10 Best SD Card Readers – Reviewed by Software Engineer

Dogzily.comAn SD card reader is needed if you frequently transfer photos from your camera or smartphone to your PC. There are many types of SD card readers, from SD card type storage memory to microSD type. The transfer speed of each product is different.

To make it easier for you to find a good SD card reader, we’ll review how to choose one. We will also share and review recommendations for the best SD card readers from KingMa, Transcend, ROBOT, and other brands. This article has been reviewed by our software engineer, Yosua Surojo. For that, see the review to the end, OK!

Best SD Card Readers

Collaborating With Experts: How To Choose An SD Card Reader

Currently, all SD card readers support various operating systems, both for PCs and smartphones. However, there are other things that must be considered when choosing an SD card reader. For more details, please refer to the following tips on choosing an SD card reader .

① Pay attention to the number of slots and the type of SD card

Apart from paying attention to the number of available slots on the SD card reader, you should check the type of memory card that is compatible. In the market there are several types of memory cards that are commonly used, such as SD cards, SDHC cards, and SDXC cards. Meanwhile, from the type of dimensions there are SD cards and microSD.

Maybe you are quite unfamiliar with the functions and advantages of the memory card. For that, see our short review below.

  • SD card atau SDSC (secure digital standard capacity)

This memory card has dimensions of 24 mm x 32 mm. The format used is FAT16. Generally, this SD card is used in DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, and other documentation equipment.

  • SDHC (secure digital high capacity)

The size of this memory card is the same as SDSC, but the format used is FAT32. The transfer speed of this memory card is better than a regular SD card.

  • SDXC (secure digital extended capacity)

The capacity of this memory card is greater than SDHC and SDSC. SDXC usually has a capacity of 32 GB to 2 TB.

  • Mini SD card

Lately the mini SD card is very rarely used. The size of this memory card is 20 mm x 21.5 mm.

  • MicroSD or TF card

This memory card has dimensions of 11 mm x 15 mm. Generally, microSD is used as a storage medium on smartphonesdrones and action cameras.

② Note the type of USB connector on the SD card reader

The type of connector on an SD card reader greatly affects the speed of data transfer between devices. Generally there are two types of USB used, namely USB Type-A and USB Type-C. To find out the difference, see the explanation below.

  • USB Type-A

This type is square in shape with wide dimensions like a flashdiskUSB Type-A is divided into two types, namely USB 2.0 and USB 3.0. In terms of data transfer speed, USB 3.0 is better than USB 2.0.

  • USB Type-C

This type has an oval design and is symmetrical on both sides. USB Type-C data transfer speed is higher than USB Type-A. This SD card reader is perfect for those of you who want to transfer data to a smartphone.

③ Check the data transfer speed

The speed of reading and transferring data for each SD card reader is of course different. Apart from being influenced by the type of connector, the data transfer speed is determined by the speed class of the SD card itself. Data read and transfer speeds are usually displayed in Mbps and Gbps formats.

If you frequently move large amounts of data, consider choosing an SD card reader with a transfer speed of 5 Gbps. This type of SD card reader is perfect for those of you who work as professional photographers or videographers. Meanwhile, the transfer speed of 480 Mbps is sufficient for those of you who want to move data from a smartphone.

④ Consider the additional functionality offered

Some manufacturers design SD card readers not only to read one type of memory card. In fact, there are SD card readers that have 4 to 6 functions.

Choosing an SD card reader with additional functions will certainly benefit you during use. This is especially if you use a laptop that has a very minimalist design and has limited USB ports.

For example, there are products that are equipped with SD card and micro SD functions at the same time. There is also an SD card reader with USB Type-A and USB Type-C connectors. As a result, you can use the product on a laptop or smartphone.

10 best SD Card Readers Recommendations

Next, we will recommend the ten best SD card readers that we have determined based on the selection method above. These products are carefully selected by considering product quality, buyer reviews, and the level of trust in the seller. 

1. Card Reader 4 in 1 USB 3.0 Type C

This product is in the form of OTG (On-The-Go) which is equipped with two connectors, namely USB 3.0 and USB Type-C. This SD card reader can be connected directly to laptops, tablets, even smartphones without additional cables. 

For those of you who need to transfer data anytime and anywhere, use this product. In terms of design, this high speed card reader is available in two color choices, namely Gray and Gold.

Pros:

  • Can be applied to PCs and smartphones without additional converters

Cons:

  • The ABS plastic material is prone to melting if the temperature of the device heats up
  • The maximum transfer limit is 512 GB

2. LOG-ON Card Reader 4-in-1 High Speed LO-CR06

The outer frame of this SD card reader is designed using aluminum material. Meanwhile, the cap is designed to protect the device from damage and of course maintain its durability. If you need an SD card reader that can read various types of memory cards, make this product your choice. 

The process of reading and transferring files can also be easily recognized thanks to the indicator light on the side. So, you don’t need to check too often whether the data transfer process is complete or not.

Pros:

  • Portable and sturdy design 

Cons:

  • The data transfer speed is only 480 Mbps

3. Goojodoq 6-in-1 USB C HUB

This product is equipped with various functions for work and entertainment needs. Besides being able to transfer data quickly, you can also use it as a converter. For those of you who need a card reader that can be used in presentations via smartphone, this product is the right choice.

