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The Leica SL2 is a popular full-frame mirrorless camera known for its high image quality and robust build. One important aspect for photographers is how the camera performs with different memory cards, especially in terms of speed during shooting and data transfer. This article presents sample speed tests to help users understand the performance variations with various memory cards.
Understanding Memory Card Types
Memory cards come in different types, primarily SD cards and CFexpress cards for the Leica SL2. Each type has different speed classes, which impact how quickly data can be written and read. Faster cards are essential for high-resolution images, 4K video recording, and rapid burst shooting.
Test Setup and Methodology
For the tests, we used the following memory cards:
- SanDisk Extreme PRO SD UHS-II 300MB/s
- Lexar Professional 2000x SD UHS-II
- ProGrade Digital CFexpress Type B
- SanDisk Extreme PRO CFexpress Type B
The camera was set to continuous shooting mode, capturing a series of high-resolution images. Transfer speeds were measured using a stopwatch and data transfer software to record write and read speeds during typical usage scenarios.
Sample Speed Test Results
SD Cards Performance
The SD cards showed varying performance levels. The SanDisk Extreme PRO SD UHS-II demonstrated consistent write speeds around 250MB/s during burst shooting, with read speeds close to 300MB/s. The Lexar Professional SD card had slightly lower write speeds, averaging 200MB/s but still maintained reliable performance for most photography needs.
CFexpress Cards Performance
The CFexpress Type B cards outperformed SD cards significantly. The ProGrade Digital CFexpress achieved write speeds up to 1500MB/s and read speeds of 1700MB/s, enabling seamless burst shooting and rapid data transfer. SanDisk’s CFexpress card showed similar high performance, making it ideal for professional workflows requiring speed and reliability.
Implications for Photographers
Choosing the right memory card depends on your shooting style and needs. For casual photography, high-quality SD cards like the SanDisk Extreme PRO are sufficient. For professional work, especially involving high-resolution images or 4K video, CFexpress cards provide the necessary speed and efficiency.
Conclusion
The Leica SL2 performs exceptionally well with both SD and CFexpress cards, but the performance differences are significant when choosing the right card for demanding tasks. Investing in high-speed cards ensures smoother shooting experiences and faster data management, crucial for professional photographers and enthusiasts alike.