Kingston Technology 64GB SDCAC & SDCA3 UHS-I microSDXC Cards & MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader Review @ ModSynergy.com
By: Michael Phrakaysone

Over the past year, we've had the opportunity to review several Quadcopter Drones and Action Cameras, and it's clear that the drone market is booming. In 2017, it is expected to reach new heights. Just take a look at the breathtaking 2017 NFL Super Bowl 51 halftime show, where 500 Intel Shooting Star drones came together to create a mesmerizing light show in the sky. Additionally, we have also delved into the world of Action Cameras, which are closely related to drones as there are models capable of being mounted on these flying machines.

We are currently in an era where 4K resolution dominates the marketplace. Aerial video drones like the DJI Phantom, Yuneec Typhoon 4K, and GoPro Karma are equipped with built-in 4K cameras, offering stunning video capabilities. These cameras can capture footage with bitrates ranging from 50 to 100 Mbps.

However, what many people fail to realize is that when you purchase a camera drone, it is crucial to select the appropriate memory card. Otherwise, you may encounter various issues during recording. These problems include the camera's inability to record in high-resolution 4K, recording abruptly stopping after a few seconds, dropped frames, or the camera freezing during operation. The root cause of these problems is often the insufficient performance of the memory card, which fails to handle continuous 4K recording.

To be more specific, a suitable memory card for 4K recording needs to have a sustained write speed of at least 30MB/s, which is designated as U3 Speed Class 3. This designation ensures a guaranteed minimum write speed, preventing recording interruptions. In this case, read speed is less critical compared to write speed, as read speeds generally exceed the write speed of a memory card.

Today, we will explore three drone camera accessories from Kingston Technology that you should consider when purchasing a drone capable of capturing 4K footage. Our focus will be on the 64GB Kingston Technology SDCAC UHS-I U3 SDXC card with a read speed of 90MB/s and a write speed of 45MB/s, the 64GB Kingston Technology SDCA3 UHS-I U3 SDXC card with both read and write speeds of 90MB/s, and the Kingston Technology MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader, which facilitates seamless video transfer from these memory cards to your PC or Mac.

About Kingston Technology Company, Inc.

Kingston Digital, Inc. (“KDI”) is the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the world’s largest independent manufacturer of memory products. Established in 2008, KDI is headquartered in Fountain Valley, California, USA. For more information, please visit kingston.com

Kingston has grown to be the world's largest independent manufacturer of memory products. With global headquarters in Fountain Valley, California, Kingston employs more than 3,000 people worldwide. Regarded as one of the “Best Companies to Work for in America” by Fortune magazine, Kingston’s tenets of respect, loyalty, flexibility and integrity create an exemplary corporate culture. Kingston believes that investing in employees is essential and that each individual employee is a vital part of the company’s success.

Kingston Technology MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader Product Description, Features, Specifications

Kingston’s MobileLite G4 is a multi-function card reader with a small metallic form factor that’s roughly 20 percent smaller than the previous generation and no bigger than a large paper clip, so it easily fits in a pocket, purse or camera bag and is ideal for personal or professional use. This versatile device reads SD, SDHC, SDXC, UHS-II and microSD/SDHC/SDXC, UHS-I and supports the latest card speeds. MobileLite G4 is compliant with the USB 3.0 specification and delivers USB 3.0 performance to save time when transferring digital files, photos, games, music and more. It’s backwards compatible with USB 2.0 ports to allow users to migrate to USB 3.0 in the future, using one card reader. MobileLite G4 is backed by a two-year warranty, free technical support and legendary Kingston® reliability.

FEATURES/BENEFITS

• Compliant — with the USB 3.0 specification, SDA 4.20 standard
• Versatile — supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, microSD/SDHC/SDXC
• Supports the latest card standards, UHS-I and UHS-II
• Backwards compatible with USB 2.0
• Portable — easily fits in your pocket
• Guaranteed — 2-year warranty, free technical support

SPECIFICATIONS

• Dimensions: 52mm x 33mm x 9mm, 2.04" x 1.29" x 0.35"
• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 60°C
• Storage Temperature: -20°C to 70°C
• Operating System Compatibility: Windows® 10, 8.1, 8, 7(SP1), Vista®(SP2), Mac OS X v. 10.9.x, Linux v. 2.6, Chrome OS

Our Quick Take

The Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader boasts an attractive, compact, and sleek design. Its two-tone color scheme, combining champagne and black, adds a touch of elegance. With dimensions of 52mm x 33mm x 9mm (2.04" x 1.29" x 0.35"), the card reader is incredibly portable. Weighing a mere 17 grams (0.58 oz or 0.037 lb), it is lightweight and easy to carry around.

