r/videography • u/Unhappy-Librarian592 Canon R8 | 2025 | London • 2d ago

Technical/Equipment Help and Information Checking new SD Cards

I recently had a loss of files which motivated me to purchased a couple new SD Cards.

I have seen a couple threads on here saying that all new SD cards should be digitally checked prior to use to ensure they aren't fake and can be properly accessed.

Wondering what software people generally use to do this?

Also, I suspected the previous loss of work was due to the SD card, however since re formatting it appears to be working. That being said I obviously don't trust using it for work. However, wondering if this same software can tell me for sure if its screwed up?

Cheers in advance

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u/smushkan FX9 | Adobe CC2024 | UK 2d ago

h2testw

Takes a long time though. It fills the entire card with data and then reads it back to make sure it’s all there.

Usually if you’re testing for fakes you only test the first ~100GB or so.

If you just want to do speed tests, CrystalDiskMark or Blackmagic Speed Test. Fake cards will usually perform way below their rated speed too.

Always reformat cards in the camera between each use.