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After extensive research and hands-on testing, our top picks are from SanDisk and Kingston.
Note: Prices are subject to change.
Photo:Lifewire / Raymond Prince
For starters, its 256GB storage capacity is exceptional.
Its center 360-degree swivel allows you to separate the USB-C and USB-A ports.
We’d be cautious about carrying this in a pocket or backpack without padding.
PHOTO: Amazon
Consequently, transferring your entire music library from another gadget may take several hours.
It doesn’t fit snugly in place and poses a risk of falling off and misplacing it.
Overall, we recommend this option primarily for users with moderate storage needs who prioritize durability.
Lifewire / Raymond Prince
The Kingston DataTraveler 70 is our favorite budget-friendly USB drive for general use and music storage.
However, we noticed virtually no lag time when opening files, which sets this model apart.
Read speed is how fast the drive can retrieve data from a unit (phone, laptop, etc.
PHOTO: Amazon
), and write speed refers to how quickly data can be stored.
Don’t skimp on build quality, as it varies wildly between low-cost and premium options.
These speeds are sufficient for handling larger playlists without causing frustration.
Lifewire / Raymond Prince
Additionally, avoid settling for anything less than 128GB in storage capacity.
Read ourUSB drive buying guidefor more information.
Brands We Considered
PHOTO: Amazon
Lifewire / Raymond Prince
