Top USB C Memory Options for Modern Computers
For most people, the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD is the top pick. It offers blazing fast NVMe speeds in a rugged design. Its main advantage is sustained transfer rates for large files. The main limitation is its higher cost per gigabyte.
USB C has become the standard port for modern computers. It offers fast data transfer and a reversible connector. For expanding storage, you have two main options: portable SSDs and flash drives.
Portable SSDs provide higher speeds and capacities. Flash drives are more compact and budget friendly. This roundup compares the best USB C memory devices for different needs.
Our top picks
SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD
This is a top tier portable SSD that offers NVMe speeds up to 2000MB/s. It is built to withstand drops and water splashes. Owners report fast transfers and reliable performance.
Pros
- Extremely fast transfers
- Rugged build with carabiner loop
- Backward compatible with USB C
Cons
- Can get warm during heavy use
- Higher price per GB
Samsung T7 Shield
The T7 Shield is a rugged portable SSD with IP65 water and dust resistance. It offers read speeds up to 1050 MB/s. It is known for its compact size and reliable performance.
Pros
- Excellent ruggedness
- Consistent performance
- Lightweight and pocket friendly
Cons
- Slower than NVMe competitors
- No hardware encryption
Crucial X9 Pro
The Crucial X9 Pro is a portable SSD with read speeds up to 1050 MB/s. It is designed for content creators and professionals. It offers excellent reliability and a sleek design.
Pros
- High sustained write speeds
- Slim and lightweight
- Five year limited warranty
Cons
- Not the fastest NVMe
- Some users report heat buildup
WD My Passport SSD
The WD My Passport SSD offers hardware encryption with password protection. It provides read speeds up to 1050 MB/s. It is a reliable choice for sensitive data.
Pros
- Built in password protection
- Compact and durable
- Good software backup features
Cons
- Slightly slower than top NVMe
- Software can be intrusive
SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go
This flash drive has both USB C and USB A connectors. It is ideal for moving files between devices. It offers moderate speeds and a swivel design.
Pros
- Dual connector for versatility
- Compact and portable
- Easy file management app
Cons
- Slower than SSDs
- Plastic build feels less durable
Samsung BAR Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive
The Samsung BAR Plus is a durable metal flash drive with USB C. It offers read speeds up to 400 MB/s. It is a reliable and affordable option for everyday storage.
Pros
- Rugged metal body
- Fast for a flash drive
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Write speeds are slower
- No USB A connector
Kingston DataTraveler Max
The Kingston DataTraveler Max is a USB C flash drive with capacities up to 1TB. It offers read speeds up to 1000 MB/s. It is a premium flash drive for large file transfers.
Pros
- Very high capacity for a flash drive
- Fast read speeds
- Durable metal design
Cons
- Write speeds are slower than read
- Can get warm during extended use
What to look for
How they compare
| # | Model | Capacity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | Best overall for speed and durability | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Samsung T7 Shield | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | Best rugged portable SSD | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Crucial X9 Pro | 1TB, 2TB, 4TB | Best for professionals needing fast transfers | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | WD My Passport SSD | 500GB, 1TB, 2TB | Best for password protection | 8.7 | Check price |
| 5 | SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, 512GB | Best for phone and computer file transfer | 8.5 | Check price |
| 6 | Samsung BAR Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | Best budget friendly USB C flash drive | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Kingston DataTraveler Max | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB | Best high capacity flash drive | 8.1 | Check price |
Good to know
Can I use a USB C flash drive with a USB A port?
Some flash drives have dual connectors. If not, you need an adapter or a cable with two ends.
Are portable SSDs faster than USB C flash drives?
Yes, portable SSDs have faster read and write speeds, especially for large files.
Will a USB C memory device work with my MacBook?
Most USB C devices are compatible with MacBooks. Check the file system format; some may need reformatting for macOS.
What is the difference between USB 3.2 Gen 1 and Gen 2?
Gen 1 has a maximum speed of 5 Gbps, while Gen 2 doubles that to 10 Gbps. Gen 2 is faster for data transfer.
Can I use a USB C flash drive with my Android phone?
Yes, if your phone supports USB On The Go (OTG), you can connect the drive directly.
How do I transfer files from a USB C drive to my computer?
Plug the drive into a USB C port. The drive appears as an external storage device. Then drag and drop files.
Are there any security features on USB C memory?
Some SSDs offer hardware encryption and password protection. Flash drives may have software encryption, but it is not as robust.
What capacity should I choose?
For documents, 64GB is often enough. For photos and videos, consider 256GB or more. For large backups, go with 1TB or above.
Can I boot my computer from a USB C drive?
Yes, if the drive is fast enough and your computer supports booting from USB. You may need to create a bootable drive with your OS.
Why is my USB C drive not recognized?
Check if the drive is properly inserted. Ensure your computer’s USB port works. Try a different port or cable. Also, check if the drive needs formatting.
Our take
For most people, the SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD is the best choice. It offers top speed and durability. If you need a rugged drive for outdoor work, the Samsung T7 Shield is excellent. For a budget friendly option, the Samsung BAR Plus provides good value for everyday use.
