Peak Design’s Camera Cubes, launched in 2017, have been incredibly popular products for photographers looking for module protection for their gear. They provide protection for your equipment in any bag, not just dedicated camera bags, making it easier to bring your gear anywhere. And now, the camera equipment company has announced an updated version of these protective bags with many important upgrades. That includes better weatherproofing, better dividers, and more handles. Also, two new sizes—X-Small and Smedium (that’s not a typo)—join the original Small, Medium, and Large options.

Peak Design was kind enough to send me two sizes (X-small and Large) of the new bags to test out ahead of the launch, so I was able to get some hands-on experience to share. Here’s what’s new about the Camera Cubes V2 and what you can expect from the bags.

What are the Peak Design Camera Cubes?

Peak Design manufactured the Camera Cubes to nest perfectly in its Travel and Outdoor bags, but you can toss them in just about anything since they offer padding on all sides. When you are using the Peak Design Camera Cubes with Peak Design bags, the included C-Clips allow you to securely attach the Camera Cube so that it doesn’t slide around.

Using camera cubes also allows your camera backpack to do double duty when you don’t need camera gear, meaning you don’t need to buy as many packs. You could even get away with not buying a photo-focused bag at all, which would save you lots of money. And Peak Design’s Camera Cube can even be used as stand-alone bags (especially the X-Small). They feature cord hook connection points, so you can toss on a camera strap to carry the bag.

Finally, these Peak Design bags are 100 percent carbon neutral and are the only camera cubes on the market that are Fair Trade Certified, just like all of Peak Design’s bags.

What’s new in the Peak Design Camera Cube V2?

Peak Design is always very thoughtful with how it designs its products, and that is very evident in the changes it made to the already excellent Camera Cubes.

New sizes

First, the two new sizes join the lineup of Small, Medium, and Large. The X-Small exterior measures 9 x 4.7 x 5.9 inches and offers an internal volume of 3.5 liters. It comes with two extra small dividers. This size is ideal for small and minimal mirrorless setups or would also work well for a drone or drone accessories. I was able to fit my Sony a7 III with the Sony 24-70mm f/4 attached, along with the small Kodak H35 film camera. It was snug around my mirrorless camera but did fit.

The Smedium (no, that’s not a typo; it is really named Smedium) Camera Cube V2, as you might guess, sits between the Small and Medium. Its exterior measures 12.2 x 9.25 x 5.9 inches, and the internal volume is 10 liters. The Smedium comes with two medium dividers, one small shelf divider, one small divider, two extra small dividers, and one detachable pocket.

The existing three sizes maintain the same sizes as the original versions but get all of the same upgrades.

Build quality upgrades

Peak Design kept the weatherproof 160D 100% recycled nylon canvas shell of the first version of the Camera Cubes. But, in order to make them even more weatherproof, they switched to new zippers called Ultra Zips. There is also weatherproof taping on all external seams to keep all water out. The exterior also gets even more grab handles—one on each side—making them easier to carry and grab out of your bag when necessary.

In the Camera Cubes V2, Peak Design expanded the main opening to provide better access to gear, including items on the sides and in the corners. The top flap folds entirely out of the way, so you won’t have to fumble with holding it open while trying to get something out. One really smart feature is the removable padding in the lid. If you use a Peak Design bag with padding on all sides (such as the Travel Backpack) and want one-zip access to your gear, you can take out that padding and tuck the top panel away for quicker, easier access. The Medium and Large sizes also feature a zippered opening on two sides, which enables quick entry when using bags with side openings.

The flexible dividers also get an upgrade in the V2 version. They offer a cleaner aesthetic and come in even more sizes so that you can fully customize your setup. The entire interior is also softer in the V2 bags.

Finally, the bags are all about 10 to 15 percent lighter than their predecessors. That’s not a ton, but when you’re lugging around a camera backpack when hiking or traveling, every bit of weight matters.

Peak Design Camera Cube V2 in use

Admittedly, I was not a Camera Cube person originally. I’ve always stuck to dedicated camera bags with built-in protection. But that has been extremely limiting in certain situations, meaning I either don’t bring my camera somewhere or deal with a bag that’s less than ideal for a given situation. The Camera Cubes V2 have changed my ways.

I recently went out for a brief SUP adventure and wanted to have my camera on hand, but don’t have a camera bag that I would trust if it happened to fall overboard for some reason. I have an EXPED waterproof bag, which is not a dedicated camera bag. But, with the X-Small Camera Cube, I was able to safely bring my camera along by tossing it in the waterproof bag. Likewise, for bigger trips, I could easily through the Large in a bigger duffel to take my entire kit but still keep a relatively small camera backpack on me with select pieces of gear as needed.

As with all other Peak Design gear I’ve used, the Camera Cubes V2 are made of extremely quality and durable materials. I haven’t been using them for terribly long, but they feel like they will last forever. The water that got on the bag when I was SUPing beaded up and slid away, with no water soaking into the material at all. The interior is nice and soft. The flexible dividers are just sturdy enough and feature strong velcro to keep them in place even with lots of movement. And the wide opening is awesome to have. It makes it easier to pack in my gear and allows me to easily see what I have when I’m looking for something.

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Pricing & availability

All sizes of the Peak Design Camera Cube V2 are available for purchase now. The X-Small is $49.95, Small is $59.95, Smedium is $69.95, Medium is $89.95, and Large is $109.95.

If you don’t mind missing out on the upgrades, Peak Design is selling the V1 versions for 20 percent off as long as supplies last.

The post The Peak Design Camera Cubes V2 offer versatile gear protection appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough Memory Card		SEE IT	It offers consistently fast speeds and is very rugged.
Fastest		Lexar Diamond Series Professional 256GB CFexpress Type-B		SEE IT	The fastest card for data hungry cameras.
Best Type A		ProGrade Digital 160GB CFexpress Type A Cobalt Memory Card		SEE IT	The best option for Sony users.

CFexpress cards have quickly become the storage media of choice. They offer much faster speeds than SD, XQD, or CompactFlash. CFexpress cards also come in larger capacities than other memory cards, making them ideal for cameras that produce excessive amounts of data in the form of high-quality video or high-resolution photographs. Of course, they come at a high cost, but the best CFexpress cards provide better performance and allow you to get the most out of high-specced cameras. 

• Best overall: Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough Memory Card
• Fastest: Lexar Diamond Series Professional 256GB CFexpress Type-B
• Best Type A: ProGrade Digital 160GB CFexpress Type A Cobalt Memory Card
• Best Type B: SanDisk 512GB Extreme PRO CFexpress Card Type B
• Best large capacity: Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress MK2 Type B Card – 4 TB
• Best budget: SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO CFexpress Card Type B

How we picked the best CFexpress cards

The writers and editors have been involved in the photography industry for decades. During that time, we have seen dramatic changes in the memory card field, with multiple new card formats introduced and ever faster and larger storage options available. Throughout our careers, we have used cards by just about every manufacturer.

When selecting the best CFexpress cards, we prioritized read and write speed. We also chose a variety of storage capacities to suit different types of shooters. And lastly, durability was a key consideration, as cards this expensive should be able to stand up to some harsh conditions.

The best CFexpress cards: Ratings & recommendations

CFexpress cards come with blazing-fast speeds and large capacities. That makes them ideal for photographers and videographers who produce large files and lots of them. The options below should fit the needs of just about anyone looking for a CFexpress card, including someone looking for a more budget-friendly option.

Best overall: Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough Memory Card

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Why it made the cut: Sony’s Tough line of CFexpress Type B cards provide consistent speeds in a highly durable package.

Specs

• Max read speed: 1,700 MB/s
• Max write speed: ​​1,480 MB/s
• Storage capacity: 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB

Pros

• Provides very consistent speeds
• Highly durable to withstand 15-foot falls
• Protected against extreme temperatures, X-rays, electrostatic, and UV lighting
• Compatible with apps to recover files and track condition

Cons

• Only available in three storage capacities

Sony’s CFexpress Type B cards are some of the most well-rounded cards available, earning them our top spot. Lab testing resulted in read speeds of up to 1,700 MB/s and write speeds of up to 1,480 MB/s. Of course, you won’t be able to get those speeds in practice, but real-world speeds are also near the top of the pack across the board. Its burst shooting numbers are a bit below the competition, but it’s still plenty fast for everything other than the heaviest bursts. It offers consistency and reliability, two crucial features of a CFexpress card.

Beyond speed, Sony designed its cards to be, as the name says, tough. They can withstand falls up to 15 feet and have been rigidity tested to 70 newtons of force. Sony says they are three times stronger than the CFexpress standard for bending. They can also withstand extreme temperatures, X-rays, electrostatic, and intense UV light. Even if you are an expedition photographer, these cards will hold up to some serious abuse.

All memory cards have a finite number of write cycles and eventually fail. But, with these Sony cards, you’ll get access to Sony’s Media Scan Utility. Once downloaded to your computer, it can scan a card to tell you its condition, so you don’t shoot on a card nearing or at its end.

Fastest: Lexar Diamond Series Professional 256GB CFexpress Type-B

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Why it made the cut: Lexar’s newest card provides the fastest burst shooting results of any CFexpress.

Specs

• Max read speed: 1,900 MB/s
• Max write speed: 1,700 MB/s
• Storage capacity: 128GB or 256GB

Pros

• Extremely fast read and write speeds
• Shock, vibration, and temperature proof
• Supports smooth 8K video

Cons

• Expensive

Lexar recently released this Diamond Series card, with bold claims of it being the fastest CFexpress ever. It states that you’ll get 1,900 MB/s max read speeds, 1,700 MB/s max write speeds, and a minimum sustained write speed of 1,600 MB/s. Unsurprisingly, those numbers don’t hold up in testing done by PetaPixel. Other cards have faster peak and sustained read and write speeds, but it still is very near the top of the pack. 

Where this card does beat out all the competition is in burst performance. It can shoot at the Canon R5’s highest burst setting for just over 30 seconds before the buffer limit slows it down, which is nearly double any other card. So if you are photographing sports or fast-moving wildlife, this will be the card to use because of its burst capabilities. 

Finally, this Lexar card meets the Compact Flash Association’s qualifications for VPG 400 certification. That means it has a minimum sustained write speed of 400 MB/s and can keep up with even the most professional cinema video cameras.

Best Type A: ProGrade Digital 160GB CFexpress Type A Cobalt Memory Card

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Why it made the cut: It offers fast read and write speeds at lower prices than the Sony alternative.

Specs

• Max read speed: ​​800 MB/s
• Max write speed: 700 MB/s
• Storage capacity: 160GB

Pros

• Resistant to temperature extremes, shock, vibration, and X-rays
• Fast and reliable speeds
• Metal casing provides better thermal conductivity for less overheating

Cons

• Only available in 160GB

When Sony released the a7S III, it also introduced a new card type—the CFexpress Type A. The later-released a1 also utilized this new memory card. Sony was the only company producing the CFexpress Type A for a bit, but ProGrade entered the market to provide an alternative. Though the Prograde version is still not cheap by any means, it is more affordable than Sony’s, saving you some money.

Despite the lower price, ProGrade’s CFexpress Type A has the same advertised speeds as Sony’s. It has a stated max read speed of 800 MB/s and max write speed of 700 MB/s. And in-camera results show that these two cards perform nearly the same. It is also highly durable and can survive extreme temperatures, heavy vibrations, shocks, and X-rays. 

Best Type B: SanDisk 512GB Extreme PRO CFexpress Card Type B

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Why it made the cut: SanDisk’s CFexpress Extreme PRO card provides a lifetime warranty and excellent performance at lower prices than its competitors.

Specs

• Max read speed: 1,700 MB/s
• Max write speed: 1,400 MB/s
• Storage capacity: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

Pros

• More affordable than other options
• Lifetime warranty
• Can record raw 4K video
• Compatible with SanDisk’s data recovery software

Cons

• 64GB capacity has lower read/write speeds

SanDisk has long been one of the staples in the memory card industry, and its CFexpress Type B card continues that tradition. Like all cards, it won’t reach the promised 1,700 MB/s read or 1,400 MB/s write speeds, but it has shown to be near the top of the pack across all measurements in user testing. So you’ll get plenty fast speeds across the board and excellent burst performance as well.

It’s capable of raw 4K recording, making it suitable for cinematographers. And it’s backward compatible with select XQD cameras, as long as a firmware update has been provided. With this SanDisk card, you’ll be able to utilize its RescuePRO Deluxe data recovery software, which is useful for situations where you accidentally delete files prematurely. SanDisk also offers a lifetime warranty, giving you some peace of mind.

Best large capacity: Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress MK2 Type B Card – 4 TB

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Why it made the cut: If storage capacity is the most important thing to you, Angelbird’s 4TB card provides more room than any other CFexpress card. 

Specs

• Max read speed: 1,785 MB/s
• Max write speed: 1,550 MB/s
• Storage capacity: 1TB, 2TB, 4TB

Pros

• Huge storage capacity
• Can capture up to 12K+ video
• Protected against shock, vibration, overheating, and temperature from 14 to 158°F
• Purchase includes hardware and software data recovery within the 3-year warranty

Cons

• Very expensive

Many CFexpress cards top out at 512GB of storage, with a few offering 2TB. Angelbird brought something new to the table with its massive 4TB card. It offers more storage space than anything else available at the time of writing. 

