Chromebooks are becoming more popular and convenient but need a built-in SD
card reader. If you want to transfer photos, music, or any other files from your
camera or storage device to your Chromebook, you’ll need an external SD card
reader for your Chromebook.
There are a few different options available on the market. The best one for the most
people will be a USB SD Card Reader.

Why is SD Card Reader important for Chromebooks?
Are you tired of constantly transferring files from your Chromebook to another
device to access your SD card? Look no further than a USB SD Card Reader for
Chromebook! If you’re a Chromebook user, you know how important it is to have
access to external storage devices.
The limited internal storage of these laptops can often be frustrating, especially for
those who work with large media files or use their device for personal and
professional purposes. That’s where the USB SD card reader comes in.
With an SD card reader for your Chromebook, you can easily transfer files from
one device to another without any hassle. Insert your SD card into the reader and
plug it into your laptop’s USB port. You’ll then be able to access all your stored
files directly on your Chromebook, allowing you to easily edit documents, watch
videos or share photos. Not only is an SD card reader a convenient accessory for
Chromebook users, but it is also incredibly affordable.
Details on Amazon:
Media Type | Micro SD, Micro Sticky, Compact Flash, SD card |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Special Feature | USB Car reader 4 ports, data transfers for photographers |
Color | Black |
Features:
All in One:
- Designed with SD/Micro SD/CF/MS slots, It supports most standard memory
- cards, including SD/SDXC/SDHC/Micro SD (TF), Micro SDXC/Micro
- SDHC/UHS-I/Compact Flash/Memory Stick.
No More Waiting:
USB 3.0 device ports reach up to 5 GB/s in transmission rate; they transfer large
files in a few seconds.
Compact Design:
2.172.680.59 inches (LWH) / 1.7 ft of cable; carry it anywhere. The
UGREEN USB 3.0 SD Card Reader is a great option.
Simultaneous Work:
UGREEN USB SD Card Reader supports reading and writing 4 different memory
cards simultaneously, eliminating the need to plug and unplug different cards. 2TB
cards are also supported.
Easy to Use:
Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and Chrome OS. The Micro SD Card
Reader is plug-and-play ready: and convenient to use with a laptop or home
computer.
Best SD Card Readers for Chromebook:
ProGrade Digital Card Reader
Specifications:
size | 7 x 7 x 1.8 cm |
Weight | 204 G |
Connection | USB Type-C and USB Type-A |
Supported Card Formats | CFexpress Type B, UHS-I, UHS-II SD, SDHC, SDXC, and SD |
USB Speed | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (10 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, and iOS (iPad Pro) |
Best For | Professionals who need a reliable card reader |
Features:
ProGrade Digital is the best memory card reader.
It boasts one CFexpress Type B slot and one UHS-II SDXC slot. These
are the two camera card formats used by DSLR and mirrorless cameras.
- It uses a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C interface. And it comes with USB Type-C
and USB. - Type-A connectors. They work together to deliver g data transfer speeds of
up to 1250 Mbps. - Experts made this camera card reader portable and durable. Its rugged
body is extra tough. We can attach it to a laptop or a cinema camera.
The results of this card reader are the best, no matter what type of content creator
you are. It’s for photographers, YouTubers, filmmakers, etc. It also comes with a
best-in-class, two-year, full money-back guarantee.
Kingston Nucleum 7-in-1 Hub
Specifications:
Size | 12.7 x 4.5 x 1.4 cm |
Weight | 99 G |
Connection | USB Type-C |
Supported Card Formats | UHS-I, UHS-II SD, SDXC, SDHC, microSDXC, microSDHC, microSD, and SD |
USB Speed | USB 3.0, 3.1 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, iOS (iPad Pro), and Chrome OS |
Best For | Multiple card formats |
Features:
- The Kingston Nucleum 7-in-1 hub is the perfect solution for people with
newer laptops lacking ports. - It boasts SD and microSD memory card readers, two USB-C ports, and
two USB 3.1 ports. - You can plug SD and microSD cards directly into the hub. Also can
attach a different card reader to the USB-C port. - It has a high-quality feel and a built-in USB-Type C connector cable. Its
transfer speed of 5 Gbps. It is best for beginner photographers, kids, and
even people who don’t own a camera.
