USB flash drives are used to carry files, make backups and install operating systems. Our range includes drives from SanDisk, Dell EMC, Kingston and Kioxia, with capacities from 32 to 256 GB.
Some models have a USB Type-A connector, others add USB Type-C, and there is also a drive with PIN-secured access.
How to choose a USB flash drive
Capacity. 32 GB is enough for documents, photos and operating system installation files. For films, project archives or larger backups, 128 or 256 GB is the safer choice. Our range covers 32, 64, 128 and 256 GB drives.
Speed. Manufacturers often quote only the read speed, yet the write speed matters most when you copy files onto the drive. In our range, read speeds run from 80 to 230 MB/s and write speeds from 20 to 150 MB/s. A faster drive moves large files much more quickly, while a slower one is fine for the occasional document.
Connector. USB Type-A is found on most computers, while USB Type-C is more common on newer laptops, tablets and phones. A drive with both connectors (USB Type-A / USB Type-C) lets you move files between devices without an adapter.
Security. If you carry personal or work documents on the drive, choose a model with PIN-secured access, which our range includes. Anyone can read a lost drive that has no protection, whereas a PIN makes it much harder to reach the files.
Backups. A USB drive should not be the only copy of important files: it is easy to lose, and flash memory wears out over time. Keep important data in a second place as well.
Brands we carry
- SanDisk: a flash memory maker whose products include USB drives, memory cards and SSDs.
- Dell EMC: the Dell brand for enterprise servers and storage systems.
- Kingston: known for its DataTraveler range of USB drives and its IronKey encrypted drives.
- Kioxia: the company formed from Toshiba's memory business, which makes NAND flash memory.
Also in our range: CoreParts.
Frequently asked questions
What capacity of USB flash drive should I buy?
For most people 32 or 64 GB is enough, as that holds documents, photos and installation files. If you plan to store video or large archives, choose 128 or 256 GB. Our range includes drives in all of these capacities.
What is the difference between USB Type-A and USB Type-C drives?
The main difference is the shape of the connector: USB Type-A is flat and rectangular, while USB Type-C is smaller and symmetrical, so it plugs in either way up. The real speed depends on the drive itself and on the USB standard of the port, not on the shape alone. A model with both connectors works with a computer and a phone.
Can a USB flash drive be protected with a PIN?
Yes, some drives have PIN-secured access, and our range includes such a model. Other drives can be protected with the encryption tools built into the operating system or with separate software. Protection matters most when the drive carries work or personal documents.
Can I install an operating system from a USB flash drive?
Yes, provided the computer can boot from USB and the drive is large enough for the installation files. A 32 GB drive is enough for that. You may need to change the boot order in the BIOS or UEFI settings, and a faster drive shortens the installation.
