Tested in Camera: The Best Canon R5 Memory Cards

Welcome to our Canon R5 Memory Card Guide with in-camera speed and buffer tests.

We have tested 13 CFexpress Type-B and 17 UHS-II memory cards in the R5 to help you find the best memory cards based on how they actually perform in-camera.

Supported Memory Cards

The Canon EOS R5 has two memory cards slots. Slot 1 supports CFexpress Type B Memory Cards and Slot 2 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS-I and UHS-II memory cards.

Here are the theoretical maximum speeds of each card type:

• CFexpress Type-B: theoretical maximum transfer speeds of up to 2000MB/s
• UHS-II: theoretical maximum transfer speeds of up to 312MB/s

The CFexpress-Type B cards will definitely clear the buffer the fastest and are therefore ideal for shooting fast bursts of images like you would shooting sports or birds in flight.

If you primarily shoot single shots then the slower UHS-II or even UHS-I cards might be sufficient for your needs, although you can still benefit from the faster read times of the CFexpress Type-B cards when copying the files over to your computer.

In-Camera Card Speed Comparison

Here’s our quick in-camera memory card speed comparison for the cards that we have tested so far in the R5.

Clicking on the memory card name will take you to our complete speed and buffer tests results for that particular card.

Best CFexpress Type B Memory Cards

These in-camera tests were carried out using the Canon R5 with firmware version 1.7.0. Our Canon R5 Firmware Guide provides further details on the latest firmware version for the R5.

CFexpress Type-B Card	In-Camera Write Speed *	Max Burst **	8K RAW ***	4K120 ***	Price Check
1. Delkin Devices BLACK 325GB	518 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
2. Delkin Devices POWER 128GB	518 MB/s	63	Yes	No	B&H Photo | Amazon
3. Delkin Devices BLACK 128GB	518 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
4. Angelbird AV Pro SE 512GB	518 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
5. Lexar Professional DIAMOND Series 128GB	517 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
6. Sony CEB-G Series TOUGH 128GB	515 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
7. ProGrade Digital Cobalt 325GB	514 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
8. Angelbird AV PRO SX 160GB	514 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
9. Lexar Professional GOLD Series 128GB	515 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
10. Lexar Professional SILVER Series 128GB	515 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
11. SanDisk Extreme PRO 128GB	419 MB/s	63	Yes	Yes	B&H Photo | Amazon
12. ProGrade Digital Gold 128GB	225 MB/s	63	No	No	B&H Photo | Amazon
13. Wise Advanced CFX-B Series 128GB	193 MB/s	63	No	No	B&H Photo | Amazon

Best UHS-II SD Memory Cards

These in-camera tests were carried out using the Canon R5 with firmware version 1.7.0. All cards used were 64GB SDXC UHS-II memory cards.

Memory Card	In-Camera Write Speed *	Max Burst **	Video Rating	Price Check
1. Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II	231 MB/s	64	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
2. Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II	226 MB/s	64	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
3. PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II	226 MB/s	63	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
4. Ritzgear Video Pro UHS-II	226 MB/s	64	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
5. Hoodman Steel 2000x UHS-II	226 MB/s	63	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
6. Lexar Professional 2000X UHS-II	222 MB/s	63	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
7. Transcend SD 700S UHS-II	222 MB/s	63	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
8. Delkin Devices POWER UHS-II	215 MB/s	63	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
9. SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-II	215 MB/s	64	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
10. ProGrade V90 UHS-II	213 MB/s	64	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
11. Exascend Catalyst UHS-II	213 MB/s	64	V90	B&H Photo
12. Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II	140 MB/s	63	V60	B&H Photo | Amazon
13. Sony SF-M UHS-II	140 MB/s	63	V60	B&H Photo | Amazon
14. ProGrade V60 UHS-II	124 MB/s	63	V60	B&H Photo | Amazon
15. Lexar Professional 1667X UHS-II	99 MB/s	63	V60	B&H Photo | Amazon
16. Angelbird AV Pro Mk 2 V90 UHS-II	87 MB/s	62	V90	B&H Photo | Amazon
17. Sony SF-E UHS-II	74 MB/s	63	V30 (64GB), V60 (128GB)	B&H Photo | Amazon

CFexpress Type B Memory Card Speed & Buffer Tests

For shooting sports, birds in flight or any other fast action where you’ll most likely want to shoot continuous bursts, we would strongly recommend using CFexpress Type B memory cards.

