USB 3.x flash drives are portable memory sticks for moving, backing up and carrying files faster than older USB 2.0 models. They suit students, office users and anyone who regularly copies large files. Our range of over 150 models covers cap, capless, slide and swivel designs from SanDisk, Kingston, ADATA and Intenso, among others.
How to choose a USB 3.x flash drive
Capacity. Pick the size by what you actually carry. 32 GB is enough for documents and a few photo folders, while 64 GB and 128 GB are well represented in our range and suit large photo libraries or video projects. 256 GB and 512 GB drives are available for bigger archives, and a few 16 GB models exist for basic file transfers.
USB version and real speed. USB 3.2 Gen 1, also sold as USB 3.1 Gen 1 or USB 3.0, offers up to 5 Gbps, and most drives in our range use it. A few models use USB 3.2 Gen 2, which has a higher theoretical limit of 10 Gbps. Actual speed depends on the flash memory inside, so check the stated read and write speeds, especially if you move large video files.
Connector. USB Type-A fits most desktops and laptops and is the connector on nearly all drives here. If you want to plug straight into a phone, tablet or a laptop with only USB-C ports, look for the few Type-C or dual Type-A / Type-C models, or use a small adapter with a Type-A drive.
Form factor. Cap designs protect the connector but the cap can get lost. Capless and slide drives retract the connector into the body, and swivel drives rotate a metal or plastic cover around it, so there is no loose part to misplace. Choose one of these if the drive lives on a keyring or in a bag.
USB 3.x flash drive brands we carry
- SanDisk: one of the best-known flash storage makers, with the Ultra and Extreme lines of USB drives.
- Kingston: makes the DataTraveler series, a long-running family of USB sticks sold in many capacities and designs.
- ADATA: a Taiwanese memory and storage manufacturer that produces USB drives alongside SSDs and RAM.
- Intenso: a German consumer storage brand, with USB sticks in many sizes and colours.
- Goodram: a Polish memory brand that offers USB drives alongside memory cards and RAM.
- Lexar: known for memory cards and the JumpDrive range of USB flash drives.
- Patriot Memory: sells the Xporter series of flash drives, as well as RAM and SSDs for PC builders.
- Transcend: a Taiwanese brand whose JetFlash series covers everyday USB sticks.
Also in our range: MediaRange, Silicon Power and Emtec.
USB 3.x flash drives: frequently asked questions
Will a USB 3.x flash drive work in a USB 2.0 port?
Yes, USB 3.x drives are backwards compatible with USB 2.0 ports. The drive will work, but transfer speeds are limited to USB 2.0 levels. To get the full speed you need a USB 3.x port, which is often marked blue or with an SS symbol.
Is USB 3.0 the same as USB 3.2 Gen 1?
Yes, USB 3.0, USB 3.1 Gen 1 and USB 3.2 Gen 1 are the same 5 Gbps standard under different names. The standard was renamed twice, so the same type of drive may carry any of these labels. USB 3.2 Gen 2 is a separate, faster standard with a 10 Gbps limit.
How much capacity do I need on a USB flash drive?
For documents, presentations and a few photos, 32 GB is usually enough. For large photo collections, software installers or video files, 64 GB or 128 GB gives more room. Choose 256 GB or more only if you regularly move or back up very large files.
Can I use a USB flash drive with a phone or tablet?
Yes, if the device has a USB-C port that supports external storage and the drive has a Type-C connector or you use an adapter. Drives with both Type-A and Type-C connectors are the simplest option because they also work with computers. Check that your phone or tablet supports USB storage before buying.
