Note: An updated version of this reader has replaced this reader. See the Lexar Professional Dual Slot UHS-II Card Reader LRW400U review.
The Lexar Professional Dual-Slot Reader provides a convenient way to read CF and SD cards and has a unique pop-up design to protect the slots when not in use. The latest version of this reader supports CompactFlash cards with UDMA 7. A firmware update is available to update earlier versions of this reader. The Secure Digital slot supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards including UHS-I.
Bright blue LED turns on when a card is inserted and flashes when a card is being accessed. The CF card slot offers a firm and positive feel, with little play. The CF card inserts to about 3/4-inch (19mm) depth which should eliminate any concern of bent pins. The SD card slot is about 5/8-inch (16mm) deep and has a similar precise feel. Both cards protrude the same amount and with only 3/32-inch (2.5mm) between them grasping the smaller SD card can be difficult when a CF card is inserted.
The clear plastic outer case protects the reader. When tabs on the sides are pressed the reader pops up to reveal the SD and CompactFlash slots. The spring is firm enough to hold the card reader in the open position and the tabs only require a gentle touch to open. The tabs are recessed enough to prevent accidental opening when the reader is loose in a camera or accessory bag with other items. Closing the reader requires firm push, it locks shut with a positive click.
The high-gloss black top is attractive but tends to show fingerprints, dust and scratches. A white rubber pad on the bottom helps hold the Dual Slot reader in place. Overall the Lexar Dual-Slot Reader feels solid and durable. A micro USB 3 connector is located on the back of the reader.
The Lexar Dual-Slot Reader posted some very fast read and write speeds using both CompactFlash and Secure Digital cards. The fastest read speeds using CF cards were only slightly below those seen in the Lexar Professional Workflow CFR1, the fastest CF reader tested to date. The Dual Slot topped out at 156.8 MB/s using a Lexar 1066x 32GB CF card. SD card speed was excellent, for both reading and writing.
Reader: Lexar Professional Dual Slot Reader
Benchmark: CrystalDiskMark 3.0.3 x64
Program settings: 1000 MB, 5 passes, random test data
Operating system: Windows 10 Pro
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-Z77X-UD3H
Processor: Intel Core i7-3770K @ 4.40GHz
RAM: 32GB DDR3 1600
Compatibility is listed as Mac OS X 10.5+ and Windows 7/Vista/XP. The Lexar Professional Dual-Slot Reader is covered by a five-year limited warranty. Made in China.
Note: This reader has been replaced by the Lexar Professional Dual Slot UHS-II Card Reader.
Compare prices on the Lexar Professional Dual Slot Reader reader. The lowest prices are highlighted in the table below.
Card Reader | Connection | Model Number | Prices | ||
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Amazon | B&H Photo | Adorama | |||
Lexar Professional Dual Slot Reader | USB 3.0 | LRW307URBNA | $59.00 | Check price | Check price |