Flash drive rating: which USB drive is better

Flash drives remain very popular today - with their help you can easily transfer information to any other medium in a matter of seconds. The main thing is to understand how to choose a flash drive correctly, so that it serves for a long time and faithfully, and also so that the reading and data transfer speed is really high. It is also convenient if the flash drive has additional useful functions - they can often be seen in modern models. Let's figure out which flash drives are considered the best by experts, as well as what to look for when choosing.

How to choose a flash drive

Rating of the best flash drives

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How to encrypt data on a flash drive?

The best solution is probably to use flash drives with built-in encryption, although a regular flash drive can be protected using the free and open source program TrueCrypt. TrueCrypt supports a variety of encryption algorithms, including 256-bit AES, Serpent, TwoFish, and is available for Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems.

If TrueCrypt is already installed on your computer, then you can put only the encrypted container file on the flash drive, which you can then connect as needed. The TrueCrypt program has the ability to launch the program itself for decryption and encryption from the same flash drive where you store the protected container.

When using encryption, keep in mind that even we, without knowing the password from the protected container, will not be able to recover your data in the event of some flash drive failure, and cases vary.

USB 3.0 flash drives

Transcend JetFlash 710S

Transcend JetFlash 710S
A popular flash drive with a beautiful and durable metal casing. It has one USB 3.0 connector (or USB 3.1 Gen 1, which is fully compatible with USB 2.0, but it will, of course, work slower when connected to such a port). It is not very expensive, although the price is slightly higher than average, and at the same time it has a high reading speed. The recording speed is lower, but still not bad.

The “appearance” of such a flash drive is pleasant, the body is waterproof. The only disadvantage of this flash drive is that it is small, so you can easily lose it - be careful. But it doesn’t have a lid, which always gets lost, which also makes many people happy.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.0;
• memory capacity – 16, 32, 64, 128 GB;
• speed – read – 100 MB/s, write – 75 MB/s;
• dimensions – 6 x 12 x 22 mm;
• weight – 3.3 g.

pros

• affordable price;
• nice design;
• durable waterproof case;
• high read and write speed;
• small;
• There are several colors.

Minuses

• heats up;
• easy to lose.

Transcend JetFlash 710S

Video - Review of Transcend JetFlash 710 - a relative of the 710S

PhotoFast EVO PLUS

PhotoFast EVO PLUS
A popular small flash drive with three connectors! You can connect it to a USB 3.0 connector, as well as microUSB and even the not so popular Lightning, which is found only in Lightning products. In general, on such a flash drive you can store all the necessary information and have no doubt that you can easily “get it”, no matter what device you are currently working with. The only negative is that the inexpensive PhotoFast EVO PLUS models do not have a particularly large storage capacity: only 8 and 16 gigabytes, which today is considered a modest “size”. However, for some, this will be enough - maybe not for storing “heavy” photos, but definitely for various text files. Do you need more? You can buy this flash drive for both 64 and 128 gigabytes, but it will cost much more.

Not everyone likes the design of such a flash drive - it looks somewhat cumbersome. But this is perhaps not so important if it works well.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.0/microUSB/Lightning;
• memory capacity – 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 GB;
• speed – read – 30 MB/s, write – 22 MB/s;
• dimensions - 26x52x9 mm;
• weight – 11 g.

pros

• low price;
• three connectors at once;
• can be used for iOS, Android, and Microsoft;
• There are options with different amounts of memory;
• works with a large number of formats;
• takes up little space.

Minuses

• not everyone likes the design;
• low read and write speed.

PhotoFast EVO PLUS

SanDisk iXpand USB 3.0/Lightning

SanDisk iXpand USB 3.0/Lightning
High-quality flash drive with two USB 3.0 and Lightning connectors. A must for iPhone owners with a small amount of internal memory! It’s easy to “drop” files onto a flash drive and then onto your computer. By the way, this flash drive is very popular, and this is understandable. There are options for 16, 32, 64, 128 and even 256 gigabytes.

The design of the SanDisk iXpand case is laconic and very pleasant - it will definitely suit both men and women. The connector of the flash drive is flexible, which ensures its safety and ease of use.

By the way! To make it more convenient to work with such a flash drive on your iPhone, you should download a special application - iXpand Drive. It provides full access to all storage functions.

The price is naturally higher for models with more memory. It is not the most affordable, but there is definitely no doubt about the quality of such a flash drive.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.0/Lightning;
• memory capacity – 16, 32, 64, 128, 256 GB;
• speed – read – 260 MB/s, write – 40 MB/s;
• dimensions – 17 x 59 x 13 mm;
• weight – 6 g.

pros

• high-quality and reliable case;
• nice design;
• two connectors;
• high reading speed;
• small.

Minuses

• low data recording speed.

