What To Know
- CFexpress cards allow photographers to transfer images and videos from the D850 to a computer or external storage device at much higher speeds.
- Insert a compatible CFexpress card into the card slot on the side of the D850.
- While CFexpress cards come at a higher cost, their benefits outweigh the expense for professional photographers and videographers seeking the ultimate in storage performance.
The Nikon D850 is a professional-grade digital SLR camera renowned for its exceptional image quality and versatility. As technology advances, photographers seek faster and more efficient storage solutions to keep up with the demands of high-resolution photography and videography. One of the most recent advancements in this area is the introduction of CFexpress cards, which promise lightning-fast data transfer speeds. This comprehensive guide will delve into the question: “Does Nikon D850 support CFexpress?” and explore the benefits and implications of this technology for D850 users.
What is CFexpress?
CFexpress is a new memory card standard designed to meet the increasing demands of professional photographers and videographers. It combines the physical form factor of XQD cards with the high-speed performance of PCIe 3.0 and NVMe protocols. CFexpress cards offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to traditional SD and XQD cards, enabling photographers to capture and transfer large files, including high-resolution images and 4K videos, at unprecedented speeds.
Does Nikon D850 Support CFexpress?
The answer is yes, the Nikon D850 does support CFexpress cards. Nikon released a firmware update (version 1.20) in early 2019 that added support for CFexpress cards. This update allows D850 users to take advantage of the faster data transfer speeds offered by CFexpress cards.
Benefits of Using CFexpress Cards with the D850
Utilizing CFexpress cards with the Nikon D850 offers several notable benefits:
- Faster Burst Shooting: CFexpress cards enable the D850 to capture high-resolution images at faster burst rates. This is particularly beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects or sequences of action.
- Smoother 4K Video Recording: With CFexpress cards, the D850 can record 4K videos at higher frame rates and bitrates. This results in smoother, more detailed video footage.
- Reduced Buffer Time: CFexpress cards significantly reduce the buffer clearing time of the D850. This allows photographers to capture long bursts of images or extended video clips without interruption.
- Faster File Transfer: CFexpress cards allow photographers to transfer images and videos from the D850 to a computer or external storage device at much higher speeds. This saves time and improves workflow efficiency.
How to Use CFexpress Cards with the D850
To use CFexpress cards with the Nikon D850, follow these steps:
1. Update the Firmware: Ensure that your D850 is running firmware version 1.20 or later.
2. Insert the CFexpress Card: Insert a compatible CFexpress card into the card slot on the side of the D850.
3. Format the Card: Before using the CFexpress card, format it in the camera to optimize performance.
4. Enjoy the Benefits: Once the CFexpress card is formatted, you can take advantage of the faster data transfer speeds and improved performance it offers.
Considerations for Using CFexpress Cards with the D850
While CFexpress cards offer significant benefits, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Cost: CFexpress cards are generally more expensive than traditional SD or XQD cards.
- Compatibility: CFexpress cards are not compatible with older Nikon cameras that do not support the CFexpress standard.
- Card Reader: To take full advantage of the speed of CFexpress cards, you may need to invest in a compatible card reader.
Alternative Storage Options for the D850
If CFexpress cards are not within your budget or requirements, there are alternative storage options available for the Nikon D850:
- XQD Cards: XQD cards offer faster data transfer speeds than traditional SD cards and are compatible with the D850.
- SD Cards: SD cards are a more affordable option, but they offer slower data transfer speeds than CFexpress or XQD cards.
Recommendations
For photographers who demand the fastest possible data transfer speeds and performance, CFexpress cards are the ideal choice for the Nikon D850. They enable faster burst shooting, smoother 4K video recording, reduced buffer time, and faster file transfer. While CFexpress cards come at a higher cost, their benefits outweigh the expense for professional photographers and videographers seeking the ultimate in storage performance.
Wrapping Up
The Nikon D850’s support for CFexpress cards is a significant upgrade that opens up new possibilities for professional photographers and videographers. CFexpress cards offer lightning-fast data transfer speeds, enabling faster burst shooting, smoother 4K video recording, reduced buffer time, and faster file transfer. While CFexpress cards may come at a higher cost, their performance benefits make them an excellent investment for those who prioritize speed and efficiency in their workflow.
Information You Need to Know
Q: What are the advantages of using CFexpress cards with the D850?
A: CFexpress cards offer faster burst shooting, smoother 4K video recording, reduced buffer time, and faster file transfer.
Q: How much faster are CFexpress cards than SD cards?
A: CFexpress cards can offer read and write speeds that are several times faster than SD cards.
Q: Is it necessary to update the D850’s firmware to use CFexpress cards?
A: Yes, you need to update the D850’s firmware to version 1.20 or later to support CFexpress cards.
Q: Can I use CFexpress cards in older Nikon cameras?
A: No, CFexpress cards are only compatible with Nikon cameras that support the CFexpress standard, such as the D850.
Q: What are some alternative storage options for the D850?
A: Alternative storage options include XQD cards and SD cards, although they offer slower data transfer speeds than CFexpress cards.