It is important to understand that not all CFexpress Type B cards are created equal. They all have different read/write speeds and these can vary greatly when writing in-camera to what the label states.

For these tests our R5 was using firmware version 1.7.0 which was the latest at the time of testing. You can find details on the latest firmware version in our Canon R5 Firmware Guide.

All of these tests were also carried out using the Electronic Shutter in Hi+ (20 FPS). HEIF images (HDR PQ On) are restricted to the mechanical shutter / elec. first curtain only and thus only 12 FPS.

We are shooting in manual focus with ISO set to 100 and a shutter speed of 1/250th which is sufficient to achieve 20 FPS. High ISO noise reduction is set to standard and I shoot the front cover of a book for consistency with the file sizes.

It’s important to note that the file size will vary based on the scene being shot and the number of shots before the buffer is hit can also vary based on your camera settings such as ISO and noise reduction.

Performance can also vary by card capacity so these results are only valid for the sizes tested.

We also tested the video performance of each card by shooting both 8K RAW and 4K 120p. The room temperature at the time was around 20° Celsius (68° Fahrenheit).

1. Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type B (New Version)

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 Interface
• Capacities: 75GB, 150GB, 325GB, 512GB, 650GB
• Max Read Speed: 1725 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1530 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 325GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 518 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	87	5.41
CRAW (20.7MB)	164	9.35
JPEG L (16.1MB)	185	10.69
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	439	10.78
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	3.95
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	162	9.70
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	85	14.40
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	158	25.21

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	320	Approx 10 FPS

2. Delkin Devices POWER CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 x4 Bus
• Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
• Max Read Speed: 1730 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1540 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: No, write speed hit after 30 seconds

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 518 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	88	5.66
CRAW (20.7MB)	165	8.23
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.31
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	437	11.02
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.00
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	165	10.06
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	14.56
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	25.60

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	322	Approx 10 FPS

3. Delkin Devices BLACK CFexpress Type B (Old Version)

Couldn’t read card or format a couple of times.

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 Interface
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Max Read Speed: 1760 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1710 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 518 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	88	5.67
CRAW (20.7MB)	165	8.22
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.31
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	437	11.02
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.00
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	165	10.04
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	14.57
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	25.60

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	320	Approx 10 FPS

4. Angelbird AV Pro SE CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 x2 Bus
• Capacities: 512GB
• Max Read Speed: 1785 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 850 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 512GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 518 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	88	5.67
CRAW (20.7MB)	165	8.22
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.06
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	437	11.02
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.10
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	165	10.05
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	90	15.35
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	25.52

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	320	Approx 10 FPS

5. Lexar Professional DIAMOND Series CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 x2 / NVMe Protocols
• Capacities: 128GB, 256GB
• Max Read Speed: 1900 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1700 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 517 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	88	5.68
CRAW (20.7MB)	165	8.22
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.05
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	437	11.00
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.10
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	165	10.03
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	14.58
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	25.50

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	320	Approx 10 FPS

6. Sony CEB-G Series TOUGH CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 Bus
• Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Max Read Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1480 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 515 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	86	5.56
CRAW (20.7MB)	161	9.05
JPEG L (16.1MB)	184	10.75
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	435	10.28
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	3.95
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	160	9.73
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	84	14.37
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	157	25.11

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	279	Approx 8 FPS

7. ProGrade Digital Cobalt CFexpress Type B

• Bus: NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 Bus
• Capacities: 325GB, 650GB
• Max Read Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1500 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 325GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 515 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	86	5.57
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.15
JPEG L (16.1MB)	185	1.69
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	432	10.15
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.02
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	160	9.72
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	84	14.36
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	156	25.01

