Android devices can use different types of memory cards depending on the model. The most common memory card types used in Android phones and tablets are microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC.
Quick Answers
The quick answers to what memory card Android uses are:
- microSD – Most common, available up to 2GB
- microSDHC – Available 4GB to 32GB
- microSDXC – Newest type, available 32GB to 2TB
microSD
The original microSD card format was introduced in 2005, with maximum capacities of up to 2GB. microSD was widely adopted by Android devices in the early days when internal storage capacities were very small. Many Android phones at the time had microSD card slots for expandable storage.
While microSD cards are still available today, their maximum storage limit of 2GB means they have limited usefulness in modern high-end Android devices. However, they remain a popular choice for entry-level smartphones or tablets where the microSD card is mainly used for storing media files like photos, videos and music.
Advantages of microSD
- Inexpensive price per GB
- Widely available from many brands
- Compatible with the widest range of Android devices
Disadvantages of microSD
- Maximum capacity of only up to 2GB
- Slow transfer speeds
- Not suitable for apps, games, or system data
microSDHC
microSDHC (High Capacity) is an update to the original microSD standard which supports larger storage capacities from 4GB up to 32GB. The microSDHC specification was introduced in 2006.
microSDHC memory cards are widely used in mid-range and upper mid-range Android smartphones. The improved capacity suits the needs of many users very well for storing photos, videos, music and apps.
Advantages of microSDHC
- Cost effective storage for most users
- Capacities up to 32GB allows good flexibility
- Faster transfer speeds than original microSD
Disadvantages of microSDHC
- Maximum of 32GB limits storage for power users
- Not all Android devices support microSDHC
- Slower than new microSDXC format
microSDXC
microSDXC (Extended Capacity) is the newest memory card format, introduced in 2009. microSDXC supports enormous storage capacities ranging from 32GB up to a massive 2TB.
High-end Android smartphones and tablets often use microSDXC cards. The huge capacity suits users who need storage for large media collections, apps, games, and system data. The top-tier performance also helps with running apps and system functions.
Advantages of microSDXC
- Huge capacity up to 2TB
- High performance for apps and system functions
- Ideal for power users who need maximum storage
Disadvantages of microSDXC
- Most expensive per GB
- Not compatible with some older Android devices
- Overkill capacities not utilized by casual users
Choosing Between Android Memory Card Types
With the range of memory card options available for Android devices, making the right choice depends on your storage needs and phone model. Here are some tips:
- Entry-level Android phones may only support microSD
- Mid-range models generally support microSDHC
- High-end phones can utilize the largest microSDXC cards
- Determine how much storage you need for apps, media, etc
- Check how much internal storage your phone has
- Confirm your phone’s maximum compatible memory card capacity
- Choose card capacity so total is enough for your needs
- Go with highest performance card your phone supports
Memory Card Speed Classes
Faster memory cards provide better performance, especially for apps, games and video recording which need fast data transfer. There are several speed classes to consider:
| Class | Minimum Speed |
|---|---|
| Class 2 | 2 MB/s |
| Class 4 | 4 MB/s |
| Class 6 | 6 MB/s |
| Class 10 | 10 MB/s |
| UHS-I | 10 MB/s |
| UHS-II | 30 MB/s |
For best performance, choose cards that are Class 10 or UHS-I which guarantee fast 10MB/s speed. Only advanced Android devices can utilize the fastest UHS-II cards.
microSD Brands
There are many brands of microSD cards available for Android devices. Some popular options include:
- Samsung EVO – Reliable performance, made specifically for Android
- SanDisk Ultra – Great value with good speeds
- Kingston Canvas – Budget-friendly option
- Sony – Top quality but higher priced
- Lexar – Solid mid-range choice
Be sure to research reviews and benchmarks for any card you are considering, as real-world performance can vary between brands. Overall Samsung EVO and SanDisk Ultra provide a great combination of speed, value and compatibility for most Android devices.
How to Insert a microSD Card in Android
Inserting a microSD card correctly is important for proper functionality. The steps can vary by device, but usually are:
- Locate the microSD slot – often on the side or bottom edge of the phone.
- Carefully slide the memory card into the slot with gold contacts facing down.
- Gently push the card into the slot until it clicks into place.
- Do not force the card or insert it backwards.
Once inserted, the phone will automatically detect the memory card. You may get a notification that the card is being prepared and memory contents are being checked.
Setting Up a New Memory Card
For optimal performance with a new memory card:
- Backup any data and perform factory reset if possible.
- Insert the memory card into your Android device.
- Open Settings and locate Storage settings.
- Choose your memory card and select Format.
- Confirm to erase all data – this preps the card.
- Restart your device after formatting completes.
Your new memory card will now be ready to use! The formatting erases any existing data while also properly preparing the card’s storage for your phone.
Moving Apps to a Memory Card
One advantage of having a memory card in Android is being able to move apps and data to external storage. This frees up valuable internal storage on your device.
Not all apps support this feature, but many do. To move compatible apps:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Select the app you want to move.
- Tap Storage.
- Select Change under Storage used.
- Choose your memory card.
The app and its data will now be stored on your external memory card instead of internal storage. Just make sure not to remove the card or the app may not function until moved back.
Adoptable Storage
Some newer Android versions support a feature called adoptable storage which treats external memory as internal storage. This allows you to install more apps than the internal storage space normally allows.
The downside is that adoptable storage is encrypted and tied to the device – so the card cannot be removed and used elsewhere. Apps may also suffer reduced performance compared to running on internal storage.
Enable adoptable storage during the memory card setup process if the option is available on your Android device. Not all models support this feature yet.
Memory Card FAQs
Why won’t my phone detect the SD card?
If your Android phone won’t detect a memory card, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Reinsert the memory card to ensure it is seated properly.
- Check the card is inserted right way around.
- Inspect for damage or debris in the card slot.
- Check if the card works in another device.
- Lookup your phone’s max compatible card capacity.
- Try reformatting the SD card.
How can I recover lost data from a memory card?
If you accidentally deleted files or formatted a memory card, try an SD card recovery app. Some options for Android include:
- DiskDigger
- UndeleteMyFiles Pro
- SD Card Recovery Pro
Be sure to avoid writing new data to the card before recovering lost files. Recovering data is not always guaranteed to work.
What is the largest microSD card supported by Android?
The largest microSD capacity supported depends on the Android device model. Newer high-end phones with Android 9.0+ generally support cards up to 1TB or even 2TB. Older or low-end models may only support up to 32GB or 64GB cards.
Always check your specific phone’s or tablet’s maximum compatible microSD card size before purchasing.
Conclusion
Android devices can utilize microSD, microSDHC or microSDXC memory cards to expand storage capacity. Choosing the right card depends on your phone model, storage needs and budget. Features like moving apps to the SD card and adoptable storage allow you to maximize external memory.
Carefully inserting the microSD card and preparing it by formatting helps avoid issues. Overall, microSD cards provide a handy portable storage boost for installing more apps, storing more media files and freeing up space on Android phones or tablets.