The Best USB Flash Drives for 2021 - Top Picks and Buying Guide

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The best USB flash drives for 2021

USB flash drives have become an essential accessory for storing and transferring data. Whether you need to backup important files, carry documents, or transfer media files between devices, having a reliable USB flash drive is crucial. With so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs.

In this article, we have selected the top picks for the best USB flash drives in 2021. These drives are known for their exceptional performance, durability, and storage capacity. We will also provide a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Table Of Contents

When selecting the best USB flash drive, there are several factors to consider. Storage capacity, read and write speeds, design, and compatibility are some of the key aspects to look out for. Additionally, features like encryption and password protection can add an extra layer of security to your data.

Our top picks for the best USB flash drives in 2021:

  1. SanDisk Extreme PRO: This USB flash drive offers lightning-fast transfer speeds and a rugged design. It is available in multiple storage capacities, making it suitable for both personal and professional use.
  2. Samsung BAR Plus: The Samsung BAR Plus combines a sleek metallic design with impressive performance. It features a key ring hole, allowing you to conveniently attach it to your keychain or lanyard.
  3. Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2: This USB flash drive provides high-speed USB 3.1 Gen 1 performance and a durable metal casing. It also features hardware encryption for added data security.
  4. PNY Turbo: The PNY Turbo is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance. It offers fast transfer speeds and a lightweight, compact design.

Whatever your requirements may be, there is a USB flash drive on our list that will meet your needs. With our buying guide and top picks, you can easily find the best USB flash drive for 2021.

The Best USB Flash Drives for 2021 - Top Picks and Buying Guide

In today’s digital age, the need for a reliable and fast USB flash drive cannot be overstated. Whether you want to transfer files between devices, backup important data, or carry your files on the go, a good USB flash drive is essential. To help you find the best USB flash drive for your needs, we have compiled a list of top picks and created a buying guide.

Top Picks

  • Samsung BAR Plus: With its sleek design and impressive performance, the Samsung BAR Plus is one of the best USB flash drives available. It offers fast read and write speeds, and its durable metal casing protects your data from physical damage.
  • SanDisk Extreme Pro: Ideal for users who require maximum speed and reliability, the SanDisk Extreme Pro offers blazing-fast transfer speeds and a robust design. It is perfect for professionals who need to work with large files or transfer data quickly.
  • ADATA S102 Pro: This USB flash drive combines high performance with a budget-friendly price tag. It offers fast read and write speeds, a durable design, and comes in various storage capacities to suit your needs.

Buying Guide

When choosing a USB flash drive, consider the following factors:

  1. Storage Capacity: Determine how much storage space you need. USB flash drives are available in a wide range of capacities, from a few gigabytes to several terabytes.
  2. Speed: Consider the read and write speeds of the USB flash drive. Faster speeds allow for quicker file transfers and faster access to your data.
  3. Durability: Look for USB flash drives that are built to withstand physical damage, such as water and shock resistance. This ensures the safety of your data, even in harsh conditions.
  4. Compatibility: Check if the USB flash drive is compatible with your devices. It should work with your computer, laptop, smartphone, or any other device you plan to use it with.
  5. Security: Consider USB flash drives with built-in encryption and password protection features to keep your data secure.

Conclusion

Finding the best USB flash drive for your needs can be a daunting task, but with our top picks and buying guide, you will be well-equipped to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize speed, durability, or affordability, there is a USB flash drive out there that will suit your requirements. Invest in a reliable USB flash drive and ensure that your data is always safe and easily accessible.

Top Recommendations for USB Flash Drives

When it comes to choosing a USB flash drive, there are several factors to consider, including storage capacity, transfer speed, durability, and price. Here are our top recommendations for USB flash drives in 2021:

  1. Samsung BAR Plus: With its sleek metal casing and durable design, the Samsung BAR Plus is a top choice. It offers fast transfer speeds and comes in various storage options, ranging from 32GB to 256GB.
  2. SanDisk Extreme Pro: The SanDisk Extreme Pro is another excellent option for those looking for speed and performance. It features a rugged design and offers high read and write speeds, making it ideal for professionals and power users.
  3. Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2: The Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2 combines a sturdy build with impressive transfer speeds. It comes with a sliding cap to protect the USB connector and is available in sizes up to 64GB.
  4. PNY Turbo: The PNY Turbo offers a great balance between affordability and performance. It has a compact design and comes with transfer speeds of up to 10 times faster than standard USB 2.0 drives.
  5. Lexar JumpDrive P20: If you need a USB flash drive with blazing-fast speeds, the Lexar JumpDrive P20 is a top contender. It offers read speeds of up to 400MB/s and write speeds of up to 270MB/s, making it perfect for transferring large files quickly.

When choosing a USB flash drive, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. Whether you need a high-capacity drive for storing large files or a compact drive for everyday use, there’s a USB flash drive on this list to suit your needs.

