micro SDHC vs. micro SDXC: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on February 15, 2024
Micro SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) cards store up to 32GB and suit older devices, while micro SDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) cards store up to 2TB and support newer, high-capacity needs.
Key Differences
Micro SDHC and micro SDXC are both types of Secure Digital (SD) memory cards, but they differ in storage capacity and compatibility. Micro SDHC cards, introduced after standard micro SD cards, offer storage capacities from 4GB to 32GB. In contrast, micro SDXC cards, a later development, provide larger storage options, ranging from 32GB up to 2TB.
The file system format used by micro SDHC and micro SDXC cards is a key difference. Micro SDHC cards typically use the FAT32 file system, which is widely compatible with many devices but limits file sizes to 4GB. Micro SDXC cards use the exFAT file system, which supports larger file sizes and is optimized for higher capacity storage.
Compatibility varies between micro SDHC and micro SDXC cards. Micro SDHC cards are compatible with a broader range of devices, including older gadgets. However, micro SDXC cards require devices that specifically support the SDXC standard, which might exclude some older devices.
Speed class ratings, which indicate the minimum write speed, are important for both micro SDHC and micro SDXC cards. While both can come in various speed classes (Class 2, 4, 6, 10, UHS 1, and 3), micro SDXC cards are more likely to be found with higher speed ratings due to their newer technology and focus on high-performance tasks like 4K video recording.
In terms of usage, micro SDHC cards are often sufficient for everyday tasks such as storing photos, music, and standard video. Micro SDXC cards, with their larger capacity and faster speeds, are better suited for professional photography, high-resolution video recording, and extensive data storage.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Storage Capacity
4GB to 32GB
32GB to 2TB
File System Format
FAT32
ExFAT
Device Compatibility
Broad, including older devices
Requires SDXC-compatible devices
Speed Class Ratings
Class 2, 4, 6, 10, UHS 1, 3
Often higher classes like UHS 1, 3
Typical Usage
Photos, music, standard video
Professional photography, 4K video
ADVERTISEMENT
micro SDHC and micro SDXC Definitions
micro SDHC
A type of memory card with capacities from 4GB to 32GB.
He used a micro SDHC card to store his smartphone photos.
micro SDXC
Requires devices that support the SDXC standard.
His new camera was compatible with the micro SDXC card's advanced features.
micro SDHC
Compatible with a wide range of devices.
His micro SDHC card worked in both his phone and laptop.
micro SDXC
A high-capacity memory card ranging from 32GB to 2TB.
The 256GB micro SDXC card was perfect for his extensive music library.
micro SDHC
Suitable for standard digital storage needs.
The micro SDHC card held all her favorite songs and documents.
micro SDXC
Uses the exFAT file system for large files.
His micro SDXC card could store large 4K video files thanks to exFAT.
micro SDHC
Utilizes FAT32 file system for compatibility.
The micro SDHC card's FAT32 format worked well with her older camera.
micro SDXC
Ideal for high-performance tasks and devices.
She used a micro SDXC card for recording high-resolution videos.
micro SDHC
Offers various speed class options for different uses.
She chose a Class 10 micro SDHC card for faster data transfer.
micro SDXC
Commonly used for professional photography and 4K video.
The micro SDXC card was essential for storing her professional photo shoots.
FAQs
What does SDXC stand for?
SDXC stands for Secure Digital eXtended Capacity.
What does SDHC stand for?
SDHC stands for Secure Digital High Capacity.
What is a microSDHC card?
A microSDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) card is a type of memory card that is commonly used in portable devices like smartphones and cameras, offering capacities ranging from 4GB to 32GB.
What is a microSDXC card?
A microSDXC (Secure Digital eXtended Capacity) card is an advanced version of SDHC, providing higher storage capacity ranging from 64GB to 2TB.
Can I use a microSDHC card in a device that supports microSDXC?
Yes, microSDHC cards can typically be used in devices that support microSDXC, but the device will not leverage the higher potential speeds and capacities of SDXC.
What is the main difference between microSDHC and microSDXC cards?
The primary difference is their storage capacity. microSDHC cards range from 4GB to 32GB, while microSDXC cards range from 64GB to 2TB.
What file system is used in microSDXC cards?
microSDXC cards typically use the exFAT file system to handle large file sizes efficiently.
Are microSDHC and microSDXC interchangeable?
They are physically interchangeable, but the device compatibility and storage capacities differ.
How durable are microSDHC and microSDXC cards?
Both are fairly durable and resistant to water, shock, and X-rays, but they can be damaged by strong physical impact or electrical mishaps.
Can I use a microSDHC or microSDXC card in my computer?
Yes, if your computer has a card reader that supports these formats, or you can use an external card reader.
Do I need a special software to access files on a microSDXC card?
No special software is needed, but your device must support the exFAT file system used by SDXC cards.
Can a microSDXC card be used in a microSDHC slot?
A microSDXC card can physically fit in a microSDHC slot, but the device may not support the exFAT file system or the larger capacities of SDXC.
What are the speed classes of microSDHC and microSDXC?
Both card types come in various speed classes (Class 2, 4, 6, 10, UHS-1, UHS-3) indicating minimum performance levels, with UHS (Ultra High Speed) being faster.
How do I format a microSDXC card to use in a microSDHC device?
You can format a microSDXC card to a compatible file system (like FAT32), but this may not ensure compatibility with all SDHC devices, especially for cards over 32GB.
What should I consider when buying a microSDHC or microSDXC card?
Consider the device compatibility, storage capacity, speed class, and the intended use (e.g., for high-resolution video recording, choose a faster card).
Are all microSDXC cards faster than microSDHC cards?
Not necessarily. While microSDXC cards generally support higher speeds, the actual speed also depends on the specific card model and speed class.
What is the maximum file size that a microSDHC card can hold?
The maximum file size is limited by the file system; with FAT32, it's up to 4GB per file.
Do microSDHC and microSDXC cards have the same physical size?
Yes, both types of cards share the same physical dimensions.
Can I lock a microSDHC or microSDXC card to prevent data from being erased?
Yes, both types of cards have a physical lock switch to prevent data from being written or deleted.
How can I recover data from a corrupted microSDHC or microSDXC card?
You can use data recovery software, though success is not guaranteed. It's best to regularly back up data stored on these cards.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
