The Best USB Flash Drives of 2024

The SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO USB stands out in the 'Best Overall' category due to its exceptional performance and robust functionality. Its blazing-fast performance is ideal for users frequently transferring large files, such as high-resolution photos and 4K videos. This speed ensures efficiency, making it perfect for professionals who need to work with large data sets quickly.

In addition to its outstanding speed, the drive boasts a durable aluminum metal casing. This design feature not only looks sleek but also enhances the product's longevity by protecting it from everyday wear and tear. Moreover, SanDisk SecureAccess encryption software offers a layer of security, keeping your critical files safe from prying eyes.

For those who value data resilience, the RescuePRO Deluxe data recovery software is a noteworthy inclusion, allowing for the retrieval of accidentally deleted files. While its backward compatibility with USB 2.0 and 3.0 is somewhat standard, it does add flexibility in usage. Overall, these features make the SanDisk Extreme PRO a top-tier choice for both performance and reliability.

The PNY 1TB PRO Elite V2 USB Flash Drive stands out prominently in the 'Best Speed' category, largely due to its exceptional performance capabilities. With impressive read speeds of up to 600MB/s and write speeds reaching 500MB/s, this device significantly enhances the efficiency of managing and transferring large files. This makes it a top choice for users who regularly handle substantial data loads, such as content creators and professionals who require swift and reliable storage solutions.

This drive utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2 technology, which bolsters its robustness, making it ideal for storing and transferring high-resolution photography and 4K video files with ease. The comparison to the older PNY USB 2.0 Flash Drives highlights a remarkable improvement in speed, up to 165 times faster, positioning it as a leading option for demanding applications. Its backward compatibility ensures its wide usability across various devices, although its sleek metal design equally ensures durability and a premium feel.

The Kingston Ironkey D500S 32GB USB shines in the 'Best Security' category, thanks to its robust set of features designed to safeguard sensitive data. Although the FIPS 140-3 Level 3 certification is currently pending, it underscores Kingston's commitment to military-grade security, which is reassuring for users needing top-notch protection. The drive's ability to counter brute force and BadUSB attacks offers a high level of defense against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

One standout feature is the multi-password option that allows both complex and passphrase modes, enhancing user access and adaptability. The unique dual hidden partition option adds an additional layer of privacy, catering to users who require separate secure workspaces. In emergencies, the crypto-erase password provides a quick data wipe, a crucial feature for maintaining confidentiality. Meanwhile, its rugged zinc casing ensures resilience against physical intrusion attempts. With a user-friendly interface and customizable features, this drive strikes an excellent balance between security and usability.

The Corsair Flash Survivor Stealth 1TB USB drive is a standout option for those seeking ultimate durability in their data storage devices. Its design is both robust and practical, boasting a hard-anodized, aircraft-grade aluminum housing that offers substantial protection against physical threats. This formidable shell ensures that the device can handle the rough and tumble of daily life without compromising functionality.

Additionally, the EPDM water seal enhances the drive's resilience, providing excellent protection against water exposure. Whether you're caught in a surprise rainstorm or accidentally spill a drink, this drive is designed to keep your data safe and dry.

Equipped with a molded shock damping collar, the Flash Survivor Stealth is built to absorb impacts, making it incredibly resilient to drops and knocks. The incorporation of high-performance USB 3.0 technology allows for swift data transfer, which is a standard feature. Coupled with a limited five-year warranty, it provides users with long-term peace of mind.

The Samsung FIT Plus 128 GB stands out in the Best Compact category largely due to its impressive performance and design. Its reading speed of up to 300 MB/s, because of the USB 3.1 interface, ensures rapid data transfer, allowing a 3 GB file to be copied in roughly 10 seconds. This is particularly beneficial for users who prioritize speed and efficiency in managing their files.

The compact dimensions of this flash drive significantly reduce the risk of accidental bumps or separation, making it an excellent choice for use in laptops, smart TVs, or cars. Despite being reviewed here as the 128 GB model, it's worth noting that this series offers storage capacities up to 256 GB, providing ample space for extensive data storage needs.

What's truly remarkable is the drive's durability; it boasts fivefold protection, being waterproof, shockproof, magnetically resistant, and resistant to extreme temperatures and rain. These features ensure long-lasting and reliable use, ideal for active lifestyles and demanding environments.

The Apricorn 128GB Hardware Encrypted Secure USB stands out in the 'Best Encrypted' category due to its robust security features and reliable performance. Its FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation is a critical factor, ensuring the drive meets high security standards, which is perfect for users who prioritize data protection. The inclusion of 256-bit AES XTS encryption further enhances its defense against unauthorized access, making it a top choice for safeguarding sensitive information.

A notable feature is its compatibility with Aegis Configurator, simplifying the process of setting up and managing multiple drives. The rugged aluminum housing not only provides a premium feel but also ensures durability with IP57 water and dust resistance, making it ideal for those on the go. The embedded 7-16 digit pin authentication adds another layer of security with user-forced enrollment. The two read-only modes offer added data protection, though some users might find the features less versatile compared to others in its class. Nevertheless, the Apricorn USB drive excels in delivering secure and reliable performance, marking it as a leading contender in its category.

The Verbatim 128GB Pinstripe USB offers a compelling choice for those seeking a budget-friendly storage solution without sacrificing essential features. Its practical push-and-pull sliding mechanism efficiently shields the USB connection, removing the hassle of managing a separate cap—an often-overlooked convenience that enhances its portability.

Designed with modern users in mind, this USB drive effortlessly fits into daily life, whether you're transferring files for school projects, business presentations, or personal use. Its Plug and Play functionality ensures a straightforward user experience, compatible with both Windows and Mac systems. The USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface stands out as a remarkable feature, providing data transfer speeds up to 10 times faster than the older USB 2.0 standard, yet retaining compatibility with these legacy ports.

While password protection is available only for Windows users, this is a minor limitation considering the drive’s affordability. With Verbatim's long-standing reputation and a Limited Lifetime Warranty backing the product, it delivers reliability and quality, securing its place as a top contender in the budget-friendly category.