There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re shopping for USB flash drives, and we’ve also got some tips for using them.
capacity: To decide the capacity you need, first check the size of the folders or files you want to copy. Each USB drive in our guide has a stated capacity, but usable storage will be slightly less than that, as the device’s firmware requires space.
speed: USB standards are advancing all the time, and we recommend at least USB 3.0, although higher is better. While USB standards have different theoretical maximum speeds, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s stated read and write speeds for each drive. If you’re primarily transferring data, you’ll want to look for a taller drive write down Speed If you plan to launch software on the computer through the drive (such as a video game), you’ll need a higher-end model. read out Speed manufacturers will state average speeds, but most drives are very fast at transferring large files and very slow at transferring small files.
compatibility: Many flash drives will work with any device with a corresponding port, but check compatibility to avoid disappointment. If you want to use the drive with an Android device or one The latest iPhone 15 rangeIt will require USB on-the-go (OTG) support. Most Android devices support USB OTG. You will receive a notification when you insert a flash drive with options that should be included File transfer. You can try USB OTG Checker App To confirm support if you are unsure. Apple’s older iPhones and iPads don’t support USB OTG, but you can install a companion app for the drives, such as SanDisk’s iXpand series.
connector: Most flash drives have USB-A connectors, but you can also get drives with USB-C, MicroUSB, and Lightning connectors. If you plan to use the flash drive with your smartphone and computer, grab one with both types of connectors needed. You can also buy USB hubs with multiple ports or adapters, but pay close attention to the supported standard or it may limit your data transfer speed. This Anker USB-A to USB-C AdapterFor example, there is USB 3.0.
safety: Remember USB drives can cause security problemsEspecially for businesses, and you should Never Plug in random drives you find lying around. If you plan to keep sensitive data on your flash drive, consider biometric or passcode security, and look at the level of encryption it offers. There are software services that offer encryption and allow you to password-protect your files on any USB flash drive.
