The Best Flash Drives
A flash drive is one of the best places to store data since you can slip it into your pocket and take it just about anywhere. Better yet, they can store a tremendous amount of digital data and, unlike most cloud services, require no subscriptions, internet, or fees to use. But not every flash drive will be as fast or reliable as the next, which is why we've compiled this list of our top picks.
What to Look For
We had three main questions in mind while we searched for the best flash drives: Does it have plenty of data storage space? Can it transfer data quickly and reliably? And is it durable and well constructed? Every flash drive on our list excelled in these areas, and each has its own specialty to boot. For example, the option from SanDisk made our top spot for its rapid transfer speeds and durable metal casing. We also greatly appreciate the flash drive from Nametable choice, which comes with a convenient lanyard for quick grabbing. Keep reading for more of our in-depth reviews.
SanDisk 128GB Ultra Flair Flash Drive
Compact and convenient
SanDisk is a reliable favorite for digital storage devices, and this flash drive makes it easy to see why. With write speeds that can reach up to 150 MB/s, this beast can transfer huge files in a matter of moments. It’s also secure both inside and out, with password protection and durable metal casing. Anyone who needs a fast and reliable flash drive should have no reservations about checking this one out.
Pros
- The metal casing not only protects the interior of the flash drive but looks and feels aesthetically pleasing as well.
- It’s compact enough to leave room for other devices that need access to the USB ports on your computer.
Cons
- The metal casing can get hot when completing large file transfers.
SXINDE One TB USB Flash Drive
Computer compatability
With high usability and huge storage, this flash drive from SXINDE does everything you need and more. Its terabyte of storage space lets you store a lifetime of material on a device that’s small enough to fit on your keychain. And unlike other drives, it’s also compatible with older Windows, Macs, and Linux operating systems, letting almost anyone use it.
Pros
- The exterior metal design is appealingly sleek and reliably durable.
- It fits snugly but gently into compatible USB ports, making it great for seniors or people with motor skill disabilities.
Cons
- At 60 MB/s, the writing process is not as fast as more premium options.
Nametable Two TB Metal USB Flash Drive
The pocket pal
Almost every flash drive can fit on a keychain, but few come with a keyring for that explicit purpose. That’s only one convenience that this choice from Nametable offers. It also supports a whopping two TB of storage and wide compatibility with current and older devices. The aluminum body is lightweight yet durable, letting you attach it to your keychain with peace of mind. For those who need their flash drive (literally) on hand, this is the perfect option.
Pros
- It offers an incredible amount of storage for a relatively low cost.
- The aluminum design gives this flash drive a fashionable, modern look.
Cons
- The actual usable amount of storage space is a bit less than two terabytes due to the occupancy of formatting files.
SanDisk Cruzer Flash Drive
Store more for less
For a bite-sized blast of extra space, nothing can beat this flash drive from SanDisk. The aptly-named Cruzer is a handsome unit that’s available in several storage sizes, so it’s perfect for transporting individual files between devices. It also comes with a helpful switch that helps you take it in and out of its port with ease. Those who need just a smidge more room for their data will be well-served by this flash drive.
Pros
- The small storage size reflects the low price, making this a very affordable flash drive.
- It’s great for casual computer users who may not need tons of extra storage or have the need to transfer data constantly.
Cons
- Compared to metal options, this option’s plastic construction isn’t quite as durable.
Exmapor Swivel Flash Drive, 5 Pack
We love a flash drive with a bit of personality, and this one from Exmapor has plenty to spare. Each set comes in a 5-pack with a range of different colors, all of which include an LED light to show if the USB is working and a rope hole for a lanyard. The USB also clicks back into the shell of the drive when not in use, adding extra protection. Each flash drive in this pack is the perfect marriage between form and function.
Pros
- This flash drive set is remarkably inexpensive for the quantity and quality of drives available.
- There are a variety of storage sizes to choose from per pack, letting you customize your storage options even further.
- The bright, vibrant colors can help with organization since they can help you to remember which drive contains which set of data.
Cons
- The writing speed of these drives can be particularly slow.
Frequently Asked Questions
With all sorts of new storage options, do I still need a flash drive?
If you haven’t used one in a while, you might find that a flash drive is incredibly useful to have on hand. They take up less physical space and are easier to transport than an external hard drive, and they offer immediate access to your data in a way that cloud storage simply doesn’t.
How do I know what storage size of flash drive I should get?
If you’re a casual PC user, a 64GB flash drive should be enough for moving the occasional movie or set of work files between platforms. If you want permanent storage, however, there are many inexpensive options that offer several terabytes of space. That’s typically enough to fill the hard drive of multiple computers.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.