Yes, the Osmo Pocket 3 needs a memory card: it has no internal storage, and no card comes in the box. Use a microSD card rated UHS-I Speed Grade 3 (U3), up to 1 TB. A 128 GB or 256 GB card from DJI's recommended list, such as a Kingston Canvas Go! Plus, SanDisk Extreme Pro or Lexar card, is the sensible choice for most people.
What the Pocket 3 requires
- Format: microSD (not full-size SD).
- Speed: UHS-I Speed Grade 3 (the U3 symbol). DJI says this is required for high-resolution video.
- Capacity: up to 1 TB.
- File system: exFAT. Formatting in the camera sets this up.
A V30 rating is a good sign the card meets U3 speeds. Slower cards can stop recording or show warnings, especially in 4K/120fps slow motion.
DJI's recommended cards
DJI's spec page lists these tested models:
| Brand | Models |
|---|---|
| Kingston | Canvas Go! Plus 64, 128, 256 or 512 GB (UHS-I); Canvas React Plus 64, 128 or 256 GB (UHS-II) |
| SanDisk | Extreme Pro 32 GB V30 A1 |
| Lexar | Pro 256 or 512 GB V30; Silver Plus 64 GB, 512 GB or 1 TB |
Other U3 cards from reputable brands generally work, but the cards on this list are the ones DJI tested. Buy from a trusted seller; fake cards are common online.
What size should you buy?
The Pocket 3's maximum video bitrate is 130 Mbps. At that rate, video uses roughly 58 GB per hour. Lower resolutions and frame rates use less.
| Card | Approx. recording at 130 Mbps |
|---|---|
| 64 GB | About 1 hour |
| 128 GB | About 2 hours |
| 256 GB | About 4 hours |
| 512 GB | About 8 hours |
These are estimates; the camera shows the actual remaining time on screen. For a day of travel vlogging, 128 GB is usually enough. For long trips or events, carry 256 GB or two cards. Long recordings are split into separate files at about 16 GB, without losing quality.
How to insert and format the card
- With the camera off, insert the card into the microSD slot, facing the way the manual shows, until it clicks.
- Power on. If the card is new or used in another device, format it in the camera.
- Swipe down from the top of the screen, tap the settings icon, and choose Format. Swipe to confirm.
Formatting permanently deletes everything on the card. Back up your footage first. To remove the card, push it in gently so it pops out.
Card problems and fixes
- "No SD card" or card errors: reseat the card, then format it in the camera. Try another card from the list.
- Recording stops on its own: the card may be too slow or failing. Use a U3/V30 card and format it.
- Computer can't read the card: some older systems need exFAT support. See Pocket 3 not recognized on computer.
Getting files off the card
Download clips in DJI Mimo, connect the camera by USB-C, or use a card reader for big batches. See how to transfer Osmo Pocket 3 videos, and our best Pocket 3 settings to balance quality and card space. Shop the DJI Osmo Pocket 3.
Related guides
- How to insert and format the SD card in a DJI drone (and Osmo Pocket 3)
- Osmo Pocket 3 ND filters: do you need them?
- Best microphone for the Osmo Pocket 3 (DJI Mic 2 setup)
- Best Osmo Pocket 3 accessories worth buying
- Best SD card for the Osmo Action 5 Pro (and built-in storage)
- Can the Osmo Pocket 3 take photos? Photo quality and settings
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