13 best memory cards
Memory cards are useful accessories for all mobile device owners. They are necessary for smartphones, tablets, hybrid computers, cameras, MP3-players, DVRs and other devices, whose volume of internal storage leaves much to be desired.
We have compiled a rating of 13 best memory cards that will be useful for any electronics.
What is the difference between memory cards?
Memory cards are a whole class of external drives. And, of course, individual models differ from each other not only by the manufacturer and volume. Maps are classified as follows:
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By format (microSD, CompactFlash, Secure Digital HC);
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By generation (MicroSD, MicroSDHC, MicroSDXC);
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By speed class (Class 2-10, UHS I-III).
Let us briefly review these main differences, since they affect the compatibility of the drive and the mobile device.
Memory Card Formats
The format of the card determines its hardware compatibility with the mobile device. Cross-compatibility does not exist, so you should choose an external drive based on the technical characteristics of the device in which you plan to use it.
For example, MicroSD drives are used in most modern mobile devices — smartphones, tablets, hybrid computers, even laptops, DVRs, etc. This format is compatible with SD, but only when using a special adapter.
CompactFlash, due to the high speed of both sequential and random recording, is often used in cameras.
Secure Digital HC (SDHC) is similar to MicroSD, only has large sizes. In principle, if desired, such a memory card can be replaced with a MicroSD with an appropriate adapter, however, it is worth considering that in this case the recording speed may drop.
Memory Card Generations
MicroSD memory card generations determine the size of this external drive. So:
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MicroSD (MicroSDSC) - maximum capacity up to 4 GB;
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MicroSDHC - up to 32 GB;
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MicroSDXC - up to 2 TB.
Compatibility between these generations is only reverse. So, if the device supports MicroSDXC, both HC and SC can be installed into it. However, if the device is compatible only with MicroSDHC, it simply will not see the memory card on the XC.
Memory card speed classes
The maximum write speed of this external drive depends on the class of the drive. So:
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Class 2 - up to 2 megabytes per second, suitable for small files;
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Class 4 - up to 4 MB / s, for video and music;
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Class 6 - up to 6 MB / s, for high resolution video;
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Class 10, UHS I - up to 10 MB / s, for video with a frame rate of more than 30 fps and photo in HDR;
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UHS III - up to 30 MB / s for 4K video with a frame rate of 120 fps.
Thus, it is recommended to choose the speed class based on your needs.
Top memory card rating
| Nomination | a place | Name of product | price |
| Top MicroSDHC Memory Cards | 1 | SanDisk Extreme Pro MicroSDHC UHS Class 1 | 1 590 ₽ |
| 2 | Samsung MicroSDHC EVO Plus 95MB / s + SD Adapter | 627 ₽ | |
| 3 | SanDisk Ultra MicroSDHC Class 10 UHS-I | 393 ₽ | |
| 4 | Transcend TS * USDHC10U1 | 1 250 ₽ | |
| Best MicroSDXC Memory Cards | 1 | SanDisk Extreme MicroSDXC Class 10 UHS Class 3 V30 90MB / s | - |
| 2 | Samsung MicroSDXC EVO Plus 100MB / s + SD Adapter | 1 355 ₽ | |
| 3 | Kingston SDCA10 / 64GB | 2 195 ₽ | |
| 4 | Samsung MB-MC256GA | 5 529 ₽ | |
| Top Compact Flash Memory Cards | 1 | SanDisk Extreme Pro CompactFlash 160MB / s | 3 450 ₽ |
| 2 | Transcend CompactFlash (TS * GCF800) | 2 210 ₽ | |
| Best Secure Digital HC Memory Cards | 1 | Transcend TS * SDHC10 | 300 ₽ |
| 2 | SanDisk Extreme Pro SDHC | 990 ₽ | |
| 3 | Sony SF-G32 | 4 590 ₽ |
Top MicroSDHC Memory Cards
SanDisk Extreme Pro MicroSDHC UHS Class 1
Rating: 4.8
Why first place: High-speed and secure memory card.
Description: The SanDisk Extreme Pro series includes high-speed memory cards that deliver greater performance than indicated in the classroom.For example, the MicroSDHC UHS Class 1 model can write data at 90 megabytes per second (maximum when blocks are filled sequentially), and read information at 95 megabytes per second. This is 9 times higher than the minimum speed threshold specified in the class - and the highest performance in our ranking.