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	317	Approx 9 FPS

8. Angelbird AV PRO SX CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 x2 Bus
• Capacities: 160GB
• Max Read Speed: 1785 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1600 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 160GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 515 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	86	5.56
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.15
JPEG L (16.1MB)	185	10.61
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	433	10.18
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.01
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	160	9.72
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	84	14.36
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	157	25.11

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	320	Approx 10 FPS

9. Lexar Professional GOLD Series CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 Bus
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Max Read Speed: 1750 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 1000 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 515 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	88	5.69
CRAW (20.7MB)	165	8.23
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.10
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	437	11.05
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.04
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	165	10.05
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	14.58
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	25.52

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	320	Approx 10 FPS

10. Lexar Professional SILVER Series CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 Bus
• Capacities: 128GB, 256GB
• Max Read Speed: 1000 MB/s
• Max Write speed: 600 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 515 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	88	5.80
CRAW (20.7MB)	165	8.24
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.07
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	436	10.58
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	4.00
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	164	10.00
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	14.59
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	25.58

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	297	Approx 9 FPS

11. SanDisk Extreme PRO CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 Bus
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Max Read Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1200 MB/s
• 8K RAW: Yes until card full
• 4K 120: Yes until 7:30 limit reached

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 419 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	88	5.91
CRAW (20.7MB)	174	10.03
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	10.91
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	436	10.60
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	5.86
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	164	10.10
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	14.60
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	25.70

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	261	Approx 7 FPS

12. ProGrade Digital Gold CFexpress Type B

• Bus: NVMe PCIe 3.0 x4 Bus
• Capacities: 128GB, 256GB
• Max Read Speed: 1700 MB/s
• Max Write Speed: 1400 MB/s
• 8K RAW: No, stopped after 2 seconds due to slow write speed
• 4K 120: No, stopped after 01:18 due to slow write speed

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 225 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	64	7.03
CRAW (20.7MB)	174	12.06
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.60
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	413	12.55
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	13.53
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	163	24.71
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	25.00
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	156	27.12

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	149	Approx 3 FPS

13. Wise Advanced CFX-B Series CFexpress Type B

• Bus: PCIe 3.0 x2 Bus
• Capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
• Max Read Speed: 1700 MB/s (128GB)
• Max Write Speed: 1050 MB/s (128GB), 1550 MB/s (256GB, 512GB, 1TB)
• 8K RAW: No, stopped after 3 seconds due to slow write speed
• 4K 120: No, stopped after 17 seconds due to slow write speed

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 128GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 193 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	63	9.80
CRAW (20.7MB)	174	12.86
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	12.06
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	409	12.83
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	16.71
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	149	24.56
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	87	27.01
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	155	29.86

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	145	Approx 3 FPS

UHS-II Memory Card Speed & Buffer Tests

Memory card slot 2 of the R5 supports UHS-II and UHS-I memory cards. We have only tested UHS-II cards in-camera because UHS-I cards are really not well suited to the large files that the 45 megapixel sensor in the R5 creates.

Firmware version 1.7.0 was used for these tests which were carried out using the Electronic Shutter in Hi+ (20 FPS) mode.

1. Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II

Please note that these cards are a little thicker than other memory cards and can be a tight fit in the R5’s memory card slots.

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 299 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 231 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	77	11.28
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.73
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.06
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	456	11.30
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	13.51
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	138	16.44
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.20
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.68

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	161	Approx 3 FPS

2. Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II

Their Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II are very well reviewed and extremely fast, and often out perform more expensive cards.

Their price per GB together with their performance and reliability makes this our number one UHS-II card recommendation for the R5.

