4 best usb card readers

USB card readers are devices used to read data from memory cards and transfer it to a computer or other compatible devices via a USB connection. These card readers are essential for users who need to access and manage data stored on various types of memory cards, such as SD cards, microSD cards, CompactFlash cards, and more. Here are some key points about USB card readers:

  1. Compatibility: USB card readers are designed to work with a wide range of memory card formats, making them versatile and suitable for different devices like cameras, smartphones, and digital camcorders.

  2. Plug-and-Play: Most USB card readers are plug-and-play devices, meaning they can be connected to a computer's USB port without the need for additional drivers. The computer should automatically detect and configure the card reader.

  3. Memory Card Formats: USB card readers support various memory card formats, including Secure Digital (SD), microSD, CompactFlash (CF), Memory Stick, and more. Some card readers offer multiple slots to accommodate different card types.

  4. Data Transfer Speed: USB card readers can offer different data transfer speeds, depending on the type of memory card and the USB interface. For example, USB 3.0 card readers provide faster transfer rates than USB 2.0 readers.

  5. Convenience: Card readers are convenient tools for quickly transferring photos, videos, documents, and other files from a memory card to a computer. This is especially useful for photographers and videographers who need to offload content for editing and storage.

  6. Compact and Portable: Many USB card readers are small, lightweight, and portable, making them easy to carry in a laptop bag or camera kit. They are useful for on-the-go data management.

  7. Multi-Card Readers: Some USB card readers come with multiple slots, allowing you to read and transfer data from different types of memory cards simultaneously. This can save time when working with multiple cards.

  8. OS Compatibility: USB card readers are typically compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems. They can be used with various versions of these OSs.

  9. Card Protection: Card readers often feature protective covers or caps to shield the card slots when not in use, preventing dust and debris from entering.

  10. Cost-Effective: USB card readers are generally affordable and provide a cost-effective solution for accessing data from memory cards without the need for specialized equipment or expensive adapters.

In summary, USB card readers are valuable accessories for individuals who frequently work with memory cards.They offer compatibility with various memory card formats, fast data transfer speeds, and convenience in transferring files between memory cards and computers. These compact and portable devices are essential tools for photographers, videographers, and anyone who needs to manage data stored on memory cards.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best usb card readers on the market
  

Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader for SDXC, SDHC, SD, MMC, RS-MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SD, Micro SDHC Card and UHS-I Cards

Based on 21 reviews Check latest price
  • Simultaneously read and write on two cards to save yourself the effort of constant unplugging and re-plugging.
  • USB 3.0 enables data transfer rates of up to 5Gbps for faster Sync times, backward compatible with USB 2.0/ 1.1.
  • Fully powered via your USB port — no additional power supply required.
  • No drivers required for Windows 10/ 8/ 7/ Vista or Mac OS X 10.2 and above.
  • Package contents: Anker SD/TF Card Reader, hassle-free 18-month warranty.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this compatible with cell phone micro SD card
Answer: The cushion it comes with is pretty comfortable. Not sure if another is needed.
Question: Has anyone tried this with Windows 10? Is it compatible
Answer: try a non skid mat under it
Question: can it read micro SD
Answer: Google the name and model number and ask for replacement parts.
Question: What is the maximum capacity of micro SDXC and SDXC cards this reader can read
Answer: It's pretty quiet. The only noise it makes are typical kinds you would get from an exercise machine.

