The humble USB flash drive shares files, backs up photos, and transfers videos very easily and quickly. They were once so common that companies often handed them out for free at industry conferences. But with the prevalence of cloud storage and portable SSDs increasing, flash drives are no longer the go-to for day-to-day storage needs.
However, these compact devices still offer unique advantages over other digital storage technologies. For instance, many feature a built-in loop for easily attaching them to a key ring. And their often universal compatibility allows you to save files from a Windows computer and transfer them to a Mac. Many even connect to smartphones to help you quickly free up space on your device, as well as back up your photos and videos, from anywhere.
While it’s tempting to grab the first flash drive you find that offers the most storage for an affordable price, there are some key differences you’ll want to consider before making your purchase. This list of the best USB flash drives will tell you what to look for and why having one in your tech kit is still worthwhile.
Best USB Flash Drives
What to Consider
Storage Capacity
Common flash drives offer storage capacities that range from 16GB all the way to 1TB. The trick is finding the amount of storage that works for your needs. To determine how much capacity is right for you, consider if you’re mostly storing documents, photos, videos, or a mix of all three.
While 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB sound like a lot of space for basic storage needs, that amount of space fills up quickly, particularly if you’re backing up a photo library. We recommend a minimum storage capacity of 128GB, which should be sufficient for your current needs and give you room to grow if you have additional large files you want to store in the future. Thankfully, the price difference between storage capacities in the lower ranges is often minimal, so spending a little extra for additional space is a manageable and worthwhile tradeoff.
Speed
Read and write speeds determine how quickly files transfer to and are accessed from your computer. Higher read speeds are particularly beneficial when working with large documents, high-resolution images, or video files because files stored on the drive open more rapidly. Write speeds, on the other hand, affect how fast you save or copy files onto the drive. Faster write speeds save you valuable time when transferring large files.
Flash drives with USB 3.0 should be fast enough for casual users who aren’t concerned about having the absolute fastest speeds. However, actual speeds may not reach the maximum supported by each USB protocol. Before you make your pick, check the manufacturer’s stated read and write speeds to get a realistic idea of how quickly you’ll be able to transfer and access files, photos, and videos. For faster speeds, check out flash drives that support newer protocols like USB 3.1 or 3.2.
Connection Type
The most common connection type for flash drives is USB-A, though USB-C is starting to take over as modern devices adopt the newer, more versatile standard. Choose a connection type based on what ports your computer or laptop supports. My MacBook Pro, for example, only supports USB-C ports. Therefore, it makes sense for me to use a USB-C equipped flash drive.
Keep in mind that USB-C offers several advantages over USB-A, including a reversible connector design and support for faster transfer speeds depending on the USB protocol. If the flash drive you choose doesn’t have a connector compatible with your device, consider investing in a USB hub or adapter. Alternatively, some newer flash drives feature USB-A and USB-C connectors, giving you a more versatile option.
Compatibility
Flash drives generally offer excellent cross-platform support, especially those with USB-C connectors. They should work seamlessly on your laptop, regardless of whether you’re using Windows or Mac. USB-C flash drives are also compatible with most mobile devices that have USB-C ports.
Security
Some USB flash drives offer advanced security features to protect your sensitive data. These models often include built-in fingerprint sensors for biometric authentication or password protection. They also support advanced encryption standards (AES), so they’re secure enough for governments and financial institutes to use.
Durability
Most USB flash drives are designed to withstand everyday wear and tear, whether carried in your pocket or at the bottom of a bag. Some models feature more rugged, shock-resistant casings that add protection against accidental drops, dust, and water damage. Many flash drives are also built to endure extreme temperatures, so if you accidentally leave one in a hot car, it should survive without being damaged.
How We Selected
I’ve carried the same old flash drive on my key ring for the past decade, and it’s always been a convenient way to transfer files, photos, and videos. (I keep a text document on it with my phone number and email, hoping that if I one day lose my keys, someone will find them and know how to contact me.) I’ve also used various flash drives, hard drives, and SSDs over the course of the same timespan and seen firsthand how they’ve evolved. My experience has given me key insights into what to look for and why certain features are more important than others when shopping for the best USB flash drives.
Best Overall
SanDisk Extreme Pro (128GB)
Pros
- Fast read and write speeds
- Durable aluminum design
Cons
- A bit big
Key Specs
| Storage Capacity | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 420MB/s read, 380MB/s write |
| Connection Type | USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac |
| Security | 128-bit AES encryption |
| Dimensions | 0.23 x 0.62 x 1.57 in. |
The SanDisk Extreme Pro offers everything you want in a fast, durable, and secure flash drive. It boasts excellent read and write speeds (up to 420 MB/s read, 380MB/s write) for moving huge files quickly—SanDisk says you can transfer a full-length 4K movie to the drive in less than 15 seconds. Its durable aluminum case comes with a loop that conveniently attaches to a key ring. A retractable design hides the USB-A plug when it’s not in use.
SanDiskoffers robust security through its software, which uses 128-bit AES encryption to password-protect your files. This drive is compatible with both Windows and Mac for easy file transfers between platforms. Meanwhile, the Extreme Pro is available in storage capacities up to 1TB. While it uses the traditional USB-A connector rather than the newer USB-C standard, it’s still an excellent choice due to its performance, durability, and security.
