Freewell aims to simplify the modern card storage conundrum with their Pro Reader, a device that promises not only high-speed reading of multiple formats but also integrated storage for cards when you're out in the field. I've been testing one out to see how it fits into a creator's workflow.
The core idea behind the Freewell Pro Reader is compelling enough: combine a multi-format card reader with a protective card holder. It's designed to be a single gadget that handles both offloading and carrying your precious media.
Storage
Let's first look at the storage aspect. The reader and storage are combined into an internal setup about the size of a candy bar, which nests in an aluminum alloy tube. Dual buttons secure the reader into the exterior housing, and while the seal isn’t waterproof, I’d characterize it as dust resistant. It's compact enough for a travel kit, and the included carabiner makes it easy to clip onto a bag or strap, though I'd probably still tuck it inside a bag for better protection. An LED indicator provides visual feedback during data transfer.
The aluminum alloy body feels robust, while the reader is made of a durable plastic. The reader has dedicated slots designed to store one CFexpress Type A, one CFexpress Type B, three SD cards (UHS-I or II), and six microSD cards. There are also two slots for Nano SIM cards. You cannot store the reader in the housing with cards still in the reader’s slots, only in the storage slots.
For creators heavily invested in microSD, perhaps for drone or action camera footage, the six slots might be welcome. However, for many photographers and videographers, that might feel like a bit too much space dedicated to the smaller format compared to SD or CFexpress. The Nano SIM slots also feel somewhat niche, particularly for users in regions where physical SIM swaps are less common these days, since today’s U.S. model iPhones don’t even have SIM slots anymore.
The most significant consideration for some will be the singular slots for CFexpress Type A and Type B. If you're running a dual-slot camera using two cards of the same CFexpress type, you'll need to carry spares elsewhere. This product functions OK as storage, but its specific configuration might be a perfect fit for some users and less than ideal for others.
Card Reading
Where the Freewell Pro Reader really delivers is in reading cards. It features dedicated slots for CFexpress Type A, CFexpress Type B, SD (UHS-I and II compatible), and microSD. This covers the main formats professionals and enthusiasts are likely using today. Connection is handled via USB-C over an attached (albeit short) cable, supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2 speeds up to 10 Gbps. When you're dealing with large batches of high-resolution raw photos or 4K/8K video files, that speed translates directly into less time waiting for data transfers and more time shooting or editing.
A standout feature is the ability to read from the CFexpress A/B, SD, and microSD slots simultaneously. This is a significant workflow enhancement. Instead of offloading cards one by one, you can plug them all in and initiate the transfers concurrently. This can be a real time-saver at the end of a long shooting day, and is newer behavior that I’m starting to enjoy on modern card readers.
In terms of compatibility, it’s designed for plug-and-play operation across various systems. I tested it primarily on a Mac and PC, where it worked immediately without needing any drivers or adjustments. Freewell lists compatibility with Windows going all the way back to XP (really?), macOS (10.6.2+), Linux, Android, and iPadOS. For connecting to devices without USB-C, a USB-C to USB-A adapter cable is included, which is a nice touch given the built-in cable.
Freewell's compatibility chart notes that while laptops and desktops support reading all card types (CFE-A, CFE-B, SD, TF), iPhones don’t support CFE-B. This is a limitation of the mobile operating systems or hardware rather than the reader itself, but it's an important consideration for users in the probably rare scenario of mobile-only offloads via CFexpress Type B cards.
So, who is the Freewell Pro Reader best suited for? I see it appealing most to traveling photographers, videographers, or vloggers who use a mix of card formats, including CFexpress Type A or B alongside SD and microSD. If you value having a single, robust device that offers fast, simultaneous offloads via USB-C and provides a degree of organized card storage for transit, it's a compelling option. The 10 Gbps speed and simultaneous read capability are genuine benefits for easy data management.
While the specific card storage configuration might not perfectly align with every user's needs—particularly those needing to carry multiple CFexpress cards or those who don't use many microSDs—the core reader functionality is strong. It reliably reads the formats it promises at speeds that modern workflows demand.
The Freewell Pro Reader is a capable and fast multi-format card reader with the added bonus of integrated card storage. While the storage layout makes some highly specific choices for the user, the reader's performance, build quality, simultaneous read function, and broad compatibility make it a reasonable value even when judged solely as a card reader.
