CFexpress Type A Card – Simple Guide
What is it?
A CFexpress Type A card is a newer, faster memory card used in some Sony Alpha cameras. It's much faster than regular SD or microSD cards, making it perfect for high-quality video and rapid photo bursts.
Why use it?
- Faster speeds → Records 4K, 8K, and slow-motion without lag.
- Bigger storage → Holds more photos and videos.
- Quick transfers → Move files to your computer much faster.
Compatible Sony Cameras
These Sony models use CFexpress Type A:
- ILCE-7SM3
- ILCE-1
- ILCE-7M4
- ILCE-7RM5
- ILCE-9M3
- ILME-FX3
- ILME-FX30
Available Sizes
| Model Number | Storage Size |
|---|---|
| CEA-G80T | 80 GB |
| CEA-G160T | 160 GB |
| CEA-G320T | 320 GB |
| CEA-G640T | 640 GB |
| CEA-M960T | 960 GB |
| CEA-M1920T | 1920 GB |
Speed Details
- Read Speed: up to 800 MB/s → How fast files can be copied from the card.
- Write Speed: up to 700 MB/s → How fast the camera saves to the card.
These speeds help prevent frame drops in video and allow long continuous recording.
What is VPG?
Video Performance Guarantee = the card's promise to record video at a steady speed without losing quality.
- VPG 200 → At least 200 MB/s sustained write speed.
- VPG 400 → At least 400 MB/s sustained write speed.
Other CFexpress Types
| Type | Size (mm) | Max Speed | Works in Alpha Cameras? |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | 20×28×2.8 | 1,000 MB/s | Yes |
| B | 38.5×29.8×3.8 | 2,000 MB/s | No |
| C | 54×74×4.8 | 4,000 MB/s | No |
Can I recover data from a corrupted memory card?
In some cases, it is possible to recover data. Sony provides a free Data recovery tool called Memory Card File Rescue.
Memory Card File Rescue can help you recover photos and videos that may have been damaged or deleted. It features support for recovering JPEG files, RAW files, XAVC S, and other video formats, including Sony, Nikon, and Canon RAW Photo formats such as CR3. Additionally, the tool supports both SD cards and CFexpress Type A / Type B and XQD memory cards.
However, it is important to remember that data recovery is never guaranteed. Corrupted files or heavily overwritten files may be unrecoverable. Firstly, formatting the card with a computer or another camera reduces the chances of successful recovery. Secondly, physical damage to the card is usually irreparable.
As soon as you suspect corruption, stop using a card. Any further writing to it could overwrite recoverable data.
If Memory Card File Rescue cannot recover the data, do not lose hope just yet. Consider trying other specialised data recovery software. Search for tools or services which can assist you further with recovering your material.