The latest Cinematic and DSLR cameras capture higher resolution images in 8K RAW and 12K, with higher frame rates on video capture. This creates the need for massive amounts of data to be processed and at faster speeds than ever before.
CFexpress cards meet this challenge and are offered at various levels of price and performance so selecting the right one should be a considered decision.
CFexpress cards normally state their sequential read and write speeds, this is a useful indicator as the higher the speed, the better, however sequential speeds are measured with the data in bursts and therefore this does not tell the whole story.
When using high end-cameras the correct measure to look for is the sustained write speed. The sustained write speed is how fast the card transfers data when being to record video or high burst rate photography where a high volume of data is flowing continuously.
A lower specification CFexpress card may work in certain modes and hit a bottleneck when the camera is at its ultimate specification, for faultless performance the card should match the required sustained write speeds needed for the camera.
When the sustained write speed is known a selection can be made with confidence. However, this is not always published by the camera manufacturers or readily available.
To assist with the correct card selection, Integral conducts camera testing and specification analysis, research and has produced a guide for you to select the correct CFexpress card with confidence.
Integral has three ranges of Cinematic CFexpress (Type B) memory cards for the latest cameras.
Our Gold range with sustained write speed of 1500MB/s, Silver with 1300MB/s and Red with 500Mb/s-800mb/s. There is a Blue Professional for XQD upgrades.
The Chart below shows which card to choose for you camera, the prices of a CFexpress card of the same capacity can be over two times more expensive from the entry to the high end and hence a considered decision.
Choosing the right capacity is another important decision as the latest cameras are starting to consume in 8K modes up to gigabytes per minute.
Once you have selected the Integral CFexpress card you need for your camera, you have a choice of a Gold or Silver card and you will see a substantial price difference for a similar capacity card.
Our Gold cards have a higher sustained write and are made from special pSLC flash which is designed for much higher endurance. When used intensively and regularly overwritten this is worthy of consideration.
The Silver cards use TLC flash which is the most common type used in memory cards and solid-state drives and is ideal for most applications.
Integral has sold over 50M memory cards so you can buy with confidence in the knowledge that you have selected the right CFexpress card that will meet your needs and is reliable at a price we consider fair to our customers, with the performance your camera requires.