Flash drives to help us read and write files. However, the speed of the drive can vary depending on the file system used. For example, exFAT gives the maximum read and write speed on any flash drive, unlike FAT32 or NTFS. But it doesn't support Windows.
It should be borne in mind that the write speed in any drive is always lower than the read speed. Therefore, be on the alert for the "speed" parameter, so as not to be tempted by a cheap flash drive.
USB drives with read speeds up to 10MB / s are not worth looking at, they are slow and outdated.
- For budget models, a read speed of 10-20 MB / s is quite acceptable. But the speed of writing data on them is 2 times less.
- 20-30 Mb / s - good read speed for USB 2.0 flash drives. The speed of information recording is 10-20 Mb / s.
- Read speeds from 50 Mb / s to 250 Mb / s are supported by USB 3.0 flash drives. They have write speeds ranging from 30 Mb / s to 215 Mb / s.
To transfer large amounts of information, it is best to use flash drives with a USB 3.0 or 3.1 interface, they are super-fast.
To choose a good flash drive, be guided by your preferences. A constructive solution can be the design of the device - an open connector, a lid, a slider or a swivel mechanism. But here, too, everything is relative.
- Without protection, it is easier to work with a flash drive, but the likelihood of dust accumulation in the connector increases. It scratches.
- The lid protects reliably, but is easily lost.
- The slider loses its smoothness over time.
- And the swing mechanism gets loose.
The most practical USB sticks are made of metal or rubber. But the tiny ones are easily lost, and the large ones are problematic to be inserted into the connector when neighboring ports are busy.
USB 3.0 speed: how does a USB 2.0 flash drive differ from USB 3.0
USB 3.0 can exchange information 10 times faster than USB 2.0. But for fast data transfer, your computer or laptop must have a USB 3.0 connector.
- If you connect a USB 3.0 flash drive to a USB 2.0 connector, the file transfer speed will be limited to USB 2.0 speed (20-30 Mb / s). To understand which port is in your PC, just look at the base of the contacts inside: for USB 2.0 it is white or black, and for USB 3.0 it is blue.
- Flash drives with 3.0 technology are compatible with 2.0 ports. Conversely, a USB 2.0 flash drive connects perfectly to USB 3.0. And it gives out the usual speed (20-30 Mb / s).
USB 2.0 technology fades into the background, giving way to the USB 3.0 interface and its improved version of USB 3.1 (even faster). For the price, USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 flash drives differ, but it is better to overpay and not be nervous while waiting for the file to be copied. The optimal amount of flash drives: 8, 16, 32 GB. Large work projects and system backups can be transferred to USB drives with a larger capacity (from 64 GB). Decide for yourself: for what purposes you need a flash drive - and there will be no problems.
Watch the video on how to choose a flash drive by speed
Which flash drive is better
I offer my subjective top five Top flash drives, to which I am not indifferent.
Transcend JetFlash 700
This flash stores from 8 to 128 GB of data. The USB 3.0 interface provides high speed: it can read 70 MB / s and write 18 MB / s. An LED indicator indicates transfer activity, so you know when the Jetflash 700 can be safely removed from your PC system.
The nimble little thing fits easily into your pocket. And yes, the drive has a lifetime official manufacturer's warranty!
Denis writes in his review about this device: “I definitely recommend it! Great flash drive. Reads and writes quickly. Was washed three times in the washing machine, and works like new. I have been using it for over five years. During this time, the body was only slightly scratched».
Sandisk Ultra Dual OTG
If you often move materials from phone to PC, this flash drive is what you need! It is like a lifesaver: with a USB 3.0 plug on one end, and a microSD plug on the other, as well as with OTG support. SanDisk drag and drop files using the Memory Zone app.
The device is guaranteed for 5 years from the date of purchase.
Anna in his response: “A convenient flash drive, especially on the road, when there is no computer at hand and there is little memory in the phone. Compact. The speed is excellent. Recommend. Nice gift for friends».
Silicon Power Marvel M01
Marvel M01 USB 3.0 features a durable, scratch-free aluminum housing. Built-in LED indicator displays data transmission status. The USB 3.0 interface is compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices. The flash drive has a bandwidth of 5 GB / s), which is 10 times more than the USB 2.0 interface!
Includes free SP Widget software (to support data security). This drive is available in five models with 8, 16, 32, 64 and 128 GB. The warranty is 60 months.
Michael left a comment: "Convenient flash drive with high write speed. Writes about 15 mb / sec. Take it, you won't regret it».
Kingston DataTraveler SE9
The DataTraveler has a stylish metal body with a large ring that easily attaches to any holder. Its small form factor makes it a great accessory for laptops and tablets with USB ports. The official manufacturer's warranty is 60 months.
The drive has a USB 2.0 interface, the speed of data transmission and reception is not great. But if you have a laptop or PC with a 2.0 port, feel free to take this USB flash drive. It is much cheaper than its USB 3.0 counterpart Kingston DataTraveler SE9 G2.
Voronovs3 impressed by the purchase: “I use it for six months, I'm satisfied. I wear it on the keys. I was lucky with her: it heats up less than the Transcend JetFlash 710S, it has a normal write speed for its price».
Transcend JetFlash 780
The ultra-fast JetFlash 780 easily stores, transfers and transfers digital files using the latest MLC flash technology. The drive is equipped with a SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface with read and write speeds up to 140 MB / s and 40 MB / s, respectively.
The stylish thing is not only fast, but also elegant. Its metallic silver body is adorned with an intricate checkerboard pattern. This will not block adjacent ports on your computer.
The versatile JetFlash 780 is compatible with any device with a USB port. Including TVs, turntables, stereos, digital photo frames and game consoles. The device plays all media. You can easily back up, compress files and more. Manufacturer's warranty - 60 months.
Gamabunta in his response: “An excellent flash drive - the write speed is real and stable 42 MB / s over USB 3.0, and about 25 MB / s over USB 2.0».
Note: "What to choose: FAT32 or NTFS?"
Watch the video overview of Kingston DataTraveler Locker +