Lexar Professional USB 3.2 Reader
Specifications:
Size | 6.4 x 2.7 x 9.9 cm |
Weight | 136 g |
Connection | USB Type-C |
Supported Card Formats | CFexpress Type B |
USB speed | USB 3.2 Gen 2 2×2 Type-C (20 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, Mac, and iOS (iPad Pro) |
Best for | Only CFexpress Type B cards |
Features:
- It is the fastest card reader. It is only compatible with CFexpress Type B
cards. If you primarily use that format, you will be blown away by the speed
of this card reader. - It has advanced USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 technology and can fully maximize the
transfer speed of CFexpress Type B cards. - It moves files at a blazing speed of 1700 Mbps.
- Few PC desktop computers support this generation of USB ports. It still
works with other devices, but the transfer speeds will be slightly slower.
Sony MRW-G2 CFexpress Card Reader
Specifications:
Size | 5.5 x 9.5 x 1.2 cm |
Weight | 95 G |
Connection | USB Type-C and USB-C Type A |
Supported Card Formats | CFexpress Type A, UHS-I, UHS-II SD, SDXC, SDHC, and SD cards |
USB Speed | USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, and iOS (iPad Pro) |
Best For | Best For Photographers with Sony cameras |
Features:
- The Sony MRW-G2 CFexpress, memory card reader, can transfer files at
1250 Mbps. - When paired with a CFexpress Type A card, it transfers data up to 2.8 times
faster than traditional SD card readers. - If you use this reader with traditional SD cards, cameras will use CFexpress
Type A cards yearly. And if you own a Sony camera like the a7S III, this is
the best memory card reader.
SanDisk Professional Multi-Card PRO-READER
Specifications:
Size | 11.5 x 6 x 1.9 cm |
Weight | 119 G |
Connection | USB Type-C |
Supported Card Formats | UHS-I, UHS-II SD, CompactFlash, SDHC, SDXC, microSDHC, microSDXC, microSD, and SD |
USB Speed | USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, and iOS (iPad Pro), and G-RAID devices |
Best For | Taking all forms of SD card |
Features:
- It is a premium device. It is designed for professionals.
- It features one SD slot, a microSD slot, and a CompactFlash slot. So this
card reader provides content creators with tons of flexibility. And it can read
and write at speeds of up to 10 Gbps… even multiple memory cards transfer
data simultaneously! - One notable feature is the aluminum enclosure. It pulls heat and prevents
overheating when used. - It also has a helpful write-protect switch, so you never overwrite essential
files. - SanDisk makes identical models that read CFexpress cards, CFast cards,
and RED MINI-MAG cards.
Delkin Devices USB 3.2 CFexpress Type B Card Reader
Specifications:
Size | 7.6 x 3.8 x 1.2 cm |
Weight | 113 G |
Connection | USB Type-C and USB-C Type A |
Supported Card Formats | CFexpress Type B |
USB Speed | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (10 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, and iOS (iPad Pro) |
Best For | Photographers who need a versatile card reader |
Features
- Delkin devises USB 3.2 CFexpress Type B as one of the best overall value
card readers. - It has a budget-friendly price and 10 Gbps video and photo transfer speeds.
- It comes with USB Type-C and Type-A connector cables. This makes it a
great SD card reader for PC and Mac hardware. - This is sleek, lightweight, and constructed from durable anodized
aluminum. - Its next-generation USB 3.2 technology only takes minutes to transfer
massive 8K or 4K video files!
Kingston Workflow Station Dock
Specifications
Size | 16 x 6.8 x 5.5 cm |
Weight | 223 G |
Connection | USB Type-C and USB-C Type A |
Supported Card Formats | UHS-I, UHS-II SD, SD, and microSD cards |
USB Speed | USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, and iOS (iPad Pro) |
Best For | Photographers with complex work flows |
Features:
- The most unique and best memory card reader is the Kingston Workflow
Station Dock. - It is a four-bay docking station with a USB 3.2 Gen 1 mini-hub with
transfer speeds of 5 Gbps. - Each card reader module comes with two ports. If all four docking stations
are in use, you can connect up to eight cards or digital cameras
simultaneously. - An important feature is that the workflow station needs external power.
- But when travelling, you can use the modules as standalone USB card
readers. You can attach them directly to your devices with the USB-C
connector cable.