SanDisk iXpand USB 3.0/Lightning

SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive m3.0

SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive m3.0
SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive has two connectors - USB 3.0 and microUSB, so working with various files with such a flash drive has become much more convenient. For example, if you store them on your Android smartphone, then you don’t have to transfer the information first, for example, to a computer or struggle with adapters - the flash drive is easy to connect. By the way, the speed of reading and writing data in this model is also excellent, so you won’t have to wait long.

The flash drive itself is small, with an interesting design that is suitable for both men and women. An excellent option for a gift.

By the way! You can install the SanDisk Memory Zone app on your smartphone to easily manage your files: copy them, transfer them, etc.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.0/microUSB;
• memory capacity – 16, 32, 64, 128 GB;
• speed – read – 150 MB/s, write – 130 MB/s;
• dimensions - 11.76 x 25.47 x 30.2 mm;
• weight – 19 g.

pros

• affordable price;
• options with different amounts of memory;
• nice design;
• high read and write speed;
• detected on any device;
• small.

Minuses

• The plastic from which the case is made is not particularly reliable.

Reviews and prices for SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive m3.0

Silicon Power Mobile C80

Silicon Power Mobile C80
This flash drive can be connected to USB and Type-C ports - very convenient, because more and more “new” Type-C ports are appearing today, which means you will be able to use a flash drive 10 years later. The flash drive is small, but very convenient: it has a ring that allows you to easily “switch” connectors, and you can use it to hang the flash drive, for example, on a bunch of keys, so as not to lose it. You don't need a cover, the case won't get dirty quickly, so you can use the flash drive for a long time without fear that it will lose its appearance or something will happen to it. In general, a really worthy and, importantly, inexpensive option.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.0/USB Type-C;
• memory capacity – 16, 32, 64, 128 GB;
• speed – read – 220 MB/s, write – 100 MB/s;
• dimensions – 18 x 49 x 7 mm;
• weight – 8 g.

pros

• affordable price;
• convenient and pleasant design;
• two connectors at once;
• There are options with different amounts of memory;
• high reading and memory speed.

Minuses

• not detected.

Silicon Power Mobile C80

The best USB Type-C flash drives

A standard USB connector is difficult to insert correctly the first time; the new Type-C connector is designed to make life easier for users. The compact plug is plugged into the socket on either side. In 2019, Type-C is not very widespread, but is already being installed in flagship devices.

To exchange information with top smartphones, engineers have developed appropriate flash drives. In addition to versatility, the advantage is its small size - they do not protrude much from the body and do not interfere with work.

2Transcend JetFlash 890S

Cost 8 Reliability 9 Performance 10

The overall score is calculated as the average value of the sum of the main parameters.

9.0Rating

pros

• Optimally sized housing
• Compatible with Android
• Honest Performance

Minuses

• Moisture protection questionable
• Gets very hot during operation
• The cap does not fit tightly

The length of the metal body of the flash drive - 28.6 mm - is chosen ideally - it does not stick out from the port, it is easily pulled out by the thickening, the plastic cap covers the non-working side.

Storage capacities of 16, 32 or 64 GB are connected to the world via USBType-C and a USB-A connector (USB 3.1). A sort of “Pull-Push” for transferring files between a MacBook and a PC or direct connection to a smartphone - thanks to OTG, Android sees the device as its memory.

The speeds declared by Transcend are confirmed by tests - 125 MB/sec read, 94 MB/sec.

1SanDisk Ultra USB Type-C

Cost 8 Reliability 8 Performance 9

The overall score is calculated as the average value of the sum of the main parameters.

8.3 Evaluation

pros

• Good reading speed
• The connector is retracted into the housing
• Small size and weight

Minuses

• The body does not fit tightly, you need to hold it
• It gets hot when working, almost burns your fingers
• Reading speed limited by smartphone

The metal case with plastic inserts is framed in smoky plexiglass; during operation it moves out as if on a skid. There is only one connector - USB Type-C, use is limited to Macs and top-end mobile phones with OTG. If you need to transfer data to a PC, you will have to buy an adapter.

The case length is 41 mm, a little longer than necessary - there is a risk of getting caught and breaking the port. The chip supports the USB 3.1 Gen 1 protocol and provides read speeds of up to 150 MB/sec, but writing of about 20 MB/sec is limited by the smartphone.

USB flash drives 3.1, 3.2

ADATA i-Memory AI920

ADATA i-Memory AI920
A very stylish and inexpensive flash drive with USB 3.1 and Lightning connectors. It is small, which makes it even more modern, but you need to be careful not to accidentally lose it somewhere. Everything is fine with the speed of reading and writing information: more than 150 MB/s. This is understandable, because its connector is not even 3.0, but even 3.1! Yes, and you can work freely with your iPhone.

The case is protected from dust, and it is also waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about integrity. There are also several color options, ideal for both girls and men.

