United were close to their irresistible best at times in the first half and went ahead through striker Oli McBurnie’s header, his second in as many games.
A second early in the second half calmed any nerves, Anel Ahmedhodzic volleying home from a corner, before Iliman Ndiaye added a third to really seal the game.
Ahmedhodzic netted his second later on to put the gloss on his display as United returned to the top of the early Championship table.
Here’s how our man rated the Blades on another night to remember at the Lane ...
5. Rhys Norrington-Davies 8
Shook off a knock to the hip to start and some superb defending saw him snuff out a brilliant Reading chance to equalise, with the visitors enjoying a 3-on-1 situation after Egan's poor pass. Photo: Andrew Yates
6. Max Lowe 7.5
Had an early opening when Berge worked it wide but his touch was poor and allowed Reading to clear. Redeemed himself with a wonderful driven cross that McBurnie converted bravely for his second in two games Photo: David Klein
7. Ollie Norwood 8
Did what Norwood does, conducting proceedings from the middle of the park with the minimum of fuss. Picked up a deserved assist with a great cross for Ahmedhodzic's second goal and showed once again how vital he is to how this side operate Photo: Andrew Yates
8. Tommy Doyle 7.5
Made his full league debut in place of his mate McAtee and almost marked it with an early goal after McBurnie and Ndiaye both dummied Berge's ball cleverly, but it seemed to take him by surprise and the chance was snuffed out. Could have had an assist but Ndiaye shot wide before his corner was volleyed home by Ahmedhodzic. Looks a player Photo: Andrew Yates