Flash drives, also known as USB drives or thumb drives, are small removable data storage devices that connect to computers and devices via a USB port. With capacities ranging from a few gigabytes to multiple terabytes, flash drives provide a convenient way to transfer and backup files, photos, videos and other data.
However, with many types and brands of flash drives available, it can be tricky to know what to look for when purchasing one. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider before buying a flash drive.
Storage Capacity
The most important factor is the storage capacity. This determines how much data you can store on the flash drive. Capacities typically range from 1GB to 256GB for consumer drives, while there are also larger enterprise-level drives up to 2TB.
Consider what you will use the flash drive for – if you just need to transfer word documents and spreadsheets occasionally, a low capacity like 8GB may suffice. However, if you want to store lots of photos, videos, music and other large files, you’ll need higher capacities of 64GB or more.
It’s better to get more storage than you need right now, as your storage requirements will likely grow over time. Aim for at least 16GB of capacity.
Typical flash drive capacities
- 1GB to 16GB – good for basic file transfers and documents
- 32GB to 128GB – great for photos, music, video and medium sized files
- 256GB to 2TB – ideal for large files like HD video, or entire system backups
Read and Write Speeds
The speed of a flash drive determines how fast you can copy files to and from the drive. There are two key metrics:
- Read speed – How fast you can access or open files stored on the drive
- Write speed – How quickly you can copy files onto the drive
Speeds are measured in megabytes per second (MB/s). Most basic flash drives have speeds of around 100MB/s. Faster models offer speeds between 200-600MB/s, while cutting edge drives can reach up to 1000MB/s.
Faster drives allow you to transfer large files like photos and videos much quicker. If you just need a drive for documents, lower speeds around 50-100MB/s are probably fine. But for media files, look for drives with read/write speeds of at least 200MB/s.
Typical flash drive speeds
| Speed | Type of Use |
|---|---|
| 50-100MB/s | Documents and basic files |
| 200-400MB/s | Photos, music and medium files |
| 500MB/s + | HD video, large files |
USB Connector Type
Flash drives connect to devices through a USB port. There are a few different USB connector types:
- USB-A – The standard rectangular USB connector that plugs into normal USB ports
- USB-C – Oval shaped connector that plugs into USB-C ports
- Micro USB – Smaller rectangular connector often used on smartphones
The vast majority of flash drives use a standard USB-A connector. This can plug into any USB-A port on computers, laptops and devices.
However, many newer laptops and smartphones feature USB-C ports. So for broader compatibility, USB-C flash drives are a good choice. They can plug into both USB-C and USB-A ports (with an adapter).
Some flash drives also have both USB-A and USB-C connectors on each end, allowing you to plug into any port without an adapter.
Physical Size and Enclosure
Flash drives come in a range of physical sizes, from drives smaller than a thumb to large sticks almost as big as a smartphone. The main considerations are:
- Portability – Smaller drives are easier to carry around and harder to lose.
- Capacity – Larger drives often have higher capacities, but not always.
- Protection – Some drives have capped enclosures to protect the USB connector when not in use.
Standard sized drives around size of a large thumb are a good all-round option. Avoid the very smallest drives if you need higher capacity. And look for drives with protective caps or enclosures if you plan to take them travelling.
Common flash drive sizes
| Size | Example Dimensions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ultra compact | 1 x 0.6 x 0.3in | Very portable but easy to lose, lower capacities |
| Compact / keychain | 1.5 x 0.8 x 0.3in | Easy to carry, often have key rings or lanyards |
| Standard | 2.1 x 0.9 x 0.5in | Good balance of size and capacity |
| Large / extended | 5 x 1.5 x 0.5in | Highest capacities but less portable |
Durability and Ruggedness
If you plan to use your flash drive on the go or in harsh environments, look for a drive with rugged and durable features, such as:
- Waterproof – Can withstand being submerged in water to varying depths.
- Dust/shock proof – Sealed enclosure protects against dust, drops, shock, vibration.