By the way, one of the features of such a flash drive is data backup.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.0/Lightning;
• memory capacity – 32, 64, 128, 256 GB;
• speed – read – 150 MB/s, write – 120 MB/s;
• dimensions – 7 x 17 x 38 mm;
• weight – 3.6 g.

pros

• low price;
• stylish design;
• small;
• there is a choice of colors;
• options with different amounts of memory;
• protection from moisture and dust;
• relatively high read and write speed.

Minuses

• The case may become scratched after several months of use.

ADATA i-Memory AI920

Samsung BAR Plus

Samsung BAR Plus
A very stylish flash drive from Samsung, which, surprisingly, has a very affordable price. The first thing that attracts people in this model is the high speed of reading and writing information. And the body is also good - suitable for both business men and gentle girls. It is made of metal and is not afraid of dust and water, which means that nothing will happen to the flash drive.

During operation, the flash drive does not heat up, and this is important for many users. True, the body has sharp corners, which not everyone likes - it’s still easy to get hurt. But you can buy Samsung BAR Plus with different amounts of memory.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.1;
• memory capacity – 16, 32, 64, 128, 256 GB;
• speed – read – 200 MB/s, write – 120 MB/s;
• dimensions – 16 x 40 x 12 mm;
• weight – 4 g.

pros

• affordable price;
• stylish beautiful body;
• protection from water and dust;
• There are several options with different amounts of memory;
• high read and write speed.

Minuses

• sharp corners on the body.

Samsung BAR Plus

SanDisk Extreme PRO USB 3.1

SanDisk Extreme PRO USB 3.1
The cost of such a flash drive may scare you away, but this is in vain: its read and write speeds are pleasantly surprising! You can download files in literally a matter of seconds, even if they weigh a lot. By the way, they are also password protected, so if the flash drive is accidentally lost, strangers will not be able to find out what is stored on it.

The body of the flash drive is very durable and at the same time stylish, and the connector is retractable, meaning you don’t have to constantly look for the cover, and the connector itself won’t be damaged. Such a flash drive is easy to read by any device, and it is made of very high quality, so it will easily serve for decades with careful use.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.1;
• memory capacity – 128, 256 GB;
• speed – read – 420 MB/s, write – 380 MB/s;
• dimensions – 11 x 71 x 17 mm;
• weight – 60 g.

pros

• beautifully and qualitatively made body;
• the connector extends;
• the housing is protected from water and dust;
• high read and write speed;
• detected on any device.

Minuses

• Pretty big.

SanDisk Extreme PRO USB 3.1

HyperX Savage

HyperX Savage
A stylish flash drive that is more suitable for game lovers, programmers and other people who constantly work with “heavy” files. This is because the read and write speed of such a flash drive is very high, and it costs much more than its “competitors”, so only computer professionals will most likely be able to afford it.

The flash drive is very small, convenient and really beautiful. It’s pleasant to hold in your hands, you can hang it on your key ring so you don’t lose it, and it doesn’t get hot at all while working with it. By the way, there is a copy indicator on the case.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.1;
• memory capacity – 64, 128, 256, 512 GB;
• speed – read – 400 MB/s, write – 190 MB/s;
• dimensions – 23 x 76 x 12 mm;
• weight – 35 g.

pros

• stylish modern design;
• convenient to use;
• there is an indicator on the case;
• can be hung on a bunch of keys;
• high read and write speed;
• a wide range of options with different memory sizes;
• there is even a 512 GB flash drive;
• doesn't heat up.

Minuses

• high price.

Video - HyperX Savage Review

Reviews and prices for HyperX Savage

Sony USM64BA2

Sony USM64BA2
Flash drives with USB 3.1 and microUSB connectors are a rare phenomenon and not very popular, but the Sony USM64BA2 is still just such a flash drive. The body of the flash drive is made of aluminum, that is, it is very durable and is definitely not afraid of dust and moisture. Of course, the high speed of reading and writing information is also pleasing. Although the cost of a flash drive is not the lowest, such characteristics are worth it.

The only disadvantage of such a flash drive is that its glossy body gets very scratched with constant use. Alas, there are no other colors, but this does not spoil the flash drive too much. The main thing is that it works great and can continue to do so for years with careful use.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 3.1/microUSB;
• memory capacity – 16, 32, 64, 128 GB;
• speed – read – 210 MB/s, write – 150 MB/s;
• dimensions – 17 x 69 x 7 mm;
• weight – 60 g.

pros

• good price;
• high-quality metal case;
• stylish design;
• two connectors at once;
• high read and write speed.

Minuses

• The housing may be severely scratched.

Last news

This page contains manufacturers of drivers, firmware, instructions, manuals and user manuals for the USB Flash Drive device. In order to find and download a driver, select the manufacturer of your device and go to a page with a list of drivers from the selected manufacturer. If the manufacturer of your device is not in the list, then we do not have a driver for the type of device you have selected from your manufacturer. But don’t despair, you can order the necessary driver through the driver order form or write on our forum and they will definitely help you.

