Sandisk Ultra vs. Extreme Plus: Which Sd Card Wins?
Need a new SD card but feeling overwhelmed by the options? You’re not alone! Choosing the right storage for your camera or device can be tricky. This comparison dives deep into two popular choices: the SanDisk Ultra and the SanDisk Extreme Plus.
We’ll explore the key differences between these two SD cards, helping you decide which one best suits your needs. Whether you’re a casual photographer or a more serious enthusiast, understanding their performance is crucial. We’ll look at speed, reliability, and value.
The SanDisk Ultra is a well-known name for a reason, offering a balance of performance and affordability. But does it hold up against the faster, more robust SanDisk Extreme Plus? Let’s find out which card is the champion for your specific use case. Get ready to make an informed decision!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Ultra | Extreme Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Sequential Read Speed | Up to 160MB/s | Up to 170MB/s |
| Sequential Write Speed | Up to 120MB/s | Up to 90MB/s |
| Interface | UHS-I | UHS-I |
| Video Speed Class | V30 | V30 |
| Application Performance Class | A1 | A2 |
| Available Capacities | 64GB – 1TB | 32GB – 1TB |
| Durability | Shockproof, Temperature Proof, Waterproof, X-ray Proof | Shockproof, Temperature Proof, Waterproof, X-ray Proof |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime |
| Operating Temperature | -25°C to 85°C | -25°C to 85°C |
| Card Type | SDXC | SDXC |
| Ideal Use | Photography, Basic Video | 4K UHD Video, Burst Mode Photography |
| Form Factor | SD Card | SD Card |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Speed Class
- Sandisk Ultra: Typically a UHS-I (Ultra High Speed Class 1) card. Offers decent read/write speeds suitable for general photography and Full HD video recording. However, it’s not the fastest option available.
- Extreme Plus: Generally a UHS-I card but often with faster performance than the Ultra. It provides faster read/write speeds, making it better suited for more demanding tasks like burst shooting and 4K video recording.
- Winner: extreme plus
Read Speed
- Sandisk Ultra: Often boasts read speeds up to a certain MB/s (e.g., 100 MB/s). This speed is sufficient for quick file transfers and general use.
- Extreme Plus: Typically offers significantly higher read speeds, often reaching up to a higher MB/s (e.g., 170 MB/s). This results in faster transfer times and quicker access to files.
- Winner: extreme plus
Write Speed
- Sandisk Ultra: Write speeds are slower than read speeds, typically lower than extreme plus. It may struggle with continuous high-speed shooting or 4K video recording.
- Extreme Plus: Provides faster write speeds than the Ultra. This is crucial for tasks like burst shooting, recording 4K video, and overall responsiveness.
- Winner: extreme plus
Video Recording Capability
- Sandisk Ultra: Suitable for Full HD video recording, but may not be ideal for consistent 4K recording due to its write speed limitations.
- Extreme Plus: Designed for 4K UHD video recording, offering the necessary write speeds and performance for capturing high-resolution video without dropped frames.
- Winner: extreme plus
Durability
- Sandisk Ultra: Generally offers basic durability features, such as being shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and X-ray proof.
- Extreme Plus: Often includes enhanced durability features, sometimes including more robust protection against extreme conditions, making it suitable for more demanding environments.
- Winner: extreme plus
Price
- Sandisk Ultra: Generally more affordable, making it a good choice for budget-conscious users who don’t require the highest performance.
- Extreme Plus: Priced higher than the Ultra, reflecting its superior performance and often enhanced features.
- Winner: sandisk ultra
Warranty
- Sandisk Ultra: Typically comes with a standard warranty, often covering defects in materials and workmanship.
- Extreme Plus: May offer a longer or more comprehensive warranty, providing additional peace of mind.
- Winner: extreme plus
Applications
- Sandisk Ultra: Suitable for general photography, Full HD video recording, and storing files. Ideal for casual users.
- Extreme Plus: Best for professional or enthusiast photographers and videographers who require high performance for burst shooting, 4K video, and demanding applications.
- Winner: extreme plus
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Sequential Read Speed | Extreme Plus |
| Sequential Write Speed | Ultra |
| Application Performance | Extreme Plus |
| Value | Ultra |
| 4K Video Recording | Extreme Plus |
| Overall Performance | Extreme Plus |
What They Have in Common:
- Durability: Both cards are built to withstand harsh conditions, offering protection against shocks, extreme temperatures, water, and X-rays, ensuring your data remains safe.
- Warranty: Both the SanDisk Ultra and Extreme Plus come with a limited lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind and support from SanDisk.
- Interface: Both cards utilize the UHS-I interface, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and offering high-speed data transfer capabilities.
- Video Speed Class: Both cards boast a V30 video speed class, making them suitable for recording Full HD and 4K UHD video without dropped frames.
- Compatibility: Both cards are SDXC, ensuring compatibility with most modern cameras, camcorders, and other devices that support SD cards.
Sandisk Ultra Vs Extreme Plus Buying Guide
Performance Needs
Consider your primary use case. The SanDisk Ultra is generally sufficient for everyday tasks like photo storage, casual video recording, and general file transfers. However, if you regularly work with large files, 4K video, or require faster write speeds for continuous shooting or professional applications, the Extreme Plus is the superior choice. The Extreme Plus offers significantly faster read and write speeds, resulting in quicker data access and improved overall performance. Think about the types of files you’ll be handling most often and choose accordingly to avoid bottlenecks.
