There are a few things to keep in mind when you buy a USB flash drive, and we also have some tips for using them.
Capacity: To decide how much space you need, first check the size of the folders or files you want to copy. Each USB drive in our guide has its stated capacity, but the amount of storage available to you will be slightly less than that because the device’s firmware requires space.
Speed: USB standards are always evolving and we recommend USB 3.0 as a minimum, although the higher the better. While USB standards have different theoretical maximum speeds, it’s important to check the read and write speeds that the manufacturer states for each drive. If you primarily transfer data, you’ll want to look for a high-capacity drive write speed. If you plan to launch software on your computer via a drive (such as a video game), you’ll want a model with a high processor speed. read speed.
compatibility: Many flash drives will work with any device with the corresponding port, but you should check compatibility to avoid disappointment. If you want to use the drive with an Android device, it will require USB on the go (OTG) support. Most Android devices support USB OTG. You will receive a notification when the flash drive is inserted with options to include File transfer. you can try USB OTG Tester App to confirm support if you are unsure. Apple iPhones and iPads don’t support USB OTG, but you can install a companion app for the drive, such as SanDisk’s iXpand line.
connect: Most flash drives have USB-A connectors, but you can also buy drives with USB-C, MicroUSB, and Lightning connectors. If you plan to use a flash drive with your smartphone and computer, the easiest solution is to get one that has both types of connectors needed. You can also buy a USB hub with multiple ports or adapters, but pay attention to the supported standard or it may limit your data transfer speed. This Anker USB-A to USB-C . Adapterfor example, is USB 3.0.
Protect: Remember USB drives can cause security problemsespecially for businesses and you should never plug in random drives you find lying around. If you plan to keep sensitive data on your flash drive, then consider biometric or cryptographic protection and consider the level of encryption it provides. There are software services that provide encryption and allow you to password protect your files on any USB flash drive.
