When choosing an SD card for your GoPro camera, the most important factor to consider is the card’s format. GoPro cameras require SD cards that are formatted specifically for their system in order to function properly. There are a few key formats that GoPro SD cards should follow.
ExFAT Format
The optimal format for GoPro SD cards is ExFAT (Extended File Allocation Table). This format allows the card to hold files larger than 4GB, which is essential for handling GoPro’s high-resolution video files. Here’s a quick overview of ExFAT for GoPro:
- Supported by all modern GoPro camera models
- Handles large video files beyond 4GB
- Fast processing and writing speeds
- Compatible with Windows and Mac computers
When you purchase a new SD card, it may be formatted in a different file system like FAT32. So you’ll want to reformat it to ExFAT before using it in your GoPro. This can be done on a computer through the SD card association software or disk utility tools.
FAT32 Format
The FAT32 (File Allocation Table) format is also compatible with GoPro cameras. Key points about FAT32:
- Supported by all GoPro models
- Max file size of 4GB
- Slower processing than ExFAT
- Wide compatibility with devices
While FAT32 works with GoPros, its 4GB file limit makes it non-ideal for capturing high-resolution video. GoPro’s top video modes like 4K exceed 4GB per clip. So any long videos would have to be split up. Still, FAT32 can be a good option if you need universal compatibility across other devices like older laptops.
NTFS Format
NTFS (New Technology File System) is a format common to Windows PCs. Key details on NTFS and GoPro:
- Not compatible with Mac computers without special software
- No size limits for video files
- Unsupported by GoPro cameras
- Reformatting NTFS cards to ExFAT is recommended
While NTFS works great for storage on Windows PCs, it is not directly supported by GoPro cameras. If you insert an NTFS card into your GoPro, you’ll get error messages and won’t be able to record. To use a card formatted this way, you’ll need to reformat it to ExFAT first before using it.
CD-ROM and DVD Formats
Formats like ISO9660 and UDF were designed for CD and DVD discs. Key points on these formats:
- Not compatible with GoPro cameras
- Designed for optical media, not modern SD cards
- Reformatting is required before use in GoPro
- Maximum file size limit of 4GB
If your SD card happens to be formatted this way, you’ll want to reformat it to ExFAT or FAT32 before you can use it properly. GoPro cameras do not support ISO or UDF formats.
Benefits of ExFAT for GoPro
Now that you know the main formats, let’s explore why ExFAT is the ideal choice for GoPro SD cards:
- No 4GB limit: ExFAT eliminates the 4GB file size restriction of FAT32, allowing you to capture videos longer than 4GB on a single clip. This prevents having to deal with choppy segmented videos.
- Faster writes: ExFAT has much faster data writing speeds compared to FAT32, which is important when dealing with GoPro’s high-bitrate video modes. You’re less likely to have recording interruptions from slow data transfers.
- Works with all GoPros: ExFAT is supported across all the latest and past GoPro models. So you can freely use your SD card in any GoPro without worrying about compatibility issues.
- Easy computer playback: Once you offload GoPro videos onto a computer, ExFAT allows seamless playback on both Windows and Mac without needing to convert file systems.
In short, ExFAT combines broad GoPro compatibility with fast performance, ample storage room for large files, and hassle-free playback on computers.
Formatting SD Cards to ExFAT
It’s quick and easy to reformat SD cards to ExFAT format. Here are some ways it can be done:
- Using GoPro camera – Access formatting options in GoPro system settings menu.
- On a Windows PC – Right click on drive and choose “Format”. Select ExFAT file system.
- On a Mac – Open Disk Utility, select card, click Erase, then choose ExFAT format.
- Using SD Association formatter app – Select ExFAT option and click Format.
Be sure to copy any important files off the card first before formatting, as the process erases all existing data. Also keep in mind that while FAT32 works, ExFAT remains the ideal choice for GoPro users.
Speed Recommendations for GoPro SD Cards
In addition to the right file system format, the write speed rating of your SD card is important for optimal GoPro performance. Here are some guidelines:
| GoPro Video Mode | Recommended Card Write Speed |
|---|---|
| 720p240, 1080p240 | V30 rated card |
| 4K60, 2.7K120 | U3 rated card |
| 5.3K, 4K30 | U1 rated card |
| 1440p, 1080p60 | Class 10 rated card |
GoPro cameras need SD cards capable of fast write speeds to reliably capture Ultra HD and slow motion frame rates. Look for cards rated with V30, U3, U1, or Class 10 based on your desired shooting mode.
Recommended GoPro SD Card Brands
For reliable performance, it’s best to choose SD cards from reputable brands trusted by GoPro:
- SanDisk
- Lexar
- Samsung
- Kingston
- Delkin Devices
These brands engineer SD cards designed to handle high bitrate 4K and 1080p GoPro video recording. Buying from well-known brands reduces the risks of getting counterfeit cards that underperform.
Most Reliable Capacities for GoPro SD Cards
Higher capacity SD cards from 32GB up to 256GB tend to have faster speeds and better reliability for GoPro cameras. Some capacities to consider:
- 32GB: Decent starter capacity, good balance of price and storage.
- 64GB: Ideal capacity for most users, allows 2+ hours of 4K30 video.
- 128GB: Extended capacity for all-day 4K video shooting.
- 256GB: Maximum capacity currently available, up to 7 hours of 4K video.
Lower capacity cards like 16GB often have reduced speeds. And capacities above 256GB are currently overkill for GoPro needs. Aim for 32GB to 256GB cards from a top brand for the best GoPro experience.
Avoiding Errors with Unsupported Formats
If you insert an SD card formatted differently than ExFAT into your GoPro, you may get error messages like these:
- “SD ERR” – General SD card error
- “NO SD” – No card detected
- “SD FULL” – Card is full or incompatible
Or your camera may lockup when trying to record. This occurs when using formats like NTFS, ISO, or DVD Video on GoPro cameras. The simple fix is reformatting the card to ExFAT or FAT32 file systems before using it.
Checking Your Card’s Format
It’s easy to check an SD card’s format type on Windows and Mac computers:
On Windows:
- Insert card into card reader or PC slot
- Open File Explorer from the taskbar
- Right click on the drive and select Properties
- Check the File System info
On Mac:
- Insert card into reader or USB slot
- Launch Finder and select the card drive
- Press Command+I to Get Info on the drive
- View format under General information
This will show you the format of the SD card such as ExFAT, FAT32, NTFS, etc. If it’s unsupported by GoPro, you’ll know to reformat it first before use.
Conclusion
To wrap up, GoPro cameras need SD cards formatted in ExFAT or FAT32 file systems, with ExFAT preferred. NTFS, ISO, and DVD formats used by Windows and disc media are not supported. Using unsupported formats will prevent video recording and display error messages. Reformat to ExFAT or FAT32 to resolve these issues. Match your card’s speed rating to your GoPro’s video mode for optimal performance. And stick with major brands like SanDisk, Samsung, or Lexar for reliability. Following these simple guidelines will ensure seamless capturing of stunning GoPro footage.