The Sony A7 V is one of the most versatile full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market, offering professional-level 4K 120p video, high-speed RAW burst photography, and even 8K recording in some modes. But to fully unlock its potential, choosing the best memory cards for Sony A7 V is crucial. Not all cards are created equal, and using the wrong card can lead to dropped frames, slow write speeds, or interruptions during critical shooting moments.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know: from whether CFexpress Type A is mandatory, to whether high-end V90 SD cards can suffice, and which cards are recommended for different shooting scenarios such as weddings, sports, or wildlife photography. We’ll also highlight the most popular CFexpress and V90 SD card models, complete with store links for Amazon, B&H Photo, and Adorama so you can preorder the right card for your workflow:
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly which cards to use to maximize your Sony A7 V performance, whether you’re shooting weddings, wildlife action, or high-speed sports. Let’s dive into the best memory cards for Sony A7 V in 2026!
CFexpress Type A vs V90 SD: What You Need to Know
Choosing the right card for your Sony A7 V depends on what you plan to shoot. While the camera supports both CFexpress Type A and UHS-II V90 SD cards, there are significant differences in speed and reliability for high-demand scenarios:
- CFexpress Type A: Recommended for 4K 120p, high-speed RAW burst, and potential 8K recording. Offers ultra-fast write speeds and minimal risk of dropped frames.
- V90 UHS-II SD cards: Suitable for 4K 30/60p video and everyday photography. Faster V90 cards can handle most professional workflows, but may struggle in sustained high-speed shooting.
Minimum Write Speed Requirements for Sony A7 V
| Resolution / Frame Rate | Recommended Card Type | Minimum Write Speed |
|---|---|---|
| 4K 30p / 60p | UHS-II V90 SD | 90 MB/s |
| 4K 120p | CFexpress Type A | 700 MB/s+ |
| 8K 30p | CFexpress Type A | 700 MB/s+ |
Using the right card not only ensures smooth video recording but also protects your valuable photos and prevents interruptions during critical moments. For most professional video work and high-speed photography, CFexpress Type A cards are the safest choice, while V90 SD cards are a cost-effective option for everyday shooting.
Popular CFexpress Type A and V90 SD Cards for Sony A7 V
Here are some of the most reliable and widely recommended memory cards for the Sony A7 V. All prices and availability are linked via store search results for Amazon, B&H Photo, and Adorama.
Pre-order your Sony A7 V with the right memory card: Pre-order the Sony A7 V
CFexpress Type A Cards
| Card Model | Capacity | Speed | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A | 160GB | Up to 700 MB/s | |
| ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A | 256GB | Up to 700 MB/s | |
| Angelbird AV Pro CFexpress Type A | 512GB | Up to 700 MB/s |
V90 UHS-II SD Cards
| Card Model | Capacity | Speed | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| SanDisk Extreme PRO V90 | 128GB | Up to 300 MB/s | |
| Lexar Professional 2000x V90 | 256GB | Up to 300 MB/s | |
| Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II | 128GB | Up to 300 MB/s |
Top Memory Cards for Sony A7 V — Best Uses
Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 160GB
Best for: High-speed RAW burst photography, 4K 120p video, and 8K recording.
This card offers ultra-fast write speeds up to 700 MB/s, making it ideal for professional photographers and videographers who demand reliability during intensive shooting sessions.
ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type A 256GB
Best for: Weddings, sports, and wildlife photography where sustained high-speed recording is needed.
With 256GB capacity and up to 700 MB/s write speed, this card ensures you never miss a critical moment during long shooting sessions.
Angelbird AV Pro CFexpress Type A 512GB
Best for: Extended high-speed shoots, commercial video, and demanding wildlife photography.
With massive 512GB capacity and ultra-fast write speeds, this card is perfect for professional users who need uninterrupted recording over long periods.
SanDisk Extreme PRO V90 128GB
Best for: Everyday 4K 30/60p video and professional photography at a more affordable price.
V90 SD cards provide reliable speeds up to 300 MB/s, perfect for most workflows that don’t require ultra-high-speed burst recording.
Lexar Professional 2000x V90 256GB
Best for: Long-form video projects, travel, and wildlife photography where reliability is key.
This card’s high capacity and V90 speed class make it an excellent choice for extended shoots without frequent card swaps.
Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II 128GB
Best for: Travel, street, and general photography with reliable performance and durability.
Ultra-durable and fast, this card handles a wide range of photo and video tasks while being resistant to shocks and environmental stress.
Recommended Cards for Different Shooting Scenarios
Wedding Photography
Daisy’s Tip: For weddings, reliability and capacity are key. We recommend the ProGrade CFexpress Type A 256GB or SanDisk Extreme PRO V90 128GB depending on whether you need ultra-fast burst shooting or standard 4K video. These cards will handle long ceremonies without interruptions.
Sports Photography
Daisy’s Tip: Fast action requires high-speed write performance. The Sony TOUGH CFexpress Type A 160GB is ideal for capturing continuous RAW bursts and high-frame-rate 4K 120p video. V90 SD cards may be sufficient for less intensive shooting but stick with CFexpress for critical moments.
Wildlife Photography
Daisy’s Tip: When tracking unpredictable wildlife, a mix of speed and storage is essential. For extended shooting sessions in the field, Angelbird AV Pro CFexpress Type A 512GB offers the capacity and speed to avoid missing key moments. For budget-conscious options, Lexar Professional 2000x V90 256GB also works well.
Travel & Street Photography
Daisy’s Tip: Durability and reliability are crucial when you’re on the move. Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II 128GB provides shock and weather resistance while maintaining high speeds for both photo and video tasks. Compact and robust — perfect for everyday adventures.
Conclusion
Choosing the right memory card is crucial for getting the most out of your Sony A7 V. Whether you opt for a high-speed CFexpress Type A or a reliable V90 SD card, using the best memory cards for Sony A7 V ensures smooth video recording, fast RAW burst performance, and peace of mind during every shoot.
