Kingston USB microSD Reader

I am a bit of an anorak when it comes to memory sticks. I cannot help but buy one every time I go to town or whenever I see one I like online. I bought a phone last year and I was keen to be able to hold a large collection of photos, videos and music within my phone but the memory was very basic so a MicroSD card was essential. I purchased a few cards but rarely moved the files from one place to another as the process seems too arduous.

Whilst browsing through Amazon I found a memory stick that encompassed a mini-SD card reader. My first impressions on the stick was 'WOW' closely followed by the 'I want this now urge' unfortunately I know by now that Amazon can take up to 5 days to deliver my order and I had to wait.

The memory card/MicroSD card reader was made by Kingston and I am aware from past purchases that Kingston are a reliable manufacturer creating strong and highly effective removable storage devices.

They also seem to have one of the greatest ranges of removable media from novelty memory sticks n the shape of Lego or a specific character, as well as memory sticks able to hold a lot of memory.

The card and reader bundle was a bargain at only £3.99. The size makes it very potable and convenient to use. It has saved me worrying about losing my existing card reader/card adapter and means that I no longer have to carry USB wires and bulky card readers in my bag. The card supplied has 2GB of space, which is quite good for a few picture files, videos and a few MP3 files.

On plugging the USB stick into my computer it took a few minutes to recognise the new software, however on installing the new hardware it now powers up very quick. The Kingston card reader is classed as a 'plug and play' device meaning it automatically opens and file transfer is fast and effective.

The memory stick itself is small and compact. It folds up neatly into its casing making is convenient to carry. It has a mini lanyard that can connect to a set of keys, neck strap or even the phone itself. I purchased the 'black' version although it is available in an orange-red colour. I thought the black colour looked more stylish and more professional, although the orangey colour is fun it does look a little plastic and cheap. That said the memory stick in general is quite flimsy and I am always cautious about dropping it or leaving it in my pocket.

I do like to print my phone photos and have found that the card is often easier to use than connecting to a photo booth via Bluetooth. Most photobooths have USB connections and I would much rather use the 'plug and play' method than try to connect via Bluetooth.

Like all Kingston products the card reader has a warranty of two years however I have not encountered any problems at all whilst using the card reader and it has given me many hours of fun use transferring files between the phone and computer (vice versa).

Overall this is a great little addition to my ever-growing collection of USB sticks. It is probably the one that gets used most often after my Kingston Mini Datatraveller. The prices vary between 90p and £5 online so if you shop around you may be able to get a real bargain.