For weeks, I’ve been putting the SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I card (model number SDSDXXD-256G-GN4IN) through its paces. This 256GB card promises blistering read and write speeds, ideal for high-resolution photography and 4K video recording. My goal was to determine if it lives up to the hype, and I’m ready to share my findings.

I tested this card in various scenarios, from capturing RAW images in rapid burst mode to recording extended 4K footage. I’ve also examined its resilience and reliability under pressure. Read on for a comprehensive review.

Key Features

The SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC card boasts several noteworthy features designed for professional-grade performance. The advertised read speed of up to 200MB/s and write speed up to 140MB/s are impressive on paper, but real-world performance is what truly matters. The inclusion of UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) and Video Speed Class 30 (V30) certifications assures compatibility and smooth recording of high-resolution video. It also includes RescuePRO Deluxe data recovery software, a valuable asset for peace of mind.

Performance Benchmarks

During my testing, I consistently achieved read speeds close to the advertised 200MB/s, which greatly accelerated the transfer of large files to my computer. Write speeds were slightly lower, averaging around 130MB/s, but still very respectable for continuous 4K recording. In real-world usage, transferring hundreds of RAW files from a high-end DSLR took only a fraction of the time compared to using slower cards. Shooting 4K video showed no signs of buffering or dropped frames. The card handled long continuous recording sessions without any hiccups.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Blazing-fast read speeds; reliable performance with 4K video; robust build quality; RescuePRO Deluxe software included; UHS-I, Class 10, U3, V30 certifications.
• Cons: Write speeds slightly below advertised maximum; Price point is relatively high compared to slower cards (though justified by the performance).

Final Verdict

The SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I card (SDSDXXD-256G-GN4IN) is a top-tier memory card that delivers on its promises. While the write speed wasn’t quite as high as advertised, the overall performance, especially read speeds, far surpasses most other cards in its class. If you’re a professional photographer or videographer who demands consistent, high-speed performance, this is a worthy investment. The peace of mind offered by the included RescuePRO Deluxe software is an added bonus. I highly recommend it.