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 260 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 226 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	11.33
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.74
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.01
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	456	11.31
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	64	14.00
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	138	16.43
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.20
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.58

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	156	Approx 3 FPS

3. PNY X-PRO 90 UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 280 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 226 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	11.30
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.71
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	10.58
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	456	11.21
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	13.61
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	138	16.43
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.10
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.52

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	149	Approx 3 FPS

4. Ritzgear Video Pro UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 280 MB/s
• Write speed: 250 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 226 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	75	11.01
CRAW (20.7MB)	167	9.70
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.01
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	455	11.30
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	64	14.01
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	138	16.33
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.21
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.57

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	149	Approx 3 FPS

5. Hoodman Steel 2000x UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 260 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 226 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	11.34
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.84
JPEG L (16.1MB)	193	11.05
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	455	11.31
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	14.10
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	139	16.63
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.20
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.57

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	156	Approx 3 FPS

6. Lexar Professional 2000X UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 260 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 222 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	11.16
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.78
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.16
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	455	11.08
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	14.16
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	137	16.34
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.40
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	27.00

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	152	Approx 3 FPS

7. Transcend SD 700S UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 285 MB/s
• Write speed: 180 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 222 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	11.11
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.79
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.15
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	455	11.12
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	14.08
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	138	16.33
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.40
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	27.01

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	156	Approx 3 FPS

8. Delkin Devices POWER UHS-II

Delkin Devices design and support their memory cards in the USA.

The Power cards have been built specifically for extreme conditions and are protected against water, shock, and x-rays. They also feature built-in error correction and wear leveling.

Each card is backed by a Lifetime Warranty and Delkin’s American-based customer support team.

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 250 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 215 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	11.16
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.78
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.16
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	456	11.38
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	14.90
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	138	16.45
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.29
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.78

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	152	Approx 3 FPS

9. SanDisk Extreme Pro UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 260 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 215 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	11.17
CRAW (20.7MB)	168	9.78
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.16
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	456	11.39
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	64	14.86
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	138	16.43
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	82	18.32
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.79

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	157	Approx 3 FPS

10. ProGrade V90 UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 250 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 213 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	75	12.35
CRAW (20.7MB)	174	9.86
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.21
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	454	12.12
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	64	15.30
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	134	17.46
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	81	18.00
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.58

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	156	Approx 3 FPS

11. Exascend Catalyst UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 280 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 213 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	76	12.11
CRAW (20.7MB)	174	9.87
JPEG L (16.1MB)	194	11.25
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	454	12.11
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	64	15.26
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	133	17.36
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	80	17.80
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	161	26.63

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	157	Approx 3 FPS

12. Sony SF-M Tough UHS-II

The Sony SF-M Tough memory cards are similar to the more expensive SF-G Tough version, but these are rated V60 for video and their read speed has been cut to 277MB/s and the write speed to 150MB/s.

Please note that these cards are a little thicker than other memory cards and can be a tight fit in the R5’s memory card slots.

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V60
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 277 MB/s
• Write speed: 150 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 140 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	64	17.89
CRAW (20.7MB)	170	17.58
JPEG L (16.1MB)	189	13.76
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	260	10.70
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	24.51
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	120	25.90
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	72	28.76
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	136	31.35

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	120	Approx 2 FPS

13. Sony SF-M UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V60
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 277 MB/s
• Write speed: 150 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 140 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	64	17.90
CRAW (20.7MB)	170	17.59
JPEG L (16.1MB)	189	13.73
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	260	10.74
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	24.50
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	120	25.90
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	72	28.79
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	136	31.38

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	120	Approx 2 FPS

14. ProGrade V60 UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V60
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 250 MB/s
• Write speed: 130 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 124 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	64	19.89
CRAW (20.7MB)	161	17.25
JPEG L (16.1MB)	189	14.43
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	260	11.73
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	27.01
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	118	28.01
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	72	29.39
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	135	31.56

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	120	Approx 2 FPS

15. Lexar Professional 1667X UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V60
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 250 MB/s
• Write speed: 120 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 99 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	63	25.50
CRAW (20.7MB)	151	24.18
JPEG L (16.1MB)	186	21.13
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	200	18.95
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	36.03
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	113	36.07
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	65	38.88
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	121	43.97

