I'm looking for a reliable 128GB flash drive that works with my MacBook Air or Pro using an M2 chip. The main priority is fast file-transfer performance, so what specifications or drive types should I look for?
2 Answers
Look for a USB-C flash drive rated for USB 3.0 or, preferably, USB 3.1/3.2. The generation and advertised read/write speeds matter more than simply seeing “USB-C” on the package, since USB-C only describes the connector. Also check whether the drive has a USB-C plug or whether you’ll need an adapter.
If speed is the top priority, consider an NVMe SSD in a USB-C enclosure instead of a typical thumb drive. It will usually be much faster and more consistent, although it’s larger and costs more than a standard 128GB flash drive.
USB 3.2 Gen 2 models are generally a better choice for faster transfers than basic USB 3.0 drives, though the actual speed can vary a lot between brands and especially during long writes.