The large storage makes it a great choice for high-end video work that produces large files. And it goes beyond just storage size to support lofty projects with heavy data needs. Angelbird promises minimum sustained read and write speeds of 1,785 MB/s and 1,300 MB/s, respectively. It also says it’s capable of 17,850 MB/s and 1,550 MB/s of maximum read and write speeds. 

It supports 12K+ raw video recording, making this card a good investment as video quality continues to increase. And investment it is, thanks to the high price point. But, you’ll get free hardware and software data recovery within the 3-year warranty period. And if you register your card within 30 days, you’ll get a lifetime warranty. 

Best budget: SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO CFexpress Card Type B

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Why it made the cut: This SanDisk 64GB CFexpress Type B card is the most affordable option that is still high-quality and trustworthy.

Specs

• Max read speed: 1,500MB/s
• Max write speed: 800MB/s
• Storage capacity: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB

Pros

• Comparatively affordable
• Good read/write speeds
• Backwards compatible with some XQD cameras

Cons

• Write speeds aren’t as fast as other options

Unfortunately, CFexpress cards are the most expensive memory cards as they are the newest variety and offer the fastest speeds. But this 64GB card from SanDisk is much more affordable than other options. And despite the lower price, it comes from a trusted company, so it’s less likely you’ll have a card failure and lose all of your images. The 64GB is the cheapest option, but if you need a larger capacity, the other sizes are also more affordable than the rest of the cards on this list. 

SanDisk’s card is compatible with raw 4K video, making it suitable for videographers and vloggers. Should something unfortunate happen, SanDisk offers a limited lifetime warranty. You’ll also have access to free RescuePRO Deluxe data recovery software in case you need to recover files that you accidentally delete.

This CFexpress card offers read speeds up to 1,500MB/s, which is slower than all but the CFexpress Type A card, though not by much. Unfortunately, the write speed is where things dip as a result of the lower price. But 800MB/s is still plenty fast for most people, and the price makes it an enticing alternative.

Things to consider before buying a CFexpress card

CFexpress cards have quickly become the new standard, and more companies have entered the already crowded memory card field. Even Nikon is making CFexpress cards now. But, as with any camera gear decision, the first step is considering the type of shooting you will be doing. For example, if you primarily shoot video, you’ll likely want a card with a large capacity and fast speeds. But if you mainly shoot portraits, you can get away with slower speeds and lower storage capacity, saving you some money. 

It’s worth pointing out that while there are lots of CFexpress options available, the differences between them are small. You might get ever so slightly faster speeds from one over another, but because they are all so fast already unless you are pushing your camera—and memory card—to the limits, you likely won’t pick up on that. You can’t go wrong with any of these cards or many of the other CFexpress offerings not listed here. Instead, the key factor is simply if the card is compatible with your camera.

Type A versus Type B

Deciding between Type A and Type B cards comes down to what camera you use, as they will only be compatible with one type. So, look at your camera’s specs to verify which type of card it can use and double-check the CFexpress type before purchasing one. 

Type B cards are the same size as XQD memory cards, meaning you can use them in cameras that accept XQD, though usually only with a firmware update. Type B is also faster than Type A. Even though it seems like it would be the opposite, Type B is the more mainstream card choice at this point in time (yes, B came before A), with more cameras able to use them, and thus most people should look for a Type B.

Sony is the only camera maker that is currently utilizing Type A cards. They are smaller than Type B, so they are not cross-compatible. 

Storage capacity

All memory cards have a finite amount of storage and will come in a variety of storage capacity options. How big of a card you need depends on the kind of content you create, the file sizes from your camera, and how often you’d like to change your card. 

8K video will require more space than shooting a handful of JPEG files, for example. And, the file sizes from an APS-C camera will be much smaller than the Sony a1, meaning you won’t need as much storage space. And lastly, some like to use multiple small cards and swap them out more frequently as protection should a card fail, while others like a single card with loads of storage to keep from needing to change them out. This is a matter of personal preference and shooting style, so simply choose what makes the most sense for you.

Read & write speed

CFexpress cards are the fastest memory cards available at this time, but they still vary in how fast they can open (read) or save (write) data. Some brands even offer multiple levels of CFexpress cards intended for different types of shooters. 

While the general speed of even the base level of CFexpress cards is plenty fast for the average user, some situations call for the fastest speeds. For example, if you are a videographer shooting 8K video or a sports photographer relying on quick and long bursts of action, you’ll want to look for top-tier cards with faster read and write speeds. 

It’s important to note that the speeds listed on the packaging will not be the same as what you’ll actually get. This is because those speeds are based on lab testing by manufacturers and are not real-world results. In fact, some throttle write speed to around 300 MB/s to prevent overheating.

Camera compatibility

The last piece of the puzzle, though perhaps the most important, is whether the card will even work with your camera. Cameras can only utilize specific card formats, or sometimes they accept two different ones. 

Lastly, some cameras will only be able to accept certain lines from manufacturers. For example, The Canon R5 can use ProGrade’s Cobalt line but not the Gold cards. Be sure to research and verify which type of memory card works with your camera before purchasing, especially since CFexpress cards are quite pricey.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best CFexpress cards

• Best overall: Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough Memory Card
• Fastest: Lexar Diamond Series Professional 256GB CFexpress Type-B
• Best Type A: ProGrade Digital 160GB CFexpress Type A Cobalt Memory Card
• Best Type B: SanDisk 512GB Extreme PRO CFexpress Card Type B
• Best large capacity: Angelbird AV PRO CFexpress MK2 Type B Card – 4 TB
• Best budget: SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO CFexpress Card Type B

CFexpress cards are the newest option for camera memory cards but have already become the default choice for pros and serious enthusiasts alike. They upped the game in terms of quick read and write speeds and large storage capacity, but with that comes a high price. These cards are an investment but will help you get the most out of your data-hungry cameras.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best CFexpress cards for 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC		SEE IT	This SDXC card is the best for most thanks to its balance of speed, capacity, and price.
Best microSDXC		Samsung PRO Ultimate 512GB microSDXC		SEE IT	This Samsung microSDXC card will allow you to get the most out of your drones and action cameras.
Best CFexpress Type B		Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough		SEE IT	Sony’s CFexpress Type B is extremely rugged with blazing-fast speeds.

A photographer can never have too many memory cards for their cameras. After all, you’ll need one in your camera in order to actually record images, as cameras don’t offer onboard storage. Even though memory card durability has improved, cards still are liable to become corrupted, not to mention lost. Having backups is key to safeguarding your photos and keeping you shooting. But buying a card isn’t as simple as grabbing the one with maximum storage. You’ll also need to pay attention to the card type, speed, reliability, and durability. Whether you are looking for SDXC, microSDXC, or CFexpress cards for photo or video needs, the best memory cards for cameras will allow you to confidently snap away. 

• Best overall: SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC
• Best high-speed SDXC: OWC Atlas Ultra SDXC 512GB
• Best microSDXC: Samsung PRO Ultimate 512GB microSDXC
• Best CFexpress Type A: ProGrade Digital 160GB CFexpress Type A Cobalt 
• Best CFexpress Type B: Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough 
• Best budget: SanDisk Extreme SDXC UHS-I

How we chose the best memory cards for cameras

The writers and editors at Pop Photo have been involved in the photography industry for decades. During that time, we have used most memory cards out there and seen the progression from when 32GB SD cards were groundbreaking and expensive to the development of CFexpress cards which offer faster speeds and even larger capacities. We have hands-on experience with most of the cards on this list, having tested them in extreme conditions and high-demand shooting situations. 

Since different cameras require different types of memory cards, we selected the most prominent card types to fit the needs of most. When making our selections, we considered speed, reliability, and durability. We also aimed to choose options at various price points.

The best memory cards for cameras: Reviews & recommendations

Memory cards for cameras—and many of them—are an essential part of every photographer’s kit. Cards can go bad, get lost, or fill up in the middle of a shoot, so it’s important you have a few on you at all times. The options below are some of the best available, offering excellent quality across the board. 

Best overall: SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC

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Specs

• Card type: SDXC
• Capacity options: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB
• Read speed: 200 MB/s
• Write speed: 140 MB/s maximum, 30 MB/s minimum
• Video speed class: V30

Pros

• Excellent read and write speeds
• Very durable
• Lots of capacity options
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• Not the best option for video

SanDisk is one of the most trusted names in the memory card industry. Its memory cards for cameras are well-known for their durability and reliability, making them a top choice for most people. The Extreme PRO card is very rugged, shockproof, X-ray proof, waterproof, and also able to withstand temperatures from -13 to 185°F. There’s also a write-protect switch so that you don’t accidentally erase your files before you mean to. Should the card become corrupted, you can utilize the RescuePRO Deluxe software (free with your SanDisk card) to recover your files. And SanDisk offers a limited lifetime warranty, giving you even more peace of mind. 

SanDisk makes a few versions of its Extreme PRO line, but the UHS-I with V30 video speed class earns our top spot because of its ideal balance of price and speed for most. It is fast enough to keep up with raw bursts from high-speed cameras and can record up to 4K video. It’s available in capacities from 32GB to 1TB. At this reasonable price, it’s easier to pick up a handful for backup purposes. 

Best high-speed SDXC: OWC Atlas Ultra SDXC 512GB

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Specs

• Card type: SDXC
• Capacity options: 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Read speed: 300 MB/s
• Write speed: 250 MB/s maximum, 90 MB/s minimum
• Video speed class: V90

Pros

• Able to record up to 6K video
• Very fast read and write speeds
• IP67 rated and bend, shock, and x-ray resistant

Cons

• Expensive

Videographers or photographers who document fast action need fast and reliable speed from their memory cards. The OWC Atlas Ultra SDXC meets those expectations and then some. This UHS-II card with V90 video speed class offers up to 300 MB/s read speeds and minimum sustained write speeds of 90 MB/s. That makes the card capable of recording up to 6K video or recording fast bursts from sports photographers. 

This OWC card is backward compatible with devices that don’t support UHS-II and V90, though you will see lower speeds as a result. OWC also makes an excellent card reader that will help you get those promised read speeds when transferring files. On top of fast speeds, this SD card is durable and rugged. It is IP67 rated, which means that it is dust-resistant and waterproof. And it is bend-, shock-, and X-ray-resistant as well.

Best microSDXC: Samsung PRO Ultimate 512GB microSDXC

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Specs

• Card type: microSDXC
• Capacity options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB
• Read speed: 200 MB/s
• Write speed: 130 MB/s
• Video speed class: V30

Pros

• Able to record up to 4K video and 3D video
• Resistant to X-rays, magnets, drops, wear, and extreme temperatures
• Comes with a USB-A card reader
• Compatible with a range of devices, including Android mobile devices

Cons

• Expensive for a microSDXC

The Samsung PRO Ultimate card is one of the newest microSDXC cards available. Samsung built it for high performance, making it our top choice for those looking for a card for their drones or action cameras. It’s been a fantastic memory card for my GoPro cameras, thanks to its excellent performance. It offers a UHS-1 bus type, which allows for read speeds up to 200 MB/s and write speeds up to 130 MB/s. The V30 video class rating promises write speeds that won’t dip below 30 MB/s, making it compatible with up to 4K or 3D video. It will also be able to handle raw and jpeg burst captures. 

The Samsung PRO Ultimate card is also compatible with Android mobile devices and offers support for the Application Performance Class 2 (A2) spec. The A2 spec improves mobile app performance across the board, making this a great card for your smartphone as well. As with most cards, it is resistant to water, X-rays, magnets, drops, and wear. And it can withstand temperatures from -13 to 185°F, allowing you to take it just about anywhere with confidence. 

Best CFexpress Type A: ProGrade Digital 160GB CFexpress Type A Cobalt 

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Specs

• Card type: CFexpress Type A
• Capacity options: 160GB
• Read speed: 800 MB/s
• Write speed: 700 MB/s maximum, 400 MB/s minimum
• Video speed class: VPG 400

Pros

• Shock-, vibration-, and X-ray-proof
• Able to record 8K, 6K, and 4K ProRes video
• Built-in thermal throttling
• VPG 400 certified for minimum sustained write speeds of 400 MB/s

Cons

• Only available in 160GB capacity

Sony cameras are the only ones that use CFexpress Type A cards, making them a niche option. But for Sony users looking for a superb card in order to get the most out of their cameras, this ProGrade option is an excellent choice. It offers read speeds up to 800 MB/s and write speeds up to 700 MB/s. 

The Cobalt card is VPG 400-rated, which means that the minimum write speed won’t drop below 400 MB/s. That makes it an ideal memory card for videographers and cinematographers as it supports uninterrupted recording of a variety of codecs. That includes 4K video, 4K and 6K ProRes 4444, 4K, 6K, and 8K ProRes 422 HQ, and more. It‘s also resistant to temperature extremes, shock, vibration, and X-rays, so it will hold up to even your most ambitious shoots.  

Best CFexpress Type B: Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough 

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Specs

• Card type: CFexpress Type B
• Capacity options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 960GB, 1920GB
• Read speed: 1700 MB/s
• Write speed: 1480 MB/s
• Video speed class: N/A

Pros

• Available in many capacities, including up to 1920GB
• Extremely fast read and write speeds
• Very durable

Cons

• Pricey

Many camera makers are beginning to support the new CFexpress Type B card type. That’s in large part due to the impressive speeds that these cards are capable of. The Sony Tough CFexpress card is capable of up to 1700 MB/s read and 1480 MB/s write speeds. That makes it an ideal choice for professional photographers and videographers who need to get the most out of their pro-level cameras. 

