In an increasingly digital age where we document every milestone, meal, and moment in between, a common question that arises is: how many pictures can 1TB hold? The answer is not as straightforward as one might think, as it depends on various factors such as the resolution of the image, the format of the image, and the presence of other types of files. However, with some basic understanding of these factors, one can get a fairly accurate estimate.
What Factors Influence the Size of Your Pictures?
When determining the size of a photo, the key factors to consider include image resolution, image format, the presence of video files, and other miscellaneous files.
Image Resolution
Image resolution refers to the detail an image holds. It can be measured in various ways, but the most common one is pixels per inch (PPI). The higher the resolution, the greater the number of pixels, and consequently, the larger the file size. A low-resolution image (e.g., 72 PPI) will be smaller in size compared to a high-resolution photo (e.g., 300 PPI).
Image Format
The format of an image also plays a crucial role in determining its size. Common formats include JPEG, RAW, TIFF, PNG, and more. JPEG, which stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, is a commonly used method of lossy compression for digital images, particularly for those images produced by digital photography. RAW is a file format that captures all image data recorded by the sensor when you take a photo. The data is minimally processed, resulting in a file size significantly larger than that of a JPEG.
Video Files
If you’re using your 1TB storage for both photos and videos, the number of photos you can store will be significantly less. This is because video files are considerably larger in size than image files. The exact number will depend on the resolution, frame rate, and compression algorithm of the videos.
Other Files
Lastly, if your storage contains other types of files such as documents, apps, or system files, these will also take up space and reduce the number of pictures your 1TB can hold.
Understanding JPEG and RAW Image Formats
JPEG
JPEG(Joint Photographic Experts Group) is a popular image format due to its efficient compression algorithm. It significantly reduces the file size by selectively discarding data. This “lossy” compression can result in a loss of image quality, but the reduction in size makes JPEGs easy to handle, share, and store. On average, a JPEG image can range between 1MB to 25MB depending on the resolution and camera settings.
RAW
RAW files, on the other hand, contain all the data from a camera’s sensor, resulting in a high-quality image with a large file size. These files are uncompressed and unprocessed, which means they offer more flexibility in post-processing adjustments such as exposure and white balance. However, the trade-off is a much larger file size. Depending on the camera and the settings, a RAW file can range from 20MB to 60MB, or even more.
Number of Photos a 1TB Card Hold on GoPro
Given the large file sizes that GoPro cameras produce, especially when shooting in high resolution or at high frame rates, a 1TB card can be quite useful. Here’s an approximate count of how many photos a 1TB card can hold for each GoPro model from Hero 6 to Hero 11:
GoPro Hero 11 Black
With a 27MP lens, the GoPro Hero 11 Black captures 6.7MB images. You can store about 149253 images on your 1GB SD card.
GoPro Hero 10 Black
The GoPro Hero 10 Black has a 23.6MP lens that captures 6.5MB images. This means you can store approximately 153846 images on your 1GB SD card.
GoPro Hero 9 Black
The GoPro Hero 9 Black has a 20MP resolution, and the image size is approximately 5.6MB. You can store about 178571 images on your 1GB SD card.
GoPro Max
The GoPro Max has a 16.6MP lens that captures approximately 5MB images. You can store about 200000 GoPro Max image captures on your 1GB SD card.
GoPro Hero 8 Black, Hero 7 Black & Hero 6 Black
These cameras all have a 12MP resolution, and the size of the images they capture is approximately 3.6MB. This means you can store roughly 277777 images on your 1GB SD card.
1TB SD Card Recommendations on GoPro
While 1TB SD cards offer a lot of storage space, it’s generally recommended to use such high-capacity cards only with the latest GoPro models such as the Hero 11 and Hero 10. This recommendation stems from a couple of reasons.
Firstly, the Hero 11 and Hero 10 models are designed to handle the large file sizes that result from shooting in high-resolution formats, such as 4K or RAW. These formats produce large file sizes, and a high-capacity card like a 1TB SD card can handle the storage requirements without needing frequent card changes.
Secondly, these latest GoPro models have faster processing capabilities, which can effectively handle the read and write speeds required for such large storage capacities. Older models may not have been designed with these capabilities in mind, and using a 1TB card with them could potentially lead to performance issues, such as slower write speeds or buffer times, possibly leading to missed shots or video lag.
For older GoPro models, it’s typically more efficient to use SD cards with less capacity, like 128GB, 256GB or 512GB. These sizes can comfortably hold thousands of photos and several hours of HD video, and are more than sufficient for most shooting scenarios. Plus, using smaller cards can help spread your data across multiple cards, reducing the risk of losing all your data should a card fail or get lost.
While a 1TB SD card can offer significant benefits in terms of storage space, it’s best to use such high-capacity cards only with the latest GoPro models that are designed to handle them effectively. For older models, smaller cards are typically a more efficient choice.
The Best 1TB SD Memory Cards
For photographers and videographers looking to maximize storage space, a 1TB SD card can be a game-changer. Here are three of the best 1TB SD cards available on Amazon:
#1. SanDisk 1TB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card
- This Sandisk Extreme Pro micro SD card 1TB features transfer speeds of up to 170MB/s...
- Transfer files at blazing fast speeds of just 3 minutes for 1000 high res pictures...
- Featured specs include Class 10, UHS Speed Class 3 (U3), A2, Video 30 (V30), 4K UHD...
Renowned for its speed and reliability, the SanDisk Extreme Pro is a favorite among professional photographers. It offers a read speed of up to 170MB/s and a write speed of 90MB/s, ensuring that data is transferred quickly and efficiently. This card is also shock-proof, temperature-proof, water-proof, and x-ray-proof, making it ideal for rugged conditions.