Sony MRW-G1 Memory Card Reader
Specifications:
Size | 10.1 x 5.5 x 1.5 cm |
Weight | 158 G |
Connection | USB Type-C and USB-C Type A |
Supported Card Formats | CFexpress Type B and XQD cards |
USB Speed | USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, macOS, and iOS (iPad Pro) |
Best For | Tough and extreme environments |
Features
- The Sony MRW-G1 memory card reader is also an excellent choice for
CFexpress Type B cards. It has the same blistering-fast 1250 Mbps read-write speeds as the previous SanDisk option. - BSony card reader gets the nod because it is compatible with the XQD
cards and is commonly used in high-end Nikon cameras. - USB Type-C and Type-A cables are included in them. This provides them
with a wide range of compatibility. - It is highly durable. It can withstand 70 N of force and is drop-proof up to
five meters.
Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 SD Card Reader
Specifications:
Size | 1.2 x 3.3 x 6.5 cm |
Weight | 13 G |
Connection | USB 3.0 |
Supported Card Formats | UHS-I SD, SDXC, SDHC, microSDXC, microSDHC, microSD, MMC, RS-MMC, and SD |
USB Speed | USB 3.0, 3.1 Gen 1 (5.0 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows and macOS |
Best For | Photographers who travel |
Features:
- The Anker 2-in-1 USB 3.0 is Low budget-SD memory card reader. It’s for
photographers and videographers who use SD and microSD cards. - It is the cheapest and also the smallest. This makes it an excellent choice for
both landscape and travel photographers. - It enables fast data transfer rates of up to 5 Gbps.
- And it is 100% powered by the attached device. So you never have to worry
about a power source or running out of battery.
SanDisk Extreme Pro CFexpress Card Reader
Specifications:
Size | 10.6 x 6.2 x 2.3 cm |
Weight | 158 G |
Connection | USB Type-C |
Supported Card Formats | CFexpress Type B |
USB Speed | USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) |
Operating System Compatibility | Windows, Mac, and iOS (iPad Pro) |
Best For | CFexpress card users on a budget |
Features:
- The SanDisk Extreme Pro CFexpress card reader is powerful and fast
option. - It has a similar design to a standard computer mouse.
- It includes a 1.6-inch USB Type-C connector cable.
- It’s impressively fast for transferring video and images. With a max data
transfer rate of 1250 Mbps, it trumps even the fastest UHS-II memory card
reader. - It has a spring inside the card slot. It quickly and easily ejects the memory
card.
Best buying Guide for Sd Card Reader for Chromebook
When looking to buy an SD card reader for your Chromebook, there are a few things you should consider to ensure that you get a device that meets your needs. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Compatibility: First and foremost, you need to ensure that the SD card reader you choose is compatible with your Chromebook. Most Chromebooks have USB-C ports, so you should look for a reader that plugs into this type of port. However, if your Chromebook has a USB-A port, you will need an adapter that allows you to connect a USB-C reader.
- Speed: The speed of the SD card reader is an important factor to consider if you plan to transfer large files or work with high-resolution images. Look for a reader with high-speed data transfer rates, such as USB 3.0 or USB 3.1.
- Size: If you plan to use the SD card reader on the go, you should look for a compact and portable device that is easy to carry around. Some readers are designed to be compact and foldable, making them a great choice for travel.
- Compatibility with SD card formats: SD cards come in different formats, so it’s important to choose a reader that can handle the format you need. Most readers can handle standard SD cards, but you should check whether the reader supports SDHC or SDXC cards if you plan to work with larger files.
- Brand and quality: Finally, it’s important to choose a reputable brand and high-quality product. Look for reviews and recommendations from other Chromebook users to ensure that you get a reliable and durable SD card reader.
By considering these factors, you can find an SD card reader that is compatible with your Chromebook, fast, portable, and reliable, allowing you to easily transfer and access your data.
Benefits of Sd Card Reader for Chromebook:
If you own a Chromebook, there is no question that an SD card reader is an
essential accessory. With the limited internal storage space of Chromebooks, an
SD card reader can help you expand your storage capacity and store more files
without any hassles. Here are some benefits of using an SD card reader for your
Chromebook:
It allows you to transfer files quickly and easily between devices. If you need to
move files from your camera or phone onto your Chromebook, insert the SD card
into the reader and copy the necessary data.
If you need to transfer large files like videos or music from one device to another,
having a reliable and efficient way to do, this means you won’t waste any time. Using an SD card reader on your Chromebook can save you money in the long run
Pros and Cons of Using an SD Card Reader on Chromebook
SD card readers can be a useful tool for Chromebook users who need to transfer files between their devices and external storage media. Here are some pros and cons to consider when using an SD card reader on a Chromebook:
Pros
- Easy file transfer: An SD card reader makes it easy to transfer files from an SD card to your Chromebook, without the need for any additional cables or software.