Storage Capacity Requirements
Assess your storage needs. Both the Ultra and Extreme Plus come in various capacities, from smaller sizes suitable for basic storage to larger options for extensive data storage. Determine how much space you require based on the number of photos, videos, and other files you plan to store. Consider future growth, too. It’s often wiser to purchase a card with slightly more capacity than you currently need to accommodate future storage demands. Choose a capacity that provides ample room for your files.
Device Compatibility
Ensure compatibility with your devices. Both cards use the SD card format and are generally compatible with a wide range of devices, including cameras, camcorders, and computers. However, check your device’s specifications to confirm the maximum supported card speed and capacity. While both cards are SDXC compatible, older devices might not support the higher speeds of the Extreme Plus. Reading your device manual or checking online reviews will help to confirm compatibility and avoid any potential issues.
Durability Considerations
Evaluate durability features. Both cards are built to withstand certain environmental conditions, but the Extreme Plus often offers slightly enhanced durability features. These might include greater resistance to extreme temperatures, shock, and water. If you plan to use your card in challenging environments, such as outdoor photography or videography, the Extreme Plus’s increased durability could provide peace of mind. Both cards are generally reliable, but consider the expected conditions of use.
Budget Allocation
Establish your budget. The SanDisk Ultra is typically the more budget-friendly option, making it a good choice for users seeking a balance between performance and cost. The Extreme Plus, with its faster speeds and often enhanced features, comes at a higher price point. Set a budget before you start shopping and compare prices for different capacities of both cards. Prioritize your needs and find the best card that meets your performance requirements within your specified budget constraints.
Warranty and Support
Review warranty and support options. SanDisk provides warranties for both card models, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Check the warranty duration and terms before purchasing. Consider the availability of customer support and the ease of filing a warranty claim if needed. A longer warranty period often indicates greater confidence in the product’s quality. Checking online reviews for customer support experiences can also be helpful in assessing overall satisfaction.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Ultra If…
- You need a reliable card for everyday photography and basic video recording.
- You are on a budget and looking for a more affordable option.
- You primarily use your card for storing photos and occasional Full HD video.
- You need a card with a wide range of available capacities.
Buy Extreme Plus If…
- You require faster write speeds for continuous shooting or 4K video recording.
- You need a card that can handle demanding applications and multitasking.
- You frequently shoot high-resolution photos in burst mode.
- You want slightly faster read speeds for quicker file transfers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between SanDisk Ultra and Extreme Plus?
The primary difference lies in performance. The Extreme Plus offers significantly faster read and write speeds compared to the Ultra. This translates to quicker file transfers, faster continuous shooting in cameras, and improved overall responsiveness, especially when working with large files such as high-resolution videos. The Extreme Plus is designed for more demanding applications.
Which card is better for 4K video recording?
The SanDisk Extreme Plus is the better choice for 4K video recording. Its faster write speeds ensure that the card can keep up with the demands of high-resolution video, preventing dropped frames or recording interruptions. While the Ultra can record 4K in some devices, the Extreme Plus guarantees a smoother, more reliable recording experience due to its higher performance capabilities.
Is the Extreme Plus worth the extra cost?
Whether the Extreme Plus is worth the extra cost depends on your needs. If you’re a professional photographer, videographer, or someone who frequently works with large files, the performance boost is significant and justifies the price. For casual users who primarily store photos and basic videos, the Ultra offers a good balance of performance and affordability. Consider your workflow.
Can I use the SanDisk Ultra for professional photography?
The SanDisk Ultra can be used for professional photography, but it may have limitations. While it is suitable for taking photos, its slower write speeds compared to the Extreme Plus can lead to longer buffering times, especially when shooting in continuous burst mode or recording large RAW files. Professionals will likely benefit more from the faster speeds of the Extreme Plus.
What is the warranty on these SD cards?
Both the SanDisk Ultra and Extreme Plus usually come with a limited warranty from SanDisk. The warranty duration can vary, but it often covers defects in materials and workmanship. The specific terms and duration can be found on the product packaging or on the SanDisk website. It’s recommended to check the warranty details before purchase.
Are these cards compatible with all devices?
Both cards are generally compatible with a wide range of devices that support SD cards. However, it’s crucial to check your device’s specifications to ensure compatibility with the card’s speed and capacity. Older devices might not support the faster speeds of the Extreme Plus, while both cards are SDXC compatible. Consult your device’s manual to avoid compatibility issues.
Which card offers better durability?
The SanDisk Extreme Plus typically offers slightly better durability features compared to the Ultra. These features can include enhanced resistance to extreme temperatures, shock, and water. While both cards are reasonably durable, the Extreme Plus is better suited for use in harsh environments or situations where the card may be exposed to the elements. Consider your usage environment.
Final Verdict
The SanDisk Ultra is a solid choice for everyday use, offering a good balance of performance and affordability. However, the SanDisk Extreme Plus excels in speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for professional applications, 4K video recording, and users who demand the best performance. The Extreme Plus provides a significant advantage for demanding workflows.
Winner: SanDisk Extreme Plus