The construction of the MobileLite G4 primarily consists of a durable metal alloy, giving it a solid and premium feel. The coolness of the metal can be felt when held in the hands, further enhancing its quality. The edges of the unit feature a stylish plastic honeycomb design, adding a touch of visual interest to the overall aesthetic.

This versatile card reader is designed to accept both microSD and regular SD card variants. The honeycomb design includes dedicated labels that clearly indicate which side is meant for microSD and SD cards, making it easy to use and preventing any confusion. The Kingston MobileLite G4 supports a wide range of memory card formats, including SD, SDHC, SDXC, UHS-I, UHS-II, microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC. It ensures compatibility with various memory card types, allowing for convenient data transfer and access.

During our extensive testing, we observed that the Kingston MobileLite G4 maintained a lukewarm temperature during operation. Using an infrared thermometer, we measured the surface temperature of the card reader to be around 27 degrees Celsius. This suggests that the metal alloy construction of the MobileLite G4 acts as a heatsink, effectively dissipating any heat generated by the card reader.

The ability of the metal construction to absorb and distribute heat helps in preventing the card reader from overheating, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. By keeping the temperature at a moderate level, the MobileLite G4 provides a safe and stable environment for data transfer and card reading operations.

The thoughtful design of the MobileLite G4, with its metal alloy construction acting as a heatsink, adds another layer of durability and protection to the card reader, ensuring that it can withstand prolonged use without any issues related to excessive heat buildup.

One thing that I feel should have been included in the Kingston MobileLite G4 package is a USB 3.0 extension cable. During my testing, I noticed that the MobileLite G4's slightly wider form factor blocked the adjacent USB port when plugged directly into a USB 3.0 port. It was a bit frustrating because I had to choose between using the card reader or having access to the neighboring USB port.

Having a USB 3.0 extension cable would have been really helpful in this situation. It would have allowed me to position the MobileLite G4 more conveniently, without obstructing other USB ports. This would have been especially useful when I needed to connect multiple USB devices or when working in tight spaces.

While it's not a major issue, I believe including a USB 3.0 extension cable in the package would have been a thoughtful addition. It would have provided users with the flexibility to use the card reader without compromising access to other USB ports. However, it's worth noting that acquiring a separate extension cable is always an option if needed.

Overall, the lack of a USB extension cable is a minor drawback that can be easily addressed. Despite this small inconvenience, the Kingston MobileLite G4 remains a reliable and efficient card reader for my needs.

One minor annoyance I have with the Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 card reader is the lack of an LED activity light. It would have been nice to have some visual indication, perhaps an illuminated Kingston logo, to know when the card reader is actively reading or writing data.

On the performance front, the Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 card reader surpassed my expectations. When compared to a generic USB 3.0 card reader I had for comparison, the MobileLite G4 delivered faster and more consistent write speeds. Although its read speeds were slightly slower, the improved write speeds were a worthwhile trade-off for me. Additionally, I appreciate that both microSD and regular SD cards can be used simultaneously with the MobileLite G4.

Undoubtedly, the standout feature of the Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 card reader is its incredibly affordable price. It is available for just $8.95 USD on B&H Photo Video and $11.60 USD on Amazon USA. In Canada, it can be purchased for $11.75 through DirectCanada, $12.99 at Canada Computers, and $14.97 from NCIX Canada.

Where Can I Buy One?  And For How Much?

The Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader can be purchased on Amazon USA, right now for $11.60 with free shipping. 

Why do I like Amazon?  They are fast, honest, reliable, and their return policy is great.  I actually got money refunded back to my account after Amazon overcharged me on duty costs, talk about being an honest company, most others would keep the money and not say anything!

If you're thinking of purchasing the Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader, or anything else for that matter, please use our Amazon link above, it will help us out greatly, and go towards supporting this website and any future contests we hold through Facebook.

Conclusion

In my opinion, the Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 card reader ticks all the right boxes. It offers a winning combination of affordability, impressive performance, and portability. The predominantly metal alloy body gives it a premium look and feel, while its ability to handle both microSD and regular SD cards adds versatility to its functionality. During my testing, I found that the card reader maintained a lukewarm temperature, thanks to its metal construction acting as a heatsink. This further enhanced the overall user experience.