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USB 2.0 flash drives

SmartBuy Stream USB 2.0

SmartBuy Stream USB 2.0
A simple flash drive with a bright plastic body. The connector itself extends, making it completely protected from mechanical stress and dust. There is also a special hole on the case to which you can attach a lanyard so that the flash drive does not get lost.

Of course, you can’t expect high speeds for writing and reading information, because the connector on this flash drive is USB 2.0, but within its “capabilities” it works great. There are no crashes, missing information or other problems. You can purchase such a flash drive with different amounts of memory – from 8 to 64 GB.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 0;
• memory capacity – 8, 16, 32, 64 GB;
• speed – read – 15 MB/s, write – 10 MB/s;
• dimensions – 11.4 x 10.1 x 13 mm;
• weight – 20 g.

pros

• low price;
• bright durable body;
• there is a hole for a lanyard;
• the connector extends;
• There are several options for flash drives with different amounts of memory.

Minuses

• low speed of reading and writing information.

SmartBuy Stream USB 2.0

Kingston DataTraveler 104

Kingston DataTraveler 104
Stylish inexpensive flash drive with memory capacity from 16 to 64 gigabytes. Its connector slides out, so you don’t have to constantly look for a lost cover. A flash drive is as simple as possible, but at the same time reliable - if you use it carefully and correctly, it will serve for years. It is convenient to store a flash drive, its “appearance” is perfect for both men and women, it is very inexpensive, so you can buy it for yourself or as a gift.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 0;
• memory capacity – 16, 32, 64 GB;
• speed – read – 18 MB/s, write – 10 MB/s;
• dimensions – 22 x 70 x 13 mm;
• weight – 16 g.

pros

• low price;
• simple and stylish design;
• retractable connector;
• There are several options with different amounts of memory;
• convenient to store.

Minuses

• low speed of reading and writing information.

Transcend JetFlash 350

Transcend JetFlash 350
A fairly common flash drive - you can see this one in many people’s possessions, since a couple of years ago they were sold literally everywhere. And this does not mean that they are of poor quality - they are all right with that. In addition, you can choose from options with different amounts of memory. The price is also low - what it used to be, what it is today, so the flash drive is simply excellent, especially for those for whom the speed of writing and reading information is not so important (unfortunately, you won’t get high speeds from USB 2.0).

The design of the Transcend JetFlash 350 is simple, but the flash drive itself is quite reliable - there is no doubt that all the data from it will not go anywhere. The only negative is that the case quickly becomes covered with scratches, although they are not too visible.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 0;
• memory capacity – 4, 8, 16, 32, 64 GB;
• speed – read – 22 MB/s, write – 15 MB/s;
• dimensions – 18 x 60 x 8 mm;
• weight – 18 g.

pros

• low price;
• a wide selection of flash drive options with different memory capacities;
• simple, laconic design;
• reliability;
• does not heat up during operation;
• There is a hole for a lanyard.

Minuses

• the body is scratched.

Transcend JetFlash 350

SanDisk Cruzer Blade

SanDisk Cruzer Blade
Flash drive with an interesting modern design, which can be purchased in black and white colors with red “inserts”. It looks very beautiful and is suitable for both men and women. SanDisk Cruzer Blade flash drives are small and very convenient to use. There is no cover, but on the case there is a hole for the cord - this way you will definitely not lose the flash drive.

You can purchase it with a memory capacity from 4 to 128 gigabytes. For most users, this volume is quite enough. Unfortunately, the read and write speed of such a flash drive leaves much to be desired.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 0;
• memory capacity – 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 GB;
• speed – read – 15 MB/s, write – 5 MB/s;
• dimensions – 7.4 x 17.6 x 41.5 mm;
• weight – 9 g.

pros

• low price;
• nice design;
• you can purchase such a model with different amounts of memory;
• compact;
• weighs little;
• There is a hole for the cord.

Minuses

• low speed of reading and writing information.

Reviews and prices for SanDisk Cruzer Blade

ADATA UD320

ADATA UD320
A popular flash drive, which, by the way, is equipped with not only a USB 2.0 connector, but also a microUSB connector, which is very rare. And this, by the way, is very popular, because many people have smartphones with a microUSB port. With such a flash drive, uploading information becomes even easier - you don’t even need a computer for this. Its only drawback is its rather high price even today, when USB 2.0 is considered obsolete.

ADATA UD320 works great on any device. Transferring files using such a flash drive is, of course, much more convenient than via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. And there is no doubt about its reliability - all data will be safe and sound if you use it carefully. By the way, the body of the flash drive is waterproof and is not afraid of dust.

