<p>When choosing a dash cam, many people may only focus on camera resolution, collision detection or night vision, and often overlook an equally critical accessory: the memory card. A dash cam memory card does not just determine &ldquo;how long&rdquo; you can record.&nbsp; The specifications can directly impact recording stability and data security.&nbsp; You definitely don&rsquo;t want to find out the data is corrupted when needing to access an accident video. In this article, we'll explain memory specifications, key purchasing points and care tips.&nbsp; Choosing the right quality memory card for your dash cam is the key to ensure driving safety and your rights.</p>

<p>Dash cams have a strict requirement of memory cards.&nbsp; Unlike smartphones or cameras that are used to record occasionally, dash cams demand &ldquo;extended periods of continuous and high-frequency recording&rdquo;.&nbsp; It has to write in data reliably at all times and maintain normal operation under extremely high temperatures, vibrations, and outdoor conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Here, we list 2 situations to explain key performance and quality requirements of memory cards.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.jd2bnsweg01p"></a>1. Dash cams need stable and high-speed storage to record videos without data loss.</h3>
<p>Dash cams records by &ldquo;intensive and continuous writing&rdquo; to the card.&nbsp; When the memory card is full, older files are automatically overwritten.&nbsp; Therefore, it requires a memory card features stable and fast write speed. When recording a video, if the write speed of memory card is slower than video bit rate, issues like missing footage, lag and frame drops may occur.&nbsp; For example, a card with write speed suitable for 1080P may fail to address sustained 4K recording and result in lag or frame drops.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.fa9tcoky4olc"></a>2. Continuous recording for a long time requires a memory card with high write endurance and durability</h3>
<p>Dash cams for taxis or delivery persons may need to operate several hours, or even 24/7, everyday.&nbsp; This imposes a severe challenge to the memory card&rsquo;s &ldquo;write life cycle&rdquo; and &ldquo;temperature resistance&rdquo;. Using a low quality memory card may result in file corruption or recording interruption because it cannot handle frequent writes for a long time; besides, low-grade memory cards may have not undergone rigorous temperature and durability test, making them unreliable when operating under extreme temperature or rainy conditions. Hence, it is necessary to choose a highly stable and durable memory card to ensure every critical footage is captured.</p>

Why a high-quality memory card is required? 2 key factors that matter

<p>When choosing a memory card, besides durability and stability, specifications may be one of the factors most people focus and they are also the key to ensuring the compatibility with your dash cam. Currently, there are various memory cards in the market, from SD, microSD to different classes and UHS ratings, which can be quite confusing.&nbsp; In the following section, we'll explain the meaning behind these specifications, helping you find the right memory card to meet your demands.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.nz65peqmhymj"></a>1. SD, microSD and miniSD cards: Different in size and device compatibility</h3>
<p>Memory cards in today&rsquo;s market can be generally divided into 3 sizes, including SD cards, the smaller microSD cards, and miniSD card, which is rarely used now. Most digital cameras generally use SD cards, while most dash cams for cars and motorcycles or devices like GoPro rely on microSD cards.&nbsp; Only a few <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_digital_assistant" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PDA</a> devices use miniSD cards.&nbsp; Therefore, make sure to pick the right memory card, or you'll probably need an adapter for smooth operation.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.azjlvl84e509"></a>2. Class, UHS and V ratings: Stand for write speed and recording stability</h3>
<p>On a memory card, you'd often see marks like &ldquo;Class 10&rdquo;, &ldquo;U1&rdquo; or &ldquo;U3&rdquo;, the indicator of write speed.&nbsp; The greater the number, the faster the write speed.&nbsp; Symbols like &ldquo;C&rdquo;, &ldquo;U&rdquo; and &ldquo;V&rdquo; are speed classifications standardized by SD Association.&nbsp; Through these symbols, consumers can clearly identify the class and suitable applications of an SD card.&nbsp;</p>
<p>●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Speed Class: For example, Class 10 means a minimum write speed of 10Mb/s.&nbsp; Speed class is the entry-level standard and suitable for purposes like still photography.</p>
<p>●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; UHS Speed Class: Include U1 (minimum write speed of 10Mb/s) and U3 (minimum write speed of 30Mb/s).&nbsp; U3 is the ideal choice for Full HD, 2K and 4K video recording and suitable for general dash cams, GoPro or security cameras.</p>
<p>●&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Video Speed Class:This standard is developed specifically for high-resolution video recording.&nbsp; V6 to V90 means minimum sustained write speeds ranging from 6Mb/s to 90Mb/s.&nbsp; These cards are suitable for recording 4K videos or devices used to capture high-resolution footage, like drones.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.wwdre30bscg"></a>3. SDHC and SDXC: Capacity classification and FAT file system support</h3>
<p>The capacity of a memory card directly impacts the length of recording and the frequency of loop overwriting.&nbsp; The most common capacities are 32GB, 64GB or 128GB.&nbsp; However, what we want to point out here is that SD cards are categorized into the following 4 standards based on capacity, making it easier for users to identify:</p>
<table border="1" width="602" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
<p>SD: Standard capacity</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="150">
<p>SDHC: High capacity</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="150">
<p>SDXC: Extended capacity</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="150">
<p>SDUC: Ultra capacity</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
<p>Maximum capacity: 2GB</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="150">
<p>Supports 4GB~32GB</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="150">
<p>Supports 32GB~2TB</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="150">
<p>Theoretically supports 2TB~128TB</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Besides, different SD card capacities support different &ldquo;FAT&rdquo; (file allocation table) file formats.&nbsp; FAT formats determines the maximum file size when recording videos. For example, when recording with an SDHC card using FAT32, the maximum size of each video is up to 4GB.&nbsp; The rest will be divided into another file.&nbsp; In the same situation, if you use an SDXC card supporting exFAT, as the capacity is up to 2TB, it allows continuous recording even if the size of a single file is 32GB.</p>
<table border="1" width="602" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>Memory card type</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>FAT12/16</p>
<p>(&le;2GB)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>FAT32</p>
<p>(2GB~32GB)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>exFAT (32GB~2TB)</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>exFAT (2TB~128TB)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>SD</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>X</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>X</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>X</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>SDHC</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>X</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>X</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>SDXC</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>X</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>SDUC</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
<p>V</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>※ Another key point is that different recording devices supported different memory card capacities.&nbsp; For example, GoPro camera HERO (2014) only supports up to 32GB. When choosing a memory card, remember to check the maximum capacity supported by your device to ensure compatibility.</p>

