Despite the rising popularity of cloud storage, USB flash drives continue to be one of the popular choices for portable storage. These handy gadgets come in various storage sizes and even fun designs and are often a great choice for promotional gifts.
With our USB stick buying guide, you can learn all about this portable storage tech and how to make the right purchase.
In addition to choosing a USB based on its storage size, you may also want to check its compatibility with USB C ports. As technology is advancing towards faster USB standards, USB-C ports will be a popular inclusion for many laptops, smartphones, and other devices. We highly recommend going for dual-connector USB sticks as they will have a longer service life.
Here are our top best USB flash drives you should get your hands on in 2022!
Most Reliable USB Flash Drives
Transcend and SanDisk are popular brands among portable storage devices. We have considered usability factors as well as design considerations when selecting these options for you.
Transcend JetFlash 710S USB Stick, Compact Design
The ultra-compact construction of the Transcend JetFlash 710S USB stick allows you to take it with you everywhere. It also comes with a lanyard/keyring hole that can be used to attach it to your keychains, backpacks, and more.
This pen drive offers read and write speeds of up to 90MB/s and 24MB/s, respectively. Its sleek and highly portable design is resistant to dust, shock, as well as splashes.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- Enjoy reliable transfers with its USB 3.0 interface that is compatible with USB 2.0 ports as well.
- The durable design of the pen drive protects it from shock, splash, and dust damage.
- You can use this pen drive with a wide variety of PCs as well as Mac systems.
- Take advantage of the free download of Exclusive Transcend Elite Data Management Software to manage all your data better.
SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive OTG USB-C/USB-A 3.1 Flash Drive, Perfect for OTG Devices
The SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive OTG USB-C/USB-A 3.1 flash drive is a great choice when you want to transfer files from your On-The-Go supported smartphone or tablet. This pen drive features a sliding mechanism that keeps the USB connectors safe.
On one end, the pen drive has a USB C plug while the other end features a standard USB Type-A port. With its USB 3.1 performance, you can enjoy up to 150MB/s read speed, which reduces the time spent transferring data.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- Its convenient middle slider allows you to easily switch between USB-A and USB-C connectors.
- The protective design keeps the USB connectors safe from physical damage.
- You can use this pen drive with Windows 10/8/7/Vista, macOS X v10.6 and higher, as well as all USB-C smartphones and tablets with OTG support.
- Take advantage of the SanDisk Memory Zone app on your Android smartphone to manage files.
Best Encrypted USB Memory Stick in the UK
Whether you need to move confidential data or just prefer to keep your files private, then an encrypted pen drive is the way to go. Our top picks offer brilliant protective features to keep your data safe.
SanDisk Cruzer Ultra Luxe Flash Drive, For Big Storage Needs
Keep all your confidential data password protected with the built-in password protection feature of the SanDisk Cruzer Ultra Luxe flash drive. The cast metal housing of the pen drive also features a keyring hole to help you keep it securely on your person.
Its large storage capacity also makes it ideal for those that deal with high-quality data like HD videos and other large data files. With its stylish construction and USB 3.1 interface, this is also the best USB stick for smart TV recording.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- It comes with an integrated SanDisk SecureAccess password protection to safeguard your data from unauthorised access.
- In the case of accidental deletion, you can take advantage of the included RescuePRO file recovery software.
- Its gorgeous case gives it a professional appearance while ensuring the physical durability of the pen drive.
- With its USB 3.1 interface, you can experience super-fast data transmission with a read speed of up to 150MB/s.
Eaget FU60 Fingerprint Encryption USB 3.0 Flash Drive, Double the Security
Keep your files and media safe with the Eaget FU60 fingerprint encryption USB 3.0 flash drive. The classy design features a fingerprint scanner built into it, which is supported by an ICE fingerprint chip. It also comes with an AES 265 encryption algorithm for enhanced security.
This 32GB thumb drive is perfect for handling confidential data, while also looking beautiful. Its slim and durable design also features a cap for the USB connector. With such great features, this is a must-have USB memory stick for any working professional.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- Its USB 3.0 interface allows for faster data transfer rates between devices.
- The ICE fingerprint chip and sensor ensure only authorised persons can access the data stored on the pen drive.
- An added layer of protection is offered by the AES 265 encryption algorithm.
- Enjoy enhanced durability of the pen drive thanks to its high-quality zinc housing.
Best Dual USB Pen Drives with OTG Support
Dual pen drives extend the range of application by featuring two different USB connectors. These dual USBs are a great choice for those that need to backup their smartphone data onto a portable storage device.
iDiskk OTG Flash Drive, With Lightning Support
The iDiskk OTG flash drive features a lightning connector that lets you store data from your On-the-Go supported iPhones and other Apple products. Its seamless interface with iPhone or iPad makes it easy to back-up files and transfer them to your computer.
On the other end, the pen drive features a USB-A drive. It comes with a swivel design that also features an integrated keyring/lanyard hole that will help you always keep it on your person.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- It features a USB standard USB 3.0 interface that allows high-speed data transmission of up to 5Gbps.
- With its MFi-certification and lightning connector, enjoy seamless compatibility with your iPhone.