Characteristics:

• interface - USB 0/microUSB;
• memory capacity – 32, 64 GB;
• speed – read – 150 MB/s, write – 20 MB/s;
• dimensions – 8 x 15 x 40 mm;
• weight – 9 g.

pros

• stylish design;
• two connectors at once;
• there is a choice of flash drives for 32 and 64 GB;
• waterproof case;
• compact and lightweight;
• good read and write speed.

Minuses

• the price is above average.

ADATA UD320

The best fastest flash drives

HyperX Savage 64GB

Flash drive from the famous American brand Kingston Technology, which specializes in the production of high-quality memory systems. This model is made of durable plastic with a soft-touch coating. In the center of the flash drive body there is a three-dimensional metal decoration in the form of a red letter X with the model logo. The flash drive itself has quite voluminous dimensions - 7.63 * 2.34 * 1.21 cm and weighs about 50 grams. The package includes a small lanyard, thanks to which the device can be attached to a smartphone or a bunch of keys.

The flash drive works with any USB connector, but prefers USB 3.0 and 3.1 ports, through which the reading and information transfer speeds show maximum speeds. And speed is the main feature of this drive. The company has developed an innovative hardware for its device, thanks to which the flash drive reliably transfers and receives files at the highest rates:

• reading speed - 330-350 MB/s;
• recording speed - 180-190 Mb/s;
• transfer speed of heavy files is 50-70 Mb/s.

But these figures are real only when using a high-speed USB port; when interacting with less fast ports, the speed drops significantly.

The flash drive has an operation indicator that blinks blue when the drive is connected to the computer, as well as during data transfer. The end of the work will be indicated by the indicator going out.

Reviews are extremely positive about the speed of this model, noting that files weighing 30-40 gigabytes are transferred in just 3-5 minutes. The second positive factor is the manufacturer’s 5-year warranty. The third plus is that the device practically does not heat up during operation.

The disadvantages users include:

• quite large size;
• sometimes a computer reboot is required to properly overclock a flash drive;
• Poor quality assembly was noticed in some models;
• price - from 3000 to 5000 rubles.

Samsung USB 3.1 Flash Drive FIT Plus

One of the main advantages of this flash drive is its miniature appearance. The size of the flash drive is only 2.36 * 1.88 * 0.7 cm. Such compactness allows you to leave it connected to the computer for a long time - it does not interfere with connecting other devices to adjacent ports, a laptop with an attached flash drive can be put in a bag and not be afraid that the drive or USB connector will be damaged. With its minimal parameters, this model has an impressive internal memory capacity and is available in four formats: 32 GB, 64 GB, 128 GB, 256 GB.

The appearance is laconic - a small black rectangle made of plastic with a printed logo of the manufacturer and an eyelet for a lanyard, with which you can prevent the loss of the device.

The second advantage of the Samsung FIT Plus flash drive is that it works at high speeds via a USB 3.1 port. When reading, the peak speed is 280-300 MB/s, when writing, the maximum possible speed is 60-70 MB/s. It should be taken into account that when trying to connect to other, less fast, interfaces, the speed is strikingly different, so it is recommended to use only fast connection points.

The manufacturer equipped its device not only with high speed, but also protected the drive case to the maximum: the flash drive has a shockproof coating, the case is waterproof, can easily withstand high temperatures, and the device is resistant to magnets and X-rays.

Buyers speak only positively about this model:

• you can use the flash drive right out of the box, there is no need for formatting;
• declared speeds correspond to real ones;
• modest size, allowing you not to worry about its safety and weight of about 3 grams;
• presence of protective properties;
• price - from 700 rubles for 32 GB, 1,100 rubles for the 64 GB version, from 2,000 rubles for 128 GB, from 4,000 rubles for 256 GB.

SanDisk Ultra Fit USB 3.1

A USB device from a popular American manufacturer that has been on the market for more than 30 years. A flash drive belongs to the class of high-speed drives capable of producing large numbers both when reading and writing.

The Ultra Fit flash drive is very tiny, which is both a plus and a minus. The advantage is that you can easily insert it into any USB connector; small parameters will not interfere with the operation of other ports. There is also no danger of touching the flash drive with your hand, thereby disrupting the operation of the device or damaging it. The downside is that you can easily lose the device, since it does not have a lanyard for fastening. Therefore, you should be careful during use.

When it comes to speed, it's not all that simple. The manufacturer claims a maximum reading speed of 130 MB/s, but is silent about the download speed. Real tests show that the manufacturer's promises for reading mode are true - watching movies and listening to music are quite comfortable and show a stable 120-130 Mb/s. As for the recording, everything is not so rosy here:

• files up to 1 GB go quickly, downloading at a speed of 50-60 Mb/s;
• files over 1 GB are recorded at a speed of 20-25 Mb/s;
• on very heavy files the speed drops to 1 Mb/s.