As you may guess by the name, the Sony Tough card is highly durable. Sony designed this card with more than three times greater strength than the CFexpress standard for protection against bending. It is tested to 70 newtons of force, capable of withstanding 16.4-foot drops, extreme temperatures, X-rays, electrostatic, and intensive UV sunlight. You can truly use and abuse this card in the harshest conditions, and it will be up for the challenge. Should something go wrong, you’ll have access to Sony’s File Rescue Recover and Media Scan Utility software to recover files you accidentally delete or corrupted files. 

Best budget: SanDisk Extreme SDXC UHS-I 

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Specs

• Card type: SDXC
• Capacity options: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB
• Read speed: 180 MB/s
• Write speed: Maximum: 90 MB/s, minimum: 30 MB/s
• Video speed class: V30

Pros

• Very affordable
• Available in four capacities
• Reliable and durable

Cons

• Not as fast as more expensive cards

High-end memory cards get expensive, and many don’t need the blazing-fast speeds that those offer. If you don’t shoot video or fast bursts of photos and don’t need lightning-quick transfers to your computer, a more affordable, basic card will do. The SanDisk Extreme line fits the bill in those situations. It comes at much lower prices than many SDXC cards, so you can pick up a few without your wallet taking a hit. 

The lower price does require some compromise, though. The Extreme cards don’t offer as fast of read and write speeds as more expensive options. That said, for most people, it will be plenty fast. The V30 video speed class guarantees minimum write speeds of 30 MB/s, and it’s capable of up to 90 MB/s write speeds as well. And you’ll get up to 180 MB/s read speeds. The built-in write-protect switch helps prevent accidental card wipes. And it is just as durable as more expensive cards. It’s shockproof, X-ray proof, waterproof, and able to withstand temperatures from -13 to 185°F. 

What to consider when buying the best memory cards for cameras

Memory cards are riddled with acronyms, letters, and numbers. It’s confusing to sort through what it all means and what actually matters when shopping for memory cards for cameras. Below, you’ll find some of the key things to pay attention to when picking a memory card. 

Card type

The very first thing you need to determine is which type of card your camera accepts. Most will utilize SDXC cards (the larger capacity version of older SD cards), while some will require CFexpress. Action cameras and drones rely on microSDXC. A simple search of your user manual or the online listing for your camera will tell you which card you need. 

Storage capacity

Once you know what type of card you need, you’ll want to decide how much storage is best for your memory cards for cameras. Storage capacity has grown considerably in recent years, with options available up to 2TB in CFexpress. While you may be tempted to opt for the highest capacity possible, that may not be the best choice. 

High-capacity cards get expensive, especially when you get into fast speeds. You’ll need to drop roughly $600 for a 2TB CFexpress, with some costing as much as $1,400. The other issue with large-capacity cards is related to card failure. While memory cards for cameras have become more stable and durable, they still are liable to fail. Or, you may simply lose them. Shooting on lower-capacity cards will force you to transfer images to your computer or hard drive more frequently, meaning you won’t lose as many images if something should happen. 

At the end of the day, which storage capacity is best depends on your personal preference and workflow. Just be sure to factor in worst-case scenarios when making your selection. 

Read speeds

The read speed of memory cards is an indicator of how quickly you can open something on the card. The read speed impacts how fast transfer times are when moving photos from the card to your computer. These are provided in Megabytes per second (MB/s). If you’re a professional photographer or someone who frequently transfers loads of files at once, you’ll want fast read speeds to get the job done faster. 

Read speed is also indicated by the bus interface labeled on the card, which is shown as either UHS-I or UHS-II. UHS-I cards offer transfer speeds up to 104MB/s, while UHS-II can get up to 312 MB/s. It’s important to note that cameras will be compatible with one or the other. You can use UHS-II cards in UHS-I devices, though you will be limited to UHS-I speeds. That means that you are paying for speeds that you aren’t actually able to use, as UHS-II cards are more expensive. You’d be better off opting for a UHS-I card as a result. 

It’s important to remember that the card manufacturer will provide the maximum read speed. In order to get numbers close to that, you’ll also need a quality memory card reader. If you use some basic memory card reader that you’ve had for years, expect much slower transfer speeds than what is actually advertised. 

Write speeds

Write speed refers to how fast data can be written on your card. This number is especially important for videographers or those who shoot fast bursts of photos, as too low of write speed will be limiting. Cards will typically show the write speed in an MB/s number. However, to make things extra confusing, SDXC cards also use other indicators of write speed that are important to pay attention to. 

• Speed class: The speed class is marked by a number within the letter C. This number refers to the minimum sequential write speed. There are five ratings: C2, C4, C6, C8, and C10. If you see a 10 inside the C, that means that it’s guaranteed to sustain a write speed of 10 MB/s. 
• UHS speed class: A number within the letter U shows another speed class measurement. There are only two ratings of this class: U1 and U3. This time, you’ll need to multiply the number by 10 to get the minimum sequential write speed. For example, a U3 rating is able to sustain a 30 MB/s write speed. 
• Video speed class: The video speed class is marked by the letter V followed by a number. This, once again, refers to the minimum sustained write speed. This class also has five ratings: V6, V10, V30, V60, and V90. As you may guess, V90 means that you will get a minimum sustained write speed of 90 MB/s.

If you’re shopping for a CFexpress card, things are a bit more simple. These cards don’t show all the different speed classes. Instead, they will indicate a maximum write speed, as well as occasionally a minimum write speed. Some will offer a video performance guarantee (VPG), which is indicated by a number inside a clapperboard. For example, if you see a 400 inside the clapperboard, that means the card guarantees minimum sustained write speeds of 400 MB/s

Durability & reliability

While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest memory card you can find, we advise against that. Cards from little-known brands found on Amazon or other similar sites are much more liable to fail or not be compatible with your camera. At best, you won’t be able to use the card. At worst, you’ll lose images that you spent time creating. 

Instead, opt for a reliable and trusted name in the memory card industry. Companies such as Lexar, SanDisk, Sony, ProGrade, Samsung, Angelbird, and OWC are well-known for their quality cards. Many offer more budget-friendly options as long as you don’t need top speeds. And most are durable enough to handle just about anything, including protection against X-rays, water, shock, UV exposure, extreme temperatures, and more. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best memory cards for cameras

• Best overall: SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC
• Best high-speed SDXC: OWC Atlas Ultra SDXC 512GB
• Best microSDXC: Samsung PRO Ultimate 512GB microSDXC
• Best CFexpress Type A: ProGrade Digital 160GB CFexpress Type A Cobalt 
• Best CFexpress Type B: Sony 512GB CFexpress Type B Tough 
• Best budget: SanDisk Extreme SDXC UHS-I

A seemingly endless list of memory cards for cameras is available these days. You’ll find cards from a wide range of manufacturers, each promising different performance stats and durability features. At the end of the day, the best memory cards for your cameras will help you get the most out of your equipment and save you time transferring files at the end of a shoot. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best memory cards for cameras in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Shimoda Explore V2 25L		SEE IT	This bag is fully customizable and adjustable, so you can get a design that fits your body best for more comfortable hikes.
Best small		Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW Backpack		SEE IT	This tiny, lightweight option is ideal for short hikes.
Best for winter trips		Lowepro Whistler Backpack 450 AW II		SEE IT	The Whistler is built to hold skis and an assortment of wet gear for those snowy adventures.

Having a proper camera backpack for hiking will make it easier and safer to bring your gear along on adventures. All camera backpacks offer protection for your expensive camera equipment. Many will also have additional space for hiking essentials such as food, water, and whatever else you may need on the trail. What type and size of bag you get depends on the hike, as short day hikes call for something different than an epic, weeks-long backpacking trip. But no matter what, the best camera backpacks for hiking should be comfortable to carry so that you don’t mind lugging around your camera.

• Best overall: Shimoda Explore V2 25L
• Best small: Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW Backpack
• Best for winter trips: Lowepro Whistler Backpack 450 AW II
• Best for backpacking: Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack
• Best budget: Slinger Alpine 200 Lightweight Compact Camera Backpack

How we chose the best camera backpacks for hiking

The writers and editors of Pop Photo have been involved in the photography industry in various capacities for well over a decade. I have been a hiker and outdoor enthusiast since the time I could walk, growing up taking camping trips with long hikes each summer with my family. I’ve used my share of camera equipment and backpacks, learning the ins and outs of what works and what doesn’t.

When selecting the best camera backpacks for hiking, I prioritized bags that provide excellent protection for photography equipment. The ability to carry water and extra gear was essential. I looked for bags that offer flexibility and customization with layout and packing to suit a wider range of people. Comfort was also crucial, as a poorly made and ill-padded backpack will not result in a good hike. 

Best camera backpacks for hiking: Review & recommendations

Finding the right camera backpack for hiking can be a tricky endeavor. Below you’ll find bags suitable for many types of hiking situations, so you can find the option that’s best for you.

Best overall: Shimoda Explore V2 25L

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Why it made the cut: It’s a smartly designed, feature-packed backpack with a rugged build, ready to hold up to whatever you throw at it while maintaining comfort. 

Key features:

• Capacity: 25 Liters
• Laptop compartment: Yes, fits 13-inch laptop
• Weather resistance: Weather-resistant fabric, all-weather cover included
• Exterior dimensions: 10.6 x 18.3 x 6.7 inches
• Weight: 4.5 pounds

Pros

• Adjustable height
• Includes a pocket for a 3-liter hydration bladder
• Highly customizable, down to the straps
• Durable and water-resistant build

Cons

• Pricey

There are lots of reasons this bag won a 2021 Pop Award. It is fantastically designed and well thought out, providing solutions for a variety of photographers. I greatly appreciate that Shimodo took the time to work with a group of female photographers to address fit specific to their bodies. It is a simple thing, but one that often gets overlooked and can have a significant impact on comfort. 

One of the best aspects of this bag is its customizability. Shimoda bags rely on its Camera Core Units for camera protection. These come in different sizes, allowing you to choose what you need based on your gear or even each particular trip. You have to purchase them separately (or in a bundle), but they provide more flexibility for organization. They are also more rigid than other bag dividers, offering better protection. Beyond the interior, Shimoda has multiple different shoulder strap designs, giving you options on that front as well.

The Explore V2 is a rugged, durable bag with a ripstop nylon shell that is tear and water-resistant. In addition, the zippers are lockable and water-resistant, keeping your gear extra safe from both the elements and other humans. And it also comes with a rain cover for those seriously wet hikes. 

There are loads of pockets throughout the bag for organization, meaning you can bring lots of gear beyond your camera. It also includes a dedicated, padded laptop sleeve. For hydration, one side pocket fits a three-liter hydration bladder, and another has an expandable pocket that fits a large Nalgene, so you can easily stay hydrated on your hikes. 

Should you want to read more about these bags, you can read our full, hands-on review.

Best small: Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW Backpack

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Why it made the cut: The Trekker Lite is an extremely lightweight and minimal bag with room for gear beyond your camera. It’s an ideal option for short hikes and day trips. 

Specs

• Capacity: 25 Liters
• Laptop compartment: Yes, fits 15-inch laptop
• Weather resistance: Weather-resistant fabric, all-weather cover included
• Exterior dimensions: 19.3 x 11.4 x 7.3 inches
• Weight: 2.2 pounds

Pros

• Very lightweight
• Versatile and modular
• Plenty of space for jackets and other hiking essentials
• Comfortable to carry

Cons

• Not convenient to get photography gear in or out
• Soft-sided design isn’t for everyone

You don’t always need a giant camera backpack on hikes. Sometimes, you want to go light and fast or are just taking a casual stroll that doesn’t require days of provisions. LowePro’s Trekker Lite series is a fantastic choice for those situations. The Trekker Lite 250 only weighs 2.2 pounds when empty, which is quite lightweight for a camera backpack. In typical LowePro fashion, it is well-made with recycled polyester 300d ripstop, and it comes with a waterproof cover in case you get caught in a downpour.

Like the Shimodo bag, this Lowepro Trekker Lite utilizes a removable GearUp camera insert to protect your gear. Despite being removable and modular, it fits solidly into the pack, so you don’t have to worry about it sliding around. Plus, the camera insert can be worn as a shoulder bag on its own with an included strap. 

We’ve loved the Trekker Lite 250 for shorter day trips. It holds a Sony a7 III with a compact lens attached and an additional small lens or two. The design of the camera insert does make it tricky to get your gear in and out. And you have to unzip the bag nearly all the way to gain access. So, you may want to hike with something like the Peak Design Capture Clip if you like to keep your camera at the ready. But you can trust that your gear will be safe and secure, at least.

The space above the camera compartment is very roomy. It provides enough space for a lightweight jacket, an instant camera, and plenty of snacks. A separate pocket in there helps to keep things organized. An additional pocket on the exterior holds your keys and wallet. There’s a single water bottle pocket on the side, which will hold a 32-ounce Nalgene, but it is a snug fit. Plus, there is a dedicated laptop sleeve, making this a good option for short work trips as well. 

Best for winter trips: Lowepro Whistler Backpack 450 AW II

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Why it made the cut: It’s winter-ready with a waterproof barrier protecting your camera equipment from your wet gear and loads of attachment points for skis, snowboards, or ice tools. 