What sets the Kingston MobileLite G4 apart is its exceptional write speed performance, surpassing that of a generic USB 3.0 card reader I had compared it to. The results were consistently reliable, ensuring a smooth and efficient data transfer process. Throughout my testing, I encountered no issues whatsoever.

Considering its affordable price point and outstanding performance, it's challenging to find any significant drawbacks with the Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 card reader. It truly excels in delivering value for the price. For these reasons, I confidently award the Kingston MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 card reader with our prestigious Editor's Choice rating.

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Kingston Technology SDCAC/64GB UHS-I U3 Product Description, Features, Specifications

The Kingston SDCAC microSD Action Camera UHS-I U3 (Ultra High-Speed Bus, Speed Class 3) offers incredible performance (90MB/s read and 45MB/s write) to capture life’s experiences, from extreme sporting activities to extremely important events. Just the right size form factor, the microSD Action Camera UHS-I U3 fits most action cameras, GoPro®, and drones. Whether dirt biking in the desert, climbing Mount Everest or recording the action with your drone, the microSD Action Camera UHS-I U3 is rugged enough to securely accompany you wherever you go. Feel safe knowing this versatile card is waterproof , shock and vibration proof , x-ray proof and temperature proof , ready to weather most any storm. Enjoy faster upload speeds, increased write speeds to shoot in continuous burst mode and higher sustained write speeds that ensure video integrity by reducing stutter. Capacities range from 16GB to 64GB , so whether you’re shooting in 4K or at 240 frames per second, the cards have ample storage to capture your entire adventure. Use in conjunction with the optional SD card adapter for quick and easy viewing of footage on a media reader, notebook or PC.

FEATURES/ BENEFITS

• Designed for action cameras and drones — shoot video at up to 30 frames per second in 4K or capture HD footage at 240 frames per second on your GoPro®, action camera or drone to preserve every second of your latest adventure.
• Rugged for every adventure — waterproof , shock proof , x-ray proof and temperature proof to perform even in harsh environments.
• Enough space for your trip — whether shooting in 4K or at 240 frames per second, the card has room to keep you going.
• Ultra high-speed performance — The card features Ultra HighSpeed Bus, Speed Class 3 speeds of 90MB/s read and 45MB/s write; it reads up to 9x faster and writes up to 4.5x faster than standard Class 10 SD cards. The SD Association’s latest specification release, UHS-I U3 guarantees performance of at least 30MB/s, giving you enough bandwidth to record and playback 4K video without interruption.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Capacities: 16GB, 32GB, 64GB
• Performance: 90MB/s read and 45MB/s write, UHS-I Speed Class 3 (U3)
• microSD Dimensions: 11mm x 15mm x 1mm
• SD Adapter Dimensions: 24mm x 32mm x 2.1mm
• Format: FAT32 (microSDHC 16GB–32GB), exFAT (64GB)
• Operating Temperature: -25°C to 85°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
• Voltage: 3.3V
• Warranty: Lifetime

Our Quick Take

The Kingston Technology SDCAC is a high-performance UHS-I U3 microSD card boasting impressive read and write speeds of 90MB/s and 45MB/s, respectively. With such speeds, it ensures swift data transfers and efficient storage management. One notable inclusion with the SDCAC is the microSD to SD card adapter, which adds convenience and compatibility to its usage.

In terms of design, the card features a white color scheme with blue text, providing a distinctive appearance that stands out. This color combination is particularly useful in scenarios where the card may accidentally fall to the ground or get misplaced, as it increases visibility and makes it easier to locate.

I'm excited to put the Kingston Technology SDCAC 64GB microSD card to the test and see if it lives up to its advertised performance claims of 90MB/s read and 45MB/s write. It's interesting to note that it already exceeds the minimum write speed requirement of 30MB/s set by the U3 Speed Class 3 designation.

During my testing, I'll be examining the actual performance of this microSD card to determine if it can truly deliver on its promised speeds. It's important to keep in mind that real-world performance can be influenced by various factors, including the device used and the size of the files being transferred. By evaluating the read and write speeds, I hope to gain a better understanding of the card's capabilities and whether it can deliver the fast performance it claims.

Results

During all my testing, I used the Kingston Technology MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader as the interface for the Kingston Technology SDCAC 64GB microSD card. This card reader offers USB 3.0 connectivity, ensuring fast data transfer speeds and optimal performance.

