Due to necessity, most of us have found that for some reason or another, we need to transfer our digital files around between devices. Memory cards are used in everything from phones to digital cameras and security systems, to name a few, and managing our files is simply part of modern life. Therefore, we need a quality card reader that will do everything we need it to do: connect to our stuff easily, and fit the hardware built in to our devices, tablets, and computers.
There are many different types of memory cards and device connections, and fortunately, there are versatile memory card readers that are cross compatible with our electronics and can make our lives easier. See our buying guide below for more information about memory card readers, followed by our recommendations for our favorite card readers on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What different types of memory cards are there?
Technology is continually evolving, and it can be difficult to keep up with the ever changing types of data storage cards. The most common memory cards are SD cards, which stands for “secure digital.” SD cards measure 32mm x 24 mm. When the SD card name is followed by letters, these indicate its storage capacity. Standard SD cards hold up to 4 GB. The next step up is high capacity SDHC cards which hold between 4 GB and 64 GB, while extended capacity SDXC cards hold more than 64 GB. Micro SD cards use this same secure digital technology, but are smaller at only 15mm x 11mm, and are used in some phones.
Beyond SD cards, there are some other commonly used memory cards. A larger card used in digital cameras is the compact flash card, which measures 42.8mm x 36.4mm. Alternatively, the MS card, or Memory Stick card is used only in Sony electronics.
What are the different types of USBs?
There are two ways in which USBs are categorized: by speed, and by physical connector shape. The number after USB indicates its speed of data transfer. USB 2.0 can transfer 480 megabytes per second (Mbps), and USB 3.0 is much faster, with a speed of 4.8 Gbps. This is a significant difference in speed, because USB 3.0 is actually 10 times faster than USB 2.0.
The letter after USB indicates the shape of the connector. The most common USB ports are USB A. These are the USBs you’re used to seeing in computers, flash drives, inputs in car stereos, and more. While USB A is most common, USB B connections are slightly less abundant, but still familiar to most. USB B connectors are generally used for peripherals such as a printer or hub, and are square in shape. Finally, USB C is a new style that can deliver more power and efficiency. A USB C connection is smaller than USB A size, and is thinner. Another benefit of USB C connectors is that they can be flipped over and are fully reversible, unlike USB A connectors, which have a right side up and can only plug in one way. You’ll find USB C connectors on many newer devices. Lastly, another common USB connection shape is the micro USB, which is the connection port found on most Android phones and devices.
Buying Guide
As with any technology, things can get very…technical when looking at data storage hardware. Before you make your final decision in a memory card reader, be sure to consider the following important aspects:
- Device and OS: Whether you need to transfer your camera or phone data to a Mac or PC makes all the difference in choosing an appropriate memory card reader, as does the hardware and ports on the device you’re transferring from. For example, newer Macs and some PCs have a unique USB C connection that requires a specific connector, and Android phones and some cameras have a micro USB port for data transfer. Before you buy a memory card reader, know whether or not you’re working with Apple iOs, Android, or another OS, and take note of the connections on your device or computer. They may be standard USB A, tiny micro USB, or the newer USB C. If your device takes USB C, though, it’s important to note the OS of your device or laptop, because some card readers only work with iOs or Android, exclusively, and are not cross compatible.
- Type of Card: In order to buy the right memory card reader, you’ll need to first take note of what type of card you need to read. Common memory card types include micro SD, SD, compact flash (CF), or Sony’s MS (Memory Stick). There are many card readers on the market that will accept all four of these card types, and other card readers that will take only one or two card types.
- Transfer Speed: The speed of data transfer is indicated by the rate of the USB connection, and can also be affected by the memory cards themselves. Generally, USB 3.0 is much faster than the older USB 2.0, with USB 3.0 transferring data at a rate of up to 10 times faster than USB 2.0. This data transfer speed affects how long it will take large files to transfer over to another device.
Whether you know exactly what you’re looking for in a memory card reader, or you’re still a little unsure, we can help you to zero in on the best product for you. Here is a list of our top picks for the best memory card readers:
Vanja Memory Card Reader
Easiest to Set Up
Requires no additional software installation
With this memory card reader, you can read almost all your memory cards with speed and convenience while backing up your important data. It is made of durable, high-grade plastic and features a premium chip that can withstand plenty of use.
Pros:
- No additional power supply needed
- Compatible with all devices that support OTG function
Cons:
- Not compatible with iPhones, iPads, Kindles and Fire Tablets
UGREEN SD Card Reader
Most Versatile
Use one reader to read multiple cards
This card reader is designed with four card slots. It supports cards up to 512 G and makes super-fast data transfers possible. It has a compact design that makes it easy to grab and go.
Pros:
- Has a durable tin-plated pure copper core
- Offers broad compatibility
Cons:
- Comes with a short USB connecting cable
Beikell Card Reader
Best Transfer Speed
Reaches data transfer rates up to 5 Gbps
This memory card reader has a capacity of 512 GB. It simply plugs into USB ports of tablets or computers without the need for additional power and installations. It comes with a protective lid that can help to greatly prevent interface damage.
Pros:
- Supports a variety of memory cards, including SDs, TFs, SDHCs and more
- Comes with a keychain
Cons:
- May disconnect when transferring very large files
Anker Card Reader
Best Dual-Card Design
Read and write on two cards simultaneously
This memory card reader is fully powered via your USB port, so there is no need for additional power supplies. The reader is made of high-grade plastics that can withstand everyday use.
Pros:
- Enables data transfer rates of up to 5 Gbps
- Backwards compatible with USB 2.0 / 1.1
Cons:
- May be slow to transfer large files
Transcend Card Reader
Best for Larger Files
Perfect for transferring high-resolution photos and videos
With its double card slots for both SD and microSD memory cards, this is a versatile memory card reader. It comes with a standard USB type-A connector, so you can also use the reader as a USB flash drive.
Pros:
- Backwards compatible with USB 2.0
- Comes with a transfer activity indicator
Cons:
- Has a wide design that may block other USB ports
