Tested in Camera: The Best Sony A7R V Memory Cards

Welcome to my Sony A7R V (ILCE-7RM5) memory card guide with actual in-camera speed and buffer tests.

So far I’ve tested 20 CFexpress Type-A cards and 13 of the most popular UHS-II cards in the A7RV to find out which memory cards perform best in camera.

In-Camera Write Speed Comparison

Here’s a quick in-camera write speed comparison for all of the CFexpress Type-A and UHS-II cards that I’ve tested so far in the Sony A7RV.

Best CFexpress Type-A Memory Cards for Sony A7R V

Memory Card	CFexpress Standard	* In-Camera Write Speed	* Max Burst	Buffer Clearing Time *	Price Check
Nextorage NX-A1PRO CFexpress Type A	2.0	795 MB/s	409	6.48s	Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK
Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type A 4.0	4.0	784 MB/s	357	6.66s	Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK
Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type A SE	2.0	784 MB/s	357	6.66s	Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK
Lexar Professional CFexpress Type-A Gold Series	2.0	782 MB/s	355	6.64s	Amazon | B&H Photo
ProGrade Digital CFexpress 4.0 Type A Iridium	4.0	780 MB/s	342	6.51s	Amazon | B&H Photo
OWC Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A	4.0	770 MB/s	309	6.66s	Amazon | B&H Photo
Pergear Standard CFexpress Type A	2.0	765 MB/s	301	6.90s	Amazon
Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress 4.0 Type A	4.0	708 MB/s	195	7.10s	Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK
Sony CEA-G Tough CFexpress Type-A	2.0	701 MB/s	190	7.28s	Amazon | B&H Photo
Lexar Professional CFexpress Type A Silver Series	2.0	693 MB/s	176	7.11s	Amazon | B&H Photo
Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type-A	2.0	652 MB/s	145	7.56s	Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK
Delkin Devices POWER CFexpress Type-A	2.0	652 MB/s	145	7.56s	Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK
ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type-A Cobalt	2.0	650 MB/s	145	7.76s	Obsolete
Sony CEA-M Tough CFexpress Type A	2.0	591 MB/s	113	8.30s	Amazon | B&H Photo
ProGrade Digital CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold	2.0	514 MB/s	99	10.56s	Amazon | B&H Photo
Exascend Essential CFexpress Type-A	2.0	477 MB/s	91	11.53s	Amazon
Pergear Prime CFexpress Type A	2.0	464 MB/s	83	11.20s	Amazon
Pergear Master 4.0 CFexpress Type A	4.0	450 MB/s	81	11.80s	Amazon
Nextorage NX-A1SE CFexpress Type A	2.0	404 MB/s	68	12.10s	Amazon | Memory Wolf UK
Nextorage NX-A2SE CFexpress Type A	4.0	403 MB/s	67	12.00s	Amazon

Best UHS-II Memory Cards for Sony A7R V

These in-camera tests were done using the Sony A7R V and 64GB SDXC UHS-II memory cards.

Memory Card	* In-Camera Write Speed	Price Check
1. Sony SF-G Tough	243 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
2. ProGrade V90	231 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
3. Hoodman Steel 2000X	229 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
4. Ritzgear Video Pro	229 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
5. Delkin Devices POWER	228 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
6. SanDisk Extreme Pro	216 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
7. Kingston Canvas React Plus	201 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
8. Sony SF-M Tough	144 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
9. Sony SF-M	144 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
10. Angelbird AV Pro Mk 2 V90	141 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
11. Lexar Professional 2000X	123 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
12. PNY X-PRO 90	119 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon
13. Transcend SD 700S	117 MB/s	B&H Photo | Amazon

Sony A7R V Price Check at: B&H Photo

Which Memory Cards are Compatible?

The Sony A7R V is compatible with both CFexpress Type-A and also UHS-I and UHS-II (SD/SDHC/SDXC) cards in both of its two memory card slots.

However, you can’t use both a CFexpress Type-A and an SD card in the same slot at the same time, it’s either one or the other.

The A7R V supports the CFexpress 2.0 standard. CFexpress 4.0 cards will however work just fine because they are backwards compatible, you just won’t get 4.0 speeds in camera. Where you will benefit from 4.0 cards is when copying files to your computer, that’s providing you are using a 4.0 reader.

Here’s a quick speed comparison between CFexpress Type-A, UHS-I and UHS-II cards.