- Its durable aluminium housing keeps all your stored data safe from external damage.
- The swivel feature also comes with a lanyard hole that lets you keep it safely on your person.
iDiskk UC001 USB-A/Lightning Flash Drive, For the Apple Family
Another great offering from iDiskk is the iDiskk UC001 USB-A/Lightning flash drive. This dual pen drive features a USB-A connector as well as a Lightning connector within its sleek construction. The pen drive also comes with a lanyard for easy portability.
Experience super-fast data transfer speeds with its USB 3.0 interface. Furthermore, its durable aluminium construction and gorgeous design make this a perfect choice for work or school.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- It comes with MFi-certification which makes moving files from your iPad, iPhone, and other compatible Apple products easy and seamless.
- Enjoy one-click data synchronisation by using the free iDiskk Pro app to backup all your important files and digital media.
- Its sleek and stylish design not only looks good but is also very durable.
- The pen drive supports Windows, iOS, and Linux operating systems.
Best Cheap USB Flash Drive
There is a portable storage device for every budget. These are our top two favourites for budget-friendly USB memory sticks available in the UK.
Kingston DataTraveler microDuo 3C Flash Drive, The All-Rounder
The Kingston DataTraveler microDuo 3C flash drive will tick quite a few of the boxes for the perfect USB pen drive. At its price range, the Kingston pen drive offers dual-connectors which expands its range of use.
Additionally, the ultra-small size of 29.94mm x 16.60mm x 8.44mm allows for great portability. Its USB-C connector works perfectly with all the newer USB Type-C compatible devices.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- This pen drive features a USB 3.1 Gen Type A. 1, as well as a USB Type C reversible connector.
- Get up to 100MB/s read speed and up to 10MB/s write speed with the Kingston DataTraveler.
- Its micro size is perfect for squeezing into tight spaces and carrying around.
- It is compatible with Android 4.0+, Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, RT, Mac OS X 10.6.x+, Linux 2.6+, and Chrome OS.
Verbatim Store n Go Pinstripe USB Memory Stick, Cheap but Good
The retractable design of the Verbatim Store n Go Pinstripe USB memory stick is one of its top features. Since USB connectors are a sensitive part of the construction, this retracting design ensures the plug is not damaged when not in use.
In addition to the push-and-pull design, this thumb drive also has a stylish pinstripe design. With this USB pen drive, you can enjoy fast data transfers with USB 3.0 ports. It is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 ports.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- Reliably use this USB memory stick with a wide range of PCs and Mac systems.
- The push-and-pull sliding feature helps you minimise the chance of physically damaging the connector when not in use.
- Get faster data transfers when used with USB 3.0 ports, thanks to its USB 3.0 interface.
- This pen drive offers a 32GB storage capacity that is perfect for all your media, files, and other data.
A Few More Great Pen Drives
If you want something different, then these two picks are for you!
Ksix iMemory Extension Lightning/USB microSD Card Reader, For Memory Cards
Turn your memory cards into a USB pen drive with the Ksix iMemory Extension Lightning/USB microSD card reader. This MFi-certified memory expansion/card reader supports microSD cards having up to 128GB capacity.
Additionally, it features dual connectors allowing you to transfer data between your favourite Apple devices and other devices. You can also take advantage of the iExpand app, on your Apple mobile device with iOS 6.1 and later, to manage your data.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- Its dedicated microSD card slot lets you use it as a memory extension as well as a card reader.
- The double-connection sliding system lets you choose between a Lightning connector or the standard USB connector.
- This gadget is compatible with Windows XP, Windows 7, OS X, Linux, iOS 6.1 and later.
- You no longer need to sync iTunes to transfer your files between Apple devices.
Goodram UME3 Eco-Friendly Flash Drive, For the Environmentally Conscious
Go green with the Goodram UME3 eco-friendly flash drive that has its housing made from 100% biodegradable materials. The Goodram is also resistant to splashes and offers great durability. Its integrated lanyard hole is also great for helping to avoid losing it.
You get 64GB worth of storage with this amazingly priced pen drive. It comes with a USB 3.0 interface that offers you a write speed of up to 20MB/s and a read speed of up to 60MB/s.
Features that make this pen drive a great choice:
- This eco-friendly pen drive is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
- The 100% biodegradable housing helps you reduce your contribution to e-Waste, which is polluting the environment.
- Its earth-inspired design is beautiful and makes it stand apart from the rest of the USB memory sticks.
- The pen drive is highly durable and resistant to accidental splashes.
USB Pen Drives for the Win!
Now that you have found the best USB flash drives you can buy in the UK, you may want to check out our post on solving problems with USB sticks/flash drives before you toss out your old one.
Though USB sticks are not designed for long-term storage needs, you can still find brands offering a five-year warranty or even a lifetime warranty. This is something to consider if you use your portable storage device frequently, as wear-and-tear is a common issue for the connectors.There are many more choices out there that may be right for you. Whether you are looking for a SanDiskExtreme Pro or an iXpand flash drive, you can find your perfect pen drive with us. Get in touch with us to find many more helpful gadgets and products!