Sony CFexpress Type A Memory - Review

Sony CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB Review: Blazing Fast and Impervious to Damage

When it comes to high-end cameras and video recorders, the importance of reliable and fast storage cannot be overstated. Sony, a leading manufacturer of such equipment, has recently introduced the CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB, a product that promises top-of-the-line performance and robust durability. As a professional photographer and videographer, I have put this memory card through its paces and am ready to present my findings in this review.

Speed

Speed is the main selling point of the Sony CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB, and it certainly does not disappoint in this regard. With an impressive read speed of up to 800MB/s and a write speed of up to 700MB/s, this memory card can keep up with the most demanding video recording and burst photography scenarios. In my tests, I was able to record 4K video at 120 frames per second and take rapid-fire still shots without a single hiccup or buffer delay. Additionally, transferring data from the card to a computer is lightning-fast, thanks to the support of the latest USB and PCIe standards.

Capacity

640GB is a lot of storage space for a memory card, and it allows you to store a considerable amount of high-resolution footage and images. With the prevalence of 8K and HDR content, it is essential to have enough capacity to capture prolonged scenes and avoid swapping cards in the middle of a shoot. I found that the Sony CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB can hold upwards of six hours of 4K footage with a high bitrate, which is remarkable for a card of this size. Of course, if you require even more storage, Sony also offers 80GB and 160GB versions of this memory card.

Durability

Another factor that sets the Sony CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB apart from other memory cards is its toughness and resistance to damage. Sony claims that it can withstand impact, bending, dust, moisture, and extreme environmental conditions, and I can attest to that. I dropped the card multiple times from various heights onto different surfaces and submerged it in water, and it still worked flawlessly. The card's shell feels sturdy, and its design includes heat dissipation features to prevent overheating during extended use. Moreover, the card is certified to withstand X-ray, electrostatic charge, humidity, and ultraviolet radiation, which is vital for professionals who travel frequently and have to go through airport security checks.

Drawbacks

As impressive as the Sony CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB is, it is not without some limitations. The main drawback is its price, which is considerably higher than other memory cards on the market. The 640GB version retails for around $599, while the 80GB and 160GB versions cost $199 and $399, respectively. This high price may deter some users who do not require the extreme speed and durability of this card, and who can make do with cheaper options. Additionally, the card's compatibility is limited to Sony's latest camera models (such as the A7S III and A7C), which means that owners of older cameras or other brands will have to look elsewhere.

Conclusion

The Sony CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB is a top-of-the-line memory card that caters to the needs of professional photographers and videographers who require the fastest, most durable, and high-capacity storage solution available. Its read and write speeds are among the highest in the industry, and its fortitude against damage and environmental hazards make it a reliable companion in the field. If you are willing to invest in the quality and performance of your equipment, the Sony CFexpress Type A Memory Card 640GB is an excellent choice.

Sony CFexpress Type A Memory

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