Best microSD Cards for Android Phones in 2024

When it comes to managing the storage space on your Android phone, a microSD card is a must-have accessory. It offers a convenient way to transfer files, photos, music, and other types of media from one device to another, and it’s particularly useful for those who have a phone with limited internal storage. Whether you’re looking to store more apps, music, or movies, a good microSD card can provide you with the extra storage you need to keep your device running smoothly.

However, with so many options available in the market, it can be a bit challenging to choose the best microSD card for your Android phone. From capacity to peak read and write speeds, and from endurance to input/output operations per second, there are many different features that you need to consider when picking the right one. It’s important to understand that not all microSD cards are created equal, and it’s essential to choose one that offers the right balance of performance and longevity.

That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the best microSD cards for Android phones. We’ve scoured the market to find the top-rated options, taking into account everything from capacity and read/write speeds to reliability and affordability. Whether you’re using your Android phone for work or play, we’re confident that our list of the best microSD cards will help you find the right one for your needs. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and take a closer look at the best options available today!

Recommended microSD Cards for Android Phones

If you’re in a hurry and just want to cut to the chase, here are our top recommended microSD cards for the android smartphones. These cards are known for their high-speed performance and reliable storage capacity, making them ideal for those who are looking for a fast and easy solution.

However, if you’re looking for more comprehensive advice and want to explore other brands and models, this article is the perfect guide for you. Our in-depth analysis of each product will provide you with the key features, benefits, and drawbacks of each card, helping you to make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.

To make your comparison and selection process even easier, we have also created a quick comparison table that showcases the max. read speeds and max. write speeds of our top recommended microSD cards. This table will allow you to quickly compare the various cards and choose the best one for your needs.

UHS-I MicroSD CardsMax. Read SpeedMax. Write Speed
SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card (Best Overall)190 MB/s130 MB/s
Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD Card (Runner up)180 MB/s130 MB/s
Samsung PRO Ultimate UHS-I microSD Card (A little pricy)200 MB/s130 MB/s
Lexar Professional 1066x UHS-I microSD Card160 MB/s120 MB/s
Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSD Card170 MB/s90 MB/s
Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card130 MB/s90 MB/s

Best microSD Memory Cards for Android Phones

1. SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card

SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card Key Features:

  • A2 / UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10
  • Max Read Speed: 190 MB/s
  • Max Write Speed: 130 MB/s
  • Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
  • Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 400GB, 512GB, 1TB

Designed specifically for microSD devices such as smartphones, drones, and action cameras, the SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card is one of the most popular and highly recommended microSD cards on the market. The card is known for its top-performing capabilities and its reliability, making it a popular choice among consumers.

Recently, the SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card has been updated to support SanDisk’s QuickFlow technology, which enables transfer speeds of up to 190 MB/s. This is significantly faster than the usual UHS-I standard limit of 104 MB/s. Although, it is important to note that to achieve these transfer speeds, a SanDisk card reader that explicitly supports QuickFlow is required. Nevertheless, this technology allows consumers to trust that the latest round of SanDisk microSD cards will perform to the best of their abilities.

In objective testing, the SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card consistently performs well, even when compared to high-speed units designed for demanding cameras. With a sequential read speed of up to 190 MB/s, the SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card is a top performer for smartphone use. SanDisk microSD cards are also widely known for their long-term reliability, making them a safe choice for consumers.

Finally, the SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card is available in a range of capacities, from 32GB up to 1TB, providing consumers with a wide range of options to accommodate the storage limitations of their smartphones or Chromebooks. If you’re looking for the most storage available, the 1TB SanDisk microSD card is the way to go.

Buy SanDisk Extreme UHS-I microSD Card at B&H, Adorama.

2. Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD Card

Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD Card Key Features:

  • UHS-I / V30 / U3 / A2 / Class 10
  • Max. Read Speed: 160 MB/s
  • Max. Write Speed: 120 MB/s
  • Min. Write Speed: 30 MB/s
  • Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

The Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD card is a top-performing, high-speed microSD card that provides excellent value for its price. It surpasses all of the requirements for the V30 and A2 standards, making it a great choice for demanding applications. The best part about this card is that it consistently delivers high-speed performance, even with large storage capacities.

With read speeds of up to 160 MB/s and write speeds of up to 120 MB/s, this card offers a perfect balance of speed and performance. You can store all your photos, videos, and apps, as the card comes in various storage capacities, ranging from 128GB to a whopping 512GB.

For those who demand both affordability and performance, the Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD card is the ideal solution. Furthermore, you have the option of purchasing the card bundled with Samsung’s efficient 160 MB/s USB card reader, making the transfer of large files an effortless process. Whether you’re an avid photographer, videographer, or simply looking to store important files, this card is the perfect solution that delivers outstanding performance at an affordable price.

Buy Samsung PRO Plus UHS-I microSD Card at B&H, Adorama.

