In the world of data storage, flash drives (also known as USB drives or thumb drives) are an essential tool for easily transporting files from one device to another. With so many flash drive options on the market, how do you know which one is the best? Choosing the right flash drive depends on your specific needs in terms of storage capacity, speed, durability, and price. By comparing expert reviews and customer ratings, we can determine which flash drive models stand out from the pack. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine the most important criteria for picking the best rated flash drive for your requirements.
What features make for the best rated flash drive?
When evaluating the top USB flash drives, there are several key factors to consider:
Storage capacity – How much data do you need to store? Standard flash drives now offer anywhere from 4GB to 1TB of storage space. Power users may need a larger drive up to 2TB.
Transfer speed – Faster transfer speeds allow you to move files on and off the drive more quickly. Look for read/write speeds of at least 100 MB/s for basic transfers or over 200 MB/s for HD media files.
Connectivity – Most flash drives use a standard USB-A connector that plugs into any USB port. Some higher end drives offer USB-C or USB 3.0 for faster speed.
Durability – If you plan to take your flash drive on the go frequently, look for one with rugged metal housing and water/shock-resistance.
Security features – Encrypted and password protected drives keep your sensitive data safe if the drive is lost or stolen.
Warranty – A solid 1-year or longer warranty provides you with a replacement if the drive stops working properly.
Brand reputation – Stick with major brands known for quality drives and customer service like SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, Corsair, and others.
Getting the right balance of performance, storage, and value depends on how you intend to use your flash drive.
Top 10 Highest Rated Flash Drives
Now that we know what features to look for in the best flash drive, let’s examine some of the top rated models on the market in 2022 based on expert reviews and customer feedback.
SanDisk Extreme Pro USB 3.1 USB Flash Drive
The SanDisk Extreme Pro USB 3.1 flash drive tops the charts with superior speeds, durability, and large storage capacity.
Key Features:
– Read speed up to 420MB/s and write speed up to 380MB/s
– Rugged metal housing and detachable cap
– Available in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB
– SecureAccess encryption and password protection
– Backed by a 5-year warranty
With blazing USB 3.1 Gen 1 transfer rates up to 420MB/s, the SanDisk Extreme Pro makes transferring large media files a breeze. It has proven extremely durable even under rough conditions thanks to the rugged aluminum housing. Reviewers praise the fast speeds, compact size, and handy utility for password protection. The only downsides are the high price point and lack of a USB-C connector.
Samsung BAR Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive
The aptly named BAR Plus flash drive from Samsung combines high transfer speeds and generous capacity in a sleek metal design.
Key Features:
– Read speed up to 300MB/s and write speed up to 200MB/s
– Sleek, all metal casing with key ring
– Capacities from 32GB up to 1TB
– USB 3.1 Gen 1 performance
– Water, shock, magnet, and temperature proof
With read and write speeds up to 300MB/s and 200MB/s respectively, the BAR Plus excels at transferring large files quickly. The premium metal build, sturdy key ring, and resilient design make this drive ideal for everyday use. Consumers praise the fast yet affordable performance, stylish look, and ruggedness. Downsides are the lack of USB-C and shorter 1-year warranty.
SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive Luxe
The iXpand Flash Drive Luxe from SanDisk combines large capacity storage and backup for iOS devices with durable luxury styling.
Key Features:
– Up to 256GB capacity
– Read speeds up to 90MB/s
– Lightning and USB 3.0 connectors
– Automatic backup for iOS Camera Roll
– Sleek metallic housing with jewelry-like chain
– 4-year limited warranty
This versatile drive features both Lightning and USB 3.0 connectors so you can free up space on your iPhone or iPad while also storing data from Macs and PCs. The polished metal casing looks like jewelry and attaches to your keys with the integrated chain. Reviewers love the easy automatic backups, speedy transfers, and eye-catching design. Drawbacks are the premium price tag and lack of encryption.
Corsair Flash Survivor Stealth USB 3.0 Flash Drive
The near-indestructible Flash Survivor Stealth from Corsair is a top choice for the most rugged and secure USB flash drive.
