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After hands-on use and research, these are the best USB flash drives for most uses.
Photo:SanDisk
Note: Prices are subject to change.
Why We Recommend It
Topping our list of USB flash drives is the SanDisk Extreme PRO.
Imagine you had 2GB of data.
PHOTO: Amazon
Holding it in hand feels just right, with an even weight distribution throughout.
Separately, SanDisk SecureAccess software keeps your information secure using 128-bit encryption.
It required pushing a thumb against the retractable plug’s side rather than in the middle to use it.
Lifewire / Raymond Prince
This minor inconvenience is unlikely to be a major issue unless you use it constantly.
Resembling a mini flashlight, the Corsair Flash Survivor Stealth USB roars with a behemoth 1TB storage capacity.
That capacity covers a whopping 209,000 5MB files, enough for even comprehensive music libraries.
PHOTO: Amazon
Other storage options (128GB and 256GB) exist as well.
We also appreciate how the Flash Survivor Stealth USB opens.
If there’s one thing we’d improve about the design, it’s the keychain loop.
Lifewire / Raymond Prince
Its integration into the design means the hole is relatively small and difficult to spot.
It may also make it hard to clip onto larger key rings.
and decent, though not exceptional, build quality.
PHOTO: Amazon
The Kingston DataTraveler 70 is one of our favorite budget USB drive options.
It’s straightforward with few frills, allowing you to easily store your favorite playlist.
The Kingston DataTraveler 70 is pretty basic in terms of design.
Lifewire / Raymond Prince
Be sure to have dry hands when pulling off the end cap, as it can get stuck.
We recommend this USB flash drive for anyone seeking a quick and affordable solution.
An international music DJ may require one terabyte, while a hobbyist may be satisfied with 250GB.
We also prioritized the highest read and write speeds for our top two picks.
), whereas write speed refers to how quickly data can be stored.
The size of the specific USB flash drive you need depends on your usage requirements.
Read ourUSB Drive buying guidefor more information.
