The Nikon Z5 II is a reliable companion for creators, building on its predecessor with faster processing, advanced subject recognition autofocus, and enhanced low-light performance. Designed around the full-frame FX-format and the Nikon Z mount, it brings several key upgrades, including a new color preset button, an ultra-bright viewfinder, and improved connectivity for easy sharing. Powered by a 24.5MP sensor, the EXPEED 7 processor, and offering 7.5 stops of stabilization, the Z5 II inherits many high-end features from Nikon’s flagship models, making it an appealing choice for both photography enthusiasts and professional content creators. Notable enhancements include AI-powered subject detection, 3D Tracking, autofocus sensitivity down to -10 EV, internal N-RAW and N-Log video recording, Hi-Res Zoom, and dual UHS-II SD card slots for flexible, reliable storage.
However, to truly unlock the camera’s full capabilities, choosing the right memory card is crucial. The speed, capacity, and durability of your card directly affect your ability to capture high-resolution 4K video, fast-action sequences, and long shooting sessions without interruption. In this guide, we’ve carefully selected the best memory cards for the Nikon Z5 II, prioritizing fast read/write speeds, robust build quality, and excellent overall value—ensuring you get the most out of every creative moment.
Nikon Z5 II Store Links: B&H, Adorama.
Nikon Z5 II Memory Card Compatibility
Before choosing a memory card for your Nikon Z5 II mirrorless camera, it’s important to first confirm compatibility. You can easily do this by checking the camera’s user manual or visiting Nikon’s official website for detailed memory card specifications.
The Nikon Z5 II features dual memory card slots, both of which fully support high-speed UHS-II SD cards. Here are the key memory card specifications for the Z5 II:
- Memory Card Slot: 2 x SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
- Memory Card Type: SD Card
- Memory Card Speed: UHS-II
- Recommended Capacity: 128GB – 1T
For optimal performance—especially when recording high-resolution video—it’s highly recommended to use fast V90 UHS-II SD cards from the list of compatible options.
Now, let’s take a look at the top SD cards that pair perfectly with the Nikon Z5 II mirrorless camera.
Top Recommended SD Cards for Nikon Z5 II
If you’re looking for reliable, high-performance SD cards for your Nikon Z5 II, we’ve curated a list of top recommendations to ensure seamless compatibility and exceptional performance, helping you capture stunning photos and videos with ease.
- Best Pick: Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- Runner up: PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- The Fastest: Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- Popular Choice: SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Card (V90)
- Popular Choice: ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
- Popular Choice: Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
- Affordable Choice: SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC Card (V60), Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) and ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
For those who want to explore even more brands and models, we’ve also put together a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice. We understand that choosing the right memory card can feel overwhelming, so we’re here to simplify the process and point you toward the best options for your needs. To make it even easier, we’ve included a user-friendly comparison table that highlights our fastest and top-rated SD cards, along with their key features—all the essential information you need at a glance.
Best Memory Cards for Nikon Z5 II
1. Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SD Card Key Specifications:
- Bus Speed: UHS-II
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 260 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
The Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SD Card is an outstanding choice for photographers and videographers seeking speed, reliability, and value. Matching the top-tier Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II card in speed and buffer tests while being nearly 40% more affordable, it offers remarkable performance at a budget-friendly price.
With blazing-fast read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds of up to 260 MB/s, the Canvas React Plus is ideal for demanding tasks like 8K, 4K, and Full HD video recording, as well as high-resolution photography and rapid burst shooting. Its V90 Video Speed Class rating guarantees minimum write speeds of 90 MB/s, ensuring consistent and reliable data capture.
Built to withstand extreme conditions, this card is resistant to shock, temperature extremes (-13 to 185°F), water, and X-rays. It also features a built-in write-protect switch for added security and comes bundled with a RescuePRO Deluxe software download for file recovery. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the Kingston Canvas React Plus provides long-term peace of mind.
For anyone in need of a high-performance UHS-II SD card with professional-grade speed, robust durability, and excellent value, the Kingston Canvas React Plus is a highly recommended choice.
Buy Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II SDXC Card at B&H, Adorama.
2. PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90)
PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90) Key Specifications:
- Bus Speed: UHS-II
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 280 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capture 8K and 4K Video
- Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
If you’re looking for a high-speed alternative to the Kingston Canvas React Plus, the PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90) is an excellent choice. In our tests, it delivered performance on par with the Kingston, making it a strong contender for those seeking ultra-high-speed UHS-II cards. While it comes at a slightly higher price, it still offers great value, especially for photographers and videographers who demand top-tier reliability and speed.
Designed for 8K and 4K video recording, as well as raw and sequential burst photography, the PNY X-PRO 90 leverages the UHS-II bus to achieve impressive read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds of up to 280 MB/s. Its V90 rating also guarantees a minimum write speed of 90 MB/s, ensuring smooth performance even with high-resolution, data-intensive files.
