How to Choose the Right Memory Card for Your Motorcycle Dash Cam

When buying a memory card for your motorcycle dash cam, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by various numbers and specifications like SD, TF, A1, A2, U1, U3, V10, etc. 

And with recommendations like TF/A2/U3/V30, it’s easy to get lost in the jargon. These technical terms are definitely confusing to those unfamiliar with them. 

But don’t worry! You don’t need to be a tech enthusiast to make the right decision. By just focusing on 2 key numbers, you can easily find the best memory card for a dash cam and capture your motorcycle journeys.

Why the Right Memory Card Matters?

Choosing the right memory card ensures smooth recording and prevents video loss or damage. 

For motorcycle dash cams, video quality is essential, and not all memory cards are up to the mark. So, what should you be looking for? 

Just 2 key parameters. U-rating and V-rating.

Key Specifications to Focus On

When choosing a TF memory card, avoid being swayed by flashy marketing. Focus on the following important specifications:

1. U1 vs. U3 Speed Class

The U-rating refers to the card's minimum writing speed. 

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• U1 Memory Card – Minimum writing speed of 10MB/s.
• U3 Memory Card – Minimum writing speed of 30MB/s.

You will need a U3 memory card if you plan on recording videos in 1080p or higher. Using a U1 card with slower writing speeds can cause video loss or even damage the memory card due to the high demands of video recording. 

Therefore, U3 is a must for high-performance video recording.

2. V10 vs. V30 Video Speed Class

Next, look at the V-rating of the memory card. This refers to the card's video speed class, specifically designed for video recording:

• V10 Memory Card – Minimum writing speed of 10MB/s.
• V30 Memory Card – Minimum writing speed of 30MB/s.

The V30 rating indicates that the memory card is optimized for high-definition video recording, ensuring it can handle a minimum write speed of 30MB/s. 

V30 is ideal for processing and recording high-resolution video, and most modern memory cards are designed to meet this standard. 

In contrast, V10 cards with slower speeds are insufficient for HD video.

Memory Card Capacity and Recording Time

It’s important to know how much video you can record depending on the card’s capacity and resolution settings. 

Below is a breakdown of recording times for 1080p and 720p resolutions at 30FPS (frames per second) based on the card size:

Note: The above data is based on the AIO-5 Lite model.

First-Time Use: Formatting Your Memory Card

Before using a new memory card in your dash cam, it’s important to format it properly to avoid any issues. If you are using a new SD card for the first time, make sure to format it before using it in the AIO-5 lite.

Your AIO-5 lite can't recognize your SD card? Here's What to Do.

Recommended Memory Card Brands for Quality And Reliability

By now, you should have a clear understanding of how to choose the right memory card for your motorcycle dash cam. Beyond speed and capacity, make sure you buy from a reputable brand to avoid low-quality or falsely labeled cards. 

High-quality dash cam memory cards not only protect your recordings but also ensure the long-term reliability of your device and provide peace of mind while riding.

Here are some trusted brands and models that offer excellent performance for motorcycle dash cams:

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right memory card for your motorcycle dash cam is essential for capturing clear, uninterrupted footage of your rides. Look for a card with at least U3 and V30 ratings to ensure reliable performance. Stick to reputable brands and avoid cutting corners with lower-priced, uncertified options. The best memory cards not only protect your video files but also ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.