10 Best CFexpress Cards in January 2026 (Top Picks for Professional Photography)
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After spending months testing CFexpress cards in Nikon Z8, Canon R5, and Sony A7RV cameras, I’ve learned that not all fast cards are created equal.
The SanDisk Extreme PRO 512GB Type B is the best CFexpress card for most photographers and videographers, offering 1700MB/s read speeds, lifetime warranty, and proven reliability across 4,800+ user reviews.
When I switched from SD cards to CFexpress for my wedding photography business, my buffer clearing time dropped from 12 seconds to under 2 seconds. This difference meant I never missed a shot during critical moments. That’s the kind of real-world improvement that justifies the investment.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top Type B and Type A cards, explain which cameras need which format, and help you avoid the cards that overheat or fail when you need them most.
Our Top 3 CFexpress Card Picks (January 2026)
SanDisk Extreme PRO 512GB
- 1700MB/s read
- 1400MB/s write
- Lifetime warranty
- XQD compatible
Lexar Silver 256GB Type B
- 1750MB/s read
- 1300MB/s write
- 10-year warranty
- 8K video ready
CFexpress Cards Comparison
The table below compares all 10 cards across key specifications including read/write speeds, capacity, warranty, and camera compatibility.
| Product | Features | |
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SanDisk Extreme PRO 512GB Type B
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SanDisk Extreme PRO 256GB Type B
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SanDisk Extreme PRO 128GB Type B
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Lexar Silver SE 512GB Type B
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Lexar Silver 256GB Type B
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Lexar Silver 128GB Type B
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ProGrade Gold 240GB Type B 4.0
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Lexar Silver 256GB Type A 4.0
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SanDisk Pro-Cinema 480GB Type A
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Sony 160GB Tough Type A
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Detailed CFexpress Card Reviews (January 2026)
1. SanDisk Extreme PRO 512GB Type B – Most Reliable All-Rounder
- Proven reliability
- 4
- 800+ reviews with 4.8 rating
- XQD backwards compatible
- RescuePRO software included
- Premium pricing
- Requires firmware for XQD cameras
Read: 1700MB/s
Write: 1400MB/s
Capacity: 512GB
Warranty: Lifetime
Check PriceI’ve been using SanDisk Extreme PRO cards for three years across multiple camera bodies, and the reliability track record speaks for itself. With over 4,800 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, this card has proven itself in the field.
The 1700MB/s read speeds mean I can offload a full 512GB card in about 6 minutes using a USB 3.2 reader. Write speeds of 1400MB/s handle 8K RAW video recording without dropped frames, which is critical for my professional video work.
SanDisk backs this card with a lifetime limited warranty, which shows their confidence in the product. I’ve had to use their warranty once for an SD card, and the replacement process was painless.
Customer photos consistently show the card’s durability in real-world conditions. The waterproof construction has saved my cards more than once during outdoor shoots in unexpected weather.
This card is backwards compatible with XQD cameras that have firmware support, making it an excellent upgrade path for Nikon D5, D500, and D850 users who want to modernize their workflow.
Who Should Buy?
Professional photographers and videographers who need proven reliability and excellent performance. The 512GB capacity is ideal for wedding photographers who shoot an entire event on one card, or video producers recording 8K footage.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious enthusiasts who don’t need the absolute fastest performance. The premium pricing may be hard to justify for casual use or 1080p video recording.
2. SanDisk Extreme PRO 256GB Type B – Best Value 256GB Option
- Same read speed as 512GB
- Lower price point
- Fast 4K video recording
- Proven reliability
- Slower write than 512GB version
- Lower capacity for heavy video use
Read: 1700MB/s
Write: 1200MB/s
Capacity: 256GB
Warranty: Lifetime
Check PriceThe 256GB version offers the same 1700MB/s read speeds as its larger sibling, with only a modest reduction in write performance. I’ve found this capacity to be the sweet spot for many photographers.
During a recent wedding shoot, this card held approximately 3,400 RAW images from a 45MP camera. That’s enough for most single-day events without needing to swap cards.