• UHS-I: theoretical maximum transfer speeds of up to 104MB/s
• UHS-II: theoretical maximum transfer speeds of up to 312MB/s
• CFexpress Type-A (2.0): theoretical maximum transfer speeds of up to 1,000MB/s
• CFexpress Type-A (4.0): theoretical maximum transfer speeds of up to 2,000MB/s

CFexpress Type-A Memory Card Buffer Tests

If you shoot a lot of continuous bursts and demand the fastest buffer clearing times then you’ll want to use a CFexpress Type-A card in your A7RV.

Here you’ll find all of the CFexpress Type-A cards available including my in-camera speed and buffer tests.

Nextorage NX-A1PRO CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 950 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 600 MB/s (40 GB) / 950 MB/s (80/160/320/640 GB)
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 550 MB/s (40 GB) / 850 MB/s (80/160/320/640 GB)
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 40 GB / 80 GB / 160 GB / 320 GB / 640 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 795 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	409	6.48s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type A 4.0

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1830 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1710 MB/s (480GB) / 1740 MB/s (960GB)
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 500 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 784 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 480 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	357	6.66s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type A SE

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 820 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 730 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: 750 MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 650 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 160 GB / 330 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 784 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	357	6.66s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

Lexar Professional CFexpress Type-A Gold Series

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 900 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: xx MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB / 320 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 782 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	355	6.64s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

ProGrade Digital CFexpress 4.0 Type A Iridium

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 800 MB/s (480 GB) / 1450 MB/s (960 GB)
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 780 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 480 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	342	6.51s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

OWC Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1850 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 240 GB / 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 770 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 240 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	309	6.66s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	3.24s

Pergear Standard CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 780 MB/s (256GB) / 800 MB/s (512 GB)
• Max Write Speed: 780 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): NA
• Capacities: 256 GB / 256 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 765 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	301	6.90s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress 4.0 Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1650 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 800 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 708 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	195	7.10s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

This card appears to be a little temperamental in the A7RV. Sometimes it will shoot around 200 uncompressed RAW images before filling the buffer, other times it will manage around 250.

Sony CEA-G Tough CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB / 320 GB / 640 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 701 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 80 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	190	7.28s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	3.15s

Lexar Professional CFexpress Type A Silver Series

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA MB/s
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 600 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 160 GB / 320 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 693 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 260 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	176	7.11s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 880 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 790 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 652 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	145	7.56
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	6.66s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	953	7.81s

Delkin Devices POWER CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 880 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 790 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 80 GB / 160 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 652 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 80 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	145	7.56
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	6.66s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	953	7.81s

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type-A Cobalt

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 400
• Capacities: 160 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 650 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 160 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	145	7.76s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	7.69s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

Sony CEA-M Tough CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 960 GB / 1920 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 591 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 960 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	113	8.30s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	1035	8.06s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	Over 1000	< 2s

ProGrade Digital CFexpress 2.0 Type A Gold

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 900 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 450 MB/s (120 GB) / 600 MB/s (240GB/480GB/960GB)
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 120 GB / 240 GB / 480 GB / 960 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 514 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 120 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	99	10.56s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	257	11.45s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	281	6.63s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	915	8.20s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	796	8.98s

Exascend Essential CFexpress Type-A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 200 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 120 GB / 180 GB / 240 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 477 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 240 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	91	11.53s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	227	11.95s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	261	6.93s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	891	8.20s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	740	8.98s

Pergear Prime CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 800 MB/s (80GB / 1TB) / 880 MB/s (260GB / 520GB)
• Max Write Speed: 600 MB/s (80GB) / 400 MB/s (260GB / 520GB) / 700 MB/s (1 TB)
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): NA
• Capacities: 80 GB / 260 GB / 520 GB / 1 TB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 450 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 260 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	83	11.20s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	218	11.41s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	342	6.90s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	805	8.33s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	995	9.54s

Pergear Master 4.0 CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1780 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1600 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: 700 MB/s
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed:
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG):
• Capacities: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1 TB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 450 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	81	11.80s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	221	11.78s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	342	6.90s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	806	8.33s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	995	9.54s

Nextorage NX-A1SE CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 2.0
• Max Read Speed: 950 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 950 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 480 GB / 960 GB / 1920 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 404 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 480 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	68	12.10s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	185	12.25s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	163	31.93s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	845	8.60s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	955	8.77s

Nextorage NX-A2SE CFexpress Type A

• CFexpress Standard: 4.0
• Max Read Speed: 1900 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Sustained Read Speed: NA
• Max Sustained Write Speed: NA
• Minimum Sustained Write Speed: 400 MB/s (256GB) / 850 MB/s (512GB) / 1500 MB/s (1024GB)
• Video Performance Guarantee (VPG): 200
• Capacities: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1024 GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed is around 403 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 256 GB card:

Drive Mode Hi+ (Max 10fps)

Please note that the maximum speed of 10 fps is only possible in compressed RAW, JPEG and HEIF file formats.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	67	12.00s
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	185	12.27s
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	163	31.98s
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	846	8.64s
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9 MB) – 10 fps	958	8.85s

UHS-II Card Buffer Tests

If you don’t shoot a lot of continuous bursts then you might be happy enough with using a slower UHS-II card.