#2. TEAMGROUP GO Card 1TB Micro SDXC Card
- Special memory card designed especially for action cameras and GoPro. Supports 4K...
- Outstanding preserve & transfer performance, the read & write speed is up to 100MB/s...
- Built for use and last in extreme environments. It offers 4 trustworthy protections:...
The TEAMGROUP GO Card 1TB Micro SDXC UHS-I U3 V30 4K is a reliable and efficient storage choice for those who frequently work with high-resolution photos and videos. It boasts a read speed of up to 90MB/s, facilitating quick file transfers and enabling smooth 4K video recording and playback.
In terms of durability, this card doesn’t disappoint. It is waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and x-ray-proof, offering excellent protection for your data in various environments. Its compatibility with multiple devices, thanks to the included SD adapter, adds to its appeal, making it a versatile choice for a range of uses.
#3. PNY 1TB PRO Elite SDXC Card
- Class 10, U3, V30 speed class performance with read speeds up to 100MB/s, and write...
- A2 App Performance enables apps to run directly from the microSD card, delivering...
- Record and transfer videos, photos, music, files and more from microSD enabled host...
The PNY PRO Elite is another great option, offering read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of up to 90MB/s. This card is designed for professionals and enthusiasts who want to shoot burst-mode photos or 4K Ultra HD video. The card also comes with a lifetime limited warranty, providing peace of mind for your investment.
#4. Gigastone 1TB Micro SD Card
![[5-Yrs Free Data Recovery]...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/3156fVbpZhL.jpg){kind=small}
- [App] A2 grade provides faster App loading performance for Smartphones & Tablets
- [Ultra HD] Read/Write up to 160/140 MB/s. Ultra HD video displaying/recording
- [Compatibility] Storage for Laptop, Tablet, PC, Smartphones, Camera, DSLR, Dashcam,...
The Gigastone 1TB Micro SD Card is a robust and efficient storage solution designed to cater to a variety of storage needs. This card offers read speeds of up to 100MB/s and write speeds of up to 40MB/s, facilitating swift file transfers. It’s an excellent choice for users who deal with large-sized files like 4K videos and high-resolution photographs.
Moreover, the Gigastone Micro SD Card is designed for durability. It is waterproof, shockproof, temperature-proof, and X-ray-proof, ensuring your data’s safety in a wide range of environments. Additionally, it comes with an SD adapter, which enhances its versatility, making it compatible with a wider range of devices. All these features make the Gigastone 1TB Micro SD Card a reliable and efficient choice for your storage needs.
#5. SanDisk 1TB Extreme SDXC UHS-I Card
- Save time with card offload speeds of up to 190MB/s powered by SanDisk QuickFlow...
- Pair with the SanDisk Professional PRO-READER SD and microSD to achieve maximum...
- Up to 130MB/s write speeds for fast shooting (Based on internal testing; performance...
The SanDisk 1TB Extreme SDXC UHS-I Card stands out as a high-capacity, high-performance storage solution. Its impressive read speed of up to 150MB/s and write speed of up to 70MB/s allow for quick data transfer, making it a favorite among professionals dealing with high-resolution photos and 4K videos. The card also impresses with its durability – it’s shock-proof, temperature-proof, water-proof, and x-ray-proof, providing reliability in various shooting conditions. Coupled with a RescuePRO Deluxe data recovery software offer, this card not only provides ample storage but also ensures your valuable data is well protected.
Should You Buy a 1TB SD Card?
Deciding whether it’s worth it to buy a 1TB SD card ultimately depends on your specific needs and use cases.
If you are a professional photographer or videographer who shoots in high-resolution formats, such as 4K or RAW, a 1TB SD card can be immensely beneficial. These formats produce large file sizes and having a large-capacity card can save you from frequently switching cards in the middle of a shoot. Similarly, if you’re going on a long trip and won’t have regular access to a computer or cloud storage to offload your files, a 1TB card could prove to be a lifesaver.
Moreover, with the rise of high-resolution video content creation, having a larger storage space becomes essential for smooth and efficient work. This is particularly true for those involved in creating extensive video content, such as YouTubers, filmmakers, and vloggers.
However, if your usage doesn’t involve such heavy-duty needs, a 1TB SD card might be overkill. For casual photographers or those shooting in JPEG or lower resolution, smaller cards like 128GB or 256GB might be more cost-effective and can still hold thousands of photos.
Another factor to consider is the risk associated with putting all your data on one card. If that card were to fail or get lost, you would lose a significant amount of data. Using multiple smaller cards can mitigate this risk, allowing you to spread your data across several cards.
So, is a 1TB SD card worth it? The answer is, it depends. If your work or hobbies involve capturing high-resolution images or videos and you need the extra space, it can definitely be a worthwhile investment. On the other hand, if you’re a casual user, smaller and more cost-effective options might suit your needs just as well.
To learn more about other SD card capacities, check out:
How Many Pictures a 32gb SD Card CAN Hold (RAW + JPEG)
How Many Pictures a 64gb SD Card CAN Hold (RAW + JPEG)
How Many Pictures a 128gb SD Card CAN Hold (RAW + JPEG)
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Also Read:
- Memory Card Battle: Samsung Evo Plus vs SanDisk Extreme
- 7 Best (FAST) Sandisk Micro SD Cards
- 7 Best USB-C SD/MicroSD Card Readers
- Top 7 SD Card Adapters (microSD to SD to USB)
- Top 7 CAC Card Reader for Mac
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