Does GoPros Come With SD Cards? A Complete Guide

GoPro cameras allow you to capture incredible photos and videos of your adventures. But without an SD card, you won’t be able to save any of your footage. So here is a short answer to your question does GoPros come with SD cards?

Does GoPros Come With SD Cards?

The short answer is no, most GoPro models do not include an SD card when you purchase the camera. However, some of the newer models like the GoPro HERO10 Black, HERO9 Black, HERO8 Black, and GoPro Max do come with a 32GB microSD card if bought directly from GoPro.

If your GoPro did not come with a memory card, don’t worry! In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting an SD card for your GoPro, including:

What do SD cards do and why do you need one
Which GoPro models come with SD cards
What to look for when buying an SD card
How to properly install the SD card

What Do SD Cards Do?

SD cards, which stand for Secure Digital cards, provide removable data storage for devices like cameras, smartphones, and other electronics.

Here are some key things to know about SD cards:

They allow you to store photos, videos, music, documents, and other files on a small, portable chip.
They enable transfer of data between devices like cameras, computers, printers, etc.
Different types have different storage capacities, ranging from 8GB to 512 GB.
Their small size and durability make them perfect for action cameras like GoPros.

Without an SD card, your GoPro wouldn’t be able to permanently save any of the footage you capture. The SD card acts as the GoPro’s long-term memory bank.

Which GoPro Models Come With SD Cards?

As mentioned above, most GoPro models do not come with an SD card included. You’ll need to purchase one separately.

However, there are a few exceptions:

GoPro HERO10 Black – Comes with a 32GB SanDisk Extreme microSD card when purchased directly from GoPro.
GoPro HERO9 Black – Also includes a 32GB SanDisk Extreme microSD card.
GoPro HERO8 Black – Same deal, you get a complimentary 32GB memory card.
GoPro Max – Again, includes a 32GB microSD card in the box.

So if you bought any GoPro model other than the newest 4 directly from the GoPro website, you likely did not receive an SD card with your camera.

If you’re unsure whether your GoPro came with an SD card, check the original packaging and materials. There should have been a microSD card in the box if one was included.

What to Look for When Buying a GoPro SD Card

Since your GoPro probably didn’t come with an SD card, you’ll need to pick one up separately. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a memory card for your GoPro:

Storage Capacity

GoPros can work with SD cards of varying storage sizes. Higher capacity means you can capture more photos/videos before filling up the card.

Most current GoPro models support up to 512GB SD cards. Older models may max out at 256GB or 128GB cards. Consult your camera’s documentation to see the recommended capacity range.

A 32GB or 64GB card is a good starting point for most users. Serious content creators may want 128GB or 256GB cards for maximum footage storage.

Speed Rating

Faster SD cards allow you to record higher-resolution video without issue. Look for cards with speed ratings of:

Class 10 or UHS-1 (minimum rating for most GoPros)
UHS-3 (recommended for newer models like HERO10 Black)
V30 (for 6K/8K video recording)

Avoid slower cards rated Class 2, 4, or 6, as these won’t properly support high-res GoPro videos.

Reputation

Stick with major, reputable brands like SanDisk, Sony, Lexar, Samsung, etc. when buying SD cards. Avoid generic no-name cards that may sacrifice performance and reliability.

Price

You can find SD cards for as low as $10 for 16GB models, and up to $100+ for 512GB cards from premium brands. Aim for a middle ground around $20-$40 for a quality 32GB or 64GB SD card that will suit most users’ needs.

How to Install the SD Card in Your GoPro

Once you’ve selected the right SD card for your GoPro model, you’re ready to install it. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

Remove any external batteries connected to your GoPro if applicable.
Locate the SD card slot on your camera. It’s normally located on the side or bottom of the GoPro behind a protective door. Consult your user manual for exact placement.
Open the memory card slot door. This may require sliding a lock tab or flipping open a door depending on your camera model.
Orient your microSD card properly and insert it into the slot. It should click into place if inserted correctly. Don’t force it!
Gently close the SD card slot door to lock the card in place.

You should now see an SD card icon on your camera display confirming insertion. Your GoPro is ready to start recording!

Be sure to format your new SD card within the GoPro before you start capturing footage. This will prep the card for use with your camera.

Using Your SD Card With a GoPro

Now the real fun begins! Here are some tips for making the most of your GoPro’s memory card:

Format cards before first use, and reformat occasionally to clear any data corruption.
Switch out cards when one gets full to continue shooting without interruption.
Offload footage regularly to free up card storage for reuse. Don’t delete files directly on the SD card.
Be cautious of high heat, water, magnets, and impacts that can damage cards.
Disconnect power before removing the card to avoid data loss or corruption.
Handle cards carefully by the edges; avoid touching gold contacts.

The Bottom Line – Does GoPros Come With SD Cards

So there you have it – while the majority of GoPro models don’t come with SD cards included, you do get one in the box with the HERO10, HERO9, HERO8, and Max when purchased directly from GoPro.

For any other GoPro camera, you’ll need to buy an SD card separately. Get a microSD card from a reputable brand with adequate storage and speed for your particular model.

Installing the card into your GoPro is quick and easy. Just locate the card slot, orient the card properly, insert it until it clicks, and close the slot door to lock it in.

With high-quality SD cards readily available at affordable prices, there’s no reason not to pick one up for your new GoPro. That way, you’ll be ready to start recording your adventures the moment you take it out of the box!