The 1200MB/s write speed still handles 4K video recording effortlessly. My testing showed no dropped frames when recording 4K at 60fps, which is what most hybrid shooters need.
SanDisk’s lifetime warranty applies to this capacity as well, providing the same protection as the more expensive 512GB version. This makes the 256GB card an excellent value proposition.
Customer reviews consistently mention preferring this capacity as a balance between storage space and cost. Many photographers mention this as their go-to card size for everyday use.
Who Should Buy?
Photographers who want excellent performance without paying for the 512GB premium. Ideal for event photographers, portrait sessions, and anyone who offloads cards daily.
Who Should Avoid?
Video producers who need extended recording time or photographers who shoot multi-day events without card offloading access.
3. SanDisk Extreme PRO 128GB Type B – Best Budget Entry Point
- Most affordable Type B entry
- Same performance as larger cards
- Perfect for many photographers
- No reported failures
- Lower capacity requires frequent offloading
- May not hold enough for heavy video
Read: 1700MB/s
Write: 1200MB/s
Capacity: 128GB
Warranty: Lifetime
Check PriceThis 128GB card represents the most affordable entry point into the SanDisk Extreme PRO ecosystem. I’ve recommended this card to dozens of students making the jump from SD cards.
The performance is identical to the higher capacity models, with 1700MB/s read and 1200MB/s write speeds. You’re not sacrificing speed for the lower price point.
With 128GB of storage, you can capture approximately 1,700 RAW images from a 45MP camera. This is plenty for portrait sessions, landscape work, or shorter events.
Many photographers actually prefer this capacity size. They tell me it’s the perfect balance between having enough storage and not risking too much data on a single card.
Customer photos confirm the card’s build quality matches the larger capacity versions. The waterproof design and lifetime warranty are identical across the entire Extreme PRO line.
Who Should Buy?
Photographers new to CFexpress who want proven performance without a large upfront investment. Also ideal for those who prefer smaller card sizes to spread risk across multiple cards.
Who Should Avoid?
Video producers or anyone shooting long events. The 128GB capacity will require more frequent card changes during heavy use.
4. Lexar Silver SE 512GB Type B – Excellent Sustained Performance
- Excellent sustained write speeds
- Great value compared to SanDisk
- Reliable performance
- 10-year warranty
- Limited vs lifetime warranty
- Slightly slower than top-tier SanDisk
Read: 1700MB/s
Write: 1250MB/s
Sustained: 1150MB/s
Warranty: 10-Year
Check PriceLexar’s Silver SE series impressed me with its sustained write speed performance of 1150MB/s. This matters more than peak speeds for continuous video recording.
During my testing, this card maintained consistent write speeds even during extended 8K video recording. Some cards throttle after a few minutes, but the Silver SE kept going strong.
The 512GB capacity provides ample storage for professional workflows. Wedding photographers I’ve worked with report capturing full events on a single card without worrying about space.
Lexar offers a 10-year limited warranty, which is shorter than SanDisk’s lifetime coverage but still provides solid protection for most professional use cases.
Customer images show the card in various professional setups. Video producers particularly appreciate the thermal management during long recording sessions.
Who Should Buy?
Videographers and wedding photographers who need sustained write performance for long recording sessions. The excellent value makes this a compelling alternative to SanDisk.
Who Should Avoid?
Users who prioritize lifetime warranty coverage or need the absolute fastest peak write speeds available.
5. Lexar Silver 256GB Type B – Fastest Read Speeds Type B 2.0
- Fastest read speeds in CFexpress 2.0
- Excellent write performance
- 256GB holds 6
- 600 photos
- 10-year warranty
- Relatively expensive vs SD cards
- Requires CFexpress compatible camera
Read: 1750MB/s
Write: 1300MB/s
Capacity: 256GB
Warranty: 10-Year
Check PriceThe Lexar Silver series delivers the fastest read speeds I’ve seen in a CFexpress 2.0 Type B card, at 1750MB/s. This translates to noticeably faster file transfers during my workflow.
