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  4. 10 Best Memory Card Readers in 2022 (Apple, Anker, and More)
  • 10 Best Memory Card Readers in 2022 (Apple, Anker, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Memory Card Readers in 2022 (Apple, Anker, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Memory Card Readers in 2022 (Apple, Anker, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Memory Card Readers in 2022 (Apple, Anker, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Memory Card Readers in 2022 (Apple, Anker, and More) 5

10 Best Memory Card Readers in 2022 (Apple, Anker, and More)

Are you struggling to access the data on your memory card? Or, maybe you want to transfer images and video files from your camera to your laptop? Sadly, not all laptops come with a slot for memory cards. You will need a memory card reader to help you do the job! This helpful tool allows you to quickly transfer data from all types of memory cards to other devices, like computers and phones.

After thorough research, Vanja's SD Card Reader got our attention for its three connection types, compact size, and dual-slots. Read on to see the other memory card readers that made it to our list. We've made sure to include a wide variety of products! We also discussed important pointers to keep in mind when shopping for a reader in our buying guide. 

Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Memory Card Reader - Buying Guide

A memory card reader streamlines transferring data from memory cards to another device, like a computer or phone. Often used by photographers, a card reader lets you quickly look at pictures taken from your camera. Here are some important factors to consider to pick the best one! 

1

Ensure That the Media Type Is Supported

Ensure That the Media Type Is Supported

Memory cards come in a range of sizes, memory capacities, and transfer speeds. People use them to store data like videos and photos on their cameras, phones, and other devices. The memory card reader you decide to get should support the media type you use. This is the most crucial factor when making a purchase!

The main memory card types are SD (SDHC, SDXC, RS-MMC, MMC Micro), TF (MicroSD, MicroSDHC, MicroSDXC), CF (CompactFlash), and MS (MS Pro, MS Pro-HG, MS Pro Duo). SD stands for Secure Digital, TF for T-Flash Card, and MS for Memory Stick. 


Generally, mobile phones use TF cards, which are commonly referred to as MicroSD cards. Digital cameras use SD, SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity), SDXC (Secure Digital Extended Capacity), and all TF card types. Laptops and computers typically work with SD, SDHC, and SDXC. 


On the other hand, tablets only use MicroSD cards. Lastly, DSLR and digital cameras use SDHC, SDXC, and CF cards. Memory card readers will specify what media types they support and how fast they can transfer the data from the cards to your device, which will be explained in-depth in the following section. 

2

Consider the Card Reader’s Connection Type

Consider the Card Reader’s Connection Type

A memory card reader can have multiple connection types. Do you want to connect the device to your computer? Or, do you plan to connect it to your smartphone? The connection type you should get depends on where you plan to transfer, read, and write data.

The most common connection types memory card readers have are USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and lighting cables. USB Type-A is the most common connection type; it is rectangular shaped and can be found in almost all laptops. 


On the other hand, USB Type-C came out in 2014.  It is more versatile and offers a faster transfer connection than its predecessor that came out in 1996. It also connects to Android phones. However, not all laptops and computers have a port that supports this sleek connector.

Lastly, some memory card readers come with a lightning cable connector. These devices are used mainly for transferring data from Apple products to SD cards. Some memory card readers with a lighting cable come with different ports that allow you to transfer data while charging your phones. 

3

See How the Card Reader Stores

See How the Card Reader Stores

Although memory card readers come in compact sizes as small as a flash drive, you can find others as large as an external hard drive. Consider the card reader’s size and ease of storage when making your purchase. 


If you are an on-the-go photographer who owns multiple memory cards and needs to view the RAW file on laptops or smartphones, go for compact card readers. Typically, the more media types the card reader supports, the bulkier it will be. 


While most memory card readers can only read one card at a time and require you to pull out other cards in the dock, some readers can read multiple cards simultaneously. You will find memory card readers that specify that they can handle three, four, and sometimes five cards at the same time!


Card readers that can only support one type of memory card are usually smaller in size. Smaller options usually plug right into your device, while larger ones often have cables. Readers with cables take up more space than those that stick directly in a laptop or computer. However, longer cables give you more room to move your device around.

4

Check the Reader’s Software Compatibility, Drivers, and Speed

Check the Reader’s Software Compatibility, Drivers, and Speed

The last factor to look into when buying a memory card reader is the device's software compatibility and if you need to install computer drivers before use. Some readers are driver-free and automatically work for Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, and iPhones.

