In recent years, many card readers have hit the market from brands like SanDisk, Sony, and others. Despite the variety, there's often been something missing – whether it's compatibility with multiple card types or the ability to read multiple cards simultaneously. Freewell's Pro Reader seems to be the answer to these common issues. Let's dive into what makes this card reader stand out and why it might be the best choice for creators.
Features Overview
Universal Compatibility
The Freewell Pro Reader supports an impressive range of card types:
This means you can read and write to all these cards simultaneously, making it incredibly efficient for creators who use multiple devices and card types.
Built-in SIM Card Slots
For travelers, the Pro Reader includes two slots for SIM cards (nano and micro) and even comes with a SIM card removal tool. This can be a handy feature for those who frequently switch SIM cards on the go.
Connectivity
The Pro Reader comes with a USB-C cable, and if you're still using USB-A, it includes a USB-A adapter. Both connections support USB 3.2 with up to 10 Gbps transfer speeds, ensuring fast data transfers.
Smartphone Compatibility
It works seamlessly with the iPhone 15 Pro and Android devices. However, it may not be compatible with earlier iPhone models without a USB-C to Lightning adapter.
Performance
Speed Tests
Here are the results from my speed tests, comparing the Freewell Pro Reader with the Pergear CFexpress Type A reader:
While the Pergear reader is slightly faster in reading speeds, the difference is negligible in practical use. The writing speeds of the Freewell Pro Reader are slightly better.
For CFexpress Type B cards for Freewell Pro Card Reader:
These speeds are sufficient for most tasks but could be faster with a Thunderbolt or USB 4 connection.
User Experience
Over a month of use, the Freewell Pro Reader consistently performed well:
Design and Build
The Pro Reader is made entirely of metal, which gives it a sturdy feel. However, the finish can wear off quickly, and it might get scratched easily in your bag. A rubberized exterior, like some other brands offer, could improve durability.
Despite this, the Pro Reader has a very satisfying opening mechanism that adds to its premium feel.
Price and Value
During the launch period, the Freewell Pro Reader is priced at $99.99. After this period, the price will increase to $139.99. There's also a Duo Reader, which only reads SD cards, available for $39.99 during the launch and $49.99 afterward.
For its versatility and efficiency, the Pro Reader offers excellent value, especially at the introductory price. If you're interested, it's worth purchasing early to take advantage of the lower price.
Conclusion
The Freewell Pro Reader stands out for its ability to read multiple card types simultaneously, its robust build, and its thoughtful features for travelers. While it could benefit from faster read/write speeds with a higher-end connection and improved exterior durability, it remains an excellent choice for creators looking for a versatile and efficient card reader.