Recommend a CF Reader

[pcguru83]

Hey guys,

I'm looking to get a "dedicated" CF reader that will plug directly into my MBP. I don't want to have to mess with a USB cable--I want it to go directly into the MBP.

There are a plethora of these available on Amazon, but not many have reviews. Can anyone recommend one that they know to be fast/reliable?

 

[Lovesong]

I recommend this.

 

[pcguru83]

I recommend this.

Very nice. The price is a bit steep though for just a card reader though.

Any other USB recommendations?

 

[aricher]

USB will be much slower than the Firewire or Expresscard options out there. That said, I bought a SanDisk ImageMate 12-in-1 Reader/Writer (SDDR-89) for about $30. It has a tiny cable that plugs into the Mac. The reason I got the 12-in-1 is because I got sick of not being able to dump photos onto my laptop from friend's and family's cameras at parties and during the holidays.

 

[uaaerospace]

The reason I got the 12-in-1 is because I got sick of not being able to dump photos onto my laptop from friend's and family's cameras at parties and during the holidays.

I'm a fan of multiple-in-one's for the same reason. I can carry around one device and be able to read anything you throw at it. Plus, if I get a new camera with a different type memory, I don't have to purchase a new card reader. I'm unsure if they make these in noncabled versions as the OP desires.

 

[Grimace]

I'd recommend a firewire (or 34 interface) over USB any day of the week. The transfer time saved is SO worth it.

 

[bigbossbmb]

Lexar makes a good firewire CF reader for like $40... I've got it. It's fast and simple.

 

[pcguru83]

You know, as a still somewhat new Mac user, I still haven't gotten used to the fact that I can reliably use Firewire options now.

I suppose I'd be willing to give up the portability I was looking for and see what kind of Firewire solutions I can find. Although honestly, if I'm going to spend $40 for another reader, I think I'd rather just spend the extra $20 and get the ExpressCard reader that Lovesong linked to.

Thanks for all the recommendations so far.

 

[Clix Pix]

Using the Lexar FW 400 Pro reader here, and planning to buy their new 800 FW version....

For my cameras that use SD memory I also have a Lexar reader, but it's a small USB one.

 

[kismoore]

Bought the same reader/writer this morning.

USB will be much slower than the Firewire or Expresscard options out there. That said, I bought a SanDisk ImageMate 12-in-1 Reader/Writer (SDDR-89) for about $30. It has a tiny cable that plugs into the Mac. The reason I got the 12-in-1 is because I got sick of not being able to dump photos onto my laptop from friend's and family's cameras at parties and during the holidays.

It will not mount on my desktop or in the finder.
Shows up in ATMac under more info...
as usb high-speed bus (14 in 1 reader/writer)

Getting no assistance from sandisc. they say it's "plug and go" for mac osx 10.4

all the lights are working properly, can't read inserted cards but the green comes on.
any ideas?

 

[kismoore]

Never mind..... working fine now.

It will not mount on my desktop or in the finder.
Shows up in ATMac under more info...
as usb high-speed bus (14 in 1 reader/writer)

Getting no assistance from sandisc. they say it's "plug and go" for mac osx 10.4

all the lights are working properly, can't read inserted cards but the green comes on.
any ideas?

Unplugged the base, plugged it in with the short travel cord. worked fine, replugged into desk base, working fine now.