Key Features:
– Durable aluminum housing
– Up to 256GB capacity
– Read speed up to 140 MB/s
– IP67 water/dustproof rating
– Shock and vibration resistant
– Five year warranty
Encased in a hardened aluminum exterior, this drive can withstand water immersion, shocks, drops, and vibrations that would destroy normal flash drives. Thanks to the USB 3.0 interface, it delivers excellent real-world read/write speeds. Users praise the ruggedness and great customer service. The main drawbacks are the high price and lack of USB-C support.
Kingston Digital DataTraveler Locker + G3 USB 3.2 Flash Drive
For maximum data security on the go, the Kingston DataTraveler Locker+ G3 USB drive provides hardware encryption and password protection.
Key Features:
– Advanced 256-bit AES hardware encryption
– Alphanumeric password protection up to 6 characters
– Available in capacities up to 64GB
– Read speeds up to 135MB/s
– Tamper-evident design
– 5-year warranty
With 256-bit AES encryption built into the hardware chip, no unauthorized user can access your data without the password. This makes it ideal for transporting sensitive documents and media. While not the fastest drive, speeds up to 135MB/s are sufficient for many users. Consumers praise the easy security and compact form factor but some report minor quality concerns.
Samsung FIT Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive
The FIT Plus USB 3.1 flash drive from Samsung packs high speeds and robust construction into an affordable, compact package.
Key Features:
– Read write speeds up to 300MB/s and 200MB/s
– Metal casing and ring design
– Capacities from 32GB to 256GB
– USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface
– Shock proof, magnet proof, water proof, temperature proof
– 5-year limited warranty
Matching the speeds of premium drives at a fraction of the cost, the FIT Plus offers transfer rates up to 300MB/s read and 200MB/s write. The durable metal housing withstands knocks, shakes, water, extreme temperatures, and magnets. Reviewers praise the speed, construction quality, tiny size, and value pricing. But a few report issues with the cap popping off easily.
Patriot Supersonic Rage Elite USB 3.1 Flash Drive
The Patriot Supersonic Rage Elite boasts best-in-class transfer speeds and cool LED styling in a compact form factor.
Key Features:
– USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface for speeds up to 400MB/s read and 300MB/s write
– LED light with transfer progress indicator
– Durable rubber coated metal housing
– Capacities from 64GB up to 512GB
– 5-year warranty
Supporting blazing USB 3.1 Gen 1 transfer rates up to 400MB/s read and 300MB/s write, the Supersonic Rage Elite makes short work of transferring 4K videos, high res photos, and large files. Consumers love the awesome speeds, cool LED indicator light, and quality construction. The small capacity options are a drawback for some users.
PNY Turbo 256GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive
The PNY Turbo USB 3.0 flash drive combines speedy transfers and generous capacity at an affordable price point.
Key Features:
– Read speeds up to 140MB/s write speeds up to 40MB/s
– Capacities from 64GB to 512GB
– USB 3.0 performance
– Compact, lightweight, and portable
– Quickly store and transfer photos, videos, music, documents, and more
– Compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports
With quoted read speeds up to 140MB/s and write speeds of 40MB/s, the Turbo makes quick work of transferring files while the ample capacity handles large media libraries. According to reviews, the PNY Turbo delivers excellent real world performance that rivals far more expensive models. Users praise the fast speeds, huge capacity, compact design, and budget-friendly pricing.
SanDisk Ultra Fit USB 3.1 Flash Drive
The SanDisk Ultra Fit USB 3.1 drive packs high speeds into an impressively tiny, compact form factor.
Key Features:
– Read speeds up to 130MB/s write speeds up to 15X faster than standard USB 2.0 drives
– Extremely small, compact design
– Capacities from 16GB up to 256GB
– USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface
– Durable housing
– SanDisk SecureAccess encryption and password protection (optional)
– 5-year limited warranty
Measuring less than 1 inch long, the Ultra Fit is a highly portable flash drive solution. Don’t let the size fool you – with quoted read speeds up 130MB/s, it delivers top notch performance on par with larger drives. Reviewers love the blend of fast transfers, massive capacity, and ultra compact size. The only drawbacks are somewhat slow write speeds and lack of USB-C support.
