Difference between SDHC and SDXC: Understanding the Key Distinctions
In the world of memory cards, the terms SDHC and SDXC are often used interchangeably, but there are significant differences between the two. SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) and SDXC (Secure Digital Extended Capacity) are both types of Secure Digital (SD) cards, but they differ in terms of storage capacity, speed, and compatibility.
Storage Capacity
The most obvious difference between SDHC and SDXC is their storage capacity. SDHC cards are available in capacities ranging from 4GB to 32GB, while SDXC cards can store up to 2TB of data. This means that if you need a large amount of storage space for high-resolution videos, photos, or other large files, SDXC cards are the way to go.
Speed Class and UHS Speed Class
SDHC and SDXC cards also differ in terms of their speed. SDHC cards have a maximum speed of 104MB/s, which is suitable for basic tasks such as storing photos and videos. However, for more demanding applications like 4K video recording, SDHC cards may not be the best choice.
On the other hand, SDXC cards have a maximum speed of 312MB/s, which is more than enough for 4K video recording and other high-performance tasks. Additionally, SDXC cards are available in UHS (Ultra High Speed) speed classes, which further enhance their performance. UHS Speed Class 1 (UHS-I) cards have a minimum speed of 10MB/s, while UHS Speed Class 3 (UHS-II) cards have a minimum speed of 30MB/s.
Compatibility
While SDHC and SDXC cards share the same physical size and form factor, they are not fully compatible with each other. SDHC cards can be used in devices that support SDHC cards, but they cannot be used in devices that only support SDXC cards. Conversely, SDXC cards can be used in devices that support SDXC cards, but they may not work optimally in devices that only support SDHC cards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the main difference between SDHC and SDXC cards lies in their storage capacity, speed, and compatibility. If you need a large amount of storage space and high performance, an SDXC card is the better choice. However, if you only need basic storage and speed, an SDHC card may suffice. It’s important to consider your specific needs and the compatibility of your devices when choosing between these two types of SD cards.
