Card readers for copying photos, video and files from memory cards to a computer, together with a few microSD cards listed alongside them. The range suits photographers, drone and dashcam owners, and anyone whose laptop has no suitable card slot. Brands include Samsung, SanDisk, GOODRAM and OWC.
How to choose a card reader or memory card
Reader or card. This category mixes two kinds of product: readers that move data off a card, and microSD cards themselves. Decide which one you are missing before you order. A reader only makes sense if your computer lacks a slot for the card format you use.
Card format. Most cards in our range are microSDXC, with some microSDHC. SDHC cards stop at 32 GB, while SDXC covers larger capacities, so an older device that only supports SDHC may not read an SDXC card. If your camera uses full-size SD cards, check that a microSD card comes with, or can be used with, an adaptor.
Speed. Read speeds in our range include 100 MB/s, 180 MB/s and 200 MB/s. Write speed matters more when you record 4K video or burst photos, and listed values vary from 10 MB/s to 130 MB/s, so compare both figures rather than the headline read speed. A fast card is still held back by a slow reader or an older USB port.
Capacity. Cards listed run from 32 GB to 512 GB. 32 GB is enough for everyday photos or a dashcam that overwrites old footage, while 128 GB and above gives room for 4K video, drone clips or a handheld console.
Temperature range. Operating ranges listed include -25 to 85 °C and 0 to 70 °C. For a dashcam in a car that sits in the sun or in a freezing winter, choose the wider range. For use at a desk or in a camera bag, either is fine.
Brands we carry
- Samsung: known for its EVO and PRO microSD cards, which are widely used in phones, action cameras and handheld consoles.
- SanDisk: one of the best-known names in flash cards, with SD and microSD lines aimed at photographers and video shooters.
- OWC: a US company known for storage upgrades, docks and card readers, mainly for Mac and professional camera workflows.
- GOODRAM: a Polish maker of memory modules and flash storage, offering microSD cards in several capacities.
Card readers: frequently asked questions
What is a card reader used for?
A card reader connects a memory card to a computer so you can copy files to or from it. It is the quickest way to move photos and video from a camera, drone or dashcam without draining the device battery. Many readers connect over USB.
Do I need a card reader if my laptop has an SD slot?
Not for a full-size SD card, which fits straight into the slot. A microSD card needs an adaptor, and many newer laptops have no card slot at all. In those cases a USB reader is the simplest solution.
What is the difference between microSDHC and microSDXC?
The difference is capacity. SDHC cards go up to 32 GB, and SDXC cards start above that, up to 2 TB. Devices must support SDXC to read the larger cards, so check your camera, phone or reader before buying.
Which card speed do I need for 4K video?
It depends on the camera, so check its manual for the minimum sustained write speed. Many 4K cameras ask for at least 30 MB/s, which is the guaranteed minimum of a U3 or V30 rated card. Higher bitrates need a card with a faster write speed.