Along with such modest indicators, there is another big disadvantage - the body of the flash drive heats up during operation: in a quiet state the device becomes noticeably warmer, and during the transfer of information this increases many times over.

Users note the positive aspects of the flash drive:

• low price - from 400 rubles for a volume of 16 GB;
• the ability to password protect your data and restore it using additional utilities provided by the manufacturer;
• miniature device;
• the ability to easily remove the device from the USB port.

But the disadvantages are more serious - noticeable heating of the drive and weak recording for a high-speed flash drive.

Transcend JetFlash 790 64Gb

A budget version of a flash drive from a Taiwanese manufacturer with small external parameters of 6.36 * 2.12 * 1.06 cm. Made in black and white from glossy plastic, which many buyers considered a disadvantage - the smooth sides allow the flash drive to easily slip out of your hands. For greater user convenience, the device has a retractable USB connector system using a bright slider on the front of the device, which allows it to become less dirty and last longer. There is a hole at the end for fastening the lace.

The drive is designed to operate quickly via a USB 3.0 connector; when used in other ports, the speed is halved.

The stated speed is modest, but real, tested by many buyers - reading 100-110 MB/s, writing 25-32 MB/s. But many note speed jumps during the transfer of large files, especially for files with a volume of 5-6 GB, during the recording process of which a short slowdown is noticed and the level of file transfer drops to the minimum limits. But the reading mode works stably - no hitches, pauses or interference were noticed.

Users readily buy this model as external storage for photos and music, since the Transcend brand is known for its durable flash drives that last 10 years or more. In addition, the price of the drive is very attractive - from 600 rubles.

And many consider the disadvantages in the form of lack of backlight and an inconvenient retractable mechanism to be insignificant.

ADATA DashDrive UV150 64G

Inexpensive flash drive from Taiwan for high-speed file transfer via USB 3.0 interface. Can connect to slower ports, but write and read speeds will drop according to the connectors used. Supports all types of systems, even Windows 10.

The dimensions of the drive's body are small - 5.8 * 1.8 * 1 cm, weight is only 9 grams, which allows you to connect it without problems next to another USB device. The body is made of rather slippery glossy plastic, but the shape of the flash drive has edges, which prevents it from falling out of your hands. Available in red and black. On the opposite side of the flash drive from the connector there is an eyelet for attaching a lanyard, which is purchased separately. There is no external drive operation indicator.

The memory promised by the manufacturer does not quite correspond to reality - out of 64 GB, only 57.7 GB is available to users, the rest was determined by the company for work processes. But in terms of speed, the manufacturer did not deceive - writing at maximum reaches 30-45 MB/s, reading 90-110 MB/s. These are not super speeds, but they are quite enough for comfortable watching movies and copying video files of 2-3 GB in size in the shortest possible time.

Reviews note a number of positive aspects in this drive model:

• narrow shape to save space during use;
• good speed;
• no heating of the case;
• presence of a protective cap;
• presence of a memory chip from Samsung;
• very favorable price - from 550 rubles.

But there were also several disadvantages:

• In a number of flash drives, the USB connector is unstable, which can lead to its breakdown;
• The cap for protecting the contacts is not attached tightly, dangles and falls off.

In general, buyers recommend using this drive only for transferring or storing not particularly important files.

Choosing a high-quality flash drive

Although flash drives are becoming less popular today, they are still actively used for storing and transferring various files. Every year new types of flash drives appear, their capacities increase, new connectors appear, so it is important to purchase not only a reliable, but also a “modern” flash drive so that you can use it both today and 10 years later. For example, if previously only USB 2.0 connectors were used, today USB 3.0 and 3.1 connectors, as well as Lightning, MicroUSB, and Type-C are much more popular.

Let's figure out how to choose a high-quality and reliable flash drive.

Flash drive memory capacity

Actually, what size flash drive to buy depends only on your wishes and needs. Of course, the more, the better, but for more volume you will have to pay more.

Important! The capacity of the USB flash drive must be indicated on the model case and on the packaging.

In general, experts believe that saving on the memory capacity of a flash drive is not entirely correct: it is not known whether you will need more memory in the future. The cheapest flash drives are 2 gigabytes (although they are rare today), but they can only store text files, as well as a small number of photos and a few audio recordings.

The size of the flash drive you should purchase depends on your needs and what files you plan to store.

But on flash drives with a memory capacity of up to 16 GB you can store text files, photos, audio, and even several films. For most people this is quite enough.

To store even more data, you can purchase storage media up to 64 GB. You can easily store “heavy” photos, videos, and various program installers on it - in general, you don’t have to limit yourself at all. It usually doesn't cost too much. Of course, there are also larger flash drives - for example, 128 and 256 GB, but these are most often required by people in certain professions that are somehow related to working on a computer - for example, programmers, designers, etc. Naturally, they cost more.

Important! Want to store even more files on a flash drive? You can compress data. There are special programs for this that allow you to archive files. This saves a lot of space.