Available in capacities up to 256GB, the PNY X-PRO 90 is built for durability, with resistance to extreme temperatures, shock, and magnetism. It also comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty for added peace of mind. If you need a fast, reliable, and rugged SD card—and can’t find the Kingston Canvas React Plus—the PNY X-PRO 90 is an outstanding option.
Buy PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II SD Card (V90) at B&H, Adorama.
3. Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SD Card (V90)
Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SD Card Key Specifications:
- Bus Speed: UHS-II
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 299 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
- Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty
The Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SD Card is a benchmark in speed and durability, designed for demanding professionals. With read speeds up to 300 MB/s and write speeds up to 299 MB/s, it stands as the fastest UHS-II SD card available, making it ideal for 8K, 6K, and 4K video recording, as well as continuous burst photography and rapid shooting.
This card isn’t just about speed; it’s built to endure the harshest conditions. Its rugged design ensures protection from drops up to 16.4′ (5m), water immersion for 72 hours, and resistance to X-rays, magnets, dust, and static. Furthermore, it withstands temperature extremes ranging from -13°F to 185°F, UV light, and physical stresses, making it 18 times stronger than standard SD cards. The one-piece molded construction eliminates fragile components like ribs or write-protect switches, minimizing damage risks.
While its premium price may deter some, the Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SD Card justifies its cost with unmatched performance and reliability. A 5-year warranty and free File Rescue software add to its value, making it a dependable choice for safeguarding your data and ensuring you never miss a moment.
Buy Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II SDXC Card at B&H, Adorama.
Buy Sony UHS-II SD Memory Card Reader at B&H, Adorama.
4. SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Card (V90)
SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Card Key Specifications:
- Bus Speed: UHS-II
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 260 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Card is a top-tier choice for professional photographers and videographers seeking exceptional speed and reliability. Its impressive ability to capture breathtaking 8K, 4K, and Full HD footage with cinematic precision has made it a favorite among creative professionals.
With read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds reaching 260 MB/s, this card stands out as one of the fastest in the UHS-II category. It boasts UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 90 (V90) ratings, ensuring seamless recording of high-speed action and superior-quality videos.
Built for durability, the card resists water, x-rays, and shocks, making it ideal for outdoor shoots and rugged environments. A lifetime limited warranty further ensures data protection over time.
Additional features include a write-protect switch to prevent accidental data loss and RescuePRO Deluxe software for file recovery, offering added peace of mind. For professionals who demand high performance and durability, the SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Card is a worthwhile investment.
Buy SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SD Cards at B&H, Adorama.
5. ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card Key Specifications:
- Bus Speed: UHS-II
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 250 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
The ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V90) is an excellent choice for professional photographers and videographers who demand high-speed performance and ample storage capacity. With impressive read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds reaching 250 MB/s, this card excels in capturing high-resolution content, including 8K, 6K, 5K, UHD 4K, and high bit rate MPEG-4 video. It’s also well-suited for shooting raw photos and rapid-fire bursts, thanks to its minimum sustained write speed of 90 MB/s, as guaranteed by its V90 rating.
Available in capacities ranging from 64GB to 512GB, the ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card offers plenty of storage for long shoots, ensuring you won’t run out of space. Its UHS-II, V90, U3, and Class 10 ratings deliver consistent, high-speed data transfer for seamless workflows.
This card is built to withstand extreme conditions, including temperature, shock, and X-ray exposure, making it a reliable companion for any shoot. Additionally, it features a built-in write-protect switch to prevent accidental data loss. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, the ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card is a top-tier option for anyone seeking fast, reliable, and durable storage for demanding video and photography needs.
Buy ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V90) at B&H, Adorama.
6. Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card (V90)
Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card Key Specifications:
- Bus Speed: UHS-II
- Video Speed Class: V90
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 250 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 90 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
- Water / Shock / X-Ray Proof
- 48-Hour Replacement Guarantee
- Limited Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty
The Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card is an outstanding option for those seeking high performance at an affordable price. With impressive read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds of 250 MB/s, this card excels at handling large files such as raw photos, 4K/8K videos, and rapid-fire bursts, ensuring seamless data transfer.
One of its key strengths is its reliability. The card features advanced error correction technology, which protects your data from loss or corruption, even during power failures or unexpected interruptions. This added layer of security makes it a dependable choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Additionally, Delkin Devices offers a lifetime warranty on the Power UHS-II SDXC Card, along with a swift 48-hour replacement policy, ensuring peace of mind with every purchase. Whether you’re shooting 8K video, capturing high-speed bursts, or recording HDR footage, this card’s V90 video speed class guarantees a minimum sustained write speed of 90 MB/s, making it suitable for demanding tasks.