3. Lexar Professional 1066x UHS-I microSD Card (SILVER Series)

Lexar Professional 1066x UHS-I microSD Card Key Features:

  • UHS-I / A2 / V30 / U3 / Class 10
  • Max Read Speed: 160 MB/s
  • Max Write Speed: 120 MB/s
  • Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
  • Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

The Lexar Professional 1066x UHS-I microSD card offers a fantastic option for those who need plenty of storage and quick transfer speeds. With a maximum read speed of 1066x (165 MB/s), this card provides exceptional performance that is perfect for capturing high-quality video and storing large amounts of game data. Whether you’re using an Android smartphone, drone, tablet, or action camera, this card is compatible with a wide range of devices.

Not only is this card great for storage, but it is also optimized for mobile use. Its A2 certification means that it delivers an improved mobile experience to Android users, making it possible to run apps and process data faster than ever before. The card’s ability to manage random read IOPS operations means that it can quickly open apps and process accompanying tasks, such as audio, graphics, saved profiles, and in-app permissions, making it a perfect choice for those who want a high-performance microSD card for their mid-range or high-end smartphone.

So, if you’re looking for a card that can handle large amounts of data and transfer it quickly, the Lexar Professional 1066x UHS-I microSD card is an excellent choice. With its combination of fast speeds and large storage capacity, this card is perfect for capturing high-quality video, storing large amounts of game data, and even transferring apps to the card for faster performance.

Buy Lexar Professional 1066x UHS-I microSD Card at B&H, Adorama.

4. Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSD Card

Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSD Card Key Features:

  • UHS-I / A2 / V30 / U3 / Class 10
  • Max Read Speed: 170 MB/s
  • Max Write Speed: 90 MB/s
  • Min Write Speed: 30 MB/s
  • Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

I recently purchased the Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSD card for my Android phone and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. As someone who takes a lot of photos and videos on my phone, I needed a reliable and high-speed card to store all my media. The Canvas Go! Plus was the perfect choice for me.

From the moment I inserted the card into my phone, I noticed a noticeable improvement in performance. Apps opened quickly and without any lag, and photos and videos saved almost instantly. I was particularly impressed with the sequential read and write speeds of up to 100 MB/s and 80 MB/s respectively, which made transferring large files a breeze.

One of the best things about the Canvas Go! Plus is its A1 rating, which means it can handle random read IOPS and write IOPS, making it ideal for running apps. I was able to move some of my favorite apps to the card, freeing up space on my phone’s internal storage.

Another great feature of the Canvas Go! Plus is its UHS-I compatibility, which provides fast transfer speeds, making it perfect for use in demanding applications such as 4K video recording and high-speed burst photography.

Overall, while it’s a bit more expensive than its competitors, the Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSD card is the perfect choice for anyone who needs a fast and reliable storage solution for their Android phone.

Buy Kingston Canvas Go! Plus UHS-I microSD Card at B&H, Adorama.

5. Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card

Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card Key Features:

  • UHS-I / A2 / V30 / U3 / Class 10
  • Max Read Speed: 130 MB/s
  • Max Write Speed: 90 MB/s
  • Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

As an avid smartphone user, I recently had the opportunity to use the Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card on my Android device. I have to say, I was thoroughly impressed with its performance and affordability.

For starters, the Samsung EVO Plus lineup has always been known for its compact and portable storage solutions, and the Samsung EVO Select microSD Card is no exception. It’s incredibly small in size, making it incredibly easy to carry around with me, whether I’m going on a trip or just heading to work.

One of the most striking features of this microSD card is its consistent and fast performance. I was able to store music, movies, and photos without any lag or delay, and the transfer speeds were lightning fast. This is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable storage solution for their smartphone.

However, it’s important to note that the Samsung EVO Select microSD Card might not be the best choice for running apps or recording 4K video on high-end smartphones. While it performed well for my everyday needs, it may not have the speed and performance needed for more demanding tasks.

In conclusion, the Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card is a fantastic option for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable storage solution for their Android smartphone. It offers fast and consistent performance, making it a great option for storing music, movies, and photos.

Buy Samsung EVO Select UHS-I microSD Card at B&H.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to choose the best microSD card for Android Phones?

Choosing the best microSD card for your Android phone can be a bit overwhelming with the wide range of options available in the market. Here are a few factors you should consider when making your choice:

  • Capacity: Decide on the amount of storage you need based on the amount of data you want to store. MicroSD cards can range from 32GB to 1TB.
  • Speed: The speed of a microSD card is measured by its class and read/write speeds. It’s important to choose a microSD card with at least Class 10 or UHS-I (Ultra High Speed 1) to ensure it can handle the transfer of large files quickly.
  • Brand: Brands such as Samsung, SanDisk, and Kingston are known for producing high-quality, reliable microSD cards. It’s always a good idea to stick with well-established brands for your microSD card needs.
  • Compatibility: Make sure the microSD card you choose is compatible with your Android phone. Some phones may have limitations on the size of the microSD card that can be used.
  • Price: MicroSD cards come in a wide range of prices. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more in a higher-quality card can save you from potential headaches in the long run.
  • Warranty: Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Some companies offer lifetime warranties on their products, giving you peace of mind in case of any issues.