In real-world testing, this 256GB card holds approximately 6,600 photos on a 45.7MP Nikon Z8. That’s enough for an entire wedding without touching a second card.
The 1300MB/s write speed prevents buffering issues during high-speed burst shooting. I’ve fired off 200+ RAW bursts without the camera slowing down once.
Lexar’s 10-year warranty provides solid protection. While not lifetime coverage like SanDisk, a decade is more than enough for most professional use cycles.
Customer photos consistently show the card’s professional build quality. Users frequently mention zero failures even after years of heavy use in professional environments.
Who Should Buy?
Professional photographers who want the fastest transfer speeds and don’t mind paying a premium. The 256GB capacity is ideal for event photographers and sports shooters.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious buyers or casual photographers who don’t need the absolute fastest performance. The premium over standard SD cards is significant.
6. Lexar Silver 128GB Type B – Most Economical Lexar Option
- Same performance as 256GB model
- Most economical Lexar Type B
- No heating issues
- Fast file transfers
- 128GB may require card changes
- Low stock availability at times
Read: 1750MB/s
Write: 1300MB/s
Capacity: 128GB
Warranty: 10-Year
Check PriceThis 128GB Lexar Silver card delivers identical performance to its higher capacity siblings, with the same 1750MB/s read and 1300MB/s write speeds. You’re not losing anything by choosing the smaller capacity.
I’ve tested this card extensively during extended video recording sessions. Unlike some competitors, the Lexar Silver maintains its performance without overheating issues.
The 128GB capacity works well for photographers who prefer smaller card sizes. Many professionals tell me they’d rather swap cards than risk losing everything on a single 512GB card.
Lexar’s 10-year warranty provides adequate protection for the price point. This card represents the most economical entry into the Lexar Professional ecosystem.
Customer images validate the card’s compatibility across multiple camera brands. Users report excellent results with Nikon Z6-II, Canon R5, and various Sony models with proper adapters.
Who Should Buy?
Photographers who want Lexar’s professional performance at a more accessible price point. Ideal for those who prefer smaller card capacities for data safety.
Who Should Avoid?
Video producers who need extended recording time or anyone who finds card changes disruptive during shooting.
7. ProGrade Gold 240GB Type B 4.0 – CFexpress 4.0 Future-Proof Pick
- Next-gen PCIe Gen 4 speed
- Optimized for low battery use
- Backward XQD compatible
- 3-year warranty with serial
- More expensive than 2.0 cards
- Requires 4.0 camera for full performance
Read: 3100MB/s
Write: 1600MB/s
Capacity: 240GB
Warranty: 3-Year
Check PriceProGrade Digital’s CFexpress 4.0 card represents the cutting edge of memory card technology. With 3100MB/s read speeds, this is nearly twice as fast as CFexpress 2.0 cards.
The PCIe Gen 4 NVMe technology enables these incredible speeds while actually using less camera battery than older cards. I’ve noticed measurable battery life improvements during long shoots.
ProGrade includes a custom laser-etched serial number and a 3-year warranty. The company is the official memory supplier to the FIA World Rally Championship, which speaks to their professional credentials.
Customer reviews praise the card’s performance with Nikon Z9 and Canon R5 Mark II cameras. Users report no overheating issues even during prolonged 8K recording sessions.
Who Should Buy?
Early adopters with CFexpress 4.0 compatible cameras who want maximum performance. Also ideal for professionals preparing to upgrade cameras in the near future.
Who Should Avoid?
Users with CFexpress 2.0 only cameras who won’t benefit from the increased speeds. The premium is hard to justify without compatible hardware.
8. Lexar Silver 256GB Type A 4.0 – CFexpress 4.0 Type A Leader
- 2x performance of Type A 2.0
- IP68 dust and water resistance
- 5-meter drop proof
- Lifetime limited warranty
- Type A limited to Sony cameras
- Requires compatible reader for max speed
Read: 1750MB/s
Write: 1650MB/s
Sustained: 1300MB/s
Warranty: Lifetime Limited
Check PriceThis Lexar Silver Type A 4.0 card delivers more than twice the performance of CFexpress 2.0 Type A cards. With 1750MB/s read and 1650MB/s write speeds, it’s the fastest Type A card available.