What memory card specifications are available in the market now? Dash cam memory card specifications guide

<p>After understanding memory card specifications, the next step is to know what details to pay attention to when picking the card.&nbsp; For users in Taiwan, besides long-term or 24/7 operation, dash cams have to withstand the hot and humid weather and vehicle vibration, setting a higher requirement for memory cards than general purpose. Below are 6 important factors when selecting a dash cam memory card.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.hfnv4rsvh1wg"></a>1. Wide temperature resistance</h3>
<p>The in-vehicle temperature often drastically changes by seasons.&nbsp; In Taiwan, the temperature on the dashboard in the summer can even exceed 70&deg;C.&nbsp; This makes wide temperature resistance a critical feature to memory cards. Memory cards from High Endurance series are your perfect choice for such application.&nbsp; These products have passed extreme temperature tests and can operate normally under an environment ranging from -25&deg;C to 85&deg;C. Memory cards with wide temperature resistance ensure continuous recording without interruption and every critical moment is successfully captured.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.va63nfkszann"></a>2. Waterproof, shockproof, X-ray proof and static-proof</h3>
<p>Automotive electronic systems inevitably have to face unexpected situations, like heavy rain or vehicle collision.&nbsp; Also, if you need to carry memory cards abroad or insert in/remove frequently, features like <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/X-ray" target="_blank" rel="noopener">X-ray </a>scan and ESD protection are equally important. In such case, cards compliant with ISO7816-1 (X-ray exposure) or EMC IEC61000-4-2 (ESD test) can effectively minimize the risk of data loss, extend the lifespan and ensure data security.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.sxg8t9m68jru"></a>3. Application performance classes (A1/A2)</h3>
<p>We often see &ldquo;A1&rdquo; or &ldquo;A2&rdquo; on the package of many memory cards.&nbsp; With the growing popularity of smartphones, more and more users use SD cards as extended storage.&nbsp; Application performance class was introduced&nbsp; SD association to indicate the performance class of a memory card running smartphone apps. The class is determined by random read/write performance IOPS and particularly useful for scenarios of fast loading and frequent access to small files.&nbsp; For dash cams, smartphones and tablets, an A2-class memory card is a preferable choice.</p>
<table border="1" width="581" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="66">
<p align="center">Level</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
<p align="center">Minimum random read/write IPOS</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="170">
<p align="center">Minimum sustained sequential write</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="212">
<p align="center">Applications</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="66">
<p>A1</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
<p>1500 read IOPS/ 500 write IOPS</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="170">
<p>10MB/s</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="212">
<p>General applications, light usage</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="66">
<p>A2</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
<p>4000 read IOPS/ 2000 write IOPS</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="170">
<p>10MB/s</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="212">
<p>High-frequency operation on smart devices, real-time playback, app operation</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.xsu21uc9hjbi"></a>4. Video speed classes V30/V60/V90</h3>
<p>As mentioned in the previous section, when recording high-resolution videos, such as 2K or 4K videos, a memory card must provide a certain level of sustained write speed to prevent lag or frame drops. When recording 4K videos, it is recommended to choose a memory card supporting at least V30/U3 (minimum sustained sequential speed 30MB/s) or higher to ensure smooth recording without dropped frames and every detail in critical moments is captured.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.gm1y3b2g5nes"></a>5. Capacity requirements</h3>
<p>With the resolution and quality of dash cam increasing, the frequency of memory card replacement is also impacted.&nbsp; This is because every memory card has its own &ldquo;lifespan cycle&rdquo;; the larger the file size and the higher the resolution, the more data is written into the card, which in turn increases the frequency of loop overwriting. Therefore, it is recommended to consider the required capacity based on your own driving time and replacement frequency.&nbsp; For longer driving time or higher resolution requirement, you can choose a memory card with &ldquo;high capacity&rdquo; or use a &ldquo;mid-capacity card with high replacement frequency&rdquo;.&nbsp; For shorter driving time or lower resolution requirement, a typical 32GB memory card can serve for almost 2 years.&nbsp; Meanwhile, for vehicles that run 24/7, High-Endurance memory cards can significantly increase the durability by at least 3x.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.x2gtn4j4gqgq"></a>6. Brand and after-sales support</h3>
<p>Memory cards in dash cams are consumables that operate 24/7.&nbsp; And the time you need to access the data is usually during the most unexpected moment.&nbsp; It is recommended to choose a brand providing reliable after-sales warranty and has proven manufacturing experience.&nbsp; ADATA, as a global leading storage device brand, not only provides industrial-grade microSD cards, but also releases automotive models passing long-lasting stability and extreme temperature resistance testing, supporting up to 80,000hr of recording lifespan.&nbsp; These features makes ADATA a trusted brand for ensuring recording quality and device lifespan.</p>

