and the clearing time.

For my own sanity I’ve only tested two cards: the Sony CEA-G CFexpress Type-A Card and the Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II Card.

Sony CEA-G CFexpress Type-A Card

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (44.4MB) – 20 fps	323	8.06
Compressed RAW (23.1MB) – 30 fps	351	8.70
Lossless Compressed RAW L (26.4MB) – 20 fps	465	5.58
JPEG Extra Fine (11.1MB) – 30 fps	444	8.66
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (4.9 MB) – 30 fps	426	8.68

Drive Mode Hi (Max 20fps)

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (44.4MB)	323	8.06
Compressed RAW (23.1MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00
Lossless Compressed RAW L (26.4MB)	465	5.58
JPEG Extra Fine (11.1MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (4.9 MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00

Drive Mode Mid (Max 15fps)

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (44.4MB)	1090	8.66
Compressed RAW (23.1MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00
Lossless Compressed RAW L (26.4MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00
JPEG Extra Fine (11.1MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (4.9 MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00

Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 30fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 30 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (44.4MB) – 20 fps	149	17.75
Compressed RAW (23.1MB) – 30 fps	330	18.18
Lossless Compressed RAW L (26.4MB) – 20 fps	211	10.55
JPEG Extra Fine (11.1MB) – 30 fps	421	8.91
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (4.9 MB) – 30 fps	627	8.80

Drive Mode Hi (Max 20fps)

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (44.4MB)	149	17.75
Compressed RAW (23.1MB)	504	18.45
Lossless Compressed RAW L (26.4MB)	211	10.55
JPEG Extra Fine (11.1MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (4.9 MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00

Drive Mode Mid (Max 15fps)

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (44.4MB)	177	17.68
Compressed RAW (23.1MB)	918	19.41
Lossless Compressed RAW L (26.4MB)	325	11.00
JPEG Extra Fine (11.1MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (4.9 MB)	Never hits buffer	< 2.00

Memory Card Readers

If you want to read any of the above cards to your computer then you are also going to need a compatible memory card reader for the card that you are using. Here are a few options:

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A USB 4.0 Single-Slot Card Reader

The CFexpress Type A USB 4.0 Single Slot-Card Reader from ProGrade Digital features a single CFexpress 4.0 Type A slot that supports up to 40 GBits per second (5 GB/s). A magnetic base can be used to secure the reader to your Windows or Mac system. A 2.6′ USB 4.0 cable is included.

Sony MRW-G2 CFExpress Type-A Card Reader

The Sony MRW-G2 supports both CFexpress Type A cards as well as a SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, along with transfer speeds of up to 10 Gb/s via USB 3.1 Gen 2. Both USB Type-C to Type-C and USB Type-C to Type-A cables are included.

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A & UHS-II SDXC Dual-Slot USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card Reader

The ProGrade Digital reader is a little cheaper than the Sony MRW-G2 but has basically the same specs. It has one CFexpress Type A slot and one UHS-II SDXC slot, and also support up to 10 Gb/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2 to deliver transfer speeds of up to 1.25 GB/s, or 1250 MB/s via its USB Type-C interface. It includes USB Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A cables.

Sony MRW-S1 UHS-II USB Memory Card Reader/Writer

If you don’t plan on using CFexpress Type A cards then you can save a lot of money by purchasing Sony’s MRW-S1 UHS-II USB SD Card Reader/Writer instead. It can read/write to UHS-II SD Cards via a USB 3.1 interface and is backward compatible with UHS-I SD cards. The MRW-S1 together with Sony SF-G cards can transfer files to and from your computer around 2.6x faster than UHS-I SD cards.

Memory Cards for Recording Video

The Sony A1 supports both 4k and 8k video recording. However, even when shooting in XAVC HS 8K 400Mbps you’ll only need a v60 rated SD card or faster. For XAVC S-I 4K you will need a V90 rated card or faster.

Sony A1 movie recording formats and compatible memory cards are shown in the table below.

File Format	Maximum Recordable Bit Rate	Supported Memory Card
XAVC HS 8K	400Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V60 or higher
XAVC HS 4K	280Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V60 or higher
XAVC S 4K	280Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V60 or higher
XAVC S HD	100Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card SDHC/SDXC card (U3 or higher)
XAVC S-I 4K	600Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V90 or higher
XAVC S-I HD	222Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V90 or higher

Memory Cards for S&Q Motion Shooting

For most S&Q settings you will be able to use a V60 or V90 rated memory card. You will only need to use a CFexpress Type A card (VPG 200 or higher) when recording in XAVC S-I 4K format and 1200Mbps, or XAVC S-I HD and 890Mbps with 240fps/200fps.

Slow-motion and quick-motion movie shooting are not available with [XAVC HS 8K].

Sony A1 S&Q formats and compatible memory cards are shown in the table below.

File Format	Maximum Recordable Bit Rate	Supported Memory Card
XAVC HS 4K	500Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V60 or higher*1
XAVC S 4K	560Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V60 or higher*1
XAVC S HD	500Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V60 or higher*2
XAVC S-I 4K	1200Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V90 or higher*3
XAVC S-I HD	890Mbps	CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) SDXC V90 or higher*4

^*1When [S&Q Frame Rate] is set to [120fps]/[100fps], you may need an SDXC V90 memory card.

^*2When [S&Q Frame Rate] is set to [240fps]/[200fps], you may need an SDXC V90 memory card.

