Quick answer
For high-bitrate 8K or 6K video, both cards deliver the VPG400 speed you need. Choose the Lexar 256GB if you want a lower entry price; choose the Sony 960GB if your project demands long recording times without swapping cards.
Why VPG400 matters for video
VPG400 (Video Performance Guarantee 400) means the card can sustain a minimum write speed of 400 MB/s. That is the threshold for recording the most demanding codecs like 8K ProRes RAW or high-bitrate 4K at 120 fps without dropped frames. Both the Lexar CFexpress Type A Gold and the Sony CFexpress Type A TOUGH carry this rating, so they are equally reliable for continuous video capture.
Capacity versus price: the real trade-off
The Lexar 256GB costs roughly USD 253, while the Sony 960GB is priced around USD 580. That makes the Sony card about 2.3× more expensive, but it gives you 3.75× the storage. If you shoot long interviews, live events, or multi-camera productions, the extra capacity saves you from swapping cards mid-take. For shorter shoots or budget-conscious buyers, the Lexar offers a lower upfront cost while still meeting the same VPG400 standard.
Trade-offs between Lexar and Sony
- Recording time per card: The Sony 960GB holds roughly 3.75× the data of the Lexar 256GB. For a typical 8K ProRes RAW stream around 2.7 GB/min, the Sony card records about 6 hours versus about 1.6 hours on the Lexar.
- Cost per gigabyte: The Lexar costs about USD 0.99/GB, while the Sony costs about USD 0.60/GB. Despite a higher total price, the Sony gives you more storage for your dollar.
- Durability: The Sony TOUGH series has a reinforced, bend-resistant design. The Lexar Gold series uses a standard casing. If you shoot in dusty, wet, or physically demanding conditions, the Sony adds extra protection.
Product facts at a glance
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Lexar CFexpress Type A Gold 4.0 (256GB, VPG400) – Carte Mémoire: The Lexar CFexpress Type A Gold 4.0 (256GB) uses the PCIe 4.0 interface and is designed for broadcast, production audiovisuelle, and digital cinema. It delivers the VPG400 write speed needed for high-bitrate 8K workflows, but at a lower capacity that suits shorter recording sessions.
Lexar CFexpress Type A Gold 4.0 (256GB, VPG400) – Carte Mémoire
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Sony CFexpress 960GB (4.0, Type A, VPG400) – Carte Mémoire: The Sony 960GB CFexpress Type A TOUGH offers read speeds up to 1800 MB/s and write speeds up to 1700 MB/s, with a rugged design for demanding environments. Its large capacity and robust build make it ideal for long shoots and field work where changing cards is inconvenient.
Sony CFexpress 960GB (4.0, Type A, VPG400) – Carte Mémoire
Which card fits your workflow?
Best for
- Budget-conscious video shooters who need VPG400 performance for short clips or B-roll
- Photographers who occasionally shoot 4K video and want a reliable CFexpress 4.0 Type A card without overspending
Not ideal for
- Long-form documentary or event videographers who need uninterrupted recording over several hours
- Users who prefer a single card solution for extended shoots without carrying spares