UGREEN SD Card Reader USB 3.0 Card Hub Adapter 5Gbps Read 4 Cards Simultaneously CF, CFI, TF, SDXC, SDHC, SD, MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SD, Micro SDHC, MS, UHS-I for Windows, Mac, Linux

UGREEN

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price
  • One Reader for Multi Cards: Ugreen USB Card Reader is designed with 4 card slots: SD, Micro SD, CF, MS slots and USB 3.0 connector, which allow you to read and transfer data the most popular flash media on the computer, laptop, tablet through USB 3.0 interface, including SDXC/SDHC/SD/Extreme I III SD/Ultra II SD/MMC/RS-MMC or Micro SD/TF/Micro SDXC/Micro SDHC/UHS-I or CF I 3.0/4.0 /Extreme I III CF/Ultra II CF/HS CF/XS-XS CF/CF Elite Pro/ CF Pro/CF Pro II or MS/MS PRO/MS PRO-HG/MS XC DUO.
  • Super Speed&High Capacity: Ugreen USB Memory Card Reader support SD/Micro SD card up to 512G and allows super fast data transfer up to 5Gbps - 10X faster than USB 2.0 (480 Mbps), which allows you to transfer HD movies or files in just seconds, when your host is equipped with USB 3.0 port. Also backward compatible with USB 2.0, 1.1 and 1.0 (speed limited by USB bus).
  • Compact Design&Premium Quality: So useful but so compact. Easy to grab and go. Reinforced cable, Tin-plated pure copper core and multi-shielded inside, sturdy exterior and heat-resistant connectors ensure high data transmission efficiency and ultimate durability. 1.5ft short cable tail would reduce stress on the USB port on your computer and won't affect the use of adjacent ports. LED indicator will be ON when the card reader is connected to computer.
  • Broad Compatibility: Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS, Linux, Chrome OS and etc. It could read and write mutiple cards at the same time to keep you away from the hassle of constant unplugging and re-plugging.
  • One-sec Installation: Plug and Play. No driver needed. Hot swapping and auto detection.

Product features

UGREEN SD Card Reader USB 3.0 Card Hub Adapter Android 5Gbps Read 4 Cards, Perfect Photo Store and Sharing Tool for Photographers!

Universal Compatibility

Plug and play on the computer or laptop equipped with Standard USB 3.0 port with most modern operating systems, including Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS, Linux.

5Gbps Super Speed on Data Transfer

Support super faster data transfer up to 5Gbps through USB 3.0 interface -10X faster than USB 2.0, transfer HD movies or files in just seconds.

Read and Write 4 Card Simultaneously

Unlike other single-reading Card Adapters, Ugreen Card Reader enables you to read 4 cards simultaneously and keeps you away from the hassle of constant unplugging and re-plugging.

Compact Design

Easy to grab and go. 1.5ft cable tail would reduce stress on the USB port on your computer and won't affect the use of adjacent ports.

Premium Quality

Multi-shield tin-plated pure copper core, sturdy exterior and heat-resistant connectors ensure high data transmission efficiency and ultimate durability.

Specification

-Plug & play, no driver installation required

-Size: 55mm(L) X 68mm(W) X 15mm(H).

-USB 3.0 cable length: 0.5m/1.5ft.

Card Slot Compatibility

*SD slot:SDXC/SDHC/SD/Extreme I III SD/Ultra II SD/MMC

*Micro SD/TF slot: Micro SD/TF/Micro SDXC/Micro SDHC/UHS-I

*CF slot: CF I 3.0/4.0 /Extreme I III CF/Ultra II CF/HS CF/XS-XS CF/CF Elite Pro/ CF Pro/CF Pro II. Please kindly note it doesn't support the CF II card

*MS slot: MS, MS PRO, MS PRO-HG, MS XC DUO

Convenient to Use

The SD card reader is Plug & Play on Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP, Mac OS, Linux, etc

Larger Card Capacity

This USB card reader adapter support up to 512GB maximum card capacity, 2x larger than conventional card adapters

Flexible to Use

1.5ft/50cm cable length design makes this card reader an ideal choice for laptops or PCs. It provides more sufficient space for laptops when inserted.

Compact Design for On The Go

Easy to grab and take along, you can take it anywhere you go, perfect for photographers or videographers.

Work Status at a glance

With LED Indicator design, you can easily and clearly see the working status of the camera sd card reader.

