CFast Flash Cards – High-Speed, Reliable Storage at the Best Price
CFast Flash Cards were designed to bring SATA-level performance to professional media workflows. As the successor to CompactFlash (CF), CFast cards use the SATA III interface to deliver read/write speeds far beyond older PATA-based cards. Perfect for 4K and 6K video production, these cards have become a trusted choice for cinematographers, broadcasters, and professional photographers who need sustained high data rates and robust reliability.
Unlike consumer memory cards, CFast media is engineered for heavy-duty use — recording continuous high-bitrate video, handling large RAW image bursts, and maintaining data integrity during rapid transfers. It bridges the gap between the legacy CompactFlash format and the newer CFexpress standard, offering excellent value for professionals who need dependable speed without the extreme cost of PCIe-based storage.
Why Choose CFast Flash Cards?
For many professionals, CFast represents the perfect balance between performance and cost. Its SATA III interface ensures compatibility with a wide range of cameras and recorders, while delivering the speed necessary for demanding video workflows.
- High-Speed Transfers: Up to 600 MB/s with sustained write performance for 4K/6K capture.
- Reliable Architecture: Industrial-grade flash designed for endurance and stability.
- Optimized for Video: Prevents dropped frames in high-bitrate recording.
- Backward Transition: Successor to CompactFlash with similar form factor.
- Future-Proof Value: Cost-effective bridge between CF and CFexpress formats.
CFast Specifications and Performance
CFast cards use the SATA III (6 Gb/s) bus, delivering a practical top speed of about 600 MB/s. Real-world write speeds vary by manufacturer, with premium models supporting sustained performance that rivals lower-tier PCIe drives.
| Version | Interface | Max Speed | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| CFast 1.0 | SATA II (3 Gb/s) | 300 MB/s | Early HD video cameras |
| CFast 2.0 | SATA III (6 Gb/s) | 600 MB/s | 4K/6K professional production |
Popular professional cameras such as the Canon C300 Mark II, ARRI Alexa Mini, and Blackmagic URSA Mini Pro use CFast 2.0 cards for their balance of high sustained speeds and field reliability.
CFast vs CompactFlash vs CFexpress
Here’s how CFast compares to the older and newer flash card standards:
| Format | Interface | Max Speed | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| CompactFlash | PATA / UDMA | 167 MB/s | Legacy DSLRs |
| CFast | SATA III | 600 MB/s | 4K/6K cameras, broadcast recorders |
| CFexpress | PCIe Gen 3 x2/x4 | Up to 4,000 MB/s | 8K cinema, pro video workflows |
For professionals not yet ready to invest in CFexpress, CFast cards remain a practical, affordable option that still meets demanding production standards.
Best Use Cases for CFast Flash Cards
- Cinema Production: Record 4K/6K RAW and ProRes footage without dropped frames.
- Broadcast Systems: Reliable capture for ENG and field production workflows.
- Photography: Rapid RAW bursts in high-resolution still cameras.
- Data Offloading: Fast transfers to SSD-based editing systems via CFast readers.
Tips for Maintaining CFast Media
- Use manufacturer-certified readers and avoid cheap adapters.
- Format cards in-camera before recording sessions.
- Keep cards in anti-static cases when traveling or on set.
- Monitor health stats on premium models (Angelbird, Lexar, SanDisk Professional).
- Replace older cards after extended use or visible wear.
Explore Related Flash Storage
- CompactFlash (CF) Cards – Legacy format known for reliability and durability.
- CFexpress Flash Cards – The latest PCIe standard for 8K and high-end video.
- SD Flash Cards – Universal flash media for cameras and laptops.
- microSD Flash Cards – Compact, versatile storage for mobile devices.
- USB Flash Drives – Simple, portable file storage for any device.
Expert CFast Resources
- Tom’s Hardware – Best CFast Cards 2025
- TechRadar – Top CFast and CFexpress Cards
- PCMag – CFast and CFexpress Card Comparisons
- AnandTech – Professional Flash Media Benchmarks
Last updated: • Informational page only. Compare CFast, CFexpress, and CompactFlash options in related categories. Prices updated daily.