Card readers

25 products from $6 Pay in BTC, ETH or USDT

External USB-A and USB-C readers for SD, microSD and CompactFlash cards, including UHS-II models, internal front-panel readers, and smart card readers for ID and company cards. Pay in BTC, ETH or USDT.

25 products

25 products

Products

Buying card readers at HodlChip

A fast reader cuts the time it takes to offload photos and video. Match it to your cards and ports:

  • Card formats: check the slots you need, such as SD, microSD or CompactFlash; multi-slot readers take several formats.
  • UHS-II: UHS-II cards have a second row of contacts and only reach their full speed in a UHS-II reader. In a UHS-I reader they work at UHS-I speed.
  • Connection: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbit/s) is enough for most SD cards, and USB-C models plug straight into current laptops.
  • Internal readers: fit a 3.5-inch front bay and connect to a USB header on the motherboard, often adding front USB ports.
  • Smart card readers: read chip cards such as electronic ID cards and some company or banking cards, together with software from the card issuer.

Most memory card readers work without drivers on Windows, macOS and Linux. Smart card use depends on the issuer's software, so check that it supports your operating system. For storage that stays in your pocket, see USB flash drives and external drives.

Questions about card readers

Why is my SD card slow in my reader?
The reader, port or card type can limit it. UHS-II cards need a UHS-II reader to reach their rated speed, and a USB 2.0 port or hub caps any reader at about 40 MB/s. Use a USB 3 port and a reader that matches your card.
Do card readers work on Mac and Linux?
Most USB card readers are standard mass storage devices that work without drivers on Windows, macOS and Linux. Smart card readers generally follow a common standard too, but using an ID or company card depends on the issuer's software.
Can I add a card reader to my desktop case?
Yes, if the case has a free 3.5-inch front bay: internal readers mount there and connect to a USB header on the motherboard. Otherwise, a compact external reader on a USB port does the same job.