- More storage space: If your Chromebook has limited storage space, an SD card reader can provide additional storage for your files and media.
- Portable storage: SD cards are small and portable, making them a convenient storage option for users who need to access their files on the go.
- Low cost: SD cards are relatively inexpensive, making them a cost-effective storage solution for Chromebook users.
Cons
- Slow data transfer: While SD cards are convenient, they can be slower than other types of storage media, such as USB drives or external hard drives.
- Limited capacity: SD cards have a limited capacity compared to other types of storage media, which may not be sufficient for users who need to store large files or media libraries.
- Fragile: SD cards can be fragile and can easily become damaged or corrupted, which may result in the loss of important data.
- Compatibility issues: Some Chromebooks may not be compatible with certain types of SD cards, which can be frustrating for users who need to transfer files from these cards.
Final Thoughts:
SD Card Reader for Chromebook is a great way to add extra storage to your
device. It’s also a great way to transfer files between your Chromebook and other
devices. If you’re looking for an extra storage solution or want to transfer files
between devices easily, the SD Card Reader for Chromebook is a great option.
FAQs About SD card Reader for Chromebook
SD card readers for Chromebooks can be a great way to transfer files and photos quickly and easily. In this article, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about SD card readers for Chromebooks, so you can get the most out of your device. We will discuss what an SD card reader is, how it works, and what types are compatible with Chromebooks. We’ll also cover topics such as cost, installation and maintenance.
How do I read my SD card on my Chromebook?
If you are a Chromebook user, you may be wondering how to read your SD card on the device. Luckily, there are several ways to access and view the files on your SD card using a Chromebook.
Firstly, you can use an external USB card reader that plugs into one of the USB ports on your Chromebook. This is a quick and easy solution because most USB card readers are plug-and-play, meaning they do not require any additional software or drivers to work with your Chromebook.
Alternatively, if your Chromebook has an SD card slot built-in, simply insert the SD card into the slot and wait for it to appear in the Files app. If it does not appear automatically, click on the ‘Files’ icon in your app launcher and select ‘My Files’. From here, you should see your SD card listed as an external storage device under ‘Devices’.
How do I setup my SD card on my Chromebook?
Insert the SD card into the slot on your Chromebook.
Click on the status area in the lower right corner of the screen (it looks like a circle with lines or dots inside).
Click on the gear icon to open the settings menu.
Scroll down to the “Device” section and click “Storage management.”
Under “Removable devices,” you should see your SD card listed. Click on it to see its details.
If the SD card has not been formatted yet, you will see an option to format it. Click on “Format” and follow the instructions to format the SD card.
Once the SD card is formatted, you can choose to use it as portable storage or internal storage. If you choose to use it as portable storage, you can move files to and from the SD card as needed. If you choose to use it as internal storage, your Chromebook will use the SD card to store apps and files by default, which can be helpful if your Chromebook has limited internal storage.
Can you view pictures on SD card on Chromebook?
Chromebooks are a popular choice for people who want a lightweight and affordable laptop that is easy to use. If you have an SD card with photos saved on it, you may be wondering if you can view those pictures on your Chromebook. The answer is yes, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, make sure your Chromebook has an SD card reader built in or purchase an external one compatible with your device. Next, insert the SD card into the slot or connect the external reader to your device’s USB port. Once inserted, locate the Files app on your Chromebook and click on it to open it.
In the Files app, look for the name of your SD card under ‘Devices’ or ‘Downloads.’ Clicking on it will display all of the files stored on your SD card including any pictures saved there.
Can I install apps on SD card on Chromebook?
Chromebooks are popular for their lightweight and intuitive design. However, one common question from Chromebook users is whether they can install apps on an SD card. The answer is yes and no, depending on the app’s compatibility.
Chrome OS allows you to move some apps to your SD card, but not all of them. Apps that have been specifically designed to run from an external storage device will work perfectly well with your SD card. However, apps that aren’t optimized for external storage devices may encounter issues or become unstable when moved to an SD card.
In addition, there are certain limitations when it comes to moving apps to an SD card on a Chromebook. For example, you cannot move system apps or any app that requires special permissions such as access to your camera or microphone.