Memory Card Video Recording Capacity Calculator
Calculate how much video footage fits on your memory card based on resolution, frame rate, and codec.
Covers 4K, 1080p, RAW video, and different camera formats.
Running out of storage in the middle of a shoot is one of the most frustrating experiences for videographers. Knowing exactly how much footage your card can hold at a given resolution and codec allows you to prepare the right number of cards for any job.
How Video File Size is Calculated
Video files are measured by their bit rate — the amount of data recorded per second, measured in Megabits per second (Mbps) or Gigabits per second (Gbps).
Recording Time (minutes) = Card Capacity (GB) × 8,000 / Bit Rate (Mbps) / 60
Note: 1 GB = 8 Gigabits = 8,000 Megabits.
Common Video Bit Rates
| Format | Typical Bit Rate |
|---|---|
| 1080p/24fps H.264 (YouTube export) | 8–16 Mbps |
| 1080p/60fps H.264 (high quality) | 28–40 Mbps |
| 4K/24fps H.264 (consumer camera) | 50–100 Mbps |
| 4K/60fps H.265/HEVC | 100–200 Mbps |
| 4K RAW (cinema cameras) | 800–1,000+ Mbps |
| 6K RAW | 1,500–2,000 Mbps |
| ProRes 422 (1080p) | 147 Mbps |
| ProRes RAW 4K | 400–1,000 Mbps |
| GoPro 4K/60fps | ~60 Mbps |
| Drone 4K (DJI) | ~100 Mbps |
Memory Card Capacity vs. Rated Size
Memory cards are sold by nominal capacity (64 GB, 128 GB, etc.) but actual formatted capacity is about 7% lower. A 128 GB card holds approximately 119 GB of usable data.
Card Speed Requirements
Minimum write speeds required:
- 1080p high quality: 30 MB/s (UHS-I / V30)
- 4K standard: 60 MB/s (UHS-I V60 or UHS-II V60)
- 4K 60fps or higher: 90–150 MB/s (UHS-II V90)
- Cinema RAW: 250+ MB/s (CFexpress Type B)
Always use a card that exceeds the camera’s minimum write speed to avoid dropped frames or buffer overruns.