USB drives, also known as flash drives or thumb drives, are small data storage devices that use flash memory and are lightweight enough to be carried around on a keychain. They are plugged into a computer’s USB port and allow users to easily transfer files between devices. Two of the most commonly used names for these handy devices are USB drive and flash drive.
USB Drive
USB drive is one of the most common and widely recognized names for these portable storage gadgets. The term directly refers to the USB or Universal Serial Bus technology that the drives use to connect to computers and other devices. USB technology was introduced in the mid 1990s and allowed much faster data transfer speeds compared to old serial and parallel ports. USB drives utilize flash memory to store data and were first sold commercially by IBM in 2000. Being based on USB technology, it made sense for “USB drive” to catch on as a shorthand name for the devices.
Flash Drive
Flash drive is another very common term used for USB-based portable storage devices. This name refers specifically to the type of memory used in the drive rather than the connection interface. The flash drive uses flash memory – a type of electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Flash memory is non-volatile, which means it retains data even when not powered. It is also writable, allowing it to be electronically erased and reprogrammed. Compared to old floppy disks, flash memory is faster, more compact, durable, and requires less power. The speed and reprogrammable nature of the flash memory is what gives the “flash drive” its name.
Other Common Names
While USB drive and flash drive are the two most universally used terms, there are several other common monikers people use for these storage devices:
- Thumb drive – Refers to the size and shape which allows it to be held between the thumb and finger.
- Jump drive – Refers to the ability to easily transfer or “jump” data between computers.
- Pen drive – Refers to the pen-like shape of many early models.
- Keychain drive – Refers to the portability that allows it to be carried on a keychain.
History of USB Drives
The USB drive has become a ubiquitous tech accessory in the last two decades, but how did it come about? Here is a brief history:
- 1984 – Psion Organiser II is one of the earliest handheld computers to use flash memory.
- 1994 – USB 1.0 specification is introduced and work on USB flash drives begins.
- 1998 – M-Systems introduce the first USB flash drive available to consumers – the DiskOnKey.
- 2000 – IBM release the first USB drive with the IBM logo – the DiskOnKey USB Flash Drive.
- 2000 – Mac support is added when OS 9 is released with USB support.
- 2001 – Lexar introduces a compact USB flash drive the size of a penny – the Lexar JumpDrive.
- 2003 – USB 2.0 specification is released allowing faster speeds.
- 2005 – USB drives commonly exceed 1GB storage capacity.
- 2008 – SanDisk releases a 32GB USB drive, the highest capacity at the time.
- 2009 – Kingston unveils a 256GB USB 2.0 drive using a single flash memory chip.
- 2013 – USB 3.0 becomes mainstream allowing transfer speeds up to 5Gbps.
- 2016 – Kingston releases a massive 2TB USB flash drive using 3D TLC NAND flash.
- 2019 – USB 3.2 specification is released and USB4 announced allowing speeds up to 40Gbps.
In less than 20 years, USB drives have evolved from 8MB DiskOnKeys to huge multi-terabyte devices with blazing fast transfer speeds.
USB Drive Technical Specifications
Here are some key technical specifications for typical USB flash drives:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Interface | USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, or Type-C |
| Connector | USB Type-A or Type-C |
| Write Speed | 5-15MB/s read, 3-10MB/s write (USB 2.0) Up to 10GB/s read and write (USB 3.x) |
| Memory Type | NAND flash memory |
| Capacity | Typically between 8GB to 256GB |
| File System | FAT32 or exFAT |
| Power | Via USB port, no external power source |
| Operating Voltage | 5V (USB powered) |
Advantages of USB Drives
USB drives became a huge hit and standard accessory due to a number of key advantages they offer:
- Small size and portability – Extremely compact and lightweight so a drive can be carried around on a keychain.
- Re-writable storage – Flash memory allows data to be erased and rewritten multiple times.
- Plug and play – No drivers needed, just plug into any USB port and use straight away.
- Speed – Data transfer speeds much faster than old floppy disks and CDs.
