SDHC vs. SDXC

Attribute	SDHC	SDXC
Capacity	Up to 32GB	More than 32GB
File System	FAT32	exFAT
Speed Class	Class 2, 4, 6, or 10	Class 2, 4, 6, 10, or higher
Compatibility	Compatible with SDHC and SDXC devices	Compatible with SDXC devices only
Usage	Commonly used in digital cameras, camcorders, and other devices	Commonly used in high-resolution cameras, 4K video recording, and other advanced devices

Introduction

Secure Digital (SD) cards have become the standard for portable storage in various electronic devices, such as digital cameras, smartphones, and tablets. As technology advances, different variations of SD cards have emerged to meet the increasing demand for higher storage capacities and faster data transfer speeds. Two popular variations are SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) and SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity). In this article, we will compare the attributes of SDHC and SDXC, exploring their differences and similarities.

Storage Capacity

One of the primary differences between SDHC and SDXC lies in their storage capacities. SDHC cards typically offer storage capacities ranging from 4GB to 32GB, while SDXC cards provide significantly larger capacities, starting from 64GB and going up to a staggering 2TB. This distinction makes SDXC cards ideal for users who require extensive storage for high-resolution photos, videos, and other data-intensive files.

File System

Another key difference between SDHC and SDXC is the file system they utilize. SDHC cards use the FAT32 file system, which is compatible with most devices and operating systems. On the other hand, SDXC cards employ the exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table) file system, which offers improved performance and supports larger file sizes. The exFAT file system is particularly advantageous for recording high-definition videos or storing large files, as it eliminates the limitations of the FAT32 file system, which has a maximum file size of 4GB.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility, SDHC cards have broader support across a wide range of devices. Most devices that accept SDHC cards can also read SDXC cards, ensuring backward compatibility. However, it is important to note that older devices, particularly those released before SDXC cards became prevalent, may not support the exFAT file system used by SDXC cards. In such cases, a firmware update or a separate card reader may be required to access the data on an SDXC card.

Data Transfer Speed

Data transfer speed is a crucial factor, especially for users who frequently transfer large files or capture high-resolution videos. SDHC cards typically offer lower data transfer speeds compared to SDXC cards. SDHC cards adhere to the Class 2, 4, 6, and 10 speed classes, with Class 10 being the fastest, capable of delivering a minimum sustained write speed of 10MB/s. On the other hand, SDXC cards often belong to the UHS-I (Ultra High-Speed) or UHS-II speed classes, offering significantly faster data transfer rates. UHS-I cards can reach speeds of up to 104MB/s, while UHS-II cards can achieve even higher speeds, up to 312MB/s.

Price

Price is an important consideration for many consumers when choosing between SDHC and SDXC cards. Generally, SDHC cards are more affordable compared to SDXC cards with similar storage capacities. This price difference can be attributed to the higher manufacturing costs associated with producing SDXC cards, which offer larger capacities and faster speeds. However, as technology advances and SDXC cards become more prevalent, the price gap between the two variations is gradually narrowing.

Usage Scenarios

SDHC and SDXC cards cater to different usage scenarios based on their attributes. SDHC cards are well-suited for everyday use, such as storing photos, music, and documents. They are also suitable for devices with limited storage requirements, such as point-and-shoot cameras or older smartphones. On the other hand, SDXC cards are ideal for professionals or enthusiasts who demand extensive storage for high-resolution photos, 4K videos, and other data-intensive applications. They are commonly used in advanced DSLR cameras, video cameras, and high-end smartphones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SDHC and SDXC cards differ in terms of storage capacity, file system, compatibility, data transfer speed, price, and usage scenarios. SDHC cards offer smaller storage capacities, use the FAT32 file system, have broader compatibility, and are generally more affordable. On the other hand, SDXC cards provide larger storage capacities, employ the exFAT file system, may require firmware updates for compatibility, offer faster data transfer speeds, and are suitable for professional or data-intensive applications. Ultimately, the choice between SDHC and SDXC depends on the specific needs and requirements of the user, considering factors such as device compatibility, storage capacity, and desired data transfer speeds.