The best USB flash drive: small size, huge storage

Best USB flash drive
(Image credit: Constantine Johnny via Getty Images)

The best USB flash drives are perfect for carrying files around as they're so small – and there's no risk of them being corrupted. These flash drives are super convenient, and you can choose from an affordable flash stick (or thumb drive), a fast and powerful solid-state drive (SSD) or a hard disk (which is small and doesn't need a power supply). Though a lot of people are choosing cloud storage now, USB storage is still pretty essential in case you don't have internet. 

Creatives and students find USB storage a simple solution for keeping vital project files backed up, as carrying around portfolios or folders isn't ideal. But which is the best USB flash drive for you depends on your specific needs. Most drives still use the traditional USB Type-A connector, but you'll also see the smaller, rounded USB Type-C. Apple Macs are available only with Type-C, and you'll need a dongle or alternative cable to use older USB devices.

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Beren Neale
Ecom Editor

Beren has worked on creative titles at Future Publishing for over 13 years. Cutting his teeth as Staff Writer on the digital art magazine ImagineFX, he moved on to edit several creative titles, and is currently the Ecommerce Editor on the most effective creative website in the world. When he's not testing and reviewing the best ergonomic office chairs, phones, laptops, TVs, monitors and various types of storage, he can be found finding and comparing the best deals on the tech that creatives value the most.

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