The map is executed in a secure configuration. It is able to survive static electricity shocks, shaking, falling, brief drowning and contact with dust. In addition, it is protected from X-ray exposure, so that the data will not suffer even during inspection at airports.
On the market there are two versions of this drive, differing in volume - 8 GB and 16 GB.
Virtues
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High speed. Can be used with cameras and camcorders; Secure configuration;
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Relatively fast random recording of small files.
disadvantages
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Relatively high price;
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Poor equipment;
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Drop in performance when copying small files.
Samsung MicroSDHC EVO Plus 95MB / s + SD Adapter
Rating: 4.7
Why second place: Slower recording speed than the leader of the rating, lack of protection.
Description: Samsung EVO Plus, which has a speed class of UHS I, is a good drive for almost any mobile device. Writing to this drive is at 20 megabytes per second, and reading is already at 95 megabytes per second. At the same time, the drop in speed during random recording is minimal. The card is also compatible with older devices that do not support the UHS bus. On such devices, it works on the speed class Class 10, there is no performance drop.
The storage capacity is 32 GB - maximum for MicroSDHC standard. The device is executed in a “minimally protected” configuration - experiencing falling into dust and electrostatic discharges. This is enough for most users.
The kit, besides the memory card itself, includes a specially optimized adapter for use with this drive on the SD form factor. With him, there is no performance drop.
Virtues
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Reliability (Samsung is a leader in the production of flash cards);
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High read and write speed;
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Optimal price-performance ratio.
disadvantages
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The drop in speed during random recording is still observed, albeit insignificant;
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Tangible heat when used in some card readers;
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There is no protection from X-rays, it is better not to carry out scanners at airports.
SanDisk Ultra MicroSDHC Class 10 UHS-I
Rating: 4.6
Why third place: High reliability, but relatively low speed.
Description: Unlike top-rated memory cards, SanDisk Ultra drives do not chase maximum speed. This model supports the “classic” Class 10 and high-performance UHS-I bus. Therefore, the maximum data transfer for writing is about 20 megabytes per second with sequential access to the segments, and for reading - about 45 megabytes per second. The card is compatible with devices recording Full HD video with a frame rate of about 30 fps.
The map is executed in a “partially protected” configuration - experiencing short-term drowning, falling into dust and being hit by static electricity. There is no contour to prevent exposure to x-rays.
The device comes complete with a special adapter on the SD form factor. When used, read and write speeds are preserved.
Virtues
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Reliability, warranty from the manufacturer - 8 years;
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High read and write speed;
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A variety of model range (capacity from 8 to 32 GB).
disadvantages
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Noticeable drop in speed during random recording;
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Often there are fakes;
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Sensitive to aggressive use and exposure to the external environment.
Transcend TS * USDHC10U1
Rating: 4.6
Why fourth place: High read and write speed, but relatively low reliability.
Transcend TS * USDHC10U1 is included in the branded high-speed line Ultimate, making its performance comparable with the leaders of the rating.So, sequential writing to this drive goes to 45 megabytes per second, sequential reading to 90 megabytes per second. With random access performance drops noticeably, but not noticeably with everyday use.
There is no protection system in this memory card. Therefore, you need to use it carefully. Ideally, install into one device and remove it only with the power off. Only with this use it will last a long time.
The card is compatible with the traditional high-speed tire Class 10 and the modern UHS-I. The kit includes an adapter for SD form factor. Available in the market volumes - 8, 16 and 32 GB.
Virtues
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High read and write speed;
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Adapter on SD form factor included;
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Low price.
disadvantages
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Requires careful handling;
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Standard warranty from the manufacturer - for 24 months;
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A noticeable drop in performance with random recording or with active use.
Best MicroSDXC Memory Cards
SanDisk Extreme MicroSDXC Class 10 UHS Class 3 V30 90MB / s
Rating: 4.9
Why the first place: Protected memory card speed class Video Speed V30
Description: High-performance memory card, which is certified according to the speed class Video Speed Class V30. Because of this, it supports 4K video recording at up to 120 frames per second inclusive. The drive can be used in video cameras, as well as other mobile devices.
Transferring serial data to this memory card using the UHS bus is 45 megabytes per second minimum. Readings - 90 megabytes per second. Included with the memory card is an adapter to SD, which does not reduce the transfer of work data during use.
The model runs in a secure configuration. She is experiencing static electricity shocks, can briefly sink and fall into dust. Also, the memory card is protected from x-ray exposure, which is used, for example, at airports during inspection.