Key features:

• Capacity: 45 Liters
• Laptop compartment: Yes, fits 15-inch laptops
• Weather resistance: Weather-resistant fabric, all-weather cover included
• Exterior dimensions: 23.62 x 12.99 x 10.04 inches
• Weight: 6.83 pounds

Pros

• Large capacity
• Rugged, durable build
• Lots of attachment points for equipment
• Waterproof front pocket for wet gear

Cons

• Heavy and bulky

If you are a winter adventurer, your backpack needs will be slightly different than most. Winter hikes or trips require extra durability, weatherproofing, and more gear storage. Lowepro’s Whistler backpack provides all that, giving your peace of mind that your gear is safe.

I have owned the first version of this bag for at least seven years, and even after some big trips, it barely shows signs of wear. Though heavy and bulky, the bag itself has a rigid, tough frame with lots of protection. So even if you yard sale while bombing down the slopes, your camera equipment will be safe. The shell is water-resistant nylon that offers enough protection for most snowy days, but there is also a snug-fitting rain cover for those extra wet outings. 

One of the features I love most about the Whistler is the front compartment. Lowepro included a waterproof, tearproof barrier between the camera compartment and the front pocket. It also has drainage holes, making it the perfect place to store ski skins or crampons. Or it’s a safe place to put your hydration bladder since no water can reach the camera compartment if it leaks, and there is a clip at the top to keep it in position.

The other winter-specific design is the straps on the front and side of the pack, intended for attaching skis or a snowboard. You can also use them to strap on a tripod or camping gear. The camera compartment is a removable insert, though it certainly doesn’t feel that way with how snug it is. The dividers are movable so that you can get the perfect configuration and best protection. And some even have pockets for storing small pieces of gear. And there’s a pocket on top for snacks or goggles as well. In all, it’s ultimate protection with lots of room for gear.

Best for backpacking: Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack

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Why it made the cut: At only 2.7 pounds, it’s one of the lightest camera backpacks of this volume. Plus, it’s hydration bladder compatible and has attachment loops for gear, making it the best choice for backpacking trips. 

Key features:

• Capacity: 45 Liters 
• Laptop compartment: None
• Weather resistance: Waterproof
• Exterior dimensions: 31.5 x 10.5 x 10 inches
• Weight: 2.715 pounds

Pros

• Two sizes for different torso lengths
• Lots of attachment points for backpacking gear
• Fully waterproof
• Removable internal frame makes it more versatile

Cons

• Stuff sack style isn’t for everyone
• Clips on the removable brain compartment aren’t very secure

For many, backpacking is all about cutting as much weight from your gear as possible, sometimes to the extreme. The Mountain Light makes some compromises to cut weight but still has many excellent features to protect your camera and hold gear. At just 2.7 pounds, it is the most lightweight 45-liter pack available. And it weighs only slightly more than the much smaller 25-liter Lowepro bag mentioned above.

The bag is stuff sack style, meaning you don’t get pockets or organization. But that is part of what helped cut down on the weight of this pack, and it also allows you to pack more freely. You can simply shove your sleeping bag in the bottom to maximize space instead of worrying about where to put what. There is a dedicated spot for a camera insert, though that needs to be purchased separately. Once in, you access your camera via the back of the bag, which offers more protection for your gear. 

There are two large side pockets for water bottles or a tripod, and it’s hydration bladder compatible. In addition, there are attachment points on the exterior for adding extra gear, and the roll-top style means it can expand quite a bit. Finally, the entire bag is made of waterproof material, which holds up well even in intense downpours. You may still want to get a rain cover if you know your trip has the potential for non-stop rain.

It’s worth pointing out that this bag is definitely for minimalists. Though there is a camera compartment, it is small and won’t hold much more than a small camera and a few moderate lenses. Long telephoto lenses won’t fit unless you put them in the stuff sack. Also, the clips that attach the brain compartment to the bag’s top or keep the top flap down aren’t all that secure. But, if going light is most important to you, you cannot beat this option.

To read more about this backpack, check out our full review.

Best budget: Slinger Alpine 200 Lightweight Compact Camera Backpack

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Why it made the cut: At roughly $50, the price of this bag is hard to beat. Plus, it can hold a full-frame camera with a 70-200mm attached and comes with an all-weather cover.  

Specs

• Capacity: 25 Liters
• Laptop compartment: Fits 8-inch tablets
• Weather resistance: Weather-resistant fabric, all-weather cover included
• Exterior dimensions: 12 x 17 x 7 inches
• Weight: 2 pounds

Pros

• Lots of pockets for organization
• Lightweight and compact
• Lots of room for gear with movable dividers
• Side pocket for a water bottle or tripod

Cons

• Not as much protection as other backpacks
• No compartment for hiking gear outside of camera compartment

For those wanting a basic camera backpack for short hikes, the Slinger Apline 200 camera backpack is a great choice at a very affordable price. Despite the low cost, it provides plenty of room for photography gear, including a full-frame camera with a 70-200mm lens attached and additional lenses. In addition, the dividers in the camera compartment are adjustable, so you can arrange them to best fit your equipment.

The exterior is made of water-resistant fabric, and the bag comes with an integrated rain cover. There’s a good amount of padding on the back to make it more comfortable, but there is no waist belt to take some of the weight off your shoulders. Throughout the bag, you’ll find plenty of pockets to keep even your small items organized and safely secured. 

There is a side pocket for a water bottle or tripod, but it won’t accommodate a large bottle or a hydration bladder. There is no separate compartment for non-photography gear, so you won’t have a place to stuff your wet rain jacket. And while you can pack some clothes and snacks if you don’t use all the room for camera gear, it won’t hold much else. It’s definitely not the best bag for long hikes, but it will work very well as a simple, protective bag for short hikes. 

Things to consider before buying a camera backpack for hiking

Depending on how much hiking you do, a camera backpack is something you could be spending a lot of time with, getting to know intimately. They generally aren’t cheap to buy, so it’s important to pay close attention and figure out what you need in a hiking backpack before clicking the buy button. What features you need depends on your kit and the types of trip you’ll be taking it on, but below are some overarching things to consider no matter what. 

How big do you need?

How large of a camera backpack you need depends on three factors: How much camera gear you are bringing, the size of your equipment, and the amount of non-photography gear you need. If you’re the type who likes to pack your entire photography kit to have options on the hike, you’ll need to go with a bigger backpack to hold it all. Likewise, you’ll need a bigger pack for larger DSLRs and lenses.

The amount of non-photography gear you need largely depends on the length of your hike. Short day hikes of a few miles likely require little more than some water and maybe a small snack. But, if you are backpacking, you’ll need your tent, sleeping bag, food, water, clothes, and more. A backpack with lots of room outside of the camera compartment will be essential in that case. 

Unfortunately, if you hike a lot with varying distances, you likely will eventually need two packs. But, to start, we’d recommend thinking about the types of hikes you will mostly be doing, the gear you’d most likely need, and finding a pack that fits that. 

Camera compartment

No matter what size pack you go with, be sure to get a backpack with a specific camera compartment. Your camera won’t be protected enough to just throw in a standard backpack. Instead, a padded, dedicated compartment is critical to keeping your gear safe while hiking.

The best padded compartments are customizable, allowing you to change the configuration based on your exact gear on a given day, but not all are adjustable. And even when adjustable, there are still generally size recommendations and limitations. Some are designed specifically for compact mirrorless cameras or entry-level DSLRs, while others can hold larger, more professional gear. Double-check that your camera is compatible with the compartment size before purchasing. 

Can it hold hydration?

Water is perhaps the most important thing to have with you on hikes. Unfortunately, one thing I see overlooked in a lot of camera backpacks for hiking is the ability to carry water. Many will have at least a single pocket on the side for a water bottle, but often those are on the small side. That’s fine if you are doing a short hike or will have access to water along the way. But, if you are on a longer excursion, that won’t cut it.

If you’re like me, you may prefer to use hydration bladders instead of water bottles. Luckily more camera backpack manufacturers have started including a pouch specifically designed for that, but many still do not. Some bags have pockets that can be modified to hold a bladder. But, read the specs and look at photos carefully if that’s what you want. And also, keep in mind that if there is no waterproof barrier between your camera gear and where the bladder is, you risk waterlogging your pricey equipment if something happens to the bladder. 

No matter what style of hydration you like, check how a pack can hold water and how much you’ll be able to bring along. 

Durability

Hiking can put you in some dicey situations. Whether it be a torrential downpour, sharp rocks, or fine sand, the weather or other natural elements on your hikes can wreak havoc on a bag if it’s not designed to stand up to the task. A basic camera backpack may not hold up to hikes, resulting in a ruined bag or potentially destroyed equipment.

To fully protect your gear, you’ll want to get a pack that is made of rugged, durable materials. Look for one that is waterproof or has a rain cover. You’ll also want a sturdy frame and camera compartment to keep your camera and lenses from getting crushed when packing up the car or maneuvering tight slot canyons. Rip and tear-proof materials are also important for the longevity of the bag. Lastly, sturdy, durable zippers are also key for keeping the bag secure and the elements out.

Of course, different hikes have different risks of damage. If you like light, easy hikes, you won’t need something as rugged as someone going deep in the backcountry.

Make sure it fits your body

While all the above features are important, none of them matter if a pack doesn’t fit you well. If your camera backpack fits poorly, you’ll never want to take it out. That could mean you wasted a decent chunk of money. Or, if you suck it up and use it, it could result in less-than-pleasant hikes at best or bad blisters or back problems at worst. A bag that’s too big won’t allow you to take advantage of the support system, so you could end up holding all the weight on your shoulders. Too small, and you could end up with circulation cut off to your arms while hiking, which is never good. 

There are three areas you’ll want to make sure fit your body. First, check the torso length. While you may need a large camera backpack for your gear, it could result in a torso length longer than your body (speaking from experience). While the bag will still work, it isn’t very comfortable, and the weight distribution doesn’t work as well. If you can’t try a pack on before buying, you may want to measure your torso and compare it to the bag’s dimensions. 

Second, if the bag has it, be sure the hip belt fits. One of my packs has a hip belt too large to take any weight off my shoulders, rendering it essentially useless. The same would be true if it’s too small. Most–if any–manufacturers won’t list the size of that, so it’s ideal if you can try it on first.

Lastly, check the shoulder straps. Shoulder straps tend to be more universal than the other two things, so you shouldn’t have to worry as much about them. But, the padding on the straps, where you can adjust them, and how big or small you can adjust them will impact how comfortably they fit. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best camera backpacks for hiking

• Best overall: Shimoda Explore V2 25L
• Best small: Lowepro Trekker Lite BP 250 AW Backpack
• Best for winter trips: Lowepro Whistler Backpack 450 AW II
• Best for backpacking: Moment Strohl Mountain Light 45L Backpack
• Best budget: Slinger Alpine 200 Lightweight Compact Camera Backpack

Knowing what types of hikes you will likely be taking is the first step in deciding what camera backpack is right for you. Since everyone is built differently, the best camera backpack for one person may be the worst for another. A bag that is comfortable for one person may not fit you well at all. So, whenever possible–especially if you are getting a camera backpack for long hikes–find a way to try on a pack before buying to ensure it fits you. 

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best camera backpacks for hiking in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras		SEE IT	Clean any kind of sensitive electronics with this versatile lens kit.
Best for all-around care		Movo Deluxe Essentials DSLR Camera Cleaning Kit		SEE IT	Deep clean both your lens and sensor, plus any other precision optical lenses, with this kit.
Best compact pick		Nikon Lens Pen Pro Kit		SEE IT	This no-frills pick is perfect for travel, and won’t leave you bogged down with unnecessary supplies.

Lens cleaning kits are a photographer’s best friend. It might not be as fun or flashy as the latest camera gear, but it’s crucial for capturing great images. No matter how good your composition or how fascinating your subject is, a smudge, fingerprint, or mote of dust can easily ruin your shot. And even though it’s tempting, lenses are expensive and utilize specialized coatings, so you shouldn’t clean them with the corner of your grimy T-shirt. Regular tissues can be just as bad, leaving behind lint that can ruin an otherwise perfect photo. Though they have more specialized tools than the things mentioned above, lens cleaning kits are relatively basic, and it doesn’t take much to use them correctly. Plus, the best lens cleaning kits include everything you need to keep your valuable glass in tip-top shape.

• Best overall: Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras
• Best for all-around care: Movo Deluxe Essentials DSLR Camera Cleaning Kit
• Best compact kit: Nikon Lens Pen Pro Kit
• Best for traveling photographers: Zeiss Lens Cleaning Kit
• Best value: Professional Camera Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras

How we chose the best lens cleaning kits

The writers and photographers have decades of photography experience and have cleaned countless lenses and cameras. When selecting the best lens cleaning kits, we focused on well-stocked kits that include all the items needed to successfully and thoroughly clean a lens. We also made sure to focus on quality, as lenses are expensive investments, and the last thing you want is for them to get damaged when cleaning. Lastly, cleaning kits need not be costly, so we aimed to find reasonably priced options. 

The best lens cleaning kits: Reviews & recommendations

Whether you are looking for a simple solution to bring on your travels or a more robust kit for all sorts of cleaning jobs, the best lens cleaning kits will keep your shots clear and free of any distracting debris on your lens.

Best overall: Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras

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Why it made the cut: It has everything you need to keep your lenses clean, no matter the situation.