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	96	Approx 1 FPS

16. Angelbird AV Pro Mk 2 V90 UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: V90
• Capacities: 32GB (SDHC), 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 280 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 86.6 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

This card underperforms badly in the R5, it has also underperformed in all of the R Series cameras that we have tested it in. We even purchased a new card in December 2022 but this card also underperforms badly.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	66	26.98
CRAW (20.7MB)	145	36.36
JPEG L (16.1MB)	168	33.41
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	183	33.53
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	62	41.06
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	112	55.25
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	65	42.65
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	116	62.75

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	95	Approx 1 FPS

17. Sony SF-E UHS-II

• Bus speed: UHS-II
• Video speed class: 64GB V30, 128GB and higher V60
• Capacities: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB (SDXC)
• Read speed: 270 MB/s
• Write speed: 64GB 70 MB/s, 128GB + 256GB 120 MB/s

In-Camera Speed / Buffer Test Results

Here are our complete in-camera speed / buffer test results when using a 64GB card in Hi+ Drive Mode using the Electronic Shutter (20 FPS).

The actual R5 in-camera write speed is approximately 74 MB/s when shooting in RAW + JPEG L.

Image Type	Shots Before Hitting Buffer (Max Burst)	Time to Clear Buffer (Seconds)
RAW (46.1MB)	63	36.13
CRAW (20.7MB)	145	33.23
JPEG L (16.1MB)	163	26.51
HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	194	28.85
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	63	49.72
CRAW (20.7MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	109	48.22
RAW (46.1MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	63	54.67
CRAW (20.7MB) + HEIF L (18.9MB) 12 FPS	114	59.03

30 Second Burst

You can keep shooting after the buffer is hit but the frame rate reduces and the display will black out so this isn’t ideal for tracking subjects.

Image Type	Shots in 30 Seconds	Frame Rate After Buffer Hit
RAW (46.1MB) + JPEG L (16.1MB)	93	Approx 1 FPS

UHS-I Memory Cards

We have not tested any UHS-I Memory Cards in the R5. With it’s 45 megapixel sensor we would strongly recommend using CFexpress Type-B or UHS-II memory cards.

UHS-I cards although supported in slot 2 will be extremely slow in the R5.

If you are curious about the performance of UHS-I memory cards then we have tested these in-camera for our Canon R6 Memory Card Guide.

Recording to Multiple Cards

If you select the record option in the menu “Rec. to Multiple” then the same image type will be written to the memory card in both slot 1 and slot 2.

Unfortunately the write speed will always be limited by the slowest card, so you will be limited by the speed of the UHS-II card that you choose for slot 2.

Recording Separately

If you select the record option in the menu “Rec. Separately” then you can write a different image type to slot 1 and slot 2.

We recommend recording the larger RAW or CRAW images to the faster CFexpress Type-B card in slot 1 and JPEGs to a UHS-II card in slot 2 and not the other way around.

With the setup you can write 63 RAW images to slot 1 and 63 JPEG L to slot 2 before hitting the buffer. The buffer then clears in around 4 seconds.

If you were to write the RAW images to slot 2 and JPEG L to slot 1, then this would take around 10 seconds to clear the buffer, this is why we don’t recommend doing it this way.

Memory Cards for Recording Video

When it comes to recording video with the R5 the card that you choose will be largely dependent on your movie record settings.

if you want to shoot in 8k or 4k with the higher bitrate settings then you will require a CFexpress Type-B card.

But if you are happy to shoot in 8k or 4k with a lower bitrate or Full-HD, then a UHS-II card with the appropriate speed class as shown in the table below will be sufficient.

Here is Canon’s list of memory card requirements for movie recording with the R5.

Note that they mention “Refer to the Canon website” for further details on the supported CFexpress Type-B cards, here is that link. Unfortunately it has not been updated since July 2020 and a large number of new cards have been released since then.

Fortunately we have tested all of the CFexpress Type-B cards listed in this guide by shooting both 8K RAW and 4K120 to see how they perform. You’ll find our results in the CFexpress table at the start of this guide.