SD Card Reader 7 in 1, WARRKY Multi-Card Reader Hub for 3 USB 3.0, 4 Memory Cards [Fast, Simultaneous, Versatile] for Micro SD, TF, SDHC, SDXC, MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SDHC, MS, UHS-I, CF, CFI

WARRKY

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price
  • 【7-IN-1 Card Reader Plug N Play】Simultaneously⚡ read and write on four cards and three more USB 3.0 devices to save yourself from constantly plug-n-unplug. Enjoy fast photo downloads, smooth video editing, and quick file transfers. A work from home must-have.
  • 【Durable and Friendly Design】 2.5ft long braided nylon cable for extra durability and user-friendly non-slip design on USB A shell for easier plug and unplug. Withstands being used time and time again, for years of reliable data transfer with WARRKY USB Card Reader
  • 【Super Speed & High Capacity】 Supports up to 2TB SD/Micro SD card read and super speed up to 5Gbps - 10X faster than USB 2.0 (480 Mbps), which allows you to transfer HD movies or files in seconds with USB 3.0. Backward compatible with USB 2.0/1.1
  • 【Broad Compatibility】One Reader for Multi Cards: USB Card Reader Hub is designed with 4 card slots, which allow you to read and transfer data for SDXC/SDHC/SD/Extreme I III SD/Ultra II SD/MMC/RS-MMC or Micro SD/TF/Micro SDXC/Micro SDHC/UHS-I or CF I 3.0/4.0 /Extreme I III CF
  • 【WARRKY】is dedicated to introducing superb-quality products that are sophisticated designed and reasonably priced for providing the best solutions to connect your work and life.

User questions & answers

Question: Will this read a memory card from a Sony Cybershot camera
Answer: Yes. I have a Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800 and mine does work on the multi-Card Reader. Once plugged in, press the power button on the camera. Watch what is added in your Explorer, and one will have your photos in it.
Question: Can these be daisy chained to allow transferring data between 2 micro sd cards
Answer: Yes, it is reads 2 cards simultaneously
Question: Can I transfer music from computer to sd card
Answer: Sure can, it as simple as click and drag from one folder to another. On your SD card create a folder called Music, then go to your music folder on your PC and Select all, Copy and then go back to your SD card Music Folder and Paste. Whoala! That is all! Hope this helps. Happy Holidays and Stay Safe
Question: I have a usb adapter for my samsung s9 will this work to read sd cards and transfer to thumb drive
Answer: Hi customer, thank you for asking. Theoretically it works. But we do not suggest to connect any intermediates (e.g. hub, docking) that could lead to failure of unstable power, insufficient signal transmission. Please make sure your adapter is in good condition if you'd like to try this method. Hope the information helps. Should there be any further questions, please feel free to contact via supportATwarrkyDOTcom. WARRKY Customer Support

Product features

Small but Mighty

WARRKY promises that upon shipping out of the factory, every card reader has been tested with 4 card slots, 2 flash drives, and 1 hard disk functioning simultaneously to ensure you don't receive a deficient product. For any question during usage, please feel free to contact. (support@warrky)

Compact & Versatile

*Memory cards in the image are only for function presentation and are not contained in the package delivered.

  • OTG supported, helping you shoot and edit like a pro
  • Reinforced connection between parts makes this 7-in-1 card reader your most trustworthy helper
  • 3 extra USB 3.0 for devices (keyboard, mouse, graphics tablet, mobile hard disk, flash drive, game controller, etc.)
  • Wide compatibility of memory cards - 4 slots for CF, SD, MS, TF. Read&write simultaneously. A time saver for home/office
  • 2.5 Ft long braided cable with Velcro tie, not only gives you more choices of workspace setup, but also perfect to carry around neatly

Simultaneous Reading

  • Plug n play, no driver needed
  • Read 4 different cards simultaneously,
  • Keep you away from the hassle of constant unplug-replug

Three More USB Ports

  • Expand the USB port of pc from 1 to 3. You may not think you need 3 extra USB 3.0 ports now, but WHY NOT for a rainy day?
  • Keyboard, mouse, game controller, mobile hard disk, flash drive, etc.

