Best Memory Card Readers of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Memory card readers are essential accessories for those who work with digital devices such as cameras, laptops, and smartphones. These readers allow users to easily transfer data from memory cards to their devices, making it convenient to store and access their photos, videos, and other files. With a variety of options available, including USB, SD, and microSD card readers, users can choose the best reader for their specific needs. Additionally, many memory card readers are compact and portable, making them ideal for travel or on-the-go use. Overall, memory card readers are a must-have for anyone who wants to streamline their digital data transfer process.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

BENFEI 4in1 Memory Card Reader Cover #TOP 1
BENFEI 4in1 Memory Card Reader
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SmartQ C368 USB 3.0 Card Reader Cover #TOP 2
SmartQ C368 USB 3.0 Card Reader
ftb score rating icon 9.7
uni USB C & USB 3.0 SD Card Reader Cover #TOP 3
uni USB C & USB 3.0 SD Card Reader
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Memory Card Readers

BENFEI 4in1 Memory Card Reader

000328black
Black
BENFEI 4in1 Memory Card Reader Cover
Memory Card Reader, BENFEI 4in1 USB 3.0 and USB-C to SD Micro SD MS CF Card Reader Adapter, 4 Cards Simultaneously Read and Write, Compatible with iPhone 15 Series, MacBook Pro/Air 2023, and More

The BENFEI 4in1 Memory Card Reader is an integrated-designed USB-C/USB 3.0 card reader that provides high-speed access to four different card types, including SD, Micro SD, MS, and CF. It offers incredible performance with the latest USB Type-C or USB 3.0 port, allowing you to fully enjoy transfer rates in UHS-I mode up to 104MB/sec. With a built-in advanced IC chip, it ensures superior stability and the ability to read and write four cards simultaneously. It is widely compatible with a variety of devices, including MacBook Pro, Samsung Galaxy, and more.

What We Like
Fast transfer speeds
Supports multiple card types
Easy plug-and-play
Compact and portable design
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Slightly difficult card insertion
Build quality concerns
#TOP 2

SmartQ C368 USB 3.0 Card Reader

C368
Black
Regular
SmartQ C368 USB 3.0 Card Reader Cover
SmartQ C368 USB 3.0 Card Reader - Plug & Play, Compatible with Apple & Windows, Supports SD, Micro SD, MS, CF Cards

The SmartQ C368 USB 3.0 Card Reader is a four-in-one design that supports Micro SD/SD/MS/CF card and reads data independently. It has high data transfer speed, supporting data transfer speed up to 5GB per second. The card reader is compatible with Windows/Mac OS/Linux and other systems, enjoy a Plug N Play experience with no driver needed. The device status is clearly visible with the blue LED light indicator. The box includes a SmartQ C368 USB 3.0 Card Reader, cable organizer, and user manual.

What We Like
Fast file transfer speeds
Plug-and-play functionality
Compact and portable design
Compatible with multiple card types
Quick delivery and low cost
What We Don't Like
Feels a bit cheap
May freeze with some cards
#TOP 3

uni USB C & USB 3.0 SD Card Reader

uni
UNICASD01
Grey
2-IN-1 Grey
uni USB C & USB 3.0 SD Card Reader Cover
uni SD Card Reader, High-Speed USB C to Micro SD Card Adapter USB 3.0 Dual Slots, Memory Card Reader for SD/Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC, Compatible with MacBook Pro/Air, Chromebook, Android Galaxy

This memory card reader features both USB 3.0 and USB C interfaces, supporting high-speed data transfer up to 5 Gbps. It allows simultaneous reading and writing on two cards, saving you the hassle of constant plugging and pulling of plugs. Its slim profile makes it easy to store in your camera bag or backpack, providing convenient access to micro/SD cards when needed. Compatible with most USB-C/A devices and no drivers are required for Windows and Mac OS X. Memory cards are not included.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Fast USB 3.0 transfer speeds
Dual slots for SD and microSD
Solid build quality
Compatible with multiple devices
What We Don't Like
Occasional need for device restart
Can be easily misplaced
#TOP 4