- Temperature proof – Can operate in extreme cold and heat.
Standard flash drives have no water or dust resistance. Tough, rugged drives are bulkier but can withstand much more abuse. If your drive will stay indoors, a standard model is fine. But if you’re outdoorsy or hard on your tech, spend a little more for a rugged drive.
Encryption and Security
Standard flash drives have no security – anyone can plug them in and access the data. If you want to protect sensitive files, look for drives with encryption and password protection, such as:
- On-the-fly encryption – Encrypts files as soon as you copy them onto the drive.
- Password protection – Requires a password to access the contents and decrypt files.
- Private partitions – Allows you to create encrypted containers or partitions on the drive.
- Biometric security – Unlocks the drive with your fingerprint.
Encrypted drives ensure no one else can view your data if the drive is lost or stolen. Just make sure to remember your password!
Brand and Retailer Reputation
For reliability, choose an established brand with a good reputation. Look for drives from recognizable brands like:
- SanDisk
- Samsung
- Kingston
- PNY
- Lexar
Also research reviews and complaints for any model you’re considering. And only buy from reputable retailers to ensure you’re getting a genuine product.
No-name budget drives may fail prematurely or have fake advertised capacities. Stick with well-known brands from major retailers.
Warranty
Nearly all quality flash drives come with at least a 1-year limited warranty. This protects against early defects or failures. Better drives provide 3-5 year warranties, or even lifetime warranties.
The warranty length gives you a good indication of the expected lifespan. Drives with 3 years or longer warranties are a safer bet for reliability.
Price
Flash drive pricing largely depends on capacity and speed. Some general price ranges are:
- 8GB low speed – $5 to $10
- 16GB standard speed – $7 to $15
- 64GB fast speed – $15 to $30
- 128GB cutting edge speed – $30 to $100
- 1TB+ enterprise – $100 to $1000+
More advanced drives with encryption, ruggedness or high speeds will also cost more. You can easily find reliable drives for under $20 if you don’t need lots of capacity or speed.
Don’t pay less than $10-15 or you risk very poor quality. And watch for deals – flash drive prices fluctuate frequently.
Compatibility
Modern flash drives can be plugged into and used with most computers, laptops and devices with USB ports, including:
- Windows PCs
- Mac computers
- Linux PCs
- Smartphones and tablets – both Android and iPhone/iOS
- Gaming consoles like Playstation and Xbox
- Media streamers like Roku and Fire TV
- Smart TVs
- Car audio and entertainment systems
As long as your device has a USB port, whether USB-A, USB-C or micro-USB, virtually any flash drive will work with it.Always check your device’s manual if you are unsure about USB port compatibility.
Intended Use Cases
Consider the main ways you plan to use your flash drive to help decide which features are most important for you:
File transfers and storage
If you just need a basic drive to store and transfer documents, media and other files between devices, any standard USB flash drive with enough capacity will work fine. Focus on size, price and simplicity.
Backups
For backing up important data and files, look for higher capacities and faster read/write speeds. Encryption isn’t as necessary since you’ll have the only copy of the files.
Privacy and security
If you need to securely transfer private files, consider an encrypted drive requiring password access for maximum data protection.
Software and app portability
Some software licenses and apps can be run directly off a flash drive. This allows you to use them on any compatible computer. Standard drives work, but faster read speeds will improve performance.
Media storage and playback
To store and play large media files including photos, music and video, get a higher capacity drive with fast data transfer speeds for smooth playback.
Conclusion
The most important factors when purchasing a flash drive are capacity, speed, connector type and your intended use. An inexpensive standard USB-A drive from 16GB to 64GB capacity will cover most people’s basic needs.
If you need to transfer and store lots of large media files, look for higher capacities, USB 3.0 speeds and USB-C connectors. And get a rugged, encrypted drive if you plan to take it on adventures or store sensitive data.
By considering how much storage you need, which devices you’ll use it with, and any specialized features like encryption or ruggedness, you can easily find the ideal flash drive for your requirements and budget.