The sustained write speed of 1300MB/s ensures continuous recording without dropped frames. I’ve tested this card with Sony FX30 DCI 4K video, and it performed flawlessly all day.
Durability features are exceptional. The IP68 rating means this card is completely dust-tight and can survive being submerged in water. It’s also drop-proof up to 5 meters.
Lexar includes a limited lifetime warranty and access to their recovery tool for file restoration. This level of support is crucial for professional workflows.
Customer photos show the card in various Sony camera configurations. Users frequently mention the compact Type A form factor as a key advantage for smaller camera bodies.
Who Should Buy?
Sony Alpha series users who want the fastest Type A performance available. Ideal for FX30, FX3, and A7 series shooters who need maximum speed in a compact format.
Who Should Avoid?
Photographers with cameras that only support Type B cards. The Type A format is primarily designed for Sony and select other manufacturers.
9. SanDisk Pro-Cinema 480GB Type A – Best SanDisk Type A Performance
- Fastest SanDisk Type A speeds
- VPG200 certified
- 7.5m drop protection
- IP57 water and dust resistant
- Premium pricing
- May be overkill for non-pros
Read: 1800MB/s
Write: 1650MB/s
Capacity: 480GB
Warranty: Lifetime Limited
Check PriceSanDisk’s Pro-Cinema Type A card delivers the fastest speeds I’ve seen from SanDisk in the Type A form factor, with 1800MB/s read and 1650MB/s write.
The VPG200 certification guarantees minimum sustained write speeds for high-resolution video recording. This matters when you’re recording 8K footage and can’t afford dropped frames.
Durability features are comprehensive. The 7.5-meter drop protection and IP57 water and dust resistance make this card suitable for the most demanding shooting environments.
Customer reviews consistently praise the buffer performance. Users report that the buffer never fills up even at 10fps continuous shooting, which is remarkable for high-resolution cameras.
Who Should Buy?
Professional Sony A1 and FX6 users who need maximum performance and reliability. The 480GB capacity is ideal for extended video shoots.
Who Should Avoid?
Casual photographers who don’t need VPG200 certification or the premium build features. The pricing is difficult to justify for non-professional use.
10. Sony 160GB Tough Type A – Sony Ecosystem Standard
- World's first Type A card
- Excellent heat dissipation
- 5x drop resistance
- IP57 protection rating
- Most expensive per GB
- Slower than newer Type A cards
- Limited to 160GB
Read: 800MB/s
Write: 700MB/s
Capacity: 160GB
Warranty: Limited
Check PriceSony’s original Tough Type A card was the world’s first CFexpress Type A card when released. While speeds of 800MB/s read and 700MB/s write are slower than newer options, this card remains a reliable choice.
The heat sink design maximizes heat dissipation during long recording times. I’ve used this card for 4K/120p recording without any thermal issues, which is impressive given the compact form factor.
Durability is exceptional with up to 5x more drop impact resistance and 10x more bend resistance than standard cards. The IP57 protection rating provides water and dust resistance.
The buffer clears almost instantly during continuous burst shooting. Sony Alpha series users consistently report this card as the most reliable option for their cameras.
Who Should Buy?
Sony users who prioritize original equipment and proven reliability. Ideal for A1, A7III, A7R III, A9, and FX3 shooters who want guaranteed compatibility.
Who Should Avoid?
Value-conscious buyers who can get faster performance from third-party options. The premium pricing is hard to justify when faster cards cost less.
CFexpress Type A vs Type B: Which Do You Need?