Maximum Capacity

  • Support up to 2TB maximum card capacity, 8x larger than conventional card adapters
  • Super High speed up to 5Gbps. Transferring movies will not be your trouble anymore

*WHY should SD & MS be inserted upside down? This design better makes use of the room of Printed Circuit Board to ensure compactness of the card reader hub

Design & Durability

  • Streamlined non-slip joint, plug and unplug the USB 3.0 card reader easily
  • Built with high-quality nylon braided jacket. Withstand bending test of 16,000+ times without compromising performance
  • Extra technical reinforcement between cable and case, anti-detinning

Smart Monitoring

  • Easily check the working status of the card reader with the mini light
  • Reassurance for your secure data transfer. For other card readers without indication, you won't have a clue what is going on.

  1. Power going through: red
  2. Card being inserted&recognized: blue glittering
  3. Card connected successfully: blue stays with red
  4. Files being transferred: red stays, blue flickers

System Compatibility

  • Driver-free for computers with USB 3.0 with most modern operating systems
  • Mac OS, Linux, Chrome OS, Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10
  • A no-brainer for anyone. No driver/App needed.

FAQ: The card is not properly recognized

a. Insert cards correctly. SD and MS cards should be inserted upside down

b. Try with other card readers to check whether the card is broken, and if the pins of the card reader are bent accidentally. (Careful, pins of CF card could be very fragile.)

c. Connect the card reader to your device directly with no hub or adapter

d. Try a different USB port of your PC. For desktop especially, USB ports on the back of the case are recommended

FAQ: PC does not recognize the card reader/ Connection on-and-off

a. Make sure all connections are tight. Check if the LED shows red light, meaning power is going through as it is supposed to

b. Check the conditions of your cards and the USB ports of the computer to see if they are working properly

b. Dust accumulation may lead to poor connection. Wipe the ports with a dry pad

C. Try a different USB port of your PC. For desktop especially, USB ports on the back of the case are recommended

d. Reboot the device with/without the card reader connected

FAQ: The transferring process is slow

a. Transfer speed is also dependent on the cards. Some cards are not of high-speed feature. Please check the specs of your card. CF and MS cards are quite outdated. They do not support speed of USB 3.0. All card readers available on the market can only get to the speed of USB 2.0 for them

b. Some devices have both 2.0 and 3.0 USB ports. Please make sure you are plugging the card reader into a USB 3.0 port

c. Functioning environment affects read & write speed (full disc storage, obsolete OS system, too many software running at the same time, use of additional intermediates like hub or adapter, etc.)

Ask for help whenever you want

Any question, just turn to WARRKY Support Team!

*Check out the full User Guide pdf. file under Product information >>> Technical Specification in the product listing page

SmartQ C307 USB 3.0 Portable Card Reader for SD, SDHC, SDXC, MicroSD, MicroSDHC, MicroSDXC, with Advanced All-in-One Design

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price
  • USB 3.0 multi-card reader, also supports USB 2.0
  • Advanced design, with sliding cap for improved usability
  • Supports SD, SDHC, SDXC, micro SD, micro SDHC, micro SDXC cards
  • Self powered, power comes directly from the USB 3.0 port, no additional power source needed
  • Plug and play, no software needed

User questions & answers

Question: Where made
Answer: Yes.
Question: Do either the sd or micro sd cards stick out when inserted, or do they fit all the way inside? do i need to remove them when not in use
Answer: Yes assuming your TV has a 3.5mm output
Question: does it work with windows
Answer: If it is stereo in it is stereo out both jacks
Question: I researched this and I knew I have the correct micro as. Whenever I try to plug in the micro sd, it comes in crooked and it won’t read. Help
Answer: It's meant to split an 1/8 inch audio input or output you can not split audio and mic simultaneously

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