Key features

• Includes: 2-ounce bottle of lens cleaning solution, lens tissues, blower, soft brush, lens pen, microfiber cloths
• Carrying case: Yes

Pros

• Includes a 50 pack of lens tissue paper
• Lens cleaner is safe for optics
• cheap
• Three microfiber cloths in different sizes

Cons

• None

Altura’s lens cleaning kit offers all the tools both beginner and advanced photographers need to keep their lenses ready for action. It has three microfiber cloths, lens tissues, cleaning solution, a blower, a lens pen, and an additional soft brush. You’ll be able to clear everything from fingerprints and dust to more stubborn messes like mud. 

The clear, zip-lock carrying case makes it easy to ensure nothing’s running low. And it keeps it all in one place, so it’s ready when you need it. You won’t have to search in different pockets to find the one piece of cleaning equipment you’re looking for. 

Best for all-around care: Movo Deluxe Essentials DSLR Camera Cleaning Kit

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Why it made the cut: It’s a very well-stocked cleaning kit for thorough lens cleaning.

Key features

• Includes: Rocket air blower, tin-oxide camera sensor cleaner liquid, APS-C sensor cleaning swab (x10), lens pen, plush cleaning brush, 9 x 9″ microfiber cleaning cloth (x2), 6 x 6″ microfiber cleaning cloth (x2)
• Carrying case: Yes

Pros

• Includes everything you need to clean lenses and your sensor
• Comes in a sturdy case
• Very affordable
• Can be used to clean glasses and other optics as well

Cons

• Only APS-C compatible
• Brush bristles fall out easily

Movo’s lens cleaning kit features everything you need to clean both the lens and sensor, making it a great all-in-one kit. You can even use the wipes to clean your glasses or binoculars as well. And it comes with a semi-rigid, zippered case for sturdy organization. So you won’t need to worry about things falling out or getting dirty.

All of the cloths and swabs are individually wrapped to keep them free of dust. That does, of course, mean that you will need to restock more frequently. It comes with APS-C-sized sensor swabs and sensor cleaning solution. If you have a full-frame camera, you’ll need to get something else to clean your sensor, but the rest of these components will work fine for your camera. 

Best compact kit: Nikon Lens Pen Pro Kit

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Why it made the cut: It’s a simple kit with two different sizes of lens pens and two clothes and comes in a compact, zippered case.

Key features

• Includes: Standard and micro lens pens, microfiber cleaning cloth, dry anti-fog cloth
• Carrying case: Yes

Pros

• Comes with a durable, zippered case
• Cleaning clothes for different types of cleaning
• Two lens pens sizes add versatility

Cons

• Doesn’t include any lens cleaning liquid

Millions of professional and hobbyist photographers worldwide use Nikon cameras and lenses. The company’s lens kit keeps things simple with two lens pens, a microfiber cloth, and a dry anti-fog cloth. It all comes with a sturdy, zippered case that has belt loops. 

The kit handles fingerprints, raindrops, and dust nicely, though it won’t provide the more thorough cleaning of a solution or pre-moistened wipes. But the case should be large enough to throw a few wipes in just in case you need them.

Best for travel photographers: Zeiss Lens Cleaning Kit

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Why it made the cut: Coming from world-renowned optics maker Zeiss, you can trust these cleaning tools will be safe and effective.

Key features

• Includes: Air blower, brush, cleaning solution, 10 individually wrapped pre-moistened lens wipes, microfiber cloth
• Carrying case: Yes

Pros

• Includes pre-moistened wipes
• Comes with a carrying case
• Lipstick style brush keeps it clean

Cons

• Pricey for a cleaning kit

Zeiss is a noted lens manufacturer, so it’s no surprise they’d make a lens cleaning kit. It includes a microfiber cloth in a small pouch, 10 pre-moistened cleaning wipes, a bottle of solution, a blower, and a soft brush. It has everything you need to keep your lens free of smudges and debris. 

What makes this travel-friendly kit stand out is the compact pouch designed to be worn on a photographer’s belt. This is convenient for situations when you don’t want to carry a camera bag with you but still want to keep your lenses free of dust and smudges. Zeiss lenses aren’t cheap, however, and neither is their cleaning kit compared to many of the other options out there.

Best value: Professional Camera Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: It includes plenty of essential cleaning tools and is very affordable.

Key features

• Includes: Lens pen, brush, blower, empty spray bottle, 4 microfiber cleaning cloths, 50 lens cleaning tissues
• Carrying case: No

Pros

• Includes four microfiber cloths and plenty of tissues
• Has a one-year guarantee
• Very affordable

Cons

• Included spray bottle comes empty
• No carrying case

This inexpensive kit includes a lens pen, blower, additional brush, and four microfiber cloths—enough to keep your lenses clean. It also comes with a small spray bottle, but you’ll have to fill that yourself with a lens cleaning solution. Also, the kit doesn’t come with a case, so make sure you find a solution to keep everything organized and clean.

Things to consider before buying the best lens cleaning kits

The best lens cleaning kits are versatile, portable, and economical. You never know what kind of mess you’ll encounter in the field, so always be prepared.

What cleaning tools are included?

Lens cleaning kits come stocked with different types of cleaning materials, with some more well-stocked than others. For most photographers, versatility is key when shopping for a camera lens cleaning kit. You never know whether you’ll be wiping fingerprints off your 50mm f/1.2, blowing the dust off your 18-35 mm f/1.4, or getting mud off the front element of your 70-200mm f/2.8.

For a starter kit, look for one that includes a hand blower, lens tissues, and a microfiber cloth for getting rid of dust. They’re gentle on the glass and easy to use, and much better options than the corner of your shirt or your hoodie’s cuff. Some kits even include multiple packets of tissues or an extra cloth to keep you stocked for longer.

For cleaning fingerprints and smudges, many kits will include a cleaning solution designed to work specifically with the precision optical coatings found on today’s modern lenses. Don’t use eyeglass solution, window cleaner, or any other glass cleaner, or you risk damaging the lens. The liquid solution often comes in a small spray bottle, but some kits also include handy, pre-moistened wipes that you can stow in your pockets. Wipes are quick and disposable, but the spray solution is usually more economical.

More advanced kits include something known as a lens pen, which has a special tip on one end to pick up oil, while the other end features a soft, retractable brush to flick away loose debris.

Used together, these tools cover the afflictions that most commonly strike the lenses of professional and amateur photographers.

Does it come with a case?

A good lens cleaning kit should also include a carrying case. Most are small and compact and are designed to keep these necessary tools of the trade organized and handy when you need them. You’re already juggling a camera, some lights, filters, and any number of other specialized gear. You don’t want to waste time fumbling for cleaning solution while you risk missing out on the perfect shot.

Carrying cases also protect your cleaning supplies and, yes, keep them clean. That microfiber cloth isn’t going to be much good if it accidentally falls out of your bag and lands in some dust. And you don’t want your cleaning solution leaking out and getting on your delicate memory cards.

Some carrying cases for lens cleaning kits include zippers and padding, while others are transparent to help you quickly see what supplies are running low. 

The trick is finding a case that’s not too bulky and won’t take up too much space in your camera bag. Some photographers keep a bigger kit in their studio and a more streamlined version in their bag. Pay attention to how you like to travel, pack your photography equipment, and how much physical activity is involved in your shoots when thinking about which case style works best for you.

Price

When it comes to lenses, you often get what you pay for. Exceptions abound, but high-quality, well-built lenses with superior optics don’t come cheap. Thankfully, maintaining them is a much less expensive proposition. Even the best lens cleaning kits aren’t particularly expensive. Don’t be afraid to spend a little less on simple kits if they still provide the cleaning options you need. 

Keep in mind, however, that lens cleaning kits are, by their nature, disposable. Cleaning fluid and tissues get used up, and microfiber clothes get dirty or wear out. So while they aren’t pricey, you will need to refill supplies. 

How to clean your lenses properly

Believe it or not, it is possible to overclean your lenses. Modern lenses have precision chemical coatings to help reduce flare, diffraction, and other optical issues that get in the way of a good photo or video. Overcleaning can wear down these coatings, which will impact performance. So, you need to be sure to clean your lenses appropriately with the right equipment.

First, though, make sure you store lenses properly, with covers over both the front and rear elements, to help keep them clean. Then, when you pull one out, use the squeeze blower to remove any loose dust or particles. Finally, check the lens carefully—do you see any fingerprints or smudges? If so, by all means, break out the cleaning solution. But if not, leave it alone.

Before using a microfiber cloth, check it for dust and debris before using it on your lens. Keep the cloth somewhere safe when not in use, so it stays clean; throwing it in the bottom of your bag, where it will collect dust and debris, will not result in very effective cleaning. And replace it if it starts to fall apart. Keeping a spare in your camera bag is never a bad idea.

When using a camera lens cleaning solution, remember to apply it to your microfiber cloth or tissue and never directly to the lens. You don’t want to risk it seeping inside the lens housing. Start cleaning your lens from the center, work toward the edge, and avoid applying too much pressure. You don’t want to scratch the glass or coating accidentally.

Lastly, don’t forget the rear element on your lens. Again, a few puffs of air and a gentle wiping with a microfiber cloth will usually do the trick. The same goes for the lens mount, which has small grooves and can often trap debris. One last note: Avoid those canisters of compressed air. They’re much too powerful and are likely to blow debris into your camera’s lens, and the fluids and chemicals in compressed air can damage your optics.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best lens cleaning kits

• Best overall: Altura Photo Professional Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras
• Best for all-around care: Movo Deluxe Essentials DSLR Camera Cleaning Kit
• Best compact kit: Nikon Lens Pen Pro Kit
• Best for traveling photographers: Zeiss Lens Cleaning Kit
• Best value: Professional Camera Cleaning Kit for DSLR Cameras

The best lens cleaning kits are essential camera accessories for any photographer, regardless of their level. They should be kept inside a camera bag as a matter of course. Using a cleaning kit is one of the best ways to keep your lenses performing like new so they can bring you years of enjoyment as you pursue your art. But cleaning supplies won’t do you any good if you don’t get in the habit of using them—so remember to check your lenses every time you remove the cap.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best lens cleaning kits of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best photo editing software for beginner		Luminar Neo		SEE IT	Software with advanced AI for easy editing.
Best all-in-one		Adobe Lightroom		SEE IT	Lightroom can handle almost any type of editing you may need to tackle.
Best for noie reduction		DxO PhotoLab 6		SEE IT	DxO helps you get more out of your high ISO photos.

Finding the ideal photo editing software isn’t just about saving the pictures you screwed up. It’s about choosing a program that will drag every last bit of image quality out of your jpegs and raw files. But everyone’s needs are different. Software that’s great for professionals, like Capture One and Adobe Photoshop, might be overkill for more casual users who would be better served with more affordable photo editing software like Affinity Photo. Others may not need a full-fledged desktop app at all and would be just fine using free photo editing software on their smartphones or tablets. No matter what, the best photo editing software will help you get the most out of your photos and even spark new levels of creativity.

• Best for beginners: Luminar Neo
• Best all-in-one: Adobe Lightroom
• Best with built-in filters: On1 Photo RAW
• Best for noise reduction: DxO PhotoLab 6
• Best for advanced retouching: Adobe Photoshop
• Best raw photography editor: Capture One Pro
• Best cheap Photoshop alternative: Affinity Photo

The best photo editing software: Reviews & recommendations

Best for beginners: Luminar Neo

SEE IT

Key features

• Price: $99 annually for Explore Plan, $149 for lifetime license
• Platform(s): Windows, macOS
• Library management: Yes

Pros

• Edits are non-destructive
• Plugins available for other applications
• Powerful AI editing tools
• Easy to use

Cons

• No search bar for tools

Luminar has some of the most advanced AI-driven photo editing features around. The photo editing software automatically suggests different templates you can apply to each image, which optimizes variables like color balance, sharpening, and perspective correction. The software recognizes specific elements in a frame—it can tell a face from a tree—and applies edits to them locally. If you want more control over the process, you can finetune the templates on your own. This approach also helps to add some consistency to your images, which can be challenging for beginners to achieve when they’re just starting out.

Best all-in-one: Adobe Lightroom

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Key features

• Price: $9.99/month
• Platform(s): Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
• Library management: Yes

Pros

• Edits are non-destructive
• Makes batch edits easy for faster editing
• Built-in camera and lens profiles
• Mobile app is also excellent

Cons

• Subscription-based

Unlike Photoshop, Lightroom is built to handle entire photo collections at once. You can import, sort, and edit your files all within the same simple interface. That makes managing large shoots such as weddings much easier and faster. There are two versions: Lightroom CC and Lightroom Classic. The CC version offers a more stripped-down interface that’s simpler to navigate, especially for new users. The Classic version has more legacy options and will satisfy those who want a more old-school experience.

Best with built-in filters: On1 Photo RAW

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Key features

• Price: $99.99
• Platform(s): Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
• Library management: Yes

Pros

• Attractive built-in filters
• Helpful library management tools
• AI-based editing
• Robust mobile app

Cons

• Some features are a bit slow

Adding filters to your images can feel like a copout—but pro-grade software like On1′s suite goes way beyond those lazy Instagram looks. On1 offers an array of filters that can make your images look like high-contrast black-and-white or dreamy vintage film. Once you’ve applied the filters, you can tweak the specific variables like highlights and shadows in order to get the aesthetic just how you want it. On1′s suite is also available across a wide range of devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones, which makes it handy for cross-platform editing.