By utilizing the MobileLite G4, I aimed to eliminate any potential bottlenecks that could occur with slower card readers, allowing me to accurately assess the performance of the microSD card. With its compact design and USB 3.0 capabilities, the MobileLite G4 provided a reliable and efficient platform for testing the Kingston SDCAC microSD card.

Throughout the testing process, I paid close attention to both read and write speeds, ensuring that the results were accurate and reflective of the card's performance when used in conjunction with the MobileLite G4. This combination allowed me to obtain reliable and consistent data, giving a comprehensive evaluation of the Kingston Technology SDCAC microSD card's capabilities.

With the Kingston Technology MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader as the designated tool for testing, I can confidently provide an accurate assessment of the performance of the Kingston SDCAC 64GB microSD card.

Conclusion

The results from the benchmark tests conducted with the Kingston Technology SDCAC 64GB microSD card are impressive. The card consistently surpassed the advertised performance claims and demonstrated excellent read and write speeds.

In the ATTO Disk Benchmark, the SDCAC achieved a remarkable read speed of almost 95MB/s and a write speed of 70MB/s, showcasing its high-speed data transfer capabilities.

The Blackmagic Design Disk Speed Test confirmed the card's performance, with a read speed of 90.4MB/s and a write speed of 65.8MB/s. These results further validate the SDCAC's ability to handle data-intensive tasks smoothly.

The CrystalDiskMark benchmark displayed a sequential read speed of 94.11MB/s and a sequential write speed of 34.43MB/s, demonstrating consistent and reliable performance.

The Kingston Technology SDCAC 64GB microSD card not only meets but exceeds the manufacturer's rated specifications of 90MB/s read and 45MB/s write, making it a reliable choice for action camera and drone camera owners.

Additionally, the competitive pricing of $34.75 USD on Amazon.com makes the SDCAC an attractive option for those seeking high-performance microSD cards.

Considering its exceptional performance, I confidently recommend the Kingston Technology SDCAC 64GB microSD card, and it rightfully earns our Editor's Choice award rating.

Where Can I Buy One?  And For How Much?

The Kingston Technology SDCAC/64GB can be purchased on Amazon USA. If you prefer to shop on Amazon like I do, then the Kingston Technology SDCAC/64GB is going to be fulfilled and shipped directly from the Amazon warehouse and not through a third party. This makes the purchase safer in terms of getting what you paid for, and this way you can have Amazon's own protection and peace of mind.

Why do I like Amazon?  They are fast, honest, reliable, and their return policy is great.  I actually got money refunded back to my account after Amazon overcharged me on duty costs, talk about being an honest company, most others would keep the money and not say anything!

If you're thinking of purchasing the Kingston Technology SDCAC/64GB, or anything else for that matter, please use our Amazon links above, it will help us out greatly, and go towards supporting this website and any future contests we hold through Facebook.

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Kingston Technology SDCA3/64GBSP UHS-I U3 Product Description, Features, Specifications

Kingston’s SDCA3 microSDHC/SDXC UHS-I U3 Flash memory cards deliver fast, UHS-I Class U3 speeds up to 90MB/s read and 80MB/s write that let you capture cinema-quality Full HD (1080p), Ultra HD (2160p), 3D and 4K videos on high-performance small form factor devices such as smartphones and GoPro® cameras. It’s also great for live television broadcasts and recordings. The cards offer faster upload and editing times, especially with USB 3.0 card readers. Higher sustained write speeds ensure video integrity and let photographers shoot in continuous burst mode.

Use the optional adapter to take advantage of standard SD card size SDHC/SDXC host devices, such as DSLRs, video cameras and larger tablets. The microSDHC/SDXC UHS-I U3 90R/80W is built to be durable, so you can rest assured that your photos, videos and other important files will be protected, even in harsh environments. This versatile card is tested to be waterproof , temperature proof , shock/vibration proof and X-ray proof. Multiple capacities up to 128GB provide plenty of room for longer recording time for HD video and space for thousands of high-resolution photos and hours of video.