^*3For slow-motion recording, a CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) is required.

^*4When [S&Q Frame Rate] is set to [240fps]/[200fps], a CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) is required.

What Size Memory Card Do You Need?

If you will be shooting a lot of continuous bursts then you will probably want to use at least a 128GB memory card or larger.

If you are not shooting long continuous bursts then you’ll probably be fine with 32GB or 64GB cards, and you certainly won’t need the faster CFexpress Type A cards.

For shooting video the size of memory card will depend largely on the format that you are recording in. Or you may be using an external recorder anyway so this won’t be so important.

The following tables will help you to better understand what size cards you need.

How Many Images Can Be Recorded on a Memory Card?

The table below shows the approximate number of images that can be recorded on a memory card formatted in-camera when using a Sony memory card with the aspect ratio set to 3:2 and JPEG/HEIF size set to L:50M.

The values may vary depending on the shooting conditions and the type of memory card used.

File Format	64GB SD	128GB SD	80GB CF	160GB CF
JPEG Light	6800	13600	7900	15600
JPEG Standard	4700	9400	5400	10800
JPEG Fine	3200	6400	3700	7400
JPEG Extra fine	1700	3400	1900	4000
HEIF Light	9100	18200	10600	21200
HEIF Standard	6800	13600	7900	15600
HEIF Fine	5100	10200	5900	11800
HEIF Extra fine	3400	6900	4000	8000
RAW & JPEG (Compressed RAW)	700	1400	800	1700
RAW & HEIF (Compressed RAW)	800	1600	900	1800
RAW (Compressed RAW)	900	1900	1100	2200
RAW & JPEG (Lossless Compressed)	600	1300	700	1500
RAW & HEIF (Lossless Compressed)	700	1400	800	1600
RAW (Lossless Compressed)	800	1600	900	1900
RAW & JPEG (Uncompressed RAW)	400	800	500	1000
RAW & HEIF (Uncompressed RAW)	400	900	500	1000
RAW (Uncompressed RAW)	500	1000	600	1200

Movie Record Times

The table below shows the approximate total recording times using a Sony memory card formatted in the Sony A1. The values may vary depending on the shooting conditions and the type of memory card used.

File Format	Rec Frame Rate	Record Setting	64GB SD	128GB SD	80GB CF	160GB CF
XAVC HS 8K	30p/25p	400M	15 min	35 min	20 min	40 min
XAVC HS 8K	30p/25p	200M	35 min	70 min	40 min	1 h 25 min
XAVC HS 4K	60p/50p	200M	35 min	70 min	40 min	1 h 25 min
XAVC HS 4K	60p/50p	150M	45 min	1 h 35 min	55 min	1 h 50 min
XAVC HS 4K	60p/50p	100M	1 h 10 min	2 h 20 min	1 h 20 min	2 h 50 min
XAVC HS 4K	60p/50p	75M	1 h 30 min	3 h	1 h 40 min	3 h 40 min
XAVC HS 4K	60p/50p	45M	2 h 20 min	4 h 50 min	2 h 40 min	5 h 40 min
XAVC S 4K	60p/50p	200M	35 min	1 h 10 min	40 min	1 h 25 min
XAVC S 4K	60p/50p	150M	45 min	1 h 35 min	55 min	1 h 50 min
XAVC S HD	60p/50p	50M	2 h 10 min	4 h 30 min	2 h 30 min	5 h 10 min
XAVC S HD	60p/50p	25M	3 h 50 min	8 h 10 min	6 h 30 min	9 h 10 min
XAVC S-I 4K	60p/50p	600M/500M	10 min	25 min	10 min	25 min
XAVC S-I HD	60p/50p	222M/185M	30 min	1 h 5 min	35 min	1 h 15 min

Simultaneous Recording Slot 1 + Slot 2

If you shoot simultaneously to both memory card slots then I recommend using either two CFexpress cards or two UHS-II cards. If you use a CFexpress card in slot 1 and a UHS-II card in slot 2 then the write speed will be limited by the slower UHS-II card.

Summary

If you shoot a lot of continuous bursts and want the fastest buffer clearing times then you’ll want to go with a CFexpress Type-A memory card.

The Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type A SE (Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK) is the fastest card that I have tested in the Sony A1 but only by a fraction.

The top seven cards in my CFexpress Type A tests are all able to clear the buffer in under 11 seconds when shooting uncompressed raw.

Some cards such as the Nextorage NX-A1SE CFexpress Type A and NX-A2SE feature very slow sustained write speeds which doubles the buffer clearing time compared to the fastest cards that I have tested. This makes them only marginally faster than a fast UHS-II card such as the Kingston Canvas React Plus.

CFexpress 4.0 cards don’t offer any in camera speed benefits over the 2.0 cards. There will be a benefit when copying the files to your computer if using a 4.0 reader.

If you shoot simultaneously to both memory card slots then I recommend using either two CFexpress cards or two UHS-II cards. If you use a CFexpress card in slot 1 and a UHS-II card in slot 2 then you will be limited by the slower UHS-II card.

For video shooters you’ll only need to use a CFexpress card (VPG200) when shooting in S&Q mode and recording in XAVC S-I 4K format and 1200Mbps, or XAVC S-I HD and 890Mbps with 240fps/200fps. For all other modes a V90 UHS-II card will be sufficient.

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