Best for noise reduction: DxO PhotoLab 6

SEE IT

Key features

• Price: $139 for Essentials version, $219 for Elite
• Platform(s): Windows, macOS, iOS
• Library management: Yes

Pros

• Powerful AI tools
• Useful library management features
• Superb noise reduction
• Plenty of editing tools

Cons

• Elite version is pricey

You might know DXO best for its camera tests, in which it rates the overall image quality offered by various camera sensors. But the company also makes one of the best noise-reduction products around. It can automatically detect what objects in the frame are supposed to be there and which ones aren’t. That makes it excellent for dark shooting situations like astrophotography or photojournalism. It also offers a robust list of library management tools and editing features beyond noise reduction, making it an excellent all-in-one photo editing software as well.

Best for advanced retouching: Adobe Photoshop

SEE IT

Key features

• Price: $20.99/month
• Platform(s): Windows, macOS
• Library management: No

Pros

• Excellent raw file conversion
• Many different retouching tools
• AI-based editing tools
• Supports non-destructive edits

Cons

• Subscription-based
• Can be overwhelming to learn

Photoshop is one of the most popular photo editing software options available. That’s largely thanks to its remarkably expansive list of tools and features. If you can imagine something, chances are you can create it in photoshop. Retouchers love all the different tools for cleaning up images, from spot healing brushes to cloning tools. And if you use the beta version, there are advanced AI options for editing items out, expanding your backgrounds, and more. It offers an excellent raw editor with support for every major camera system out there. Plus, your edits can be done based on layers, so you won’t cause any irreversible damage to the original file should you need it.

Best raw photography editor: Capture One Pro

SEE IT

Key features

• Price: $24/month, $179/year, or $299 one-time payment
• Platform(s): Windows, macOS
• Library management: Yes

Pros

• Superb raw file conversion
• Includes learning tools
• Attractive built-in presets
• Makes tethered shooting easy

Cons

• Pricey

When it comes to overall image quality from raw files, Capture One is the champ. It’s packed with features and allows photographers to make extremely granular adjustments required for high-end work. The panels are laid out clearly, and the tools are effective and easy to use once you get past the initial learning curve. In recent versions, the file management system has also improved greatly. Pros have sworn by this photo editing software for years, and now it has become more accessible for average shooters and enthusiasts.

Best cheap Photoshop alternative: Affinity Photo

SEE IT

Key features

• Price: $69.99
• Platform(s): Windows, macOS, iPad
• Library management: No

Pros

• One-time payment
• Robust list of editing tools
• Non-destructive raw editing
• Fast to load

Cons

• No library management tools
• Many features are geared toward designers

For just $70—or cheaper if there’s a sale—Affinity gives users a surprisingly complete set of Photoshop-like features. You can do complex actions like cutting out objects and creating elaborate compositions with your images, in addition to basic photography adjustments like color balance, brightness, and contrast. It has speedy performance, too, which is clutch when you’re working with large photos from high-resolution cameras like the Canon R5. Plus, once you’ve bought it, you own it. There’s no need to pay a monthly subscription fee or worry about finding yourself offline and locked out of your photo editing software because it can’t activate.

What to consider when shopping for the best photo editing software

It’s OK to be selective—the best photo editing software is one that fits you and your needs.

Be realistic about your needs and skill

If you don’t need a ton of features, then they will likely just get in the way and hinder your workflow. You’ll spend time trying to figure out how to find the tools you actually want in a sea of options you don’t need. At the same time, opting for free or cheap photo editing software to save cash may limit your options down the road as your skill—and your style—grows and evolves.

This also relates to the amount of automated help the software offers when it comes to your edits. Professional photographers typically like to micromanage their settings, but it can be helpful as a beginner to get an automated helping hand.

Raw file handling is crucial

Most dedicated cameras and even smartphones offer the ability to capture raw files, which preserve more image data than smaller JPEGS. That extra information provides way more flexibility during the editing process. So, if you blow a shot and underexpose it by three stops, you very well may be able to save it from looking too dark, thanks to the extra bits contained in the raw file. Basic editing software may not support raw files or may have limited support for certain cameras, though. So be sure to verify that the program you are considering supports the files that you need.

Subscription or one-time fee

Photoshop has been the default in-depth photo editor for years. And, if you’re planning to dive deeply into heavy retouching, it’s likely still your best bet. But, with a nearly endless list of features and tools, and the need for a subscription, Photoshop isn’t for everyone. Luckily there are now plenty of photo editing software options that instead offer purchase with a one-time fee instead of a subscription. Some may limit what you have access to or may charge more if you need to update to the latest version, though, so be sure to read the fine print.

Find your filters

Filters are a simple way to up your photography game. Just because you’re using pre-made filters doesn’t mean you can’t have some control over your images. Some photo editing software allows you to apply filters and then tweak them to meet your specific look and save those presets for uniformity.

FAQs

A final word on shopping for the best photo editing software

• Best for beginners: Luminar Neo
• Best all-in-one: Adobe Lightroom
• Best with built-in filters: On1 Photo RAW
• Best for noise reduction: DxO PhotoLab 6
• Best for advanced retouching: Adobe Photoshop
• Best raw photography editor: Capture One Pro
• Best cheap Photoshop alternative: Affinity Photo

Even if you have found a photo editing software that you love, it’s worth looking around to see what’s out there every once in a while. If you’re a Lightroom die-hard, new features in Capture One may lure you away. Whatever you pick, make sure you enjoy using it. You’re going to spend a lot of time staring into these interfaces—make it fun.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best photo editing software in 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

A relative newcomer to the camera/tech space, Pivo claims to be “the best way to film yourself.” With three main products—Pivo Pod, Pivo Pod Lite, and Pivo Max—this high-tech camera stand aims AI-powered tracking at athletes, dancers, vloggers, educators, and even equestrians as a hands-free solution to capture dynamic video content without the need for a videographer. 

Released in 2022, the Pivo Max is a more powerful, more stable version of the original Pivo Pod motion-tracking smartphone mount. Pivo Max can handle a larger payload (including a tablet or most full-sized digital cameras) with smoother rotation than its predecessors, making it especially useful for creators who film with smartphones or those who use more professional equipment. Pivo sent us the Pivo Max to test out, and overall we’ve been enjoying the experience and freedom that this device offers.

SEE IT

Overview: The Pivo Max makes dynamic solo content creation easy and fun. It eliminates the need for a camera person—even when moving around—and increases content options for vloggers, athletes, educators, or anyone looking to create engaging videos of themselves. 

Pros

• Easy to setup and use
• Makes dynamic solo filming easy and fun
• Can handle heavy equipment
• High-quality video using Pivo+ app
• Can use front-facing or back cameras on smartphones
• Customizable settings for focus type and tracking speed
• Presets allow you to save your most used settings

Cons

• Remote control doesn’t always work as described
• Not great for filming more than one person or in a crowded area

Pivo Max design & build

The Pivo Max looks and feels well-designed. The minimalist matte black aesthetic gives the Pivo Max a professional, high-tech appearance while allowing functionality to take center stage. It is heavier than it looks, though the weight is what allows it to handle larger pieces of equipment. The base is stable and sits securely on a flat surface. It also includes a ¼-inch UNC thread screw on the bottom for mounting on a tripod. 

The top of the Pivo Max also features a ¼-inch UNC thread insert, which secures the included Panoramic Mount. It also works with most standard cameras, as well as other mounting accessories available from Pivo. The included Panoramic Mount easily and securely tightened around my Apple iPhone 13 Pro. 

The buttons and ports on The Pivo Max are minimal. One main button turns the Pivo Max on and off. The only other button is an “Alignment Button.”  This button seems unnecessary, though, and the explanation in the Quick Start Guide doesn’t offer much clarity. There is a USB-C port to charge the Pivo Max and a covered USB-C port for charging other devices such as your smartphone or camera. However, you can only charge other devices while the Pivo Max is plugged into external power itself. There is also a color-coded LED light built into the circumference of the Pivo Max. This indicates which mode it is in when turned on (pairing, recording, charging, etc). 

The Pivo Max is 3 inches tall with the mount (or 1.83 inches without) and weighs 12.55 ounces. The maximum payload is 4.4 pounds. For context, the Sony a7 IV with the 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II lens weighs 2.9 pounds. The device can rotate at a maximum of four seconds per rotation.

Remote control

The remote control is a matching matte black and connects to the Pivo Max via Bluetooth. The buttons are more or less intuitive, and the Quick Start Guide includes a key to help you get started. I found that most of the controls functioned well in-app, though the zoom-in/out didn’t work at all. And although the Quick Start Guide claims you can use the Pivo Max without the Pivo+ app, it never worked for me.

Pivo+ app

Before operating the Pivo Max, you must download the Pivo+ app. The app itself is simple, with a home screen “Gallery” that displays all the photos and videos that you have captured with your Pivo device. 

The main interface of the Pivo+ app is where you capture photos and videos, but more on this later. There is also a “Meet” mode and a Beta “Webcam” mode, which I didn’t use much.

Lastly, there is an “Explore” section with additional apps from Pivo, product links to its accessories, and thumbnails that link to YouTube videos with stories from Pivo creators and a limited number of tutorials.

Getting started with Pivo Max

The first time setting up the Pivo Max is simple. It comes partially charged in the box, so you can get going right away. If you want to use the remote control, however, you will need two AAA batteries. The included Quick Start Guide is easy to follow, though I recommend reading the entire guide before getting started. The instructions seemed slightly out of order. It instructs you how to turn on the Pivo Max and pair the remote control before giving directions about downloading the Pivo+ app, which is necessary for using the Pivo Max in the first place. There is also a page detailing how to use the Alignment Button, though it seems unnecessary to do so.

Aside from my momentary confusion and having to download the Pivo+ app after my device was already on, the setup was easy and intuitive. The Pivo Max turns on by pressing the power button for two seconds. The remote control turns on by pressing the center button for two seconds. Pairing the Pivo Max with the remote control is simple and seamless. And you only need to do so the first time you use them together. The Pivo+ app was also easy to pair with the Pivo Max. After the initial pairing, they will automatically pair together the next time you have them all turned on. 

Settings and tracking

The AI-powered tech tracks in one of five modes: none, face, body, horse, or dog.

• None: best for use with the remote control and if you want to be the videographer
• Face/Body: great for tracking yourself with the front-facing camera or for tracking someone else with the rear camera. This is the mode I used most.
• Horse/Dog: I didn’t use these modes, but I assume they work best for exactly what they say—tracking a horse or dog in motion

The settings are relatively robust, allowing you to adjust the tracking speed (six speeds from “Slower” to a Beta version of “Turbo”), turn on/off Auto Zoom (which helps create dynamic video), turn on/off Predictive Follow (useful if you occasionally go out of frame), and turn on/off Target Exposure (I don’t know what this setting does).

Another useful feature is the ability to set the AI tracking to keep the subject focused in the center of the frame or to the left or right side. The only issue is that you risk walking out of the frame and losing the tracking altogether. 

Using the Pivo Max

Overall, the Pivo Max is easy and intuitive to use. Without the remote, you control the device exclusively from your smartphone. With the remote, you can control the motion from your phone or the remote. It’s worth noting that the first time I used the Pivo Max, the app crashed anytime I recorded more than four minutes. However, I uninstalled and reinstalled the Pivo+ app, and I haven’t had that issue since. I have been able to record up to 25 minutes without a problem.

One issue I found was when trying to film more than one person at a time. At one point, I tried to use the Pivo Max to film myself interviewing another person. However, the Pivo Max would switch focus between me and the other person, often kicking the other person out of frame. The Pivo+ app does include a “lock” feature, which is meant to secure the AI’s focus on whichever person you select. This worked most of the time; however, if I got too close to the person I was interviewing—or if someone walked behind us —the AI would get confused and switch focus when I didn’t want it to.

I primarily used the Pivo Max with the front-facing camera on my iPhone 13 Pro to film myself at work. I am a coffee roaster in a big warehouse where I create educational and “behind-the-scenes” videos. Most of my content includes walking around the warehouse and explaining things to the camera as I go.

Previous to the Pivo Max, I used a static tripod, so I was confined to standing directly in front of the camera. Or I would ask a coworker to film me, which was occasionally awkward, or they were busy. With this device, I am able to stay in the frame as I walk around the room, and I don’t bother my coworkers. Though I have occasionally walked too quickly and put myself out of frame, most of the time, it works great and allows me to capture professional-looking videos I couldn’t otherwise create on my own.

Video quality

The Pivo+ app takes impressively high-quality video, especially from the front-facing camera (what I was using most often on my iPhone 13 Pro). The “auto-zoom” feature maintained focus even up to distances of 30-plus yards across the warehouse. As I walked further away from the camera, the image quality got slightly blurry, but it never detracted from the overall professional impression of the video, especially as the auto zoom and AI-powered panning are so smooth.

Final thoughts

The Pivo Max does exactly what it says it will do—it makes filming yourself easy. Not only that, it makes solo content creation fun and creates dynamic videos with its tracking and auto-zoom features. There is no need for a camera person and no need to spend hours in post-production adding movement to a clip. If you are a solo vlogger looking to make engaging content, an athlete tracking your movements, a cook demonstrating your latest recipe, or an educator creating a lesson, the Pivo Max can enhance the ease and quality of your videos without extra work.

