What is the Difference Between a Micro & Mini SD Card?

Micro and mini SD cards are both memory card options for use in various devices such as digital cameras and mobile phones. Both cards are used for storing data. While there are some similarities between the two, each has its own unique properties.

Dimensions

Both cards are smaller than standard SD cards. The micro, at 11 by 15 by 1 mm, is smaller than the mini, which is 20 by 21.5 by 1.4 mm.

Capacity

The standard versions of both cards can have a capacity up to 2 GB. The micro comes in storage capacities up to 2 TB, whereas the greatest capacity of the mini is 32 GB.

Pins

The mini uses 11 pins to connect to a device, while the micro uses eight. This does not affect either card's use.

How to Use

Both cards require a special adapter to use in standard SD slots, but the micro can be used in most mobile phones without an adapter.

Compatibility

Using the adapters, both cards can be used in any SD-compatible device. Both cards are compatible with certain mobile devices, but micro cards are growing more in popularity. In 2008, 66.4 percent of devices were compatible with the micro cards, and by 2011, it is projected that 85.6 percent of devices will be, according to the SD Association.

Resources

• SD Association: Mini SD
• SD Association: Micro SD