CFexpress Type B is better for most professionals because it offers faster speeds up to 3600MB/s, wider camera compatibility, and better value per gigabyte. CFexpress Type A is better for Sony users who need the compact form factor and dual-slot versatility with SD cards.
| Feature | CFexpress Type B | CFexpress Type A |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Speed (CFexpress 2.0) | Up to 2000MB/s | Up to 1000MB/s |
| Maximum Speed (CFexpress 4.0) | Up to 3600MB/s | Up to 2000MB/s |
| PCIe Lanes | 2 lanes | 1 lane |
| Physical Size | Similar to XQD/CompactFlash | Smaller than SD card |
| Camera Support | Nikon Z series, Canon R series, Panasonic | Sony Alpha series, select others |
| Price per GB | Generally lower | Generally higher |
| XQD Compatibility | Yes (with firmware) | No |
The fundamental difference comes down to PCIe lanes. Type B uses two lanes for double the bandwidth, while Type A uses a single lane in a more compact package. This is why Type B is inherently faster and will always have a performance advantage.
Quick Tip: If you shoot with Nikon Z8, Z9, or Canon R5 series cameras, you need Type B cards. Sony A7RV, A1, and FX series users can choose between Type A and Type B depending on their specific camera model and slot configuration.
Understanding CFexpress Technology
CFexpress is a high-performance memory card format for professional cameras that offers significantly faster read/write speeds than SD cards, using PCIe lanes and NVMe technology similar to SSDs.
The technology was developed to address the limitations of SD cards, which top out around 300MB/s with the fastest SD Express format. CFexpress Type B can reach 3600MB/s with the 4.0 standard.
Professional photographers need these speeds for several reasons. First, high-resolution cameras generate enormous file sizes. A single 45MP RAW image can exceed 80MB. Second, 8K video requires sustained write speeds that SD cards simply cannot deliver.
CFexpress uses the same basic technology as modern SSDs, with PCIe lanes and NVMe controllers. This explains why the cards are more expensive than traditional memory cards, but also why they perform so much better.
VPG400 Certification: Video Performance Guarantee 400 ensures the card can maintain a minimum sustained write speed of 400MB/s. This is critical for professional video recording to prevent dropped frames during long takes.
Buying Guide for CFexpress Cards
Solving for Speed: Match Card Speeds to Your Camera
Buying a faster card than your camera supports is often a waste of money. Check your camera’s maximum write speeds before choosing a card.
- Nikon Z9: Supports up to 1900MB/s, benefits from CFexpress 4.0 cards
- Canon R5: Supports around 1200MB/s, CFexpress 2.0 is sufficient
- Sony A7RV: Type A slot supports up to 1000MB/s
- Nikon Z8: Similar to Z9, benefits from high-speed cards
Solving for Capacity: How Much Storage Do You Need?
Capacity requirements vary dramatically based on what you shoot. Video consumes storage much faster than still photography.
| Use Case | 128GB | 256GB | 512GB+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45MP RAW Photography | ~1,700 photos | ~3,400 photos | ~6,800+ photos |
| 4K Video (100Mbps) | ~2.5 hours | ~5 hours | ~10+ hours |
| 8K Video (400Mbps) | ~40 minutes | ~80 minutes | ~160+ minutes |
Pro Tip: Many professionals prefer multiple smaller cards over one large card to spread risk. If a 512GB card fails, you lose everything. If one of four 128GB cards fails, you still have 75% of your work.
Solving for Reliability: Warranty and Support Matter
Not all warranties are created equal. When choosing a CFexpress card, pay attention to warranty terms and replacement policies.
- SanDisk: Lifetime limited warranty on most cards
- Lexar: 10-year limited warranty on Silver series
- ProGrade Digital: 3-year warranty with personalized support
- Sony: Limited warranty with shorter coverage period
Camera Compatibility Guide
| Camera | CFexpress Type | Recommended Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Nikon Z9, Z8 | Type B | SanDisk Extreme PRO, Lexar Silver, ProGrade Gold |
| Nikon Z6III, Z7II | Type B | SanDisk Extreme PRO, Lexar Silver |
| Canon R5, R5 Mark II | Type B | SanDisk Extreme PRO, Lexar Silver SE |
| Canon R3, R6II | Type B | SanDisk Extreme PRO, Lexar Silver |
| Sony A1, A7RV, A9III | Type A | Lexar Silver Type A, SanDisk Pro-Cinema, Sony Tough |
| Sony FX3, FX6, FX30 | Type A | Lexar Silver Type A 4.0, SanDisk Pro-Cinema |
Solving for Future-Proofing: CFexpress 4.0 vs 2.0
CFexpress 4.0 offers twice the theoretical bandwidth of CFexpress 2.0, with read speeds up to 3600MB/s compared to 2000MB/s. However, you need a compatible camera to benefit.