To make the flash drive fit more, you can compress the data

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Flash drive interface

Naturally, the interface of the flash drive is of great importance. There are a lot of types, and for a very long time USB 2.0 remained the most popular. Today, more USB 3.0, USB 3.1 and USB 3.2 are in use. They differ in the speed of information transfer - versions 3.0, 3.1 and 3.2 have speeds several times higher than USB 2.0.

Important! Be sure to also take into account the compatibility of the flash drive and computer interface. For example, if you only have USB 2.0 ports on your computer or laptop, then a flash drive with a USB 3.0 interface will not work quickly, so there is no point in purchasing it specifically.

You can determine which port you have by the color of the plug. For USB 2.0 it is white, and for USB 3.0 it is blue.

The speed of reading and writing information from USB 2.0 is significantly lower than that of USB 3.0 and even more so 3.1, 3.2

But there are other interfaces, more modern. For example, Type-C, which has become especially popular in recent years. What’s especially nice is that its shape is symmetrical, so you can insert the connector into the port from either side - you won’t have to suffer anymore. It is smaller in size than standard USB, so it is not compatible with it.

MicroUSB is also quite common, usually found on smartphones and tablets.

But Apple products generally have a separate interface called Lightning. It can be found on equipment from this manufacturer produced after 2012. Flash drives with this connector will only work with iPad, iPhone and Mac.

Some flash drives have Lightning connectors - they are necessary for connecting to Apple smartphones and tablets

Flash drive housing

Typically, flash drive cases are made of either plastic or metal. Of course, metal ones are considered more durable and of higher quality, but it’s also good if the body is made of several materials at once: for example, the body is often made of metal, with rubber on top. Flash drives made of wood or leather are rarely found - usually designer ones, most often they are presented as a gift.

By the way! For example, on Aliexpress and in other stores you can buy completely unusual flash drives, made in the form of various objects, animals, etc. If you want something original, be sure to consider these options. The main thing is to consider the speed of reading and writing data for a particular model, the amount of memory, and also do not forget about customer reviews.

Naturally, the most vulnerable point of any flash drive is the contact plate, which is inserted into the port of a computer or other device. Therefore, it is better that this plate is protected - for this, some flash drives use caps. True, they get lost too often.

Sometimes the connectors slide out of the case - this is also very convenient and there are no problems with the caps. The main thing is to use the flash drive carefully so that the mechanism does not break.

It is convenient if the connector extends directly from the housing. In this case, do everything carefully so that nothing happens to the mechanism.

Some flash drives do not have any protection for the connector at all, and therefore they are more vulnerable and more likely to break, since the entry of dust and debris into it is almost inevitable.

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Useful functions of a flash drive

There are flash drives that are as simple and cheap as possible, and there are more “sophisticated” ones, especially for those who plan to use them regularly. Let's look at what functions flash drives can have.

1. Data protection. Some flash drives allow you to reliably protect the data recorded on them. For example, using a fingerprint sensor, which is located on the case - when you first use it, the program will ask you to scan your fingerprint, and then you will need to put your finger on the case every time you connect the flash drive to the computer. But there is another method of protection - a password. Each time you connect a flash drive, it will be requested before you gain access to the information.

   Some flash drives provide data protection

2. Write protection. Some flash drives have a switch right on the case that allows you to disable data protection on the flash drive. This way you can protect your device from viruses.
3. Data backup function. Doing this manually is very inconvenient, but on some flash drives this function is turned on automatically or on a schedule, depending on how you configure it. In addition, you yourself determine which folder the files from the flash drive will be written to. It’s very convenient - if something happens to the storage device, you won’t be left without important data.
4. Data compression. Some flash drives have a pre-installed data compression function - you don’t have to do anything, everything will be done by a program that is already built into the flash drive.
5. Indicator on the body. It will signal that the flash drive is connected, or that data is currently being copied.
6. U3 Smart Drive function. Not supported by all flash drives. It is absolutely essential for those who need, roughly speaking, to “carry a computer with them.” Such a flash drive saves the operating parameters of the user (for example, passwords and settings) and programs. In general, you don’t have to download the same applications on different computers - it’s enough to have them on a flash drive.

   The U3 Smart Drive feature is especially useful for many

7. Wi-Fi module. Rarely seen. Allows you to connect the drive and mobile devices (for example, a smartphone, laptop or tablet). Some flash drives with a Wi-Fi module need to be connected to a computer, while some do not require this at all.

What you should know when choosing a flash drive

Choosing a flash drive is not as simple as it seems. Of course, if you plan to use the drive mainly for transferring documents, you can take the first one you come across (or the most beautiful one). But if it will store large files or multimedia with a high bitrate - movies in Full HD resolution, for example - then you should approach the choice responsibly.

