What fits in each slot
| Slot | Formats | Interface | Workflow note |
|---|---|---|---|
| SD slot | SD/SDHC/SDXC | UHS-I / UHS-II | Primary full-size card slot. |
| microSD slot | microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC | UHS-I | Secondary compact card slot beneath the battery. |
When faster media matters
Everyday recommendation
U3 SDXC for video and a matching U3 microSDXC if using the second slot for backup or overflow.
Demanding recommendation
A high-performance UHS-II SD card with at least 250 MB/s maximum transfer for high frame size or rate; the microSD slot remains UHS-I.
Nikon recommends U3 cards rated at least 250 MB/s maximum transfer for high-frame-size or high-frame-rate video.
Plan the complete workflow
Capacity
Nikon supports SD/SDHC/SDXC plus microSDHC/microSDXC. Capacity and speed do not have to match, but workflow behavior may differ.
Reader
Use a UHS-II SD reader and either a microSD reader or full-size adapter for the second card.
Three checks worth making
- The second slot is microSD, not full-size SD.
- Only the full-size slot supports UHS-II.
- Remove the battery before removing microSD as Nikon recommends.
Verify the current requirement
StorageSift summarizes the manufacturer's documentation; firmware, card qualification, and recording options can change. Recheck the source for the exact mode and capacity you plan to use.
Nikon Z f Reference Guide: approved memory cards ↗Source checked August 13, 2026