USB 3.0 SD Card Reader for PC and Laptop

CR034
USB3.0 Black 1 Pack
Compact
USB 3.0 SD Card Reader for PC and Laptop Cover
USB3.0 Micro SD Card Reader, 5Gbps 2-in-1 SD Card Reader to USB Adapter, Wansurs Memory Card Reader for SDXC, SDHC, MMC, RS-MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SD, Micro SDHC and UHS-I Cards (1Pack Black)

This USB 3.0 SD Card Reader for PC and Laptop has dual slots for Micro SD and SD Cards, 5Gbps transfer speed, wide compatibility with different systems, plug-and-play feature, and a compact and portable design. It can help you transfer large files quickly, share photos and videos with family and friends, and relieve mobile memory pressure. This multifunctional card reader is a suitable choice for photographers, studios, and anyone who needs to transfer files between different devices.

What We Like
Inexpensive and durable
Amazing transfer speed
Convenient and compact design
Works well with microSD cards
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
microSD slot is a bit tricky
SD cards positioned awkwardly
#TOP 5

SZHAIYIJIN Memory Card Reader for iPhone

SZHAIYIJIN Memory Card Reader for iPhone Cover
SZHAIYIJIN SD Card Reader for iPhone, Memory Card Reader with USB Camera Adapter Plug and Play Trail Game Camera SD Card Viewer Supports SD and TF Card Micro SD Card Adapter for iPad No App Required

The SZHAIYIJIN Card Reader is a versatile accessory for photographers using Canon or Nikon SLR cameras. With this card reader, you can easily transfer photos and videos from your camera's memory card to your iPhone or iPad. Simply insert the memory card, connect it to your device, and import the media files using the 'Photos' app. The card reader supports both SD and TF cards, including standard SD/SDHC and micro SD cards. It also features a female USB interface, allowing you to connect various peripherals such as USB flash drives, card readers, headphones, MIDI keyboards, and more. The two-way transfer capability allows you to import data from the SD/TF card to your iOS device or export files from your device to the card. With high-speed data transfer, you can quickly share your photos and videos on social media or anywhere else.

What We Like
Convenient for travel
Fast data transfer
Easy to use
Multiple usage options
Portable and compact design
What We Don't Like
Possible faulty units
Durability concerns
#TOP 6

UGREEN 4 in 1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader

30333
Black
UGREEN 4 in 1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader Cover
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 (Black)

The UGREEN SD Card Reader is a compact and versatile memory card reader that supports SD/Micro SD/CF/MS memory cards. With its USB 3.0 device port, transferring large files is fast and easy, reaching up to 5Gbps in transmission rate. The reader also allows for simultaneous reading and writing of 4 different memory cards, eliminating the need to constantly plug and unplug. The reader is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS, and is small enough to be carried anywhere, making it a great addition for on-the-go workers.

What We Like
Reliable performance
Fast file transfer speeds
Versatile card compatibility
Easy plug-and-play functionality
Good build quality
What We Don't Like
Power draw when off
Inflexible cable
#TOP 7

5-in-1 Memory Card Reader & USB OTG Adapter for iPhone/iPad and USB Devices

1032Pro
white
5-in-1 Memory Card Reader & USB OTG Adapter for iPhone/iPad and USB Devices Cover
5-in-1 Memory Card Reader, USB OTG Adapter & SD Card Reader for i-Phone/i-Pad, USB C and USB A Devices with Micro SD & SD Card Slots, Supports SD/Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC

The JOOPSHEE 5-in-1 Memory Card Reader is a plug-and-play device that supports various interfaces such as USB, USB C, and iOS Connector. It allows for fast transfer speeds, and has a charging port for iPhone/iPad, so you can charge and transfer files at the same time. It also has multi-functionality, allowing you to connect more USB peripherals such as cameras and USB flash drives, and it supports standard photo and video formats. The SD/TF card reader USB adapter is compatible with all iOS devices with iOS 9.1 and above and OTG Android phones and computers with USB port.