Best Budget
Amazon Basics Flash Drive (128GB)
Pros
- Retractable design
- Backwards compatible with USB 2.0
Cons
- Slower read and write speeds
Key Specs
| Storage Capacity | 128GB, 256GB |
|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 130MB/s read, 30MB/s write |
| Connection Type | USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac |
| Security | N/A |
| Dimensions | 0.5 x 0.8 x 2.2 in. |
For those needing a basic, reliable flash drive to back up files and photos, the Amazon Basics Flash Drive gets the job done. While not as fast as our top pick, it still offers a respectable read speed of 130MB/s, which is more than sufficient for everyday use. The 128GB model stores up to 32,000 12-megapixel images—more than enough to back up your phone’s camera roll.
This flash drive features a practical retractable design that protects the USB plug when not in use. It also includes a keyhole that easily attaches to your key ring for convenient portability. These features, combined with its decent speed, offer great value for casual users.
While all flash drives are portable, the Samsung Fit Plus takes this quality to the next level. This flash drive redefines “compact.” When it’s in your hand, it’s a fraction of the size of our top pick. When plugged into a device, it barely protrudes, reducing the risk of accidentally bumping into it and damaging the plug. The ultra-small design is perfect for leaving the drive plugged into a laptop for extended periods.
The Fit Plus delivers read speeds up to 400 MB/s, transferring up to 4GB file in just 9 seconds, according to Samsung. Meanwhile, it’s durable enough to endure water, extreme temperatures, x-rays, magnetic fields, and shock. The drive works with Windows and Mac, and it’s available in multiple capacities, from 64GB up to 512GB.
The SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go features a versatile 2-in-1 design with both USB-A and USB-C connectors. This dual functionality makes transferring content between devices with different USB ports seamless, rather than forcing you to rely on one specific standard.
Compatible with a handy app, this flash drive automatically backs up your phone’s photos. This feature ensures you have copies of cherished memories, even if you’re not actively trying to free up space on your device. With read speeds up to 400 MB/s, the Dual Drive Go offers quick data access. It also includes a key ring hole for convenient access wherever you go.
USB flash drives generally offer some ability to withstand normal everyday use. But if you want something that really holds up to a more adventurous lifestyle, check out the Corsair Flash Survivor Stealth. It features an anodized aluminum enclosure that’s vibration-resistant and waterproof up to 200 meters. It’s also protected from impact damage thanks to a molded shock damping color.
Beyond its more durable design, the Survivor Stealth transfers files between Windows and Mac devices without trouble. While we appreciate its more rugged design, the Survivor Stealth is larger than other models. Still, if all you care about is durability, this is the flash drive to beat.
Best USB-C
Kingston DataTraveler Max Type-C (256GB)
Pros
- Fast read and write speeds
- Universal compatibility
Cons
- Cheap design, according to some reviewers
Key Specs
| Storage Capacity | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 1000MB/s read, 900MB/S write |
| Connection Type | USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS |
| Security | N/A |
| Dimensions | 0.87 x 3.23 x 0.36 in. |
The Kingston DataTraveler Max Type-C was made for modern devices, including the latest iPhone, MacBooks, and other USB-C equipped gadgets. It stands out by offering impressive read speeds up to 1,000MB/s and write speeds up to 900MB/s, which makes it one of the fastest models on this list. These high speeds are ideal for transferring large files such as high-resolution photos and 4K videos.
While the DataTraveler Max offers great compatibility and data transfer speeds, it features a relatively basic design. Some reviewers say the housing feels cheap in part because it doesn’t offer the convenience of a retractable design. That said, it does feature an LED status indicator and key ring loop for taking it on the go.
Best Security
Kingston Ironkey Locker+ 50 (64GB)
Pros
- XTS-AES encryption
- Brute force and BadUSB Attack protection
Cons
- Slower read and write speeds
Key Specs
| Storage Capacity | 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
|---|---|
| Speed | Up to 145MB/s read, 115MB/s write |
| Connection Type | USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac |
| Security | XTS-AES hardware encryption |
| Dimensions | 0.73 x 2.38 x 0.38 in. |
The Kingston Ironkey Locker+ prioritizes robust security to protect your data. It features advanced AES hardware-encryption in XTS mode and safeguards against common threats like BadUSB attacks and Brute Force password attempts. Additionally, the Ironkey Locker+ 50 is Trade Agreements Act (TAA) compliant, meaning it’s suitable for U.S. government use.
The flash drive also supports a multi-password option giving you the choice between a complex password or passphrase modes. The Passphrase mode means you can use a numeric PIN, sentence with space characters, list of words, or even lyrics when setting up a password. These features combine to make the Ironkey Locker+ 50 a secure and reliable choice for anyone who deals with confidential information.
Brandon Russell is a freelance writer covering gear and technology. He started his journey as a news writer at a small newspaper and later began reviewing smartphones, movies, and video games. In his free time, he enjoys the slower, more intentional experience of using a 35mm film camera and making short videos about movies he grew up watching.
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