iPads don’t have built-in SD card slots, so you can’t simply insert an SD card and start transferring files.
But if you’re running low on storage or want to expand your options, don’t worry—there are simple ways to connect an SD card to your iPad.
In this guide, I’ll show you step-by-step how to connect an SD card to your iPad, recommend the best adapters, and list some top SD cards for efficient use.
How to Connect an SD Card to Your iPad
Follow these steps to get started:
- Choose the Right SD Card Reader: Pick an adapter designed for your iPad’s port type (see the recommended options below).
- Insert Your SD Card: Place your SD card into the card reader.
- Connect the Reader to Your iPad: Plug the adapter into the Lightning or USB-C port on your iPad.
- Access Files: Open the Files app, where your SD card will appear as an external drive. From here, you can view, transfer, and manage files on the card.
USB-C Models
If your iPad has a USB-C port, it’s compatible with a wide range of modern SD card readers:
- iPad Pro (3rd generation and later)
- iPad Air (4th generation and later)
- iPad Mini (6th generation)
- iPad (10th generation)
Lightning Models
If your iPad uses a Lightning port, you’ll need a Lightning-to-SD card reader:
- iPad (9th generation and earlier)
- iPad Mini (5th generation and earlier)
- iPad Air (3rd generation and earlier)
Best SD Card Adapters for iPads
Here are some of the best adapters & hubs:
For USB-C iPads:
Anker USB-C 6-in-1 Hub for iPad Pro
- Made for USB-C iPads: Designed specifically to match the style and dimensions of your...
- All the Ports You Need: Turn your iPad's USB-C port into a 4K HDMI port, a...
- Go Bigger with HD Display: Make creating simple by connecting your iPad to a bigger...
The Anker USB-C 6-in-1 Hub offers an excellent combination of functionality and portability. With SD and microSD card slots, USB-A, USB-C Power Delivery, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, this hub ensures smooth data transfer and versatile connectivity. It also includes a 4K HDMI port for external displays, making it a great multitasking tool for iPad Pro users.
HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub for iPad Pro
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- All the Ports You Need: Turn your iPad Pro’s single USB-C port into a huge 6 ports....
- Vivid Display: Mirror or extend your screen in stunning 4K@60Hz via the HDMI port.
This compact hub is perfect for expanding your iPad’s capabilities. It features SD and microSD slots, USB-C Power Delivery, USB-A, a 4K HDMI output, and a headphone jack. Its slim, durable design makes it a fantastic travel companion for creators who want high-speed connectivity and reliable file management.
Apple USB-C to SD Card Reader
- The USB-C to SD Card Reader transfers high-resolution photos and videos at UHS-II...
- Designed so it won’t block your other ports, it works with UHS-II SD cards.
- Backward compatible with other SD cards and adapters
This official Apple adapter delivers top-tier performance with UHS-II speeds for fast photo and video transfers. Its minimalist design and plug-and-play functionality make it perfect for professional photographers and videographers who need quick and efficient file management.
Anker USB-C SD 4.0 Card Reader
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 65 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Dual Card Slots: Includes both an SD and a microSD card slot, making it easy to...
- High-Speed: Features the latest UHS-II SD card slot to support transfer speeds of up...
A reliable choice for USB-C iPads, this card reader features dual slots for SD and microSD cards. Its compact design is paired with high-speed data transfer capabilities, ensuring seamless access to media files for users on the go.
For Lightning iPads:
Apple Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader
- With the Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader, it’s easy to download photos and...
- After you insert the SD card into the reader, your iPad or iPhone automatically opens...
- The Lightning to SD Card Camera Reader supports standard photo formats, including...
This official Apple adapter provides a simple, plug-and-play solution for transferring photos and videos from SD cards to Lightning iPads. With its compact design and reliability, it’s ideal for users who need quick and straightforward file imports.
DESOFICON Apple MFi Certified Lightning to MicroSD Card Reader
- 【Universal Compatibility&Two-way transfer】Apple SD card reader supports all...
- 【TF / SD Memory Card Reader】Share Picture/Music/Video Among Devices.The iPhone SD...
- 【High Speed Data Transmission & Raw files】Blistering fast transfer speed,ensures...