You don’t need to bother transferring data from your smartphone because this product can be directly connected to a TV or monitor. The display supports 4K resolution so it looks clear and detailed. In addition, you can connect flash drives to this card reader.

Pros:

  • Multifunctional and many additional ports available
  • Futuristic design
  • Supports 4K displays 

Cons:

  • The SD card and microSD card ports cannot be used simultaneously
  • Vulnerable to heat if installed for a long time

4. King Ma 3-in-1 Card Reader USB 3.0BMU001

For those of you who don’t want to forget to bring a memory card along with its SD card reader, this product is the right solution. This product is designed to be multifunctional, namely as an SD card reader and storage box for memory cards. So, you can carry a memory card and card reader at any time.

This product is also one of the best SD cards sold in the market. The card holder section has a cover made of ABS polycarbonate plastic material. Inside the card holder, you can store compact flash, SD card and microSD. From operating system support, this product can function on various types of OS.

Pros:

  • Can be used as a memory card storage box
  • Compatible for many types of memory cards

Cons:

  • The ABS plastic material is prone to damage

5. ROKER Hi-Speed Card ReaderRK-CRD1

If you are looking for souvenirs for an event, buying this product in large quantities can be an option. This SD card reader is useful for work needs, but the price is very economical. Its performance is also sufficient for daily needs with speeds reaching 480 Mbps. To be more optimal when reading data, make sure your SD card capacity does not exceed 32 GB.

Pros:

  • Economical price
  • The dimensions are small so it’s easy to store

Cons:

  • The data transfer speed is only 480 Mbps

6. ROBOT USB 3.0 Cap Design with 2 Slot Card Reader BlackCR102

This product is equipped with two Hub Back Slots that are compatible with photographic and videography equipment. From DSLR cameras, mirrorless, to drones, everything is suitable. For those of you who work in the documentation field, this product is worth choosing.

This USB SD card reader comes with the best design that provides protection from damage so that it lasts longer. You can put it in your pocket so you don’t have to bother unpacking your bag when you need to transfer data. Its use which does not require additional cables makes this product more practical to use.

Pros:

  • Cap design provides protection from damage 
  • Product warranty up to 1 year

Cons:

  • Not yet equipped with other additional features

7. Orico Colorful USB 3.0 TF Card ReaderCRS12

This product has a maximum data reading capacity of 2 TB with a transfer speed of up to 5 Gbps. For those of you who often move smartphone memory data to laptops, choose this product. MicroSD card reader with one card slot is also not complicated when used.

In addition, this product comes with a choice of pastel colors that women usually like. The colors are pink, orange, green, gray and white. A good color can certainly raise your mood in carrying out your routine.

Pros:

  • Minimalist size
  • Can read data up to 2 TB

Cons:

  • Vulnerable to heat if installed for a long time

8. USB Type-C Hub to HDMI Adapter MacBook PRO USB 3.0 7-in-1

The latest MacBook releases no longer use the old type of USB connector, but Type-C. If you are a MacBook user with a USB Type-C connector, consider owning this product. Besides being able to be used to read flashdisks, this product is of course capable of being used to read SD cards

The advantage of USB Type-C is that it can transfer data twice as fast as its predecessor, namely USB 3.0. In addition, this product is equipped with an HDMI connector with a clear 4K display output. In terms of material, the SD card for this MacBook-type laptop is made of aluminum alloy which is well-known for being sturdy and durable.

Pros:

  • There are many additional ports available
  • Sturdy material
  • Futuristic design

Cons:

  • Large size, requires large storage space

9. UNEED USB Type-C Card Reader Micro SD UAT07C

For those of you who often do outdoor activities and need to transfer data from smartphones, this product is reliable. The frame of this card reader uses zinc alloy material which is sturdy and durable. So, you don’t need to doubt its superiority even if it is used in outdoor areas.

Besides being able to use various types and sizes of microSD, this product is compatible with the Android operating system. You don’t need to be complicated when transferring data from action cameras or drones. This of course really supports the photo and video editing process to be faster.

Pros: 

  • The material is strong
  • Fast data transfer process

Cons: 

  • Due to their small size, things slip easily

10. Transcend Card Reader USB 3.0RDF5

For those of you who plan to buy an SD card reader for the office, this product can be an option. This compact designed SD card reader has two memory card slots. You can choose black, white, or pink to differentiate inventory from each department. This product is compatible with any operating system so it can be easily used.

Pros:

  • The interface uses SuperSpeed ​​USB 3.1 so it is relatively faster when transferring data
  • Portable design
  • Compatible with RecoveRx software for data recovery

Cons:

  • Does not support the use of two memory cards simultaneously

Conclusion

We have provided the best SD card reader recommendations for microSD, SD card, and more. Even though Wi-Fi SD card readers are hard to find in Indonesia, there are many other products that are no less functional.

By choosing the right SD card reader, you can move important files more easily. Don’t forget to pay attention to the points on how to choose an SD card reader above in order to find out the product you need.

5 Best SD Card Readers Recommendation

  1. Card Reader 4 in 1 USB 3.0 Type C
  2. LOG-ON|Card Reader 4-in-1 High Speed | LO-CR06
  3. Goojodoq|6-in-1 USB C HUB
  4. KingMa|3-in-1 Card Reader USB 3.0|BMU001
  5. ROKER|Hi-Speed Card Reader|RK-CRD1

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