- Durable – No moving parts and solid state construction allow it to withstand shocks.
- USB powered – No need for an external power supply.
Usage of USB Drives
The versatility, ease of use and portable nature of USB drives allow for a huge variety of usage applications. Here are some of the most popular ways USB drives are used:
- File transfers – Move files between computers and devices, without needing a network.
- System backup – Create a backup of important data as a safety precaution.
- Software installation – Store and run portable software applications from any PC.
- Boot drives – Boot up a computer from the USB drive into a different OS.
- Media storage – Store and quickly transfer photos, videos, music etc.
- Presentations – Carry presentations, documents, spreadsheets on a USB to use on any computer/projector.
Most Popular USB Drive Brands
There are many companies that manufacture and sell USB drives. Here are some of the most recognized brands:
| Brand | Notable Features |
|---|---|
| SanDisk | Extremely popular brand, wide range of capacities up to 2TB, known for good speeds. |
| Kingston | One of the first companies to make USB drives, reliable, high capacities up to 2TB. |
| Samsung | Sleek metal casing, fast USB 3.1 speeds, secure fingerprint activation. |
| Lexar | Good value, high speeds, popular Professional line optimized for video storage. |
| PNY | Durable and stylish, waterproof and magnet proof options available. |
| Transcend | Reliable performance, advanced two-stage shock protection. |
Choosing a USB Drive
With so many makes, models and capacities of USB drives available, it can be tricky choosing the right one. Here are some tips for selecting a good USB drive for your needs:
- Consider the capacity you need – Entry level 8GB or 16GB? Standard 64GB or 128GB? Or high capacity 256GB+?
- Check the read and write speeds match your usage case.
- Make sure USB version (2.0, 3.0 etc) is compatible with your devices.
- Portability is key for most – pick something small that can go on a keyring.
- Look for durable designs if you will use it heavily.
- Check reviews online for real user experiences.
- Look for drives offering strong encryption and password protection to secure your data.
- Compare prices online to find the best deal on your chosen USB drive.
Caring for Your USB Drive
To get the longest working life out of a USB drive and protect the data stored on it, follow these USB drive care tips:
- Avoid subjecting the drive to physical shocks or impacts.
- Unplug safely using the “Eject” function, not by just pulling out.
- Keep away from moisture, extreme temperatures and magnets.
- If possible, store in the included protective casing.
- Password protection and encryption can reduce data loss risks if drive lost/stolen.
- Handle carefully and avoid touching the connectors to prevent damage and dust build up.
- Use a quality branded drive – cheap drives often have short lifespans.
- Periodically scan the drive for errors and bad sectors.
The Future of USB Drives
Even with the growth of cloud storage in recent years, the USB drive remains hugely popular and will continue evolving. Ongoing tech developments shaping the future of USB drives include:
- Increasing capacities – 1TB to 2TB+ commonplace.
- Faster transfer speeds – USB 3.2 capable of 2GB/s, USB4 allows up to 40Gb/s.
- More advanced security features – built-in encryption, fingerprint activation etc.
- Durable and ruggedized designs – crushproof, waterproof and shockproof.
- More compact and convenient form factors – retractable, slimline and mini designs.
- Expanded functionality – WiFi enabled, apps integration, cloud backups and syncing.
Conclusion
USB drives (also called flash drives or thumb drives) utilize flash memory and USB connectivity to provide a small, fast, versatile and user friendly portable storage device. They are designed to be plugged into any computer’s USB port and allow users to easily transfer files between devices.
The flash memory gives them speed, portability and durability advantages over old floppy disks and optical media. The two most universally recognized names for the devices are USB drive – referring to the USB interface, and flash drive – referring to the use of flash memory technology.
USB drives became massively popular within just a few years of being introduced commercially around the year 2000. Today they are made by all the big tech brands and come in a wide range of capacities to suit different user needs. They continue to evolve with new technological capabilities but retain their essential compact, convenient and versatile nature.