As technology advances, the size USB flash drives have got smaller and smaller in size but bigger and bigger in capacity, speed and functions. Nowadays, USB sticks are not only used to connect to computers, but also as memory expansion devices for mobile phones and tablets. So if you are looking for your own mini-storage device, take a look at the following guide for USB flash drives with recommendations from Adam Elements, KINGSTON and SanDisk.

A USB flash drive, also known as a USB stick, is a mini storage device that connects to an electronic device via a USB interface and stores data in a flash memory.

Common USB plugs are available in USB 2.0, USB 3.0 and higher versions to support different transfer speeds. For example, USB 2.0 can support transfer speeds of up to 480MB/s, while USB 3.0 supports transfer speeds up to 5GB/s and USB 3.2 supports transfer speeds of up to 20GB/s. So if you need to transfer files at high speeds, look for a USB that matches the connector in the USB port of your PC. Although standard USBs offers higher-to-slower speed transfer capability, check the specifications of your product if you are going for transfer speed.

2. USB interface

Different specifications have been developed for USB interfaces over the years. Some of the more common examples that are still used in USB flash drive design are:

• USB Type-A interface: computers
• USB Type-C: Android devices, computers, etc.
• Lightning connector: Apple devices

When choosing a USB flash drive, remember to look at the connector used for your electronic device port. If you buy one with a wrong connector, you need an adaptor which also affects transfer speed. In addition, some USB flash drives have dual heads with separate ports to connect to different devices.

3. Capacity

The capacity of a USB flash drive depends on the application and usage. Refer to the following examples.

• Text files: 16-32GB
• Photos and videos: 64GB or more
• HD pictures and videos: 256GB or more

Nowadays, large capacity USB flash drivers are very affordable so reserve extra storage capacity when choosing one. If you're using a USB flash drive for filming equipment, one with a large storage capacity will ensure smoother shooting.

For a high-speed performance and high-quality data transfer experience

USB flash drives for mobile phones, tablets and computers

USB flash drives with common USB ports so there’s no need for an adaptor to connect to your PC or Mac

USB flash drives that add a touch of fun to your life