Sony's new generation of SDHC memory cards is now out. The SF8UX is also the first Sony memory card we've had the pleasure of testing. This UHS-1, Class 10 memory card promises maximum date transfer speeds of 94 MBps, which is certainly high, although it doesn't quite match some direct competitors like the Sandisk Extreme Pro 8 GB, our current favourite SDHC card.
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We measured data transfer speeds of up to 90 MBps in read mode and 22.5 MBps in write mode. The read speeds clearly rival the Sandisk card, but the same can't be said of the write speeds. The Sandisk card writes data almost four times faster (81 MBps).
In other words, it takes 1 minute and 30 seconds to copy 8 GB of files off the Sony SF8UX, and 6 minutes and 5 seconds to write the same files back onto the card.
With performances like this, the Sony SF8UX is aimed at users with compact cameras compatible with the UHS-I standard (which are still quite rare).
Data Transfer Speeds (in MBps)
We measured data transfer speeds of up to 90 MBps in read mode and 22.5 MBps in write mode. The read speeds clearly rival the Sandisk card, but the same can't be said of the write speeds. The Sandisk card writes data almost four times faster (81 MBps).
In other words, it takes 1 minute and 30 seconds to copy 8 GB of files off the Sony SF8UX, and 6 minutes and 5 seconds to write the same files back onto the card.
With performances like this, the Sony SF8UX is aimed at users with compact cameras compatible with the UHS-I standard (which are still quite rare).
Pros
- Very good read speeds (90 MBps)
- File Rescue software
- A good card for compact cameras or camcorders
Cons
- USB 3.0 card reader required for best results
- Write speeds a bit on the slow side
Conclusion
This SDHC card is a good choice for compact cameras. Read speeds are excellent, so you can unload photos and videos quickly. However, the low write speed means the SF8UX may not be up to keeping pace in burst mode. The SF8UX is fine for compacts but it may hold back speedier SLRs.
OUR SCORE
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