In conclusion, finding the right microSD card for your Android phone requires a careful consideration of your needs and your budget. By taking the time to choose the right card, you’ll be able to store more data, run apps more smoothly, and enjoy a better overall experience with your Android phone.

What are Speed Class ratings?

Speed Class ratings are a set of symbols used to indicate the minimum sustained write speed of a microSD card. These symbols are printed on the card and its packaging and are used to help consumers choose the right card for their specific needs.

There are three main types of Speed Class ratings: Speed Class, Ultra High Speed (UHS) Speed Class, and Video Speed Class. The Speed Class rating is indicated by the write speed enclosed in a large “C” symbol, UHS Speed Class is indicated by a Class number inside a large “U” symbol, and Video Speed Class is indicated by a stylized “V” symbol followed by the write speed.

The minimum write speeds for the different classes are as follows:

  • Speed Class 2 (C2) has a minimum write speed of 2 MB/s,
  • Speed Class 4 (C4) has a minimum write speed of 4 MB/s,
  • Speed Class 6 (C6) has a minimum write speed of 6 MB/s,
  • Speed Class 10 (C10) has a minimum write speed of 10 MB/s.
  • UHS 1 has a minimum write speed of 10 MB/s.
  • UHS 3 has a minimum write speed of 10 MB/s.
  • V6 has a minimum write speed of 6 MB/s.
  • V10 has a minimum write speed of 10 MB/s.
  • V30 has a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s.
  • V60 has a minimum write speed of 60 MB/s.
  • V90 has a minimum write speed of 90 MB/s.

It’s important to note that these are minimum requirements and many cards are capable of faster speeds than their rating. A Class 10 card, for example, may offer 95 MB/s write speed, while read or transfer speeds are likely to be around 100 MB/s across many options.

What is Application Performance Class?

Application Performance Class (A1 and A2) is a standard introduced by the SD Association to help users select the right microSD card for their smartphones and tablets. It provides an insight into a card’s performance when used as internal storage (Adoptable Storage) in an Android device.

The A1 rating indicates that a card has the minimum required random read IOPS of 1,500 and write IOPS of 500. The A2 rating is higher, with random read IOPS of 4,000 and write IOPS of 2,000. This means that a card with A2 rating is capable of opening apps and processing tasks quickly and efficiently.

Having an A1 or A2 rated card is especially important for users who plan to format their microSD card as internal storage in their Android device. This will help ensure a smooth and seamless user experience with quick app launches and minimal lag when processing tasks.

In conclusion, the Application Performance Class rating provides valuable information to help users select the best microSD card for their Android devices, ensuring fast and efficient performance for their daily needs.

Can I use a microSD card with a device that only supports SD cards?

Yes, you can use a microSD card with a device that only supports SD cards by using the microSD card adapter that comes with the card. The adapter allows you to fit the microSD card into devices that require full-sized SD cards.

Can I use the same card with different devices?

One of the key benefits of using a microSD card is its versatility in data transfer. With its small size, it can be easily inserted into a wide range of devices, allowing for seamless data transfer. This makes it an ideal solution for moving your photos and videos from your camera to your computer for editing, or to transfer files from your smartphone to your tablet.

Despite its compatibility with a variety of devices, it is important to be aware of any potential issues that may arise when it comes to storing files. Different devices may have varying file storage capacities, and in some cases, a microSD card may not be able to store certain types of files. It’s always wise to check the compatibility of your device and the microSD card you plan to use before making a purchase.

Additionally, it is important to understand the read and write speeds of the microSD card you’re using, as this will directly impact how quickly you can transfer files from one device to another. By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure a smooth and efficient experience when using a microSD card for data transfer.

Will the microSD card be safe?

It is important to note that the safety of your microSD card will depend on the manufacturer’s quality assurance measures and the conditions in which it is used. While many leading microSD card manufacturers design their products to be resistant to various environmental factors such as shocks, extreme temperatures, water damage, and x-ray exposure, it is still possible for the card to become damaged or corrupted. In the event that this occurs, most manufacturers offer long-term or lifetime warranties, but it is important to keep in mind that any data stored on the card may be lost. To minimize the risk of data loss, it is recommended to regularly back up important files to multiple sources.


We hope that you found this guide on the best microSD Cards for Android Phones helpful in your search for the perfect memory card.

If you have any questions or concerns about the microSD cards mentioned in this guide, please feel free to reach out to us. Our team is always here to help and provide you with the best possible advice. Additionally, if you have any suggestions or feedback on how we can improve this guide, we would be more than happy to hear from you. Your input is important to us as we strive to constantly improve our content and provide you with the most accurate and helpful information. Thank you for considering us as your source for all things microSD cards!