Available in capacities ranging from 32GB to 256GB, the Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card combines speed, reliability, and value—making it a top choice for anyone in need of a durable, high-performance storage solution.
Buy Delkin Devices Power UHS-II SDXC Card at B&H, Adorama.
Buy Delkin Devices BLACK UHS-II SDXC Card at B&H.
7. Lexar Professional 2000x UHS-II Card (V90)
Lexar Professional 2000x UHS-II SD Card Key Specifications:
- UHS-II / V90 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 300 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 260 MB/s
- Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
The Lexar Professional 2000x UHS-II SD Card (V90) is a strong choice for photographers and videographers seeking impressive speed and reliable performance. Designed for high-end use, this card is ideal for capturing 4K, 3D, and Full HD video, as well as high-resolution stills. It offers maximum read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and maximum write speeds of up to 260 MB/s. With a V90 speed class rating, it guarantees minimum write speeds of 90 MB/s, ensuring smooth recording even during demanding shoots.
The Lexar Professional 2000x series has a solid track record of dependable performance across a wide range of cameras, making it a trusted option for both professional and enthusiast users. However, it’s worth noting that Lexar’s reputation has faced scrutiny since the brand was acquired by a Chinese company. While many Lexar cards still perform well, there have been reports of inconsistent quality. Ultimately, you’ll need to decide if Lexar remains the right choice for your specific needs.
Buy Lexar Professional 2000x UHS-II Cards at B&H, Adorama.
8. SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) Specifications:
- UHS-II, V60, U3, Class 10
- Maximum Read Speed: 280 MB/s
- Maximum Write Speed: 150 MB/s
- Minimum Write Speed: 60 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1T
- Records 6K, 4K, and Full HD Video
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) is a great choice for those seeking an affordable, high-performance memory card. Offering a solid balance of price and capability, it’s ideal for prosumers and professionals using DSLR, mirrorless, and cinema cameras. This card is designed for capturing high-quality 6K, 4K, and Full HD video, as well as raw photos, time-lapse sequences, and high-speed bursts.
With a 256GB capacity, the card utilizes UHS-II technology to deliver read speeds of up to 280 MB/s and write speeds of up to 150 MB/s. Its V60 Video Speed Class rating ensures that write speeds won’t drop below 60 MB/s, making it reliable for continuous shooting and video recording.
Built for durability, the SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC Card is resistant to water, temperature extremes, shock, drops, x-rays, and magnets. It also features a write-protect switch to safeguard your content.
Backed by a limited lifetime warranty and RescuePRO Deluxe software, this card offers excellent value for those who need reliable storage at an affordable price.
Buy SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) at B&H, Adorama.
9. Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SD Card Key Specifications:
- UHS-II / V60 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 277 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 150 MB/s
- Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
- Limited 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty
The Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SD Card (V60) is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of performance, reliability, and affordability. With a maximum read speed of 277 MB/s and a write speed of 150 MB/s, this card is well-suited for tasks like shooting 4K video and high-resolution photos. It also offers a minimum write speed of 60 MB/s, ensuring smooth continuous shooting for single shots or burst photography.
Designed for durability, the Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SD Card is water, dust, drop, and bend-proof, making it ideal for outdoor and extreme conditions. Its rugged construction is backed by a 180N strength rating, providing peace of mind when you’re on the move. Available in capacities of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, it offers ample storage without breaking the bank.
For photographers and videographers seeking a cost-effective yet high-performing memory card, the Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SD Card delivers outstanding value. Plus, with a limited 5-year warranty and downloadable File Rescue Software, it’s a solid, reliable option.
Buy Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II SDXC Card at B&H, Adorama.
10. ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60)
ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) Key Specifications:
- UHS-II / V60 / U3 / Class 10
- Max Read Speed: 250 MB/s
- Max Write Speed: 130 MB/s
- Min Write Speed: 60 MB/s
- Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
- Limited 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty
The ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) offers an excellent balance of performance and affordability, making it a standout budget-friendly option. With read speeds of up to 250 MB/s and write speeds of 130 MB/s, it’s capable of handling 4K video, UHD 4K, Full HD, and high-bitrate recordings, making it versatile for both photography and videography.
This card is built to endure harsh environments, featuring a rugged design that is temperature-proof (ranging from -13 to 185°F), shockproof, and X-ray proof. Whether you’re shooting in extreme conditions or on the go, the ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC card ensures reliable performance. It also includes a built-in write-protect switch for added security and comes with a limited 3-year warranty, providing extra peace of mind.
With capacities ranging from 128GB to 512GB, this card offers ample storage for your projects. For those looking for reliability and durability without the high price tag, the ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) is a fantastic choice.
Buy ProGrade Digital UHS-II SDXC Card (V60) at B&H, Adorama.
Nikon Z5 II Store Links: B&H, Adorama.
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