Can I Use Two 32 GB SDHC Cards on My Nikon D7000?

Yes, you can use two 32 GB SDHC cards on your Nikon D7000 camera. However, the transfer rates and storage capacity are important factors to consider when using such cards.

Storage Capacity and Transfer Rates

The storage capacity of 32 GB SDHC cards is generally more than adequate for most users. According to various assessments, most images taken in JPEG format are less than 4 megabytes (MB), which means that a 32 GB card can hold approximately 8000 pictures. When shooting in RAW, the capacity is still considerable, with about 150 to 170 images per card. This substantial storage capacity means that you can take thousands of photos without running out of space.

Practical Considerations

However, the transfer speed to and from these cards may be a limiting factor. The buffer of the camera is limited, and it may fill up quickly if you are taking a lot of images, especially in RAW format. The transfer speed of 32 GB cards is also a concern, as the camera may not be able to write data to the card fast enough, particularly when shooting high-resolution images or videos. As a result, you may experience slower write speeds, which could impact your overall shooting experience.

Backup and Overflow Options

While two 32 GB cards can serve as a sort of backup and overflow option, it is more useful to think of them as redundant storage rather than for purely overflow purposes. Your Nikon D7000 can indeed store around 900 images on a single 32 GB card. However, it's more likely that you will run out of battery than you will run out of storage space.

Faster Card Recommendations

You might find it more beneficial to use a faster 16 GB SDHC card for your purposes. The buffer fills up quickly, and the process of emptying it can be slow. If you need more storage space, a 16 GB card would likely be faster and more efficient, providing better performance when shooting in RAW or high-resolution JPEG formats.

No Experience with Video Yet

It's worth noting that there is no specific experience with video usage for two 32 GB SDHC cards on the Nikon D7000. If you plan to capture video, you may want to consider the read and write speeds as well as the overall capacity of the cards to ensure smooth playback and recording.

In summary, while two 32 GB SDHC cards can be utilized on your Nikon D7000, practical considerations such as storage capacity, buffer fill rates, and transfer speeds are important to keep in mind. A faster 16 GB card might provide a better balance between storage and performance.