10 Best Flash Drives 2025 in the United States

The PNY 256GB PRO Elite V2 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Flash Drive presents itself as a robust choice for those who require quick and reliable data transfer. With a storage capacity of 256GB, it provides ample space for large files, making it especially suitable for content creators, graphic designers, and gamers. The standout feature is its impressive transfer speeds, boasting read speeds of up to 600MB/s and write speeds up to 250MB/s, which significantly outpace many standard flash drives. This means you can transfer large files such as high-resolution photos, videos, and software applications quickly and efficiently.

The flash drive also offers strong durability with its shockproof feature and high-quality metal design, ensuring it can withstand everyday wear and tear. As for compatibility, it works with USB 3.2 Gen 2 enabled devices and is backward compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports, making it flexible for various computer systems.

However, potential buyers should be aware that while it boasts high speeds, the actual performance might vary depending on the hardware used, as optimal speeds are more likely achieved with USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The design is sleek and compact, enhancing portability, but its metal casing may not appeal to everyone in terms of aesthetics. Additionally, there is no specific mention of security features like encryption, which could be a consideration for users dealing with sensitive data.

This flash drive is highly rated by customers, reflecting its reliability and performance, and would be a valuable tool for those who need to transfer large amounts of data quickly and efficiently.

The Kingston Ironkey Locker+ 50 16GB USB flash drive is a secure and robust storage solution, particularly ideal for users who prioritize data protection. With 16GB of storage, it may not be the highest capacity available, but it is sufficient for storing essential documents and files. In terms of transfer speed, the drive offers up to 145MB/s read and 115MB/s write speeds, which should provide fast access and saving of data for most users' needs. However, users requiring extremely high transfer rates might find these speeds average compared to some premium models.

The standout feature of this flash drive is its security. It boasts XTS-AES encryption, protecting data from brute force and BadUSB attacks. The multi-password option with admin and user modes adds further flexibility and security, which is a significant advantage for both personal and professional use. Additional security measures include a virtual keyboard to prevent keylogging and automatic personal cloud backup, enhancing data protection and accessibility. The drive is built with a sleek metal casing, ensuring durability and a premium feel. Its compact dimensions (2.38 x 0.73 x 0.38 inches) and lightweight (0.952 ounces) make it highly portable, fitting easily into pockets or bags.

The compatibility with USB 3.2 Gen 1 ensures it works with a wide range of devices, although the USB Type A interface may require adapters for use with newer USB-C-only devices. Despite its strengths, the 16GB capacity may be a limitation for users needing more storage space. Additionally, the price point might be higher than non-encrypted flash drives, but the added security features justify the cost for those who need them. To sum up, the Kingston Ironkey Locker+ 50 is an excellent choice for users looking for a secure, durable, and portable flash drive with good transfer speeds, though its lower capacity may not suit all needs.