Key Features to Consider When Buying a USB Flash Drive

When buying a USB flash drive, there are several key features that you should take into consideration to ensure you get the best device for your needs. Here are some important features to consider:

Storage Capacity

Storage capacity is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a USB flash drive. It determines how much data you can store on the drive. USB flash drives are available in various capacities, ranging from a few gigabytes (GB) to several terabytes (TB). Consider your storage needs and choose a capacity that suits your requirements.

Transfer Speed

The transfer speed of a USB flash drive determines how quickly files can be read from or written to the drive. It is measured in megabytes per second (MB/s) or gigabytes per second (GB/s). If you frequently transfer large files or need to quickly back up data, a USB flash drive with a higher transfer speed is recommended.

Interface

The interface of a USB flash drive refers to the type of USB port it uses to connect with your device. The most common interface is USB 2.0, which offers slower transfer speeds compared to USB 3.0 or USB 3.1. If you have a device with a USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 port, consider buying a flash drive with the corresponding interface for faster data transfer.

Durability

Durability is an important feature to consider, especially if you plan to use your USB flash drive in rugged environments or carry it around frequently. Look for a flash drive that is shockproof, waterproof, and dustproof to ensure it can withstand accidental drops or exposure to harsh conditions.

Security Features

If you need to protect your data, consider a USB flash drive with built-in security features. Look for features like password protection, encryption, and fingerprint scanning to keep your files secure from unauthorized access.

Compatibility

Make sure the USB flash drive you choose is compatible with your devices. It should support the operating system you are using, such as Windows, macOS, or Linux. Additionally, check if the drive is compatible with both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports to ensure it can be used with various devices.

Brand and Warranty

Consider the brand and the warranty provided by the manufacturer. Reputable brands often offer better quality and reliability. Additionally, a reliable warranty ensures that you can get a replacement or repair if the flash drive malfunctions within a specified period of time.

Price

Price is an important factor when buying a USB flash drive. Set a budget and look for a flash drive that offers the features you need within your price range. Compare prices from different brands and retailers to get the best value for your money.

By considering these key features, you can make an informed decision and choose the right USB flash drive that meets your storage and performance requirements.

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How to Choose the Right USB Flash Drive for Your Needs

Choosing the right USB flash drive can be a daunting task, with so many options available on the market. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

1. Storage Capacity:

Determine how much storage capacity you will need for your files. USB flash drives come in various sizes, ranging from 16GB to 1TB or more. Consider the types of files you will be storing, such as documents, photos, videos, or music, and estimate your storage needs accordingly.

2. Transfer Speed:

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If you frequently transfer large files or need faster data transfer rates, look for a USB flash drive with high read and write speeds. USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 drives offer faster transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0 drives.

3. Durability:

Consider the durability of the USB flash drive, especially if you plan to carry it around frequently or expose it to harsh conditions. Look for drives with a rugged design, shock resistance, and water or dustproof features to ensure your data stays safe.

4. Compatibility:

Make sure the USB flash drive you choose is compatible with the devices you plan to use it with. Most modern devices support USB 3.0 or higher, but it’s important to double-check before making a purchase.

5. Security Features:

If you need to protect sensitive data, look for USB flash drives that offer encryption or password protection. These features can help safeguard your files in case the drive gets lost or stolen.

6. Price:

Set a budget for your USB flash drive purchase and look for options that fit within your price range. Prices can vary depending on factors like storage capacity, transfer speed, and additional features.

7. Brand Reputation:

Consider purchasing from reputable brands with a history of producing reliable USB flash drives. Reading customer reviews and checking for warranties can give you an idea of the product’s quality and the brand’s reputation.

  1. Consider these factors and prioritize them based on your needs and preferences.
  2. Do some research and compare different USB flash drives based on the criteria you have established.
  3. Make your purchase based on the best fit for your requirements and budget.

Remember, choosing the right USB flash drive is essential to ensure efficient file storage and transfer, so take your time and evaluate your options carefully.

FAQ:

What are the top USB flash drives for 2021?

Some of the top USB flash drives for 2021 include the Samsung BAR Plus, SanDisk Extreme Pro, Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2, and Corsair Flash Voyager GTX.

What is the storage capacity of the Samsung BAR Plus USB flash drive?

The storage capacity of the Samsung BAR Plus USB flash drive ranges from 32GB to 256GB.

Are USB 3.0 flash drives backward compatible with USB 2.0 ports?

Yes, USB 3.0 flash drives are backward compatible with USB 2.0 ports, but they will operate at USB 2.0 speeds.

What is the read/write speed of the SanDisk Extreme Pro USB flash drive?

The SanDisk Extreme Pro USB flash drive has a read speed of up to 420MB/s and a write speed of up to 380MB/s.

What is the durability of the Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2 USB flash drive?

The Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2 USB flash drive is built to be durable and can withstand shocks, water, and temperatures ranging from -25°C to 85°C.

Is there a warranty for the Corsair Flash Voyager GTX USB flash drive?

Yes, the Corsair Flash Voyager GTX USB flash drive comes with a limited 5-year warranty.

Can I use a USB flash drive with my smartphone or tablet?

Yes, if your smartphone or tablet supports USB On-The-Go (OTG) functionality, you can use a USB flash drive with an appropriate adapter.

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