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Memory card capacity
The question is often asked, "what size memory card should I buy?" The answer depends on the megapixel count of your digital camera and how many photos you take at given time.
As a rule of thumb, the following size memory card is a recommended minimum:
- 256 MB or higher for a 4 megapixel digicam
- 512 MB or higher for a 5 megapixel digicam
- One GB or higher for a 6 megapixel digicam
- Two GB or higher for an 8 megapixel digicam
- Four + GB - if you shoot a lot of video or have a camera with 10 or more megapixels. If you use Secure Digital memory cards, be sure to read about SDHD cards and their special requirements.
| Approximate number of shots on a Memory Card | |||||
| Camera | File size* | 128 MB | 256 MB | 512 MB | 1 GB |
| 2 MP | 900 KB | 142 | 284 | 568 | 1137 |
| 3 MP | 1.2 MB | 106 | 212 | 426 | 853 |
| 4 MP | 2.0 MB | 64 | 128 | 256 | 512 |
| 5 MP | 2.5 MB | 51 | 102 | 204 | 409 |
| 6 MP | 3.5 MB | 40 | 80 | 160 | 320 |
| *average file size for a high resolution JPEG Source: Lexar Media | |||||
How many memory cards?
With the prices of memory cards coming down, many digital photographers have at least two cards, not only for the extra capacity but for security. If you lose a card, or if it becomes corrupted, you have another on hand. If you also shoot video, get at least two cards or a much larger card than indicated.
