Memory card manufacturer SanDisk has published a detailed reference guide showing how much video recording time users can expect from storage cards of various capacities at different bitrates. The information aims to help videographers better plan their shoots without worrying about running out of storage space.
SanDisk memory cards, known for their performance and reliability in cameras, camcorders and drones, now come with clear specifications about recording duration. The following table shows approximate recording times in minutes for cards ranging from 4GB to 400GB at bitrates between 6Mbps and 24Mbps:
| Capacity | 24 Mbps | 17 Mbps | 13 Mbps | 9 Mbps | 8 Mbps | 6 Mbps |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4GB | 20 | 30 | 40 | 55 | 60 | 80 |
| 8GB | 40 | 60 | 80 | 110 | 120 | 160 |
| 16GB | 80 | 120 | 160 | 220 | 240 | 320 |
| 32GB | 160 | 240 | 320 | 440 | 480 | 640 |
| 64GB | 320 | 480 | 640 | 880 | 960 | 1280 |
| 128GB | 640 | 960 | 1280 | 1760 | 1920 | 2560 |
| 256GB | 1280 | 1920 | 2560 | 3520 | 3840 | 5120 |
| 400GB | 2000 | 3000 | 4000 | 5500 | 6000 | 8000 |
The company notes that these figures represent theoretical approximations, with actual recording times varying based on several factors:
- File size: Higher resolution and frame rate videos consume more storage space
- Resolution: 4K video requires significantly more space than 1080p footage
- Compression: Different codecs (H.264, H.265/HEVC) affect file sizes differently
- Bitrate: Higher bitrates improve quality but reduce recording time
- Content complexity: Scenes with more motion and detail require more storage
- Recording device: Various cameras and camcorders implement encoding differently
- Existing files: Preloaded content on the card reduces available recording space
SanDisk clarifies that while 1GB equals 1 billion bytes, actual usable capacity may be slightly less due to file system overhead and manufacturer versus operating system calculation differences. The company recommends testing recording times with specific equipment before important shoots and regularly backing up card contents.
This reference guide provides videographers with valuable information to select appropriate card capacities and recording settings for their projects, helping ensure they never miss important moments due to storage limitations.