Other readers require a quick download of a driver before it can be detected on your device. As soon as your computer has detected your memory card reader, it will tell you what driver you need. 


Readers also have different transfer speeds. We suggest looking for USB 3.0 memory readers with a speed of around 5,000 megabits per second for the fastest transfer time. Lower speeds will still work, but they take more time, especially if you have large files or many photos!

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Memory Card Readers

Our list highlights a wide variety of memory card readers. We made our choices based on the points listed in the buying guide below, as well as reviewer comments when available. You're sure to find that will meet your specific needs!
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Vanja

SD Card ReaderUSB C

Vanja SD Card Reader 1

$8.99

Low

Dual Memory Card Reader With 3 Ports

2

Ugreen

USB 3.0 Card Reader

Ugreen USB 3.0 Card Reader  1

$17.99

Mid

High-Speed Reader With 4 Slots

3

Anker

USB 3.0 SD

Anker USB 3.0 SD 1

$16.99

Mid

Compact Reader That Reads 2 Memory Cards at Once

4

Apple

Apple Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader

Apple Apple Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader 1

$29.00

High

Transfer Files From SD Cards to Apple Products

5

SmartQ

USB 3.0 Pro

SmartQ USB 3.0 Pro  1

$21.99

High Mid

USB Type-C Memory Card Reader With 4 Slots

6

Ugreen

USB 3.0 Card Reader

Ugreen USB 3.0 Card Reader  1

$11.99

Low Mid

Portable Dual Card Reader With a Keychain Holder

7

zedela

Multi Card Reader

zedela Multi Card Reader  1

$15.95

Mid

Versatile Card Reader With 7 Slots

8

Warkky

SD Card Reader

Warkky  SD Card Reader 1

$17.99

Mid

7-in-1 Card Reader With an LED Indicator

9

Suntrsi

SD Card Reader

Suntrsi SD Card Reader 1

$14.99

Mid

Compact Reader With 4 Ports

10

Suntrsi

SD Card Reader

Suntrsi SD Card Reader 1

$13.99

Mid

Charge and Transfer Data to and From Apple Products

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

VanjaSD Card ReaderUSB C

SD Card Reader 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$8.99
Low
Reference price
$8.99
Low

Dual Memory Card Reader With 3 Ports

Vanja's SD and TF memory card reader has three ports: a USB A, USB C, and a micro USB! You can plug this handy device on your laptops, Android phones, and other devices. To use, simply plug it in, and you're set. Plus, it's very compact.


A few reviewers complained that the reader corrupted some of their files, so it's best to back up all of your files before using this device. Past this, users liked the reader's ease-of-use, fast transfer speed, and tri-ports. People also loved the compact size, saying it's easy to store and carry around. 

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No.2

UgreenUSB 3.0 Card Reader

USB 3.0 Card Reader  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$17.99
Mid
Reference price
$17.99
Mid

High-Speed Reader With 4 Slots

Read and write data from SD, TF, CF, and MS memory cards all at once with Ugreen's card reader. The sleek design, convenient cable wire, and fast transfer speed make this a handy tool. The reader is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS. 


Once connected to your device, a blue LED will appear on the reader's surface. The device's outer material is made from tin-plated copper. No drivers are needed to use this reader. 


A small number of users encountered problems with their card readers' not detecting the inserted media, making them have to reinsert the memory cards. Still, most buyers loved the high-speed transfer capability and durable material. Buyers also appreciated that they could use four types of memory cards on one device. 

No.3

AnkerUSB 3.0 SD

USB 3.0 SD 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$16.99
Mid
Reference price
$16.99
Mid

Compact Reader That Reads 2 Memory Cards at Once

This durable plastic memory card reader has two slots: one for SD and the other for TF cards. The device's tiny size makes it easy to bring anywhere. Simply plug into your computer or laptop to transfer and read files. The device is compatible with USB 1.1, 2.0, and 3.0. 


Some buyers warned that the device gets hot when in use, and others said that it would suddenly lose connection while transferring data. However, the solid build, fast transfer speed, and compact size of the reader made it quite popular with many reviewers. People also commented that Anker had excellent customer service. 

No.4

AppleApple Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader

Apple Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$29.00
High
Reference price
$29.00
High

Transfer Files From SD Cards to Apple Products

Are you looking for a simple way to view your camera photos on your Apple products? This SD card reader with a lightning cable can swiftly transfer your data from your memory card to your iPhone, iPad, and other Apple products in seconds. Conveniently, the shared photos will automatically be categorized into Moments


One reviewer said not to buy this reader if your Apple product is upgraded to iOS 13 and above,  saying it has problems being detected on devices with iOS 13 and above. Still, satisfied users praised the straightforward process and fast transfer speed of this reader. Buyers loved the convenience of this device!

