Lexar BLUE PLUS microSDXC memory card 1 TB, UHS-I, U3, V30, A2, 170 MB/s

A terabyte means you do not have to delete files after every trip: the card holds a huge number of photos, long 4K clips and large game files. It uses the microSDXC format, so the device you put it in has to support SDXC cards and this capacity. As with any memory card, part of the nominal capacity is used for formatting, so the usable space is slightly below 1 TB.

U3 and V30 show that the card sustains a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s while recording video, which is what 4K cameras, drones and action cams require. A2 is the application performance class: it stands for faster random reads and writes when you keep Android apps or games on the card. The manufacturer quotes read speeds of up to 170 MB/s; no write speed is given in the data.

The manufacturer rates the card IPX7 and lists protection against drops, shocks, vibration, magnetic fields, temperature swings and airport X-ray scanners. IPX7 means protection against temporary immersion in water. Operating temperature is 0 °C to 70 °C, storage temperature −25 °C to 85 °C. The protection applies to the card itself; the device it sits in has to cope with the same conditions on its own.

The card uses the UHS-I bus, supported by most current phones, tablets, handheld consoles, drones and cameras with a microSD slot. Real-world speed also depends on the device or card reader: an older or slower reader may not reach the 170 MB/s read figure. The card measures 15 × 11 × 1 mm, the standard microSD size.

The Lexar BLUE PLUS 1 TB suits drone pilots and action cam users who shoot 4K and do not want to swap cards often, as well as owners of Android phones or handheld consoles who need plenty of room for apps and games. IPX7 and shock resistance help on hikes and trips.