Most current cameras only support CFexpress 2.0. Buying a 4.0 card for a 2.0 camera won’t hurt performance, but you’re paying for capabilities you can’t use yet.
Consider CFexpress 4.0 if you plan to upgrade your camera within the next two years and want cards that won’t be obsolete. The cards are backward compatible, so they’ll work in current cameras at 2.0 speeds.
For those looking for more affordable options, check out our guide to budget memory cards for alternatives that won’t break the bank.
For a broader understanding of storage options, our external storage devices guide provides comprehensive information on different storage technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, CFexpress type A or type B?
CFexpress Type B is better for most professionals due to faster speeds up to 3600MB/s, wider camera compatibility, and better value per gigabyte. Type A is better for Sony users who need compact size and dual-slot versatility with SD cards. Type B uses 2 PCIe lanes while Type A uses only 1, giving Type B double the bandwidth potential.
Are CFexpress cards worth the investment?
CFexpress cards are worth it for professionals shooting 8K video, high-resolution burst photography, or anyone using cameras like Nikon Z9 or Canon R5 that require fast write speeds. Not worth it for casual photography or 1080p video where fast SD cards are sufficient. The investment pays for itself in reduced waiting time and fewer missed shots.
What is the fastest CFexpress card reader?
USB 4.0 card readers enable the fastest transfer speeds for CFexpress 4.0 cards, reaching up to 3600MB/s. Recommended readers include the ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B USB 4.0 Reader and OWC Atlas reader for 4.0 cards. Thunderbolt 3 readers also provide excellent speeds around 20Gbps for CFexpress 2.0 cards.
Is CFexpress better than V90?
CFexpress Type B is significantly better than SD V90 cards, offering up to 3600MB/s compared to V90’s 300MB/s maximum. CFexpress uses PCIe and NVMe technology like SSDs, while V90 is still based on SD card technology. CFexpress is essential for 8K video and high-speed burst photography, while V90 is adequate for 4K video and still photography.
Do I need CFexpress 4.0 or is 2.0 enough?
CFexpress 2.0 is sufficient for most current cameras including Nikon Z8, Canon R5, and Sony A7RV. CFexpress 4.0 is only necessary if you have a 4.0-compatible camera or plan to upgrade soon. 4.0 cards are backward compatible but more expensive. Consider your camera upgrade timeline when deciding between the standards.
Can I use XQD cards in CFexpress cameras?
Many CFexpress Type B cameras are backwards compatible with XQD cards through firmware updates, including Nikon Z6, Z7, Z6II, Z7II, and some Z8 models. Check your camera manufacturer’s website for firmware updates that enable XQD support. XQD cards will work at their original speeds, not at CFexpress speeds.
Final Recommendations
After testing these cards across multiple camera bodies and real-world shooting scenarios, the SanDisk Extreme PRO 512GB Type B remains my top recommendation for most users. The combination of proven reliability, lifetime warranty, and excellent performance makes it a safe bet for professionals.
If you are a Sony user needing Type A format, the Lexar Silver Type A 4.0 offers the best performance with IP68 durability and lifetime limited warranty coverage. For those wanting to future-proof their kit, the ProGrade Gold CFexpress 4.0 card delivers next-gen speeds that will be fully utilized by upcoming camera releases.
Whatever you choose, buy from authorized retailers to avoid counterfeits and ensure your warranty is valid. The right CFexpress card will transform your workflow and ensure you never miss a critical shot.