What We Like
Versatile connectivity options
Easy to use
Great for transferring photos
Durable design
Excellent customer support
What We Don't Like
USB-C connector fits loosely
Charging port does not work
#TOP 8

Anker 2-in-1 USB C Card Reader

AK-A83700A2
Grey
Anker 2-in-1 USB C Card Reader Cover
Anker SD Card Reader, 2-in-1 USB C Memory Card Reader for Digital Camera SD Card Viewer with Dual Slot for SDXC, SDHC, SD, MMC, RS-MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SD, Micro SDHC Card, and UHS-I Cards

The Anker USB C Card Reader is designed for convenience and versatility. Its ultra-compact size allows you to connect it easily alongside other devices, making it perfect for on-the-go use. With universal compatibility, it works seamlessly with various USB-C devices such as MacBook and Galaxy smartphones, ensuring you can access your files anytime. The dual slots for standard and microSD cards let you quickly sync and share files without hassle. Whether at home or traveling, this reader is a practical tool for managing your digital content.

What We Like
Compact design
Fast data transfers
High-quality performance
Reliable for various devices
What We Don't Like
Durability concerns
No protective cap
#TOP 9

Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader

68ANREADER-B2A
Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader Cover
Anker USB 3.0 SD Card Reader, 2-in-1 SD Card Reader for SDXC, SDHC, MMC, RS-MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SD, Micro SDHC, UHS-I Cards - Card Reader, Micro SD Card Reader

The Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader allows you to simultaneously read and write on two cards, which means you don't have to unplug and re-plug constantly. With USB 3.0, you can transfer data at up to 5Gbps, making syncing faster, and it's backward compatible with USB 2.0/1.1. It doesn't require any additional power supply, as it's fully powered via USB port. It doesn't require any drivers for Windows 10/8/7/Vista or Mac OS X 10.2 and above.

What We Like
Ultra-portable design
Fast data transfer speeds
Compatible with SD and microSD
Easy plug-and-play functionality
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Minor delay on Windows recognition
Confusing card insertion design
#TOP 10

Oyuiasle USB C SD Card Reader

Oyuiasle
White
3 Slots
Oyuiasle USB C SD Card Reader Cover
USB C SD Card Reader, Oyuiasle USB C to SD Card for iPhone 15 16/iPad/Mac/Laptop, USB-C/Type C Memory Card Adapter for iMac, iPad Pro Air Mini, MacBook Pro Air,Galaxy,MicroSD/SD

The Oyuiasle USB C SD Card Reader is a versatile and convenient accessory for iPad, Mac, and laptops. With its plug and play design, you can easily browse and copy photos and videos from your cameras, making it effortless to share your beautiful moments. It also serves as a USB-C to USB OTG adapter, allowing you to transfer files between different devices such as cameras, flash drives, keyboards, and more. Compatible with a wide range of devices including iPad Pro, MacBook Pro/Air, iMac, and Samsung Galaxy, this SD card reader offers seamless compatibility. Plus, with its USB-C connector, you can easily transfer photos and videos to your iPad using iPadOS' built-in "Files" app. The Oyuiasle USB C SD Card Reader is a must-have for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to transfer and manage their media files.

What We Like
Easy to use
Fast file transfer
Good build quality
Compact and portable
Great value for money
What We Don't Like
Limited use of SD cards
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Memory Card Readers to Meet Your Needs

Considerations for Choosing a Memory Card Reader

When it comes to transferring data from your memory card to your computer, a memory card reader is an essential tool. With so many different options on the market, however, it can be daunting to try and choose the right one for your needs. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind as you shop for a memory card reader.

Compatibility

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a memory card reader is compatibility. Not all memory card readers are compatible with all types of memory cards, so it's important to make sure that the reader you choose is capable of reading the type of memory card you have. Most memory card readers are compatible with the most common types of memory cards, such as SD and microSD cards, but it's always a good idea to double-check before making a purchase.

Speed

Another important factor to consider when choosing a memory card reader is speed. If you're transferring large files, such as high-resolution photos or videos, a slower memory card reader can significantly prolong the transfer process. Look for a memory card reader that advertises high transfer speeds, such as USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt, to ensure that you can quickly and efficiently transfer your files.

Additional Features

Some memory card readers come with additional features that can be useful in certain situations. For example, some memory card readers have built-in memory, allowing you to transfer files directly to the reader without the need for a separate storage device. Others have multiple card slots, allowing you to transfer files from multiple memory cards at the same time. Consider what additional features might be useful to you before making a purchase.

