Sony claims it’s made the world’s fastest UHS-II SD/microSD card reader and USB Hub with USB 3.1 Gen 2. That card reader is the MRW-S3.
According to Sony, the MRW-S3 is able to handle “everything from high-resolution RAW image files to 4K videos.” Also, creators shouldn’t have to worry about carrying around a ton of adapters or have to think about using up ports on their PCs with USB Type-C ports. “The MRW-S3 is a one-stop solution for fast and reliable data transfer in the form of a handy USB Hub,” Sony says.
The fastest USB Hub
The MRW-S3 offers data transfer speeds of up to 1000MB/s. The device can receive up to 100W USB Power Delivery (USB PD), aiming to ensure a reliable connection with USB devices. Also, USB power level indicators notify users when each port is ready to be connected at max power supply levels.
Additionally, the MRW-S3 has an HDMI output with 4K 30fps capabilities.
Design
The MRW-S3 is built out of an aluminum body, with a wave surface to prevent scratches. Sony claims the grip makes handling the device easier as well, especially when connecting and disconnecting devices.
Weight-wise, the MRW-S3 weighs 95g. Also, it comes with a detachable USB-C to USB-C cable for connecting to the host PC. The cable can additionally be used for connecting to USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices or to a USB PD AC adapter up to 100W.
Sony also announces new TOUGH SF-M series and SF-E series SD cards
Alongside the MRW-S3, Sony’s also announced an addition to its TOUGH SD card range. That addition is the TOUGH SF-M. The SF-M series will offer up to 277MB/s read speed and 150MB/s write speed. Also, it’s compatible with the MRW-S3 USB Hub, so backing up should be quicker.
Sony claims the card is “the world’s toughest UHS-II SD card” and “is 8x stronger than a standard SD card and has the highest-grade waterproof and dustproof levels.”
Also announced, the new SF-E series of UHS-II SD cards will offer transfer speeds of up to 270MB/s read and 120MB/s write.
Both series will be available in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB capacities.
Pricing and availability
The MRW-S3, SF-M series and SF-E series will be available Fall 2019. Pricing is not yet available.
