Card Reader or Direct Connect? That is the question.

I've seen many threads discussing this but I'd like to do a poll on weather or not you use a card reader to transfer files to your computer or direct connect your camera to the computer. I'd also like to see the pros/cons of using both.

I personally prefer to use card readers.

I just connect it directly, as I don't have a card reader, never really thought about it though.

When I first started in digital, about 5 to 6 years ago, I saw a posting in a forum (can't remember which one) where some chap was telling a story about reading from his camera attached to his computer. Apparently something happened in the electronics of the computer and the camera was fried along with the hard drive on the computer - since then I only use a card reader. As well, it saves on the camera batteries because I don't have to run my camera during download.
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WesternGuy

KhaledA wrote in post #14403054
I just connect it directly, as I don't have a card reader, never really thought about it though.

WesternGuy wrote in post #14403161
When I first started in digital, about 5 to 6 years ago, I saw a posting in a forum (can't remember which one) where some chap was telling a story about reading from his camera attached to his computer. Apparently something happened in the electronics of the computer and the camera was fried along with the hard drive on the computer - since then I only use a card reader. As well, it saves on the camera batteries because I don't have to run my camera during download.
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WesternGuy

Thanks for the responses guys.

Western Guy that is quite an interesting story. I'd hope that that is an uncommon occurrence...

Card reader. Because of a wholly irrational and unfounded concern for the longevity of the camera (the less I use it for transferring pictures, the longer it will last). Also, I want to minimize damaging the rubber thingie closing off the USB port, and compromising whatever weather sealing integrity the camera has...probably very silly reasons...but there you have it.

I used to transfer data using either methods but lately I have been using the direct camera connection.

Both methods have their risks. The direct connection method risk is as described by the above poster, while the card reader approach risk would be that frequent removal/reinstallation of card would increase chances of accidental bent pins

card reader in case the cat does something cute xD

Direct connect, it's just quicker.

david8476 wrote in post #14403193
I used to transfer data using either methods but lately I have been using the direct camera connection.

Both methods have their risks. The direct connection method risk is as described by the above poster, while the card reader approach risk would be that frequent removal/reinstallation of card would increase chances of accidental bent pins

You know, I've been shooting DSLRs with CF cards for 5+ years, including a few years professionally at a newspaper...and I've never, ever bent a pin...I keep hearing your reason, though...but I usually just slide the card in...let it rest on the pins, and then gently push it down. So far so good.

kurt segers wrote in post #14403215
Direct connect, it's just quicker.

Also, it ensures that you don't leave the card in the reader in the office and run off to an assignment without a backup card 'cuz it's your first assignment at your first newspaper job and you're a nervous newbie. And then you don't have to introduce yourself to the mayor of the city where you just started working and immediately follow it up by "Can you please stall for 15 minutes while I run back to the office and grab my card?".

....not that I've done that

Card reader every time. Much faster on my USB3.0 reader for CF and SDHC cards. As above for bent pin problems, never had one, but I'm careful when I insert them.

Gojira1976 wrote in post #14403202
card reader in case the cat does something cute xD

Same with me, but incase I do something cute

Used direct connect on my xs (didn't have a card reader) and when I bought my 1D I installed a 5 in 1 card reader into my computer. Much faster transfer rates this way for me.

Card Reader...

I hate cycling 1-series batteries so the less discharge/charge, the better.

Always used a card reader. However, a few months ago, I upgraded to a USB 3.0 card reader and I cannot emphasise enough just how f**king quick it is!

I have inbuilt card readers in my desktop. Quick and reliable.