SparkFun Level Shifting microSD Breakout
Best compact storage solution for space-constrained DIY electronics projects.
Expand your project's storage with the SparkFun MicroSD Breakout. This compact board seamlessly integrates MicroSD cards using the standard SPI communication protocol. Its incredibly small, fingernail-sized form factor is perfect for space-constrained applications like custom MP3 players or data logging modules, originally developed for mobile phone storage. The board comes fully assembled and tested, providing a convenient and reliable solution for adding data storage to your electronic creations.
$6.50
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 55
Best Memory Card Adapters
Price vs Category Average
-74%
Below average
Interface Type
SPI
/ SPI
Who it's for
- Makers using 5V microcontrollers to protect sensitive hardware
- Developers needing broad compatibility across various microcontroller platforms
- Prototypers building quick, solderless circuits on breadboards
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious hobbyists seeking the most affordable storage solution
- Engineers working with pin-constrained microcontrollers
- Performance enthusiasts requiring maximum SPI data transfer speeds
Performance breakdown
Integration Simplicity
Standard SPI interface ensures quick setup with most microcontroller platforms.
Form Factor
Ultra-compact footprint fits easily into the tightest project enclosures.
Build Reliability
Fully assembled and tested board minimizes risk of connection failures.
Data Throughput
SPI protocol is dependable but slower than modern high-speed parallel interfaces.
Mounting Versatility
Standard 0.1-inch header pitch allows for seamless breadboard or PCB integration.
Component Durability
Robust microSD socket holds cards securely during vibration or movement.
Key Specs
Interface Type
SPI
Card Type Supported
MicroSD
Pin Header Pitch
0.1"/2.54mm
SKU
BOB-00544
Package Contents
Fully assembled and tested MicroSD Breakout Board
Serial Interfaces
1x SPI
Onboard Peripherals
MicroSD Socket
Physical Interface Ports
microSD Slot
Features
- Adds MicroSD card storage to projects
- Uses standard SPI communication
- Extremely compact, fingernail-sized design
- Ideal for space-limited applications
- Fully assembled and tested
- Enables data logging and media storage
What customers say
Customers overwhelmingly praise this microSD breakout for its robust and reliable voltage translation. The integrated level shifting successfully eliminates headaches when interfacing 5V microcontrollers with 3.3V microSD cards, making data logging projects significantly easier and more stable. Users describe it as a dependable, set it and forget it solution. The compact design and clear labeling simplify integration into tight spaces. While the cost is slightly higher than basic modules, the enhanced reliability and convenience strongly justify the investment for professional data acquisition. Overall satisfaction is high due to its consistent performance and essential role in ensuring voltage compatibility for embedded storage needs.
Know before you buy
Yes, the board arrives fully assembled and tested, so you can integrate it into your project immediately without needing to solder the microSD socket yourself.
This breakout uses the standard SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) protocol, making it compatible with most microcontrollers, including Arduino and similar development boards.
Absolutely. It is designed to handle both data logging tasks and media storage, such as playing audio files for custom MP3 player projects.
Yes, the board features a standard 0.1-inch (2.54mm) pin header pitch, which allows it to fit easily onto standard breadboards and prototyping perfboards.
While the board is powered via your project's power source, ensure your microcontroller is providing the correct voltage levels for both the board and the microSD card you are using, as microSD cards typically operate at 3.3V.
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