Here are my in-camera tests for 13 of the most popular UHS-II cards available today.

Please note that I have only tested the two fastest cards with all of the available image types because I didn’t want to wear out the mechanical shutter on my A7RV by shooting over 50,000 shots!

1. Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 299MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256G

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 243 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	50	19.81
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	105	21.28
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	66	12.26
Lossless Compressed RAW M (48.3MB) – 7 fps	151	7.43
Lossless Compressed RAW S (37.1MB) – 7 fps	Over 1000	< 2
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	143	14.73
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) + JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 7 fps	43	26.81
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) + JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	84	33.05
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) + JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 7 fps	47	18.95
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9MB) – 10 fps	658	8.11

Very Important Note: Older versions of these cards do not work with the A7R V. You might see a message that says: “Unable to use Memory Card. Slot 1″. Sony has a replacement program for older versions of these cards. You can find out if your cards are affected by checking this article.

2. ProGrade V90 UHS-II

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 250MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 231 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	49	20.75
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) – 10 fps	103	21.65
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) – 7 fps	65	12.86
Lossless Compressed RAW M (48.3MB) – 7 fps	135	7.80
Lossless Compressed RAW S (37.1MB) – 7 fps	991	6.23
JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	139	15.13
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) + JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 7 fps	43	27.48
Compressed RAW (71.4MB) + JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 10 fps	83	33.98
Lossless Compressed RAW L (80.1MB) + JPEG Extra Fine (49.6MB) – 7 fps	47	19.05
HEIF (4:2:2) Extra Fine (24.9MB) – 10 fps	638	8.31

3. Hoodman Steel 2000X

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 260MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 229 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	49	20.96

4. Ritz Gear Video Pro

• Max Read Speed: 280MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 250MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 229 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	49	20.96

5. Delkin Devices 64GB POWER UHS-II

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 250MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 228 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	49	21.24

6. SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-II

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 260MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 216 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	47	21.71

Very Important Note: Older versions of this card are not V90 rated and therefore will not work in certain video modes. See the video section of this guide for details on which video file formats require V90 rated cards.

7. Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II

The Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II memory cards are one of the fastest and most affordable cards you can put in the A7RV. They are typically around 40% cheaper than Sony’s SF-G Tough cards with practically the same performance.

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 290MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 201 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	49	24.78

8. Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II

Sony’s SF-M Tough Series are similar to the more expensive SF-G version but these are only rated V60 for video and their read time has been cut to 277MB/s and the write time to 150MB/s.

• Max Read Speed: 277MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 150MB/s
• Video Rating: V60
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 144 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	44	33.83

Very Important Note: Older versions of these cards do not work with the A7R V. You might see a message that says: “Unable to use Memory Card. Slot 1″. Sony has a replacement program for older versions of these cards. You can find out if your cards are affected by checking this article.

9. Sony SF-M UHS-II

Sony’s SF-M Series are identical to the SF-M Tough Series just without the added toughness so they cost a little less.

• Max Read Speed: 277MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 150MB/s
• Video Rating: V60
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 144 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	44	33.87

Very Important Note: Older versions of these cards do not work with the A7R V. You might see a message that says: “Unable to use Memory Card. Slot 1″. Sony has a replacement program for older versions of these cards. You can find out if your cards are affected by checking this article.

10. Angelbird AV Pro Mk 2 V90

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 280MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 141 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	42	33.15

11. Lexar Professional 2000X UHS-II

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 260MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 123 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	46	42.58

12. PNY X-PRO 90

• Max Read Speed: 300MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 280MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 119 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	39	37.75

13. Transcend SD 700S UHS-II

• Max Read Speed: 285MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 180MB/s
• Video Rating: V90
• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB

In-Camera Speed & Buffer Test Results

When shooting uncompressed raw to slot 1 in manual mode/focus with a shutter speed of 1/250th the in-camera write speed of this card is around 117 MB/s.

