PGYTECH CreateMate SD Card Reader Review – Is it Worth Your Money?

I’ve been testing the PGYTECH CreateMate SD card reader for the past month in my photo/video workflow, and I’m impressed with its unique blend of storage and transfer capabilities. Let’s dive into what sets it apart.

Real-World Transfer Speeds

Using my UHS-II SD cards, I measured:

• RAW photos (45MB): 295MB/s average
• 4K video files: 288MB/s average
• Multiple small JPEGs: 270MB/s average

These speeds nearly match PGYTECH’s claimed 312MB/s, but you’ll need SD 4.0 cards to achieve this.

Storage Design – Finally Something Practical

The storage case cleverly holds:

• 4 SD cards (full size)
• 4 microSD cards
• 2 Nano SIM cards
• 1 eject pin

Compatibility In Real Use I’ve tested it successfully with:

• MacBook Pro (M2)
• iPad Pro
• Android phones (Samsung S23/S24)
• iPhone 15 Pro
• Windows 11 laptop

Note: Android/iPhone transfers require OTG support.

What Could Be Better

• No USB-A adapter included (Read: Types of USB chargers)
• Rubber case adds bulk
• Card slots are tight initially

Build Quality That Matters

I particularly love how the rubber case provides IP54 water resistance – perfect for outdoor shoots when weather turns unpredictable.

The aluminum housing feels premium and durable. No flexing or creaking like cheaper plastic readers. The rubber case adds grip and genuine protection – I accidentally dropped it twice with no damage to my cards.

Price-Performance Verdict

At its price point, you’re getting both a premium card reader and protective storage. While cheaper readers exist, none offer this combination of speed and functionality.

For photographers who need to manage multiple cards, this reader pays for itself in convenience alone.

Ever wondered how many photos your storage device can hold? Check my guide here.

💡 Pro tip: Keep the rubber case on during transfers – it provides better grip and prevents accidental disconnections. And all speeds were tested with SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II cards in controlled conditions]

Real User Experiences

After my initial testing, I reached out to fellow creators who’ve been using this reader extensively. Their insights validate my findings and reveal additional perspectives.

Austin | Professional Workflow Impact

Austin, a commercial photographer I work with, highlights the secure card retention mechanism. “I actually found myself looking for a card reader after taking a card out… only to realize it IS a card reader.”

This perfectly captures the seamless integration of storage and function.

Speed Verification Tests

• Lexar 1667x V60 SD: 240MB/s (rated 250MB/s)
• Samsung Pro MicroSD: 140MB/s (rated 160MB/s)

These results mirror my findings and confirm consistent performance across different card types.

💡 Pro tip: Keep firmware updated through PGYTECH’s website for optimal speeds with newer cards.

Ashley | Design Considerations

Ashley, a drone photographer write, The SIM card storage receives mixed reactions.

While I find it useful for travel shoots, Ashley suggests replacing it with additional microSD slots. It’s a valid point for photographers who never use SIM storage.

Brooks | Field Performance

Brooks, a videographer I collaborate with, tested it in challenging environments. The rugged design proved essential during outdoor shoots, protecting cards from moisture and impact.

Also Read: For advanced power management techniques, see my complete GoPro battery life guide.

Long-Term Value Assessment

After combining my testing with these real-world experiences, I’ve identified key strengths:

• Consistent transfer speeds across card types
• Genuinely protective storage design
• Reliable build quality for field use

Who Should Buy This?

This reader excels for:

• Hybrid shooters (photo/video)
• Location photographers
• Drone operators
• Anyone managing multiple cards