Here are some things to keep in mind when buying a USB flash drive, as well as some tips for using a USB flash drive.
capacityTo determine how much space you need, first check the size of the folder or file you want to copy. Each USB drive in our guide has a listed capacity, but the available storage will be slightly less than that because the device’s firmware requires space.
speed: USB standards are constantly evolving, and we recommend a minimum of USB 3.0, but the faster the better. USB standards have different theoretical maximum speeds, but it’s important to check the read and write speeds stated by the manufacturer of each drive. If you’re primarily transferring data, you should look for a fast drive. write Speed. If you plan on having your computer run software (such as video games) through the drive, you’ll want a fast model. read Speed. Manufacturers will list average speeds, but most drives tend to be much faster for transferring large files and much slower for transferring small files.
Compatibility: Many flash drives will work with any device that has the relevant port, but check compatibility to avoid disappointment. If you want to use the drive with either an Android device or the latest iPhone 15 series, it must have USB On-The-Go (OTG) support. Most Android devices support USB OTG. When you insert your flash drive, you’ll see a notification with the following options: File TransferIf you’re unsure, you can try the USB OTG Checker app to verify support. Apple’s older iPhones and iPads don’t support USB OTG, but you can install companion apps for drives such as SanDisk’s iXpand series.
connector: Most flash drives come with a USB-A connector, but some also have USB-C, MicroUSB, and Lightning connectors. If you plan to use the flash drive with your smartphone and computer, get one with both types of connectors you need. You can also buy a USB hub with multiple ports or adapters, but pay close attention to the standards supported, or you might limit your data transfer speeds. For example, this Anker USB-A to USB-C adapter is USB 3.0.
safety: Remember that USB drives can pose a security issue, especially for businesses. Never Try plugging in any random drive you have lying around. If you plan on storing sensitive data on the flash drive, consider biometric or passcode protection and find out what level of encryption it offers. There are software services that offer encryption and can password protect the files on your USB flash drive.