FEATURES/ BENEFITS

• UHS-I Speed Class U3 Interface — Allows users to capture cinema quality Full HD(1080p), Ultra HD(2160p), 3D and 4K videos on high performance small form factor devices such as smartphones and GoPro cameras.
• Range of capacities — To meet your specific needs, Kingston’s microSDHC and microSDXC cards are available in capacities from 32GB to 128GB.
• Durable — Tested to be Waterproof, Temperature proof, Shock/ Vibration proof, X-ray proof. Photos, videos and other important files will be protected in harsh environments
• Guaranteed — Lifetime warranty, free technical support

SPECIFICATIONS

• Capacities: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB
• Performance: 90MB/s read and 80MB/s write UHS-I Speed Class 3 (U3)
• microSD Dimensions: 11mm x 15mm x 1mm
• SD Adapter Dimensions: 24mm x 32mm x 2.1mm
• Format: FAT32 (microSDHC 32GB); exFAT (microSDXC 64GB-128GB)
• Operating Temperature: -25°C to 85°C
• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 85°C
• Voltage: 3.3V
• Warranty: Lifetime

Our Quick Take

I had the opportunity to test the performance of the 64GB Kingston Technology SDCA3 microSD card, which boasts an impressive rated performance of 90MB/s read and 80MB/s write. Unlike the previous model, this SDCA3 version does not come with a microSD to SD card adapter.

The card features a sleek black design with red text and a red strip at the bottom. While its black color may make it slightly challenging to spot if it falls on the ground, the red text provides some visibility, making it easier to locate.

In terms of performance, I aimed to determine if the SDCA3 could live up to its advertised claims of 90MB/s read and 80MB/s write speeds. It's worth noting that the previously reviewed SDCAC model had a lower write speed of 45MB/s, making this SDCA3 version potentially 35MB/s faster on paper.

As a reminder, the U3 Speed Class 3 designation requires a minimum guaranteed write speed of 30MB/s. The Kingston Technology SDCA3 surpasses this requirement with its advertised write speed of 80MB/s.

Results

All testing was run with the Kingston Technology MobileLite G4 USB 3.0 Card Reader.

Conclusion

After conducting thorough testing, I found that the Kingston Technology SDCA3/64GBSP microSD card, while meeting the UHS-I U3 Speed Class 3 standard, fell short of its advertised performance claims. It's worth noting that the marketing material does mention "up to" in reference to its performance specifications. In comparison to the previously reviewed SDCAC variant, the SDCA3 underachieved while the SDCAC overachieved.

During the ATTO Disk Benchmark tests, the SDCA3 achieved a maximum read speed of 98MB/s and a write speed of 70.8MB/s. In the Blackmagic Design Disk Speed Test, it reached a read speed of 93.3MB/s and a write speed of 77.6MB/s, which is close to its advertised 80MB/s write speed. In the CrystalDiskMark benchmark, the SDCA3 achieved a sequential read speed of 97.62MB/s and a sequential write speed of 37.63MB/s. It's worth noting that during normal file transfers in a Windows environment, the SDCA3's performance was more in line with the results from the CrystalDiskMark benchmark.

While the Kingston Technology SDCA3 met its rated manufacturer claim of 90MB/s read, it fell short of its rated manufacturer claim of 80MB/s write. In the tests, it achieved 70.8MB/s write (ATTO Disk Benchmark), 77.6MB/s write (Blackmagic Design Disk Speed Test), and 37.63MB/s write (CrystalDiskMark benchmark). However, it still conforms to the UHS-I U3 standard.

The 64GB Kingston Technology SDCA3 (Black/Red) microSD card is currently available for purchase on Amazon.com for $35.29 USD. It's important to note that the price difference between the SDCA3 (Black/Red) and SDCAC (White/Blue) versions is only $0.54. While the SDCA3 (Black/Red) offers slightly faster performance, I was more impressed with the SDCAC (White/Blue) as it exceeded its rated manufacturer claim of 90MB/s read and 45MB/s write. Both cards perform similarly enough that choosing either one for your action camera or quadcopter drone camera would be a reliable choice.

Where Can I Buy One?  And For How Much?

The Kingston Technology SDCA3/64GBSP can be purchased on Amazon USA. If you prefer to shop on Amazon like I do, then the Kingston Technology SDCA3/64GBSP is going to be fulfilled and shipped directly from the Amazon warehouse and not through a third party. This makes the purchase safer in terms of getting what you paid for, and this way you can have Amazon's own protection and peace of mind.

Why do I like Amazon?  They are fast, honest, reliable, and their return policy is great.  I actually got money refunded back to my account after Amazon overcharged me on duty costs, talk about being an honest company, most others would keep the money and not say anything!

If you're thinking of purchasing the Kingston Technology SDCA3/64GBSP, or anything else for that matter, please use our Amazon links above, it will help us out greatly, and go towards supporting this website and any future contests we hold through Facebook.

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