Movie Recording Times

The amount of time that you can record for will vary greatly based on the size of memory card that you are using and the video format that you are recording in.

Estimated Recording Times with Canon Log 3 : OFF, HDR PQ : OFF

Estimated Recording Times with Canon Log 3: ON, HDR PQ : ON

What Size Memory Card Do You Need?

The size of memory card that you choose will depend on how and what you are shooting.

For Stills Shooters

We would recommend a minimum of 128GB if you shoot a lot of continuous bursts.

A 128GB card is good for approximately 2700 RAW files, 5700 CRAW files, 9000 JPEG L or 9000 HEIF L images.

For Video Shooters

For video shooters please refer to the movie recording times in the tables above to help you decide on the correct size of memory card for your needs.

We don’t recommend using 32GB or smaller SDHC cards (either UHS-I or UHS-II) because they use the FAT 32 file system and your video files will be broken up into 4GB chunks.

So either stick with either CFexpress Type-B cards or if using an SD card make sure it’s an SDXC cards, which is basically all cards that are 64GB and larger.

Memory Card Readers

If you prefer to remove the card from your camera and use a reader to copy over the files to your computer, then here are a couple of options to consider.

ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B & UHS-II Card Reader

This ProGrade Card Reader includes both a CFexpress Type B slot and a UHS-II SDXC slot.

It supports transfer speeds of up to 10 GB/s via a USB Type-C interface (USB 3.2 Gen 2).

Both Windows and Mac are supported and 18″ USB Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A cables are included.

Delkin Devices CFexpress Type-B Memory Card Reader

This Delkin Devices card reader includes a single CFexpress Type B slot.

Just like the ProGrade Reader it also supports transfer speeds of up to 10 GB/s via a USB Type-C interface (USB 3.2 Gen 2).

Both Windows and Mac are supported and USB Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A cables are included.

Memory Card Storage

Here are a couple of memory card storage cases worth taking a closer look at if you want to keep your cards safe and protect your potentially valuable images.

PolarPro Slate CF Memory Card Storage Case

This cast-aluminum case from PolarPro supports 4 CFexpress, 2 standard SD, and 8 microSD cards. It features a custom-cut, injection-molded insert and a rubber interior that provides shock absorption and protection.

Pelican Memory Card Case for CFexpress Type B

This CFexpress Type-B Memory Card Case from Pelican supports up to 6 CFexpress Type-B cards. It has a water resistant seal and a tough shock resistant exterior. There’s no space for UHS-II SD cards though.

Summary

The maximum write speed of some CFexpress Type B cards is up to 1700 MB/s, however during our tests the maximum write speed in the Canon R5 is only around 518 MB/s when shooting RAW + JPEG L and the file sizes specified in our tests.

The top 10 CFexpress Type-B cards all performed extremely well, and although some cards are marginally faster than others, in the field you are unlikely to notice any difference at all.

Our advice would be to purchase whichever card is cheapest at the time of purchase, or whichever brand you feel most comfortable with.

The Angelbird 512GB AV PRO CFexpress 2.0 Type B SE Memory Card (B&H Photo | Amazon) is typically the best value per GB and would be our recommended card if we had to pick one for shooting stills or video, since it also works great with 8K RAW and 4K120.

We would avoid the SanDisk Extreme Pro, The Prograde Digital Gold and the Wise Advanced CFexpress Type-B cards since the performance did drop off with these cards, at least with the capacities tested, the larger capacities may perform better.

When it comes to UHS-II cards the speeds do vary a lot more than the CFexpress cards in-camera.

The fastest card is the Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II card, but this can be a tight fit in the R5’s card slot.

We’d recommend going with the Kingston Canvas React Plus UHS-II Memory Card instead (B&H Photo | Amazon). It’s only fractionally slower than the Sony but a lot cheaper. It also slides in and out of the slot without any issues unlike the Sony Tough card.

Please let us know in the comments below if you found this guide helpful, or if you would like to provide your own feedback on a particular card or suggest one for review.

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