No.5

SmartQUSB 3.0 Pro

USB 3.0 Pro  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$21.99
High Mid
Reference price
$21.99
High Mid

USB Type-C Memory Card Reader With 4 Slots

Check out this muti-card reader with a USB Type-C connection! It has four slots for a variety of memory card types. The device supports SD, TF, CF, and MS and has a transfer speed of 5,000 megabits per second. It works smoothly on Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. 


A small number of users reported that the CF card slot is a bit too tight and doesn't read cards automatically. Other than this, satisfied customers praised the streamlined transferring system of the reader, saying it lets you share data between memory cards! People also loved that it can read so many types of cards, saying it's a useful reader to have on hand.

No.6

UgreenUSB 3.0 Card Reader

USB 3.0 Card Reader  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$11.99
Low Mid

Portable Dual Card Reader With a Keychain Holder

This dual CF and TF reader will stick with you wherever you go! It has a keychain hole, allowing you to add a lanyard or attach it to your keys. Plus, it's the size of a flash drive, making it easy to carry around. Thanks to its 5,000 megabits per second transfer speed, you can transfer big files in seconds.


A few reviewers said that the device tends to overheat. People also complained that it stops working and needs to be reconnected. On the bright side, reviewers loved the compact size and versatile compatibility of this reader. People also appreciated that no set-up is needed to use it. 

No.7

zedelaMulti Card Reader

Multi Card Reader  1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$15.95
Mid
Reference price
$15.95
Mid

Versatile Card Reader With 7 Slots

This versatile card reader has a whopping seven slots! It works with SD, TF, CF, MS, M2, and XD memory cards. The reader has two slots solely for SD cards. There's no need to remove the cards from their spaces as the device can read five cards simultaneously. You don't need to install any drivers, too.


Reviewers mentioned that though the reader can read five cards simultaneously, it can't read two SD or TF cards at the same time. Past this, happy customers loved its fast performance. Photographers also recommended this for its fast transfer of RAW image files

No.8

Warkky SD Card Reader

SD Card Reader 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$17.99
Mid
Reference price
$17.99
Mid

7-in-1 Card Reader With an LED Indicator

You will know when this device is connected properly and transferring data thanks to its LED indicator flashing blue and red. This card reader supports SD, TF, CF, and MS, and it has two USB ports. The two-and-a-half foot nylon cable is convenient and allows you to move your device around. 


Despite being advertised with a fast transfer speed, a few reviewers mentioned that it was not as fast as it should have been. Other than this, customers were still satisfied with the versatility and multiple slots of this reader. People also appreciated that all you need to do is plug it to get it to work! 

No.9

SuntrsiSD Card Reader

SD Card Reader 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$14.99
Mid
Reference price
$14.99
Mid

Compact Reader With 4 Ports

This tiny card reader can support SD and TF cards and has four ports- USB Type-A, USB Type-C, micro USB, and lightning cable! Plus, the phone connections are elongated to accommodate phone cases. When using the lightning cable, you can charge your phone and move data simultaneously.


A few buyers said that this reader has problems working smoothly with iOS 14 and above. Nonetheless, satisfied buyers were thrilled with its four ports and compact size. Customers also loved that they can store the reader in their pocket.

No.10

SuntrsiSD Card Reader

SD Card Reader 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.99
Mid
Reference price
$13.99
Mid

Charge and Transfer Data to and From Apple Products

Charge your Apple products and transfer data simultaneously with Suntrsi's SD card reader. This reader has a lightning cable connection and an SD and TF slot. It works with iPhones iOS 9.2 and above and iPad's with iOS 8.0 and above. For devices iOS 13 and above, you can also transfer files from your phone to the memory card.


According to a few reviewers, this reader had trouble connecting to iPhone 12 and its variants. Other than this, customers were thrilled with the fast transfer speed that moves 4K videos without any problem. They also confirmed that it's easy to use.

Need More Memory Card Accessories?

Are you looking for new memory cards and a place to store them? We've got you covered! 

Top 5 Memory Card Readers

No. 1: VanjaSD Card ReaderUSB C

No. 2: UgreenUSB 3.0 Card Reader

No. 3: AnkerUSB 3.0 SD

No. 4: AppleApple Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader

No. 5: SmartQUSB 3.0 Pro

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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