Introduction

In today’s review, we’ll be taking a close look at the Mini Portable USB 2.0 Card Reader, model number C5543S-1. This compact device promises portability and ease of use for transferring data from various memory card formats. I’ve been using this reader for several weeks now, putting it through its paces with different cards and usage scenarios. Let’s dive into the details.

Features

The C5543S-1 boasts a truly miniature design, easily slipping into a pocket or bag. The key-hole design is a thoughtful addition, preventing accidental loss. The claimed support for a wide range of memory cards—SD, SDHC, TF, MS Duo, Micro MS (M2), and MS Pro Duo—is a significant selling point. The plug-and-play functionality is indeed seamless; the reader is automatically detected upon insertion into a USB port. I particularly appreciated the lack of any external power supply; it’s purely bus-powered.

Performance

Transfer speeds were generally acceptable for a USB 2.0 device. I didn’t experience any significant bottlenecks transferring photos from my various SD cards and Micro SD cards. Larger files (4K video clips) took a bit longer, as expected, but nothing alarming. The automatic detection feature worked flawlessly in every test. I tested it on several different computers – Windows 10, macOS Monterey, and even a Chromebook – and experienced no compatibility issues. The build quality feels surprisingly robust for such a small and inexpensive device. It shows no signs of wear and tear, even after extended usage.

One area I did find interesting was the performance with different card types. While transfer speeds were generally consistent within each card type, there was a noticeable difference in speed between, say, a UHS-I SD card and a older SD card. This is, of course, expected given the limitations of the USB 2.0 interface and inherent differences in card speed. I recommend using faster cards if you need optimal performance.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Compact and portable, supports a wide range of memory cards, plug-and-play functionality, robust build quality, inexpensive.
• Cons: Limited to USB 2.0 speeds (not suitable for high-speed data transfers), the lack of LED indicator can make it slightly difficult to confirm whether the reader is actively functioning.

Final Verdict

The Mini Portable USB 2.0 Card Reader C5543S-1 is a solid little device that does exactly what it promises. If you need a simple, affordable, and highly portable solution for transferring data from various memory cards, this reader is a great choice. While the USB 2.0 speed is a limitation, it’s understandable given the price point and size. For casual users and photographers who primarily transfer images and smaller video clips, this reader offers exceptional value. I would happily recommend it.