This MFi-certified Lightning to microSD card reader is a budget-friendly option for iPad users. It supports high-speed file transfers, making it ideal for mobile editing and expanding your iPad’s storage capabilities during travel or daily use.
Best SD Cards for iPads
Here are some of the best SD card options for iPad:
Toshiba Exceria Pro N502 SDXC UHS-II
- N502 provides high performance for photography and video production. With a read...
- WORK UNDER TOUGH CONDITION: Since the cards were specifically designed for outdoor...
- CATCH SOME RAYS: No worries at the airport security check or at your sunny vacation...
The Toshiba Exceria Pro N502 is a top choice for professionals who require reliable performance and fast speeds. With read speeds up to 270 MB/s and write speeds of 260 MB/s, this card is perfect for handling 4K video files and high-resolution media. Its rugged design ensures durability in harsh conditions, and it comes in capacities ranging from 64GB to 256GB, catering to various storage needs.
Panasonic SDZA Series SDXC UHS-II
- UHS II standard
- Up to 280MB/s read and 250聽MB/s write
- Video Speed Class V90聽= 90聽MB/s (720MBPS) constant Schreibge in black
Panasonic’s SDZA Series offers exceptional speed and reliability. With read speeds of 280 MB/s and write speeds of 250 MB/s, it ensures smooth file transfers and quick access to high-res media. Available in a 64GB capacity, this card is perfect for shorter video shoots or users who need rapid data handling.
Sony SF-G Tough UHS-II
- TOUGH specification with crush and shock-proof design
- Rib-less and switchless design enhances reliability, eliminating risks of breakage
- Dust and water proofing at the highest level (IP68)
Designed for extreme environments, the Sony SF-G Tough series combines unparalleled durability with top-tier performance. With 300 MB/s read and 299 MB/s write speeds, this card handles 4K video editing and large file transfers effortlessly. Its rugged construction makes it resistant to bending, cracking, water, and dust, making it a reliable choice for outdoor creators.
Lexar Professional 2000x SDXC UHS-II
- High-speed performance—leverages UHS-II technology (U3) for a read transfer speed...
- Captures high-quality images and extended lengths of Full-HD and cinema-quality 8K...
- Backwards compatible with UHS-I devices
With read speeds up to 300 MB/s, the Lexar Professional 2000x is ideal for photographers and videographers looking for high-speed data transfer. Its robust design and storage options up to 256GB make it a dependable choice for demanding workflows, ensuring minimal delays during transfers.
SanDisk Extreme Pro microSDXC UHS-II
- Read Speed: SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO microSD UHS-I Card features SanDisk QuickFlow...
- Write Speeds of up to 140MB/s: Capture fast-action photos or shoot 4K UHD video with...
- Load Apps Faster with A2: Get faster app performance for an outstanding smartphone...
Known for its reliability, the SanDisk Extreme Pro delivers read speeds of up to 280 MB/s and write speeds of 150 MB/s. This card is perfect for handling high-resolution 4K and 8K video files, with durability features like water and shock resistance, making it a favorite among professionals.
How to Choose the Right SD Card for Your iPad
Here are some practical tips on choosing an SD card for your iPad:
Capacity
- For smaller tasks: 64GB to 128GB is ideal.
- For professional use or large file storage: Go for 256GB or 512GB cards.
Speed
- UHS-I: Great for casual use, offering speeds up to 104 MB/s.
- UHS-II: Perfect for professional workflows, with speeds up to 312 MB/s.
- UHS-III: Designed for intensive tasks, offering speeds up to 624 MB/s.
Durability
Opt for cards that are waterproof, shockproof, and temperature-resistant to ensure your data remains safe, even in challenging environments.
Backup Strategy
Carry multiple smaller-capacity cards instead of one large card to minimize data loss risk if a card fails. Regularly transfer files to external storage or cloud services for added security.
Thank you for reading this guide!
I hope that it was helpful in discovering what is the best SD card for iPad 🙂
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Also Read:
- Fastest SDXC Card Readers (Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android)
- SD Card Reader for MacBook Pro: A Must-Have Accessory
- 7 Best SD Card Readers for Phone
- Top SD Card Readers with Thunderbolt (Lightning-Fast Transfers)
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