A recording medium drive unit includes an insertion opening through which a recording medium is inserted, a holder receiving the recording medium inserted through the insertion opening, a connector, a holder drive part moving the holder to a loading position so that the recording medium is connected to the connector, and a clamp mechanism pressing opposing sides of the recording medium when the recording medium is inserted into the holder. The clamp mechanism is provided to a side of the holder so as to be slidable thereon, and holds the recording medium by the opposing sides thereof.