The post Pivo Max review: An auto-tracking option for solo content creation appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Mirrorless cameras offer several advantages over their older DSLR counterparts, not the least of which is their more compact size. But the smaller bodies are also typically less comfortable and easy to hold. While I love my Sony a7 III, it’s simply not as nice in the hand as my old Nikon D800. Enter the Peak Design Micro Clutch. Released on Kickstarter earlier this year, the Micro Clutch attaches to a camera to make holding it more comfortable and stable. Peak Design sent me the L-Plate version, which it designed for cameras with a protruding hand grip. If your camera has a small handgrip or none at all, you’ll want to get the I-Plate version. I’ve been shooting with it for a few months and really enjoyed the experience.

SEE IT

Installation

Installing the Micro Clutch is very straightforward. The only tool you need tucks away in the baseplate. That means you always have it on-hand and won’t need to pack it separately. It’s held in by magnets and pops out easily enough by pushing on one end. Getting the tool out with one hand is tricky, but it feels very secure, with no concern that it will fall out on its own. 

The adjustable portion of the strap is wider than the split ring on my Sony a7III, so it took some squishing to get it in there. And I had to work quite a bit to get the Keeper Stud into place because of how tight the holes on the adjustment strap are. But once it’s in there, it feels very snug, which is reassuring.

Using the Micro Clutch

The pivot point built into the base of the Peak Design Micro Clutch is slick in its design since it’s fully internal, leaving the bottom of the base plate smooth and flat. And it rotates much more than I’ll likely ever need it to. The camera won’t sit flat as it does without a base plate, instead leaning forward onto the lens, which annoys me slightly, but that’s a minor detail. 

The Micro Clutch comes with a tripod plate, which is compatible with Peak Design Capture, PD tripods, and third-party ARCA tripods. That means you don’t have to take the clutch off whenever you want to use a tripod or the Capture Clip. It also offers Peak Design Anchor attachment points so that you can have a camera strap attached at the same time. It’s surprisingly versatile for such a simple design. 

I haven’t had an extremely long day of shooting with the Micro Clutch, so I can’t comment on how it works in those situations. But for a few hours at least, it feels great and results in less hand fatigue than holding the camera on its own. The hand pad feels nice and soft on the back of my hand, so I don’t foresee any hot spots or blisters if I were to use it for a full day. It is very low-profile and fits in my tight camera bags while on the camera body with no issues. And it blends into the camera really well, which I like.

Final thoughts on the Peak Design Micro Clutch

As someone who hasn’t used a camera strap of any size or type for a decade or longer, I was reluctant to think I would like using the Micro Clutch. And, even if it felt okay to use, I didn’t really believe it could make that much of a difference. The $64.95 price tag made me hesitate slightly as well. But call me a believer now.

The post Hands-on with the Peak Design Micro Clutch: A more comfortable way to hold your camera appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		Prograde CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II Dual-Slot Memory Card Reader		SEE IT	It supports SD and CFexpress Type B and offers blazing fast transfer speeds.
OWC Atlas Dual SD Card Reader		Best for SD cards		SEE IT	The two SD card slots make it faster to offload multiple cards at once.
Best budget		Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader		SEE IT	It’s very affordable and also extremely compact.

A good memory card reader is an easy purchase to overlook. But the right reader can drastically speed up your workflow and save you precious time when you’re offloading thousands of raw photos or hours of 4K video footage. It’s never fun to sit and wait for files to transfer before you can get to editing. Fortunately, there are plenty of fast and reliable options on the market, no matter what type of card you use. The best memory card readers will get your images transferred in no time so that you can get to the fun part. 

• Best overall: Prograde CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II Dual-Slot Memory Card Reader
• Best for SD cards: OWC Atlas Dual SD Card Reader
• Best for CompactFlash: SanDisk ImageMate PRO USB-C Reader
• Best for CFexpress Type B: Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B Reader
• Best for CFexpress Type A: Sony MRWG2 CFexpress Card Reader
• Best multi-purpose: Kingston Nucleum 7-In-1 Type-C-Adapter Hub
• Best budget: Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader

How we chose the best memory card readers

The writers and editors at Pop Photo have decades of experience and have used just about every memory card brand and type. When selecting the best memory card readers included in this guide, we prioritized transfer speed, as that is the primary goal of a card reader. We also looked at durability and size. Lastly, we aimed to choose a card reader for every major type of memory card out there. 

The best memory card readers: Reviews & recommendations

Whether you are looking for a reader for your CFexpress or SD cards, these memory card readers will help you transfer your photos more efficiently. 

Best overall: Prograde CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II Dual-Slot Memory Card Reader

SEE IT

Specs

• Supported card formats: UHS-I & UHS-II SD, SDHC, SDXC, CFexpress Type B
• Connection type: USB Type-C and Type-A
• USB speed: USB 3.2, Gen. 2
• Dimensions: 2.79 x 2.79 x 0.71 inches
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Magnetized bottom connects it to a laptop
• Supports SD and CFexpress Type B
• Includes two 18-inch connection cables
• Fast transfer speeds up to 1.25GB/s with USB 3.2 connection

Cons

• Pricey
• Doesn’t support XQD

CFexpress Type B and SD cards are some of the most widely used at this point in time, so it was important that our top pick support both options. In terms of SD-specific cards, the Prograde card reader supports UHS-I, UHS-II SD, SDHC, and SDXC. It comes with an 18-inch USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cable, so it will work with a wide variety of devices. 

The Prograde Dual-Slot memory card reader utilizes a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface. This enables data transfer speeds of up to 1.25 GB/s with the USB-A cable or 1250 MB/s with the USB-C interface. A handy LED indicator light shows data transfer activity. But the most unique feature of this memory card reader is the magnetic base, which allows you to connect it directly to your laptop. It cuts down on clutter, keeps your workspace organized, and ensures everything stays securely connected.

Best for SD cards: OWC Atlas Dual SD Card Reader

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Specs

• Supported card formats: UHS-II SDXC
• Connection type: USB Type-C
• USB speed: USB 3.2 Gen 2 
• Dimensions: 3.1 x 0.9 x 3.1 inches
• Weight: 4.9 ounces

Pros

• USB-C cable is built-in 
• Dual SD card slots are ideal for two-camera shooters
• Provides data transfer speeds over 300MB/s
• Separate LED indicators for each slot

Cons

• A bit pricey
• Only compatible with USB-C devices

If you only need a memory card reader for SD cards and want the best speeds, the OWC Atlas Dual SD Card Reader is the way to go. It features two SD slots that are compatible with SDXC cards. The dual slots are ideal for those who use two cameras at events like weddings, work with a second shooter, or shoot with dual cards for backup reasons. It won’t work with anything other than SD cards, though, so if you use microSD or CFexpress cards frequently, this may not be the best option for you. 

This SD card reader is capable of data transfer speeds over 300 MB/s per slot, offering a total of 600 MB/s if you transfer from both slots at the same time. OWC says that it can transfer up to 250GB of photos in less than seven minutes, which is very speedy. It will allow you to actually take advantage of those transfer speeds listed on your SD cards. 

The USB-C cable is built directly into the card reader and stows away neatly in the bottom. You won’t have to worry about forgetting a cable when you need it or get annoyed by cords flopping around when traveling. And the write-protection switch ensures you don’t accidentally delete any files before you’re ready. And if you use OWC memory cards, you can take advantage of OWC Innergize to monitor and maintain the health of your cards. 

Best for CompactFlash: SanDisk ImageMate PRO USB-C Reader

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Specs

• Supported card formats: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II), microSD/SDHC/SDXC, and CompactFlash
• Connection type: USB Type-C
• USB speed: USB 3.0
• Dimensions: 2.28 x 0.72 x 4.84 inches
• Weight: ‎3.77 ounces

Pros

• Reasonably priced
• Compatible with three types of cards
• Fast transfer speeds, especially for SD cards
• Plug-and-play design

Cons

• Not USB 3.1 Gen 2
• Included cable is rather short

The SanDisk ImageMate PRO is a versatile memory card reader, thanks to the three separate slots. It supports SD cards, microSD, and CompactFlash, all on one reader. That makes it a lot easier if you have multiple cameras that use different cards. It’s a plug-and-play reader, meaning you don’t need to fuss with installing any software before using it. 

This card reader provides transfer rates that are fast enough to get the most out of your cards. SanDisk promises up to 312 MB/s for SD and microSD and up to 160 MB/s for CompactFlash cards. Unfortunately, users have reported that the included cable is really short, which can be a pain if you aren’t in a situation to have it sitting right next to your computer. And if you don’t have a USB-C compatible device, you’ll need to get an adapter since it doesn’t come with any other options. But, it is very reasonably priced, especially given its versatility and speeds. 

Best for CFexpress Type B: Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B Reader

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Specs

• Supported card formats: CFexpress Type B
• Connection type: USB Type-C
• USB speed: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2
• Dimensions: 2.55 x 1.1 x 3.9 inches
• Weight: 4.6 ounces

Pros

• Blazing fast transfer speeds
• Comes with an long 2-in-1 USB cable
• Reasonably priced
• Compact and portable

Cons

• Only works with CFexpress Type B cards

This Lexar memory card reader for CFexpress Type B cards is the fastest reader on our list. Thanks to the USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 technology, it’s capable of up to 1700 MB/s. That makes it much faster for transferring large files such as raw 8K video or high-resolution cameras. Vloggers who pump out loads of content will also benefit from those fast transfer speeds. 

The Lexar CFexpress Type B Reader comes with an 11.8-inch 2-in-1 cable that can connect to both USB-C and USB-A devices. The longer cord length is convenient, but it isn’t excessively long, either. This reader is only compatible with one type of card, which makes it less versatile than some of the other options on our list. But if all you use is CFexpress Type B, then this is the way to go. 

Best for CFexpress Type A: Sony MRWG2 CFexpress Card Reader

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Specs

• Supported card formats: CFexpress Type A, SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I and UHS-II)
• Connection type: USB Type-C
• USB speed: USB 3.1 Gen 2
• Dimensions: 2.17 x 3.74 x 0.47 inches
• Weight: ‎3.36 ounces

Pros

• Includes both USB-C and USB-A cables
• Can read both CFexpress Type A and SD cards
• Fast transfer speeds
• Slim design

Cons

• Very expensive for a card reader

This Sony memory card reader is one of the best options for Sony users who want to use CFexpress Type A cards as well as SD cards. It is compatible with SDXC, so you can even opt for the fastest SD cards available to get the most out of your Sony camera. 

The MRWG2 utilizes a USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface which allows for speedy transfers of up to 1250MB/s. That’s plenty fast, even for 800MB/s CFexpress Type A cards. It’s an ideal choice for high-resolution photos or 4K video footage since you won’t have to sit around waiting for files to move nearly as long. The main downside to this reader is the price. It’s an expensive card reader, but it will allow you actually get those promised speeds from your memory cards. 

Best multi-purpose: Kingston Nucleum 7-In-1 Type-C-Adapter Hub

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Specs

• Supported card formats: microSDXC (UHS-I), SDXC (UHS-II)
• Connection type: USB Type-C
• USB speed: USB 3.1 Gen 1
• Dimensions: 5 x 1.77 x 0.56 inches
• Weight: Not provided

Pros

• Hub design is highly versatile
• HDMI port supports 4K output
• Priced well
• 60W power pass-through via USB-C port

Cons

• Transfer speeds are not as fast as others

For many, it doesn’t necessarily make sense to have a dedicated card reader that only does that one thing. If you primarily work at a desk with a monitor or two, you likely also need some sort of hub for connecting your displays and other miscellaneous devices. The Kingston Nucleum offers 7-in-1 functionality, so you don’t have to have a bunch of different dongles and cords cluttering up your space. 

This hub provides seven ports for versatility. You’ll find two USB Type-C (one power, one data), two USB Type-A, one HDMI v1.4, an SD card slot, and a microSD card slot. It features power pass-through with up to 60W, so you can even charge your laptop through the hub. And if you use an HDMI v1.4 cable, you’ll be able to utilize a 4K display resolution. The memory card slots don’t offer as fast of transfer speeds as dedicated card readers, but the multifunctional design is a huge plus, especially if you use a laptop with limited ports. 

Best budget: Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader

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Specs

• Supported card formats: UHS-I SD, SDXC, SDHC, microSDXC, microSDHC, microSD, MMC, RS-MMC, and SD
• Connection type: USB 3.0
• USB speed: USB 3.0, 3.1 Gen 1
• Dimensions: 0.47 x 1.3 x 2.56 inches
• Weight: 0.48 ounces

Pros

• Tiny form factor is ideal for travel
• Compatible with SD and microSD
• Can read both cards simultaneously
• Very affordable

Cons

• Not as fast as others
• Only supports UHS-1

Our budget pick is also the best compact memory card reader. This Anker 2-in-1 card reader is absolutely tiny, so it’s incredibly easy to toss in your bag if you are traveling. And the USB port is built right into the end of the device, so you don’t need to fuss with cords of any type. It is a USB 3.0 port, though, which some laptops no longer support. 

This Anker card reader is compatible with both SD and microSD cards. And it can read both cards simultaneously, so if you are offloading images from a mirrorless camera and drone, you don’t need to wait for one to finish before handling the other. It doesn’t offer as fast of transfer speeds as others on our list, but you can’t beat the price. 

Features to consider when shopping for memory card readers

Although memory cards are simple devices, there are some key things to pay attention to when picking one up. You want to make sure to get the most out of the speeds your memory card promises, which is partly determined by the card reader. Here’s what to look for when choosing a memory card reader.

Supported cards

The first and more important factor is knowing what cards a reader is compatible with. If you use CFexpress Type B cards, you won’t be able to use a memory card reader that only works with SD or microSD. Some readers will support multiple types of cards, which is ideal if you use multiple types of cameras or cameras that feature different card slots. 