The device is presented in one configuration - 64 GB.
Virtues
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High read and write speed;
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10 years warranty with full support from the manufacturer;
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Adapter on SD form factor included.
disadvantages
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Comparative high cost;
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Hard kit adapter;
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Only one configuration of memory.
Samsung MicroSDXC EVO Plus 100MB / s + SD Adapter
Rating: 4.8
Why second place: High read and write speed, but no V30 certification and relatively expensive.
Description: One of the fastest memory cards from Samsung. The EVO Plus series offers sequential write speeds of 90 megabytes per second, and reads of 100 megabytes per second! However, with random access to memory segments, performance is slightly reduced, but this card is intended more for video cameras, DVRs, cameras and similar devices. And they write mostly consistently.
The card is equipped with a high-speed UHS-III bus, which guarantees a minimum sequential write speed of 30 megabytes per second. The drive is running in a “partially protected” configuration that offers resistance to static electricity, unexpected blackouts, water and dust.
The package includes a proprietary adapter on the form factor SD. Available configurations are 64, 128 and 256 GB.
Virtues
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High read and write speed, in some cases higher than stated;
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10 years of official warranty from the manufacturer (maximum rating);
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Good combination of price and capacity.
disadvantages
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Fragile, insert and remove with care;
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A slight decrease in performance when writing to random segments and working with small files;
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The adapter reduces read and write data transfer.
Kingston SDCA10 / 64GB
Rating: 4.7
Why third place: Bus UHS-I, but high reliability.
Description: The Kington SDCA10 memory card does not offer the masses of modern technologies, like the two previous models from the rating. But it is highly reliable, so you can safely take it with you on tourist trips - even in the taiga.The device is certified for high-speed classes Class 10 and UHS-I, but the sequential recording is carried out at 45 megabytes per second, and reading at 90 megabytes per second.
The model is quite secure. It “survives” unexpected recoveries, static electricity shocks, low and high temperatures, and falling into dust or dirt. It is also protected from radiation X-rays.
The card exists in one capacity configuration - 64 GB. An adapter for the SD form factor, which does not reduce the data transfer rate, is included in the delivery.
Virtues
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High read and write speed;
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Reliable and secure design;
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A new type of adapter is included.
disadvantages
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Often there are fakes with less reliability and performance;
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Sensible heat with active use;
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A noticeable drop in performance when copying small files and writing to random sectors.
Samsung MB-MC256GA
Rating: 4.
Why fourth place: Very fast, but relatively expensive memory card.
Description: Samsung MB-MC256GA is one of the most expensive memory cards in the rating. But its value is justified. Firstly, the capacity of this card is 256 GB. Secondly, the speed of sequential writing to it is 90 megabits per second. Reading is even higher - about 100 megabits per second. The card is certified according to the speed standards Class 10 and UHS-III. This means that it is quite possible to record video at 4K 120 fps.
The protected configuration of the accumulator prevents damage in case of unexpected extraction, discharge of static electricity, contact with extreme temperatures, moisture and dust. A shield against radiation exposure is also present.
The kit includes an adapter for SD form factor. The adapter is a new generation, so when using the read and write speed does not change. In this configuration, 256 GB of memory, but there are 64 and 128 GB models.
Virtues
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Very fast, actual speed is above par;
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Five year warranty from the manufacturer;
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Robust and reliable foundation
disadvantages
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Sensibly heated when used in a card reader;
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Slight performance drop when writing to random access sectors;
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Incompatible with UHS-II standard.
Top Compact Flash Memory Cards
SanDisk Extreme Pro CompactFlash 160MB / s
Rating: 4.9
Why first place: Maximum data transfer rate.
SanDisk Extreme Pro CompactFlash format is suitable for professional cameras and camcorders that store footage in RAW or high bitrate. The drive performance in sequential write is 150 megabytes per second, while reading - 160 megabytes per second. The actual data rate is 1067x.
One of the possible usage scenarios speaks about high performance of the memory card. Professional camera Canon EOS 5D Mark III is able to record on this drive up to 50 RAW-images in the mode of continuous shooting without loss of information.
It should be noted that not every card reader is able to cope at such a speed (in fact, it is the highest in the ranking). Therefore, when copying to or from a computer, performance will be limited by the bandwidth of the interface.
The drive is available in five configurations - 16, 32, 64, 128 and 256 GB.