Here are my in-camera speed test results using a 64GB card and Drive Mode Hi+ with the mechanical shutter.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
Uncompressed RAW (132.8MB) – 7 fps	49	47.97

Number of Recordable Images

The table below shows the approximate number of images that can be recorded on a memory card formatted in-camera.

These numbers are using a Sony memory card, the [Aspect Ratio] is set to [3:2], and [JPEG Image Size]/[HEIF Image Size] is set to [L: 60M].

Memory Cards for Shooting Video

If you plan to shoot video with your A7RV then you’ll need to make sure that you are using the correct memory card for the video format that you are shooting in.

Movie Recording

If you want to shoot video in XAVC S-I 4K (600Mbps) or XAVC S-I HD (222Mbps) then you’ll need to use a V90 rated UHS-II memory card or faster. For the other formats you’ll be fine with a V60 rated card.

S&Q Motion Recording

In slow-motion recording, the recording bit rate is higher than usual. When [S&Q Rec Frame Rate] is set to [30p]/[25p]/[24p] and [S&Q Frame Rate] is set to [60fps]/[50fps] for slow-motion recording, a CFexpress Type A memory card (VPG200 or higher) will be required.

Movie Recording Times

The table below shows the approximate total recording times using a Sony memory card formatted in-camera.

Memory Card Readers

If you don’t already own a CFexpress Type-A or UHS-II SD card reader then here are my recommendations.

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A USB 4.0 Single-Slot Card Reader

The CFexpress Type A USB 4.0 Single Slot-Card Reader from ProGrade Digital features a single CFexpress 4.0 Type A slot that supports up to 40 GBits per second (5 GB/s). A magnetic base can be used to secure the reader to your Windows or Mac system. A 2.6′ USB 4.0 cable is included.

Sony MRW-G2 CFExpress Type-A Card Reader

The Sony MRW-G2 supports both CFexpress Type A cards as well as a SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, along with transfer speeds of up to 10 Gb/s via USB 3.1 Gen 2. Both USB Type-C to Type-C and USB Type-C to Type-A cables are included.

I own this reader and its my preferred choice due to it’s build quality and the fact that it doesn’t get quite so hot as other readers on the market. Although you might find the Prograde dual-card reader more convenient if you use both CFexpress Type-A and UHS-II SD cards.

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A & UHS-II SDXC Dual-Slot USB 3.2 Gen 2 Card Reader

The ProGrade Digital Dual Slot reader/writer has one CFexpress Type A slot and one UHS-II SDXC slot. It supports transfer speeds of up to 1.25 GB/s (10 Gb/s) via its USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C interface. It includes USB Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A cables.

I own both the Sony MRW-G2 and the Prograde Digital and find that the Sony doesn’t get as hot when transferring files as the Prograde. The Sony also feels better built but it does have the higher price tag of the two and only one CFexpress Type-A slot.

Sony MRW-S1 UHS-II USB Memory Card Reader/Writer

Sony’s MRW-S1 UHS-II USB SD Card Reader/Writer can read/write to UHS-II SD Cards via a USB 3.1 interface and is backward compatible with UHS-I SD cards.

The MRW-S1 will transfer files to and from your computer around 2.6x faster than is possible with the slower UHS-I SD cards.

Simultaneous Recording Slot 1 + Slot 2

If you shoot the A7R V simultaneously to both memory card slots then it’s best to use either two identical CFexpress cards or two identical UHS-II cards.

If you use a CFexpress card in slot 1 and a UHS-II card in slot 2 then the write speed is always restricted by the slower UHS-II card.

Summary

CFexpress Type-A cards allow you to shoot more shots and also clear the buffer a lot faster than SD cards.

The Nextorage NX-A1PRO CFexpress Type A (Amazon) was comfortably the fastest of the CFexpress Type-A cards in my tests. It allowed me to shoot up to 409 uncompressed RAW shots before hitting the buffer and cleared it in around 6.48s seconds.

The next fastest CFexpress Type A card was the Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type A 4.0 (Amazon | B&H Photo | Memory Wolf UK). It allowed me to shoot up to 357 uncompressed RAW shots before hitting the buffer and cleared it in around 6.66s seconds.

The Delkin Black card is also CFexpress 4.0 which means you’ll benefit from the faster read speeds when copying files to your computer, that’s providing you are using a 4.0 card reader.

If you are thinking about using a UHS-II SD card in the A7R V then the Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II card (B&H | Amazon) allowed me to shoot 50 uncompressed RAW images before hitting the buffer and took around 20 seconds to clear it.

Sony A7R V Guides & Resources

FAQs