How to choose a memory card for dash cams? 6 key buying tips

<p>After understanding these 6 key points, next, how do you choose a durable, stable, and high-quality memory card to make sure there are no recording interruptions? ADATA&rsquo;s High Endurance memory cards are your best choice to store critical videos.</p>
<p>As a global leading memory card brand, ADATA has released High Endurance memory cards. <a href="https://www.adata.com/en/consumer/category/memory-cards/614/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">High Endurance microSDXC / SDHC UHS-I Card series</a>, which are specifically designed for dash cams and security surveillance systems.&nbsp; This series not only complies with A2 performance standard, but also incorporates high-quality NAND flash chips, enabling a non-stop recording up to 80,000 hours.&nbsp; Features like Error Correcting Code (ECC) and various protection mechanisms including waterproof and shockproof make ADATA High Endurance series your best partner for driving safety, 24/7 surveillance recording and drone usage.</p>

Dash cam memory card recommendation｜ADATA memory card, secure every driving moment

<p>Memory cards are consumables; a high-quality memory card that meets your demand can fail before reaching its expected lifespan due to improper use, resulting in the loss of critical videos at important moments.&nbsp; To prevent this, proper maintenance is the easiest way to extend the lifespan of memory cards.&nbsp; Below are 3 simple yet key care tips to help ensure the smooth operation of your dash cam.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.xht4g9acxlzg"></a>1. Regularly format to maintain file system stability</h3>
<p>After continuous recording and intensive file writing for a long time, file systems in a memory card may gradually become fragmented and disorganized, leading to poor performance, recording lag, file corruption or write failures. It is recommended to regularly format the memory card once every 1 to 3 months to clear the file allocation table and repair bad sectors.&nbsp; Please run formatting in the dash cam to prevent incorrect formats or errors that may occur if it&rsquo;s processed on a computer.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.jw70tygx872f"></a>2. Avoid storing in high temperature, humid or static-prone areas</h3>
<p>Today, most high-quality memory cards support extreme temperature resistance (e.g.: -25&deg;C~85&deg;C) and come with waterproof design.&nbsp; However, being exposed to humidity or direct sunlight for a long time can still accelerate the embrittlement of electronic components. It is recommended to take out the memory card after powering off the device when not in use and keep it in an anti-static bag.&nbsp; Avoid contact with moisture, oil, or metals to extend its lifespan.</p>
<h3><a name="_heading=h.xkmpu8sejym2"></a>3. Check supported format, compatibility and speed to avoid missing critical footage</h3>
<p>Lastly, as the specifications section mentioned earlier, different brands and models of dash cam provide different supports to memory cards.&nbsp; Factors including maximum capacity (e.g. 32GB or 128GB), support formats (e.g. FAT32 or exFAT) and recording speed classes (e.g. C10 or U3 or above) can all affect the smooth operation of your dash cam.&nbsp;&nbsp; Therefore, it is strongly recommended to check the official user manual or specifications before purchasing or replacing a memory card to make sure the card meets your device&rsquo;s requirements.&nbsp; Also, if possible, test the memory card before use to confirm whether it can record normally and check the time of loop recording.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Further reading:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.adata.com/en/quikTips/sd-express-cards-with-ssd-level-performace/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Next-gen memory card: SD Express memory card with SSD-level performance</a><br><a href="https://www.adata.com/tw/quikTips/things-to-know-before-buying-a-memory-card/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Things to know before buying a memory card!</a></p>

3 key care tips of dash cam memory card and precautions

How to choose a memory card for dash cams? This article provides a complete guide of memory card specifications, key purchasing points and care tips, helping you select a highly durable and stable memory so that all records are well retained.