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… 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:

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:

Fast Data Transfer Speed 

This USB 3.0 card reader can read all of your cards and transfers data quickly. Works with SD, micro SD, compact flash and Memory Stick cards.

You can just plug and play with this multifunctional card reader from SmartQ because it requires no software or drivers. This card reader works with four types of cards: SD, micro SD, Memory Stick, and compact flash

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Supports Cards Up to 2T 

This card reader reads and writes data at the high speed of its USB 3.0 connection, and takes four types of memory cards.

This memory card reader from UGREEN reads SD, micro SD, compact flash, and Memory Stick cards, and has a higher capacity than some card readers with its ability to accept cards of up to 2T. It also transfers data quickly with its USB 3.0 connection, and is compatible with a variety of operating systems.

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SD Card Reader for Micro USB  

Getting videos, photos, and data on and off of your Android or other devices with a micro USB port can’t be easier with this practical card reader for SD and micro SD.

If you have an Android phone or device with a Micro USB plug, you’ll love this compact adapter and memory card reader from Vanja. This little device takes both micro SD and SD cards, and has a micro USB on one end for your phone, and a USB A on the other to plug into your computer. WIth no software needed, using this card reader is simple and intuitive. 

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Includes USB A, C and Micro USB 

ou’ll only need this one small adapter and card reader to easily transfer digital files between your Android phone and computer or tablet. 

This multifunctional adapter from COCOCKA can plug in to devices with any of the following ports: USB A, USB micro, or USB C. It reads SD cards and micro SD cards, transmits data with USB 2.0 speed, and needs no additional power or drivers, making for easy plug and play operation.

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Extensive 2 ½ Foot Cable  

With this impressive card reader from Warrky, you’ll not only enjoy the 2.5-foot long, braided nylon cord, but you’ll love the fast transfer rate, too.

This versatile hub and card reader from Warrky does it all, including reading and writing data at the same time on multiple cards, and taking cards of up to 2T. It has a flexible long braided nylon cable that extends 2 ½ feet. Best yet, its lightning fast USB 3.0 transfers data quickly, saving you time waiting for large files. This card reader has got you covered, with slots for SD, micro SD, MS, and CF cards.

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