Lexar JumpDrive Fingerprint F35 USB 3.0 Flash Drive
For the ultimate in security and convenience, the Lexar JumpDrive Fingerprint F35 offers biometric fingerprint access control via an integrated fingerprint reader.
Key Features:
– Integrated fingerprint reader with AES 256-bit encryption
– Read speeds up to 150MB/s
– Capacities from 64GB to 256GB
– Sleek durable zinc alloy metal casing
– Compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports
– Includes backup software for added functionality
The built-in fingerprint reader provides easy unlocking via fingerprint recognition, doing away with the need to remember passwords. It provides effective protection of sensitive data in case the drive gets lost or stolen. Sleek, durable, and made for mobility, the F35 is ideal for securely transporting private files. The convenient fingerprint unlock feature earns consistent praise from reviewers. Capacity and transfer speeds are acceptable if not class-leading.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Flash Drive
With so many highly rated flash drives to choose from, which is right for you? Here are the most important factors to consider when shopping for a USB flash drive:
Intended Use
How do you plan to use the flash drive? Are you transferring documents, photos, videos, or other large files? Do you need to frequently share files between devices? Understanding your usage helps determine the right capacity and speed.
Drive Capacity
Today’s flash drives range from 4GB up to 2TB. For everyday office use, 16GB to 64GB is sufficient. Power users moving large media files will want 128GB, 256GB or higher. Make sure to buy more capacity than you currently need.
Transfer Speed
If you frequently transfer large media files or backup data, you want faster USB 3.0 or 3.1 drives with read/write speeds of at least 200MB/sec. For office documents, photos and light use, USB 2.0 drives (up to 35MB/s) work fine at a lower price.
Encryption & Security
Leading flash drive makers offer optional password protection and AES hardware encryption to secure sensitive files in case your drive gets lost or stolen. Some models feature fingerprint access for added security.
Construction and Portability
Look for sturdy metal or rubberized casings on drives meant for daily use and travel. Keychain holes make attaching to keys or bags convenient. For共ortable use, tiny “mini” USB drives are available.
Compatibility
Most flash drives work universally across Windows PCs, Macs, smartphones and tablets. Certain models offer both USB-A and USB-C connectors for broad compatibility. Some flash drives back up iOS Camera Roll or have Lightning connectors specifically for iPhone and iPad.
Brand Reputation
Stick with recognizable brands like SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston, Lexar and others known for quality drives. Check reviews, ratings and warranties. Lesser known brands sometimes have questionable reliability.
Budget
Inexpensive USB 2.0 drives can be found for under $10 with capacities up to 64GB. Mainstream USB 3.0 drives usually cost between $15 and $50 depending on brand, speeds and capacity. Larger and faster models range from $50 to $100+.
Warranty
Look for at least a 1-year limited warranty that covers manufacturing defects. Premium drives offer 3 to 5 year warranties for added coverage.
The Bottom Line
The best rated flash drive provides the perfect blend of speed, performance, durability, and value for your specific needs. Top options include:
– SanDisk Extreme Pro – Blazing fast USB 3.1 Gen 1 speeds and high capacity storage in a rugged housing. The fastest drive available.
– Samsung BAR Plus – Excellent real-world read/write speeds up 300MB/s in a compact and durable metal casing.
– SanDisk iXpand – Combines USB 3.0 transfers and automatic backups for iOS devices. Stylish, jewelry-like design.
– Corsair Survivor Stealth – Virtually indestructible flash drive encased in aluminum housing. Highly secure.
– Kingston DataTraveler Locker+ G3 – Affordable hardware encryption and password protection. Ideal for privacy.
For most users, the best bet is a mainstream USB 3.0 flash drive from a trusted brand in the 64GB to 256GB range. Models from SanDisk, Samsung, and Kingston routinely top critic and consumer reviews thanks to their blend of speed, storage, reliability, and price. By matching key features like transfer rate, capacity, and construction to your usage needs, you’re sure to find the perfect flash drive.