Price

Of course, price is also an important consideration when choosing a memory card reader. In general, you can expect to pay more for a memory card reader with faster transfer speeds or additional features. However, it's important to strike a balance between cost and performance. A high-speed memory card reader may be worth the extra cost if you're transferring large files on a regular basis, but a slower, more affordable reader may be sufficient for infrequent use.

Conclusion

Choosing the right memory card reader can make a big difference in the speed and convenience of transferring files from your memory card to your computer. By considering factors such as compatibility, speed, additional features, and price, you can find a memory card reader that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How can I read my memory card without a card reader?

If your computer doesn't have a built-in card reader, you can purchase an external card reader adapter that connects via USB. MicroSD cards may need to be inserted into an SD card adapter to fit into most conventional SD card slots.

2. Do memory card readers work?

Yes, memory card readers are designed to work with various types of memory cards. They support high-speed data transfer rates, allowing you to quickly transfer large files like photos and videos. This helps free up space on your mobile device.

3. What are the different types of memory card readers?

There are three categories of memory card readers based on the type and quantity of card slots: single card readers (e.g., 1x SD-only), multi card readers (e.g., 9-in-1), and series card readers (e.g., 4x SD-only). Each category offers different slot configurations to accommodate various memory card types.

4. Do all SD card readers work the same?

No, SD card readers can differ in material, design, and connectivity options (such as USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-C). These differences can impact the reader's performance, durability, and ease of use. While they serve a similar purpose, each SD card reader may have unique features and capabilities.

5. How do I read data from my memory card?

To read data from your memory card, plug it into an appropriate SD card reader. This can be a built-in reader (if available) or an external reader. On Windows, access the SD card through File Explorer, while on macOS, use Finder. SD cards can also be used to expand storage on smartphones using an external reader.

6. What are the disadvantages of a card reader?

One disadvantage of card readers is that some credit card chip processors can slow down transactions. The added security of chip cards requires additional software, known as middleware, to generate a unique code for each transaction. This can sometimes slow down the process.

Editor's Notes

During our memory card reader research, we found 24 memory card reader products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 695,142 customer reviews through our big data system to write the memory card readers list. We found that most customers choose memory card readers with an average price of $11.72.

The memory card readers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of memory card readers, including BENFEI, SmartQ, uni, Wansurs, SZHAIYIJIN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 5,323 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Memory Card Readers Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP5
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#TOP10
Brand BENFEI SmartQ uni Wansurs SZHAIYIJIN UGREEN JOOPSHEE Anker Anker Oyuiasle
Media Type Memory Stick, microSD, CompactFlash, SDXC, UHS-1, SD Card MMCmicro, MMC, miniSD, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, Memory Stick PRO Duo, microSD, SDHC, CompactFlash, Memory Stick PRO HG Duo, SD Card microSDXC, microSDHC, microSD, SDHC, SD Card microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD, SDHC, SD Card SD Card, microSD, USB 3.0 (media formats supported) SD Card, microSD, CompactFlash, Memory Stick microSD, SDHC, SDXC, SD Card MMC, microSDXC, microSDHC, RS-MMC, microSD, SDHC, SDXC, UHS-1, SD Card MMC, RS-MMC, microSDHC, microSDXC, miniSD, Memory Stick, microSD, SDHC, CompactFlash, SDXC, UHS-1, SD Card microSD, USB Devices, SD Card
Connectivity Technology USB Type C USB Type A USB Type C, USB Type C USB ['USB'] USB Type A, Lightning Adapter usb USB Type C USB Type C USB Type A USB Type C
Special Feature Plug & Play, Compact Plug & Play Compact, Plug & Play, Dust Proof Easy Setup, Dual Card Slots, Plug & Play, Compact, USB 3.0 Plug Plug & Play usb card reader 4 ports, data transfer for photographers Plug & Play Compact Plug & Play Plug & Play, Built-In USB C Cord
Color Black Black Grey USB3.0 Black 1 Pack White (SD+TF+USB for Lightning) Black white Grey - White
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy