We compared two SD card readers: the UGREEN SD Card Reader 3.0 and the acer USB-C SD Card Reader.
What we looked at
Connector type, design, and price.
The verdict
If you want both USB-C and USB-A connectivity at the lower price, the UGREEN is the pick at £6.34. If you would rather pay £2.65 more for an extended cable that clears tight ports, the acer is the alternative, at £8.99.

A £6.34 reader with both USB-C and USB-A connectors.

UGREEN SD Card Reader 3.0, USB-C & USB-A — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as a 2-in-1 card reader with both USB-C and USB-A connectors, transferring at up to 5Gbps and reading 2 cards simultaneously, supporting SDXC/SDHC/SD/Micro SD up to 2TB, plug and play with no driver needed, in an aluminium alloy case with a lanyard. Carries 4.6 stars from 23.7K ratings on this listing.
What we liked
- 4.6 stars from 23.7K ratings on this listing
- Both USB-C and USB-A connectors in one unit, unlike the acer's USB-C only
- Cheaper than the acer on these listings, at £6.34
- Reads 2 cards simultaneously
Worth knowing
- No stated extended cable, unlike the acer's port-friendly design
- Fewer stated features for heat dissipation than the acer
Best for
- Buyers who want both USB-C and USB-A compatibility in one reader
- Anyone who wants the lower price
- Those who want the single largest review history available
Not ideal for
- Buyers who only need USB-C and want an extended cable for tight ports
- Anyone who wants the acer's stated heat-dissipation design
acer USB-C SD Card Reader 170MB/s — Most Port-Friendly
Intended for: Marketed as a USB-C card reader transferring at up to 170MB/s (5Gbps) in UHS-I mode, reading 2 memory cards simultaneously up to 2TB, with an extended cable to keep it clear of other ports and an aluminium shell for heat dissipation, plug and play with no driver required.
What we liked
- Extended cable keeps the reader clear of neighbouring ports, unlike the UGREEN's compact body
- Aluminium shell for heat dissipation
- Dual slot for reading 2 cards simultaneously
- Up to 170MB/s UHS-I transfer speed
Worth knowing
- Costs £2.65 more than the UGREEN on these listings
- USB-C only, no USB-A connector unlike the UGREEN
Best for
- Buyers who want a reader with an extended cable for tight laptop ports
- Anyone who only needs USB-C connectivity
- Those who want a reader designed for heat dissipation
Not ideal for
- Buyers who want both USB-C and USB-A in one reader
- Anyone who wants the lowest price



