Samsung Pro vs Evo Sd Card: Which Is Best for You?
Choosing the right SD card can feel overwhelming, with so many options promising speed and reliability. If you’re looking at Samsung cards, you’ve likely narrowed it down to the Samsung PRO and EVO series. Both are popular choices, but they cater to different needs and budgets.
This comparison delves into the key differences between the Samsung PRO and EVO SD cards. We’ll examine their speed ratings, ideal use cases, and overall value. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a casual user, understanding these distinctions is crucial.
We’ll explore which card offers the best performance for your specific devices, from cameras and drones to smartphones and tablets. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of the advantages of the Samsung PRO and EVO SD cards and be able to make an informed decision.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Samsung PRO | EVO SD Card |
|---|---|---|
| Read Speed | Up to 160 MB/s | Up to 130 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 120 MB/s | Up to 100 MB/s |
| Video Recording | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Application Performance | A2 | A2 |
| Durability | Waterproof, Temperature Proof, X-ray Proof, Magnetic Proof, Drop Proof | Waterproof, Temperature Proof, X-ray Proof, Magnetic Proof, Drop Proof |
| Capacity Options | 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| Interface | UHS-I | UHS-I |
| Warranty | 10-year Limited Warranty | 10-year Limited Warranty |
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to 85°C | -25°C to 85°C |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to 85°C | -40°C to 85°C |
| Form Factor | SD Card | SD Card |
| Ideal Use | Professional Cameras, High-End Devices | Cameras, Smartphones, Tablets |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Speed Class
- Samsung Pro: Typically offers higher speed classes like UHS-I U3 or UHS-II V90, enabling faster read and write speeds, ideal for 4K video recording and burst photography. However, it usually comes with a higher price tag.
- Evo Sd Card: Often features UHS-I U1 or U3 speed classes, providing adequate performance for Full HD video recording and standard photography. It is generally more affordable than the Pro series, making it a budget-friendly option.
- Winner: Pro
Read Speed
- Samsung Pro: Boasts significantly faster read speeds, often exceeding 100MB/s or even 200MB/s, allowing for quicker file transfers and faster access to stored data. This is a major advantage for professionals.
- Evo Sd Card: Offers read speeds that are still respectable, but generally slower than the Pro series, typically around 100MB/s. This is suitable for general use, but can bottleneck large file transfers.
- Winner: Pro
Write Speed
- Samsung Pro: Provides superior write speeds, crucial for capturing high-resolution photos and videos without lag or dropped frames. Excellent for continuous shooting and demanding applications.
- Evo Sd Card: Write speeds are generally slower than the Pro series, which may lead to slower saving of large files or potential buffering during 4K video recording.
- Winner: Pro
Durability
- Samsung Pro: Constructed with robust materials and designed for durability, often offering protection against water, temperature extremes, and shocks. Built for demanding conditions.
- Evo Sd Card: Provides decent durability, but may not be as rugged as the Pro series. Suitable for general use, but may be more susceptible to damage in harsh environments.
- Winner: Pro
Video Recording Capabilities
- Samsung Pro: Optimized for high-resolution video recording, including 4K and 8K, with guaranteed write speeds ensuring smooth and uninterrupted footage. Ideal for professional filmmakers and videographers.
- Evo Sd Card: Suitable for Full HD video recording and some 4K recording, but may struggle with higher bitrates or longer 4K clips without potential buffering or dropped frames.
- Winner: Pro
Storage Capacity Options
- Samsung Pro: Available in a range of storage capacities, catering to professional needs, from smaller sizes for specific tasks to larger capacities for extensive projects.
- Evo Sd Card: Offers a wide range of storage capacities, providing options for various user needs, from casual users to those requiring moderate storage space.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Samsung Pro: Generally more expensive due to its superior performance, durability, and advanced features. Reflects its professional-grade design and capabilities.
- Evo Sd Card: More affordable, making it a cost-effective choice for general users and those with budget constraints. Offers good value for everyday use.
- Winner: Evo
Warranty
- Samsung Pro: Typically comes with a longer warranty period, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in its quality and durability.
- Evo Sd Card: Usually has a shorter warranty period compared to the Pro series.
- Winner: Pro
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Read Speed | Samsung PRO |
| Write Speed | Samsung PRO |
| Price | EVO SD Card |
| Durability | Tie |
| Overall Performance | Samsung PRO |
| Value | EVO SD Card |
What They Have in Common:
- Durability: Both the Samsung PRO and EVO SD cards are designed to withstand harsh conditions, including water, extreme temperatures, X-rays, magnetic fields, and drops, ensuring your data remains safe.
- Video Recording: Both cards support 4K UHD video recording, allowing you to capture high-resolution footage with compatible devices.
- Application Performance: Both cards are rated A2, providing fast application performance for smartphones and tablets.
- Warranty: Both cards come with a 10-year limited warranty, offering peace of mind and assurance of product quality.
- Interface: Both cards utilize the UHS-I interface, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and offering decent transfer speeds.
Samsung Pro Vs Evo SD Card Buying Guide
Understanding Your Needs
Before choosing between the Samsung Pro and Evo SD cards, determine your primary use case. Consider the type of device you’ll be using the card with, such as a camera, smartphone, or drone. High-resolution video recording (4K or higher) demands faster write speeds, favoring the Pro series. For general photography and everyday use, the Evo series often suffices. Think about the storage capacity you require based on the files you’ll be storing. Are you mainly storing photos, videos, or a mix of both? This will influence your storage needs.
Speed Class and Performance
Both cards offer varying speed classes, impacting their performance. The Pro series typically boasts faster read and write speeds, ideal for professional photographers and videographers who require quick file transfers and seamless recording. The Evo series provides sufficient speed for most users, offering a balance of performance and affordability. Check the speed class labels (UHS-I, UHS-II, etc.) to understand the maximum theoretical speeds. Consider the device’s compatibility with the card’s speed class to ensure optimal performance. Ensure your device supports the card’s speed class to get the most out of it.
Storage Capacity and Pricing
Both the Pro and Evo series come in various storage capacities, from 32GB to 512GB or more. The storage capacity you choose should align with your storage requirements, which depends on the number of photos and videos. Higher capacities translate to higher prices. Evaluate your budget and storage needs. Sometimes, buying a larger capacity Evo card can be more cost-effective than a smaller capacity Pro card. Compare prices across different retailers to find the best deal. Consider price per gigabyte to make an informed decision.
Durability and Reliability
Samsung SD cards are known for their durability. Both the Pro and Evo series are typically designed to withstand harsh conditions, including extreme temperatures, water, and magnetic fields. However, the Pro series often features enhanced protection for more demanding environments. Check the card’s specifications for its resistance ratings. Consider the environments where you’ll be using the card. If you’re frequently shooting outdoors or in challenging conditions, the Pro series might be a better choice. Always back up your data to prevent loss.
Compatibility Considerations
Ensure the SD card is compatible with your device. Most modern devices support SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) and SDXC (Secure Digital Extended Capacity) cards. Double-check your device’s specifications to confirm the supported card types and maximum capacity. Using an incompatible card will result in performance issues or the card not being recognized. Consider using an SD card reader to transfer files between your card and your computer. Always format the SD card within your device before using it for the first time to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
Warranty and Support
Both the Samsung Pro and Evo series come with warranties. The warranty period can vary, so check the specific details for the card you’re considering. The warranty covers manufacturing defects. Understand the warranty terms and conditions. Samsung provides customer support for its products. Keep your purchase receipt and card packaging handy in case you need to make a warranty claim. Register your SD card on the Samsung website to simplify the warranty process and access support. Consider the reputation of the seller when purchasing.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy samsung pro If…
- You are a professional photographer or videographer.
- You need the fastest possible read and write speeds.
- You frequently work with large files and require quick transfer times.
- You need robust performance in demanding situations.
Buy evo sd card If…
- You are a casual user who needs reliable storage for photos and videos.
- You want a balance of performance and affordability.
- You primarily use your card in smartphones, tablets, or basic cameras.
- You need a card with a wide range of capacity options including 1TB.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Samsung Pro and Evo SD cards?
The primary difference lies in performance. The Samsung Pro cards offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to the Evo cards, making them better suited for professional photography, 4K video recording, and other demanding applications. Evo cards are designed for general use, offering a good balance of speed and affordability.
Which SD card is better for 4K video recording?
The Samsung Pro series is generally the better choice for 4K video recording. Its faster write speeds ensure that the video data is written to the card quickly and efficiently, preventing dropped frames or other recording issues. The Evo series can handle 4K, but may not be as reliable or consistent.
Are Samsung Pro cards more durable than Evo cards?
While both series are designed to be durable, the Samsung Pro cards often feature enhanced protection against extreme temperatures, water, and other environmental factors. This makes them a more reliable option for use in challenging conditions where data protection is critical. The Evo series is still reasonably durable.
Can I use a Samsung Evo card in a professional camera?
Yes, you can use an Evo card in a professional camera. However, the performance may be limited compared to using a Pro card, especially when shooting high-resolution photos or videos. The Evo card may not keep up with the camera’s burst mode shooting or 4k video demands.
What does the “UHS” rating mean on an SD card?
UHS stands for Ultra High Speed. It indicates the speed class of the SD card. UHS-I and UHS-II are common ratings, with UHS-II cards offering significantly faster speeds than UHS-I cards. This rating helps determine the card’s read and write speeds. It’s important to match the card’s UHS rating with your device’s capabilities.
What is the warranty period for Samsung SD cards?
The warranty period for Samsung SD cards varies depending on the product, but it’s often several years. Always check the specific product’s warranty information, available on the packaging or Samsung’s website. The warranty typically covers manufacturing defects. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
How do I choose the right storage capacity?
Consider your usage. For photos, estimate the number and size of images. For videos, factor in resolution, frame rate, and recording duration. Higher resolutions, like 4K, require more storage. Choose a capacity that gives you enough headroom for your needs. If in doubt, it’s better to overestimate your storage needs than underestimate.
Final Verdict
Both the Samsung Pro and Evo SD cards offer reliable storage solutions. The Pro series excels in speed and durability, making it ideal for professional use. The Evo series provides a cost-effective option for general photography and everyday use. The best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and device capabilities. If you need the fastest speeds, the Pro is your best bet; otherwise, the Evo is a great value.
Winner: Samsung Pro