Virtues
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Maximum speed;
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Wide temperature range;
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Lifetime warranty.
disadvantages
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Relatively high price, especially on versions 128 and 256 GB;
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No protection against water and dust;
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No protection against X-ray examination.
Transcend CompactFlash (TS * GCF800)
Rating: 4.8
Why second place: Slower writing and reading speed than the leader of the rating.
Transcend CompactFlash (TS * GCF800) is designed for semi-professional mid-range cameras and camcorders. The performance is less than its predecessor - the maximum speed for sequential writing is 60 megabytes per second, reading - 120 megabytes per second. In practice, this means that Full HD video with a bitrate of less than 20 MB / s (30 or 60 fps, depending on the codec used) can be recorded on this card without the risk of failures.
If we talk about photography, then, for example, this memory card allows you to get up to 26 full resolution images from HDR to the Nikon D700 camera in 10 seconds. The indicator is quite good and sufficient for most operators.
The main advantage of the card is the presence of the ECC error correction system, which prevents failures while storing data on this media.
The drive is available in five versions with a capacity of 16 to 256 gigabytes.
Virtues
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The optimal ratio of price and performance;
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High write speed;
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Built-in error correction.
disadvantages
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Limited warranty (5 years and “with reservations”);
No protection against extreme temperatures;
Comparative high cost.
Best Secure Digital HC Memory Cards
Transcend TS * SDHC10
Rating: 4.8
Why first place: The best combination of price and performance.
Transcend TS * SDHC10 is suitable for entry-level cameras, camcorders and similar recording devices. It is certified for the Class 10 speed standard, which means guaranteed recording at 10 megabytes per second. But with sequential saving, this parameter increases to 20-30 megabytes per second, and reading - to 45 MB / s.
An important advantage of the memory card is high reliability. It is well protected from unexpected extraction, the effects of electrostatic discharges, dust and moisture. The manufacturer gives the memory card a limited five-year warranty.
The memory card is available on the market in four configurations that differ in the amount of memory - 4, 8, 16 and 32 GB.
Virtues
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Fast data transfer rate;
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Reliability and durability;
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The best in the ranking combination of price, volume and performance.
disadvantages
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"Wear" - over time, the recording speed may begin to fall;
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Limited five-year warranty (for SanDisk, for example, a lifetime warranty);
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Shaky casing, which can crack when frequently installed and removed.
SanDisk Extreme Pro SDHC
Rating: 4.7
Why second place: A faster, but at the same time more expensive memory card than the leader of the rating.
Description: Like other SanDisk memory cards in the Extreme Pro line, the SDHC model offers the highest read and write speeds. In particular, the storage for this external drive goes to 90 megabytes per second (sequential), playback - at 95 MB / s. With random write performance drops slightly.
The device is certified to Class 10 and UHS-III standards. In addition, the speed class V30 (Video Speed Class 30) ensures that 4K clips with a frame rate of 36 or 60 fps can be recorded on this drive, depending on the codec used.
The drive is suitable for use in extreme conditions. It withstands high and low temperatures, short-term drowning and immersion in dust. It is also protected from X-rays, which is used at airports for inspection.
The SDHC version card is presented only in one configuration - with 32 GB of memory.
Virtues
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High speed, suitable for 4K UHD;
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Protected, shockproof housing;
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Lifetime warranty.
disadvantages
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Relatively expensive;
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Loose record lock lock design;
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Noticeable drop in speed during random recording.
Sony SF-G32
Rating: 4.7
Why third place: The highest rate in the ranking, but unreasonably expensive.
Description: Sony SF-G32 is a memory card designed for professional photographers, videographers and operators using the appropriate equipment. It has a maximum data transfer rate - sequential recording is carried out at 299 megabytes per second, reading - at 300 MB / s. With random access to memory segments, performance drops — in fact, by 30%, but it still remains unsurpassed.
In addition, the memory card is made in a protected configuration: a shockproof housing, waterproof plugs, an X-ray barrier that prevents penetration of X-rays. The temperature range of the drive includes both serious heat and severe frost.
Included with the memory card comes Sony proprietary software to recover deleted or damaged files, as well as to scan the drive in order to determine rewrite cycles.
Virtues
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Maximum read and write speed;
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Protected construction;
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Useful software included.
disadvantages
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High cost;
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Limited warranty;
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Frequent fakes.
Attention! This rating is subjective, is not advertising and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you should consult with a specialist.