If you use SD or microSD in particular, there are a few more things to pay attention to. Some card readers are only compatible with UHS-1 cards or don’t support SDXC. Be sure to look carefully at what cards you have or what you may buy in the future to ensure it will work with your card reader. 

Connectivity

Once you know what type of card support you need, you’ll also need to verify how the card reader will connect to your computer. It’s quite a frustrating moment to get your new card reader and realize you can’t actually connect it to anything. Some still rely on USB Type-A, whereas others have transitioned to USB Type-C. Not all come with multiple connection options, so you’ll want to look carefully at what is provided before making your purchase. 

Transfer speeds

Just like memory cards, not all memory card readers are created equal. Some offer faster potential transfer speeds than others. If you have a lot of files to transfer on a regular basis or frequently need to move large files, you’ll want to get a fast memory card reader. Not all companies will list transfer speeds, but a dedicated card reader will typically be faster than a more multi-purpose hub. And, as you may guess, more expensive card readers (within reason) will also offer faster transfer rates.  

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best memory card readers

• Best overall: Prograde CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II Dual-Slot Memory Card Reader
• Best for SD cards: OWC Atlas Dual SD Card Reader
• Best for CompactFlash: SanDisk ImageMate PRO USB-C Reader
• Best for CFexpress Type B: Lexar Professional CFexpress Type B Reader
• Best for CFexpress Type A: Sony MRWG2 CFexpress Card Reader
• Best multi-purpose: Kingston Nucleum 7-In-1 Type-C-Adapter Hub
• Best budget: Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader

Memory card readers are pretty basic tools, but having a quality one can streamline your work a surprising amount. For busy photographers, anything that can speed up boring parts of the process is appreciated, and it is worth investing in a higher-end option. On the other hand, if you are a casual photographer, a $130 card reader with lightning-fast speeds is likely not necessary. At the end of the day, as long as you have a reliable device that can safely move images from your memory card to computer, tablet, or phone, that’s what matters.  

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

The post The best memory card readers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Photography.

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Best overall		Brother QL-800 High-Speed Professional Label Printer		SEE IT
Best Bluetooth		Brother QL-820NWB Professional		SEE IT
Best for Mac		Arkscan 2054A Shipping Label Printer		SEE IT

If you run a small business that sends out physical goods like prints, flash drives, or used camera gear, a shipping label printer can save you loads of time. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck running to the post office or other shipping company whenever you need to mail something. Printing labels at home will also enable you to schedule package pickups right at your home or office, cutting down on your errands. While you can use standard inkjet or laser printers to print labels, you then have to think about buying ink or toner. Instead, most label printers use a form of printing called direct thermal printing, which doesn’t require ink or toner. Direct thermal printing applies pressure and heat to heat-sensitive paper. The paper reacts to the heat and turns black, producing text and images. You will save money over time since you don’t need to buy expensive ink or toner. There are many options out there, but we’ve found the best shipping label printers for a range of needs.

• Best overall: Brother QL-800 High-Speed Professional Label Printer
• Best Bluetooth: Brother QL-820NWB Professional
• Best for Mac: Arkscan 2054A Shipping Label Printer
• Best for e-commerce: ROLLO Wireless Shipping Label Printer
• Best budget: BESTEASY Shipping Label Printer

How we picked the best shipping label printers

When selecting the best shipping label printers, we looked at a wide variety of models by different manufacturers. We aimed to choose options that offered various connectivity options, from USB to WiFi and Bluetooth. Print speed and print quality were important considerations, as they significantly impact how useful a label printer is. Lastly, we picked products at different price points to suit a range of budgets. 

The best shipping label printers: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Brother QL-800 High-Speed Professional Label Printer

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Why it made the cut: The QL-800 is a simple but fast label printer with a relatively high resolution of 300 x 600 dpi, producing sharp text and barcodes. 

Specs:

• Speed: 93 standard address labels per minute
• Compatibility: Windows and Mac
• Connection options: USB
• Printer size: 8.4 x 4.9 x 5.6 inches

Pros

• High resolution for clear text
• Fast print speeds
• Supports mobile printing via Android
• Can print black and red

Cons

• Limited connectivity options

The Brother QL-800 is, as the name implies, a fast label printer. It doesn’t have a ton of bells and whistles, but it does its job–printing shipping labels–well, and it does it fast. Brother lists the speed at 93 standard address labels per minute, meaning you can crank out all your orders in no time.

While shipping label printers aren’t known for their high resolution, this option has a max resolution of 300 x 600 dpi, which is more than many. It will provide sharp text and barcodes, even if they need to be small. If you buy the DK 2251 label tape, you can print in black and red on the same label. Most direct thermal printers will be limited to just black, so this is a nice bonus.

Unfortunately, this printer has pretty limited connectivity options. It is compatible with Windows and Mac computers, but you have to plug in via USB 2.0 or micro USB. You can also print from your Android phone–sorry iPhone users–but you need to buy a separate USBtoGO cable to do so. There are no wireless printing options. It does integrate with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, which will make putting your labels together easier. You can also access the Editor Lite program when you plug in or download Brother’s P-touch Editor to design and manage labels.

While you don’t get wireless connectivity options, and there is no display on the printer, it is straightforward to use. In addition, brother offers 25 different labels compatible with this device, including the red and black one mentioned. Its speed and quality make it the best option overall, even without fancy features. 

Best Bluetooth: Brother QL-820NWB Professional

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Why it made the cut: It’s the big brother to the Brother QL-800 and offers lots more connectivity options–including Bluetooth–and an LCD screen for standalone use.

Specs:

• Speed: 110 standard address labels per minute
• Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS
• Connection options: Wireless, USB, Networkable, Bluetooth
• Printer size: 9.2 x 5 x 5.7 inches

Pros

• Many wireless connectivity options
• Optional battery for full wireless functionality
• Fast print speed
• Can print black and red

Cons

• Can only print red on one label type

If you like the Brother printer above but want something a bit more advanced, the QL-820NWB Professional is your best bet. It has more advanced connectivity options like Bluetooth, WiFi, WiFi Direct, and Ethernet. It supports networking, making it easy if you have a team that needs to print shipping labels.

This newer Brother offering added a monochrome LCD screen so you can print directly from the unit. Of course, it’s still easiest to print from a computer or mobile device; luckily, you can use Windows, Mac, iOS, or Android. Installation is easy, and you get access to P-touch Editor 5.1. It allows you to design your labels easily, including if you want to add logos or graphics. Or you can design and print from the iPrint&Label mobile app as well.

The print speed of the QL-820NWB is even faster than the QL-800, coming in at 110 standard address labels per minute of basic text. It prints high-quality text, even with smaller fonts. It can also handle somewhat detailed graphics. You can add a logo or other branding element and still have it look professional.

It isn’t the cheapest option, which is what kept it from the number one spot for us. But, if you are looking for a powerful Bluetooth or wireless shipping label printer, the Brother QL-820NWB Professional is an excellent choice.

Best for Mac: Arkscan 2054A Shipping Label Printer

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Why it made the cut: The Arkscan 2054A is compatible with Mac computers, so Apple users need not feel left out. And it can print on a wide variety of label types and sizes for more flexibility.

Specs:

• Speed: 5 inches per second
• Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
• Connection options: USB
• Printer size: 6 x 4 x 4 inches

Pros

• Prints a wide range of sizes
• Compatible with lots of shipping companies and e-commerce sites
• Accepts many different types of labels
• Good print quality

Cons

• No wireless connectivity options

The Arkscan 2054A has compatibility with pretty much every computer OS. So Mac, Windows, Linux, and Chromebook can all use this printer. While Arkscan makes a model that offers wireless connectivity (currently unavailable), this one requires you to be plugged in via USB.

One of the biggest selling points of this option is that you can print a huge variety of label types and sizes. You can print from 0.75 to 4.25 inches wide and 0.4 to 90 inches long. That’s quite the range of sizes. The roll holder and guide rail inside the printer easily adjust to accommodate different size rolls of labels. And you aren’t limited to just Arkscan’s labels. You can use options from Zebra, Dymo, and even the free labels from UPS and FedEx. You’ll be able to save money as a result.

It prints fast, meaning you won’t be stuck waiting around on labels. The print quality is good, with text and barcodes clear and sharp. And it can print shipping labels for just about every shipping company and e-commerce site, including Amazon, Etsy, eBay, and Shopify.

Best for e-commerce: ROLLO Wireless Shipping Label Printer

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Why it made the cut: Rollo is a standard in the e-commerce industry and is compatible with just about every site out there. Its fast print speed and the ability to use any direct thermal label make it ideal for sellers large and small.

Specs:

• Speed: 150mm/s (one 4×6 inch shipping label per second)
• Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook, iOS, Android
• Connection options: WiFi, USB
• Printer size: 7 x 3 x 3.5 inches

Pros

• Works with any direct thermal labels
• Option to generate labels with shipping discounts
• Compatible with most shipping carriers and e-commerce sites
• Automatically detects label size and type

Cons

• No app for designing labels

Some e-commerce sites can be a bit picky about how sellers print labels. Luckily this Rollo option is compatible with just about every major website, including Amazon, Etsy, eBay, and Shopify. 

This newest version of the Rollo printer allows you to connect to a computer via USB or use wireless options through WiFi. That means you can now use your phone to print labels and don’t need to be physically connected to the printer. It prints a single 4 x 6 inch label in just a second, so even high-volume e-commerce businesses will be happy.

Rollo allows you to use any direct thermal label instead of only buying their proprietary options. That can save you money down the road, especially since you can get some for free from UPS or FedEx. One potential downside for some is that label rolls or stacks aren’t loaded into the machine but instead sit behind it. That might make your workspace a bit messier than options that keep it all tucked inside. However, you can buy an inexpensive holder from Rollo to help stay organized and better hold rolls of labels. 

Perhaps the biggest highlight of this printer is that you get free access to the Rollo Ship Manager app. The app connects directly to multiple online platforms and can significantly simplify your e-commerce business. You can see what needs to be shipped, print labels with one click, track shipments, and even schedule pickups. And best of all, it gives you discounts on shipping labels through USPS and UPS.

Best budget: BESTEASY Shipping Label Printer

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Why it made the cut: For a shipping label printer that won’t break the bank, the BESTEASY is a great choice, especially since it includes a 100-pack of 4 x 6 inch labels.

Specs:

• Speed: 102mm/s
• Compatibility: Linux, Windows, Mac
• Connection options: USB
• Printer size:

Pros

• Fast printing
• Affordable
• Good print quality
• Comes with a 100 pack of 4×6 inch labels

Cons

• No wireless connectivity options

The BESTEASY Shipping Label Printer is a great pick if you want a simple shipping label printer that won’t set you and your small business back financially. It comes with 100 4×6 inch labels to get started, saving you even more money. 

Despite the budget-friendly price, the printer is compatible with the three major operating systems: Mac, Windows, and Linux. You will need to plug into your computer with the included USB cord, as there are no wireless options. It’s compatible with most e-commerce sites and shipping providers, so you won’t have issues with your labels being accepted. 

The BESTEASY isn’t as fast as some of our other options, but it does print at 102mm per second, which is plenty. And it can print from 1.57 to 4.1 inches wide with no length limit, giving you many options for label sizes. There aren’t many bells and whistles on this machine, but it will produce quality labels and save you money. 

Things to consider before buying a shipping label printer

Shipping label printers are highly specialized tools. They aren’t performing different types of tasks and don’t need to have exceptional printing quality. Because of that, there are fewer specs to pay attention to than other types of printers. But, there are still some things to consider before purchasing a shipping label printer.

Printing speed

Printing speed may not matter for some. But, if you have lots of packages going out, you won’t want to wait around for labels to print. If that is the case, be sure to get a printer with a fast speed. Unfortunately, printing speed gets a bit confusing because label printer manufacturers measure it differently. Some will provide speed in labels per minute, while others list it in a length–either millimeters or inches–per second. That makes it hard to compare. But, if printing speed is important to you, look closely to figure out which option will provide the best speed.

Compatibility

Like other electronic devices, shipping label printers are compatible with select computer (or phone) operating systems. Quite a few are only compatible with Windows computers. If you are a Mac or Android user, you need to verify that the printer you are considering works with your device. 

Beyond operating systems, some e-commerce sites and shipping companies require specific types of shipping labels. For example, if you are an Etsy seller who ships via USPS, be sure that the label printer you want will meet the specifications of both Etsy and the USPS. You’ll want to do some research on your platform and shipping company to verify if they have requirements for shipping labels.

Connection options

Many shipping label printers will require you physically plug into the printer with a USB cable. If you don’t want to be tethered to your printer, be sure to look for one that has Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity options so that you can print wirelessly.

Label size

Shipping label printers are typically small devices that don’t print large. They usually are limited to 4 x 6 inches or smaller. You may need to go with a standard inkjet printer if you want larger labels. And as mentioned above, some shipping companies will have specific size requirements, so double-check that the size of your labels will meet the shipper’s specifications.

In addition, some printers will only let you print one size and design. If you need to print labels of different sizes or want varied design options, look for an option that allows you to customize what you print.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best shipping label printers

A shipping label printer can save you lots of time and money when shipping out packages. And while the right printer for you depends on your business’s or individual needs, look for something with good print quality and easy-to-use tools.

Why trust us

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We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

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