Flash drive connectors (USB Type-C, USB Type-A, Micro USB)

1. The flash drive connector determines the hardware compatibility of this drive with the computer. The most popular standard is USB Type-A. This is a classic 4-pin rectangular connector that is used in almost all computers.
2. In 2020, flash drives with a USB Type-C connector are becoming increasingly popular. This is an oval, symmetrical connector. Flagship smartphones, ultrabooks and hybrid laptops are equipped with this connector. For example, the MacBook Pro 2020 only uses USB Type-C, so you can’t install a “regular” flash drive in it.
3. Micro USB is a gradually becoming obsolete standard. It is used in smartphones and ultra-low-cost hybrid laptops. If you plan to work on the go and open files from a flash drive on a mobile device, you should purchase a drive with two connectors: USB Type-A and Micro USB.

Adapters between connectors exist, as well as flash drives equipped with two connectors at once.

USB generation (1.1, 2.0, 3.0, 3.1)

The maximum data transfer speed to and from a flash drive is determined not only by the performance of the built-in drive itself, but also by the generation of USB used. So, the limit values ​​are as follows:

1. USB 1.1 – up to 12 Mbit/s;
2. USB 2.0 – up to 480 Mbit/s;
3. USB 3.0 – up to 5 Gbps;
4. USB 3.2 – up to 20 Gbps.

It is self-evident that if you plan to copy a large amount of information to or from a flash drive (several GB at a time), then it is better not to skimp and take a USB 3.0 or 3.1 drive. For documents, small files, etc. Less recent generations will also fit.

By the way, USB 3.2 is only supported on USB Type-C.

Actual data volume

The actual capacity of a flash drive is always less than that indicated on the packaging. This is not only a marketing technique, but also a technological feature. Flash drive manufacturers believe that 1000 bytes is 1 kilobyte. The operating system is sure of something else - 1 kilobyte is equal to 1024 bytes.

As a result, the actual amount of data is always less than the nominal amount. And if you plan to store 30 GB of information on a flash drive, then a 32 GB drive will no longer be suitable - you need to take a 64 GB one.

The actual capacities of flash drives are listed below:

A 1 GB drive is actually 0.95 GB;

1. For 4 GB – 3.72 GB;
2. For 16 GB – 14.9 GB;
3. For 32 GB – 29.8 GB;
4. For 64 GB – 59.6 GB.

Actual data transfer rate

Two factors affect the actual data transfer speed:

1. The first is drive performance. This parameter varies between models (and often copies of the same series) of flash drives, and it can only be calculated experimentally.
2. The second is the minimum generation of USB. If you insert a “fast” 3.0 flash drive into a slow 1.1 port, the maximum transfer speed will be limited by the speed of port 1.1. Conversely, if you insert a slow 1.1 flash drive into a 3.0 port, the transfer speed will be limited by the speed of the 1.1 drive.

This is important to consider when purchasing a flash drive. If you plan to use the drive to record movies on it from a computer and then play it on a TV, and both devices are equipped with USB 2.0, you should not purchase a 3.0 drive - it’s a pointless overpayment.

Housing material

This parameter is worth considering if you are purchasing a high-speed USB 3.0 flash drive or if you plan to use the future drive very actively (for example, for ReadyBoost technology). When writing quickly, the flash drive becomes noticeably hot. And this heat needs to be removed somehow.

The best option is to buy a flash drive in a metal case. It acts as a radiator, cooling the drive and extending the life of the device.

For slow or rarely used flash drives, this parameter is not particularly important; any material or design of the case will do.

Voting: the best flash drives

Which flash drive would you buy yourself or would you recommend to others?

Silicon Power Mobile C80

15.79 % ( 3 )

SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive m3.0

5.26 % ( 1 )

SanDisk iXpand USB 3.0/Lightning

5.26 % ( 1 )

PhotoFast EVO PLUS

5.26 % ( 1 )

Transcend JetFlash 710S

31.58 % ( 6 )

Sony USM64BA2

0.00 % ( 0 )

HyperX Savage

0.00 % ( 0 )

SanDisk Extreme PRO USB 3.1

5.26 % ( 1 )

Samsung BAR Plus

21.05 % ( 4 )

ADATA i-Memory AI920

0.00 % ( 0 )

ADATA UD320

5.26 % ( 1 )

SanDisk Cruzer Blade

0.00 % ( 0 )

Transcend JetFlash 350

0.00 % ( 0 )

Kingston DataTraveler 104

5.26 % ( 1 )

Transcend JetFlash 700

A simple device that cannot boast of a unique design. The black body is made of durable plastic. The surface is smooth, and near the cap there is an important inscription “USB 3.0”, which indicates the high data exchange speed when connected to the appropriate interface: reading – up to 70 MB / sec, and writing – up to 30 MB / sec.

This is exactly the case when you don’t need to overpay for registration. If you need performance at an adequate price, choose this model.