Which fast USB flash drive is best? The best and fastest USB flash drives are generally going to be SSD or Solid State. Assuming your computer supports USB 3.0 or higher, flash thumb drives that are Solid State (SSD) are much more pleasant to work with than NAND-based drives.
SSDs make for some of the best USB flash drives due to their greatly increased read and write speeds (often up to ten times faster). They also tend to last longer and be much more reliable. This is because they are not affected by the reduced write limitations imposed on NAND cells. So theoretically, it is possible to boot and run an uncompressed full operating system from SSD memory, without the fear of premature failure.
My background using fast USB drives
Over the past 18+ years, I have had the opportunity to work with, use, and speed test hundreds of portable external USB devices; commonly referred to as UFD, flash drives, pen drives, thumb drives, and memory sticks. I have found some that work great as bootable USB drives, while others do not.
So, in an effort to help others avoid purchasing unreliable and slow flash drives, I am sharing my experience by outlining my top pick of high-quality fast solid-state flash drives. Also included are recommended NVMe SSD drives for those who want to utilize the fastest throughput a USB 3.2 port can offer.
What is the fastest USB flash drive for 2025?
The top spot is currently held by an AXE Memory branded Solid State thumb drive named Speedy+. I feel this SSD tops my fastest USB flash drive list and I think it's overall the best USB flash drive or memory stick you can currently buy.
#1 AXE Speedy+ SSD flash thumb drive
The AXE Speedy+ SSD flash thumb drive offered by AXE Memory is, in my opinion, one of the best USB flash drives you'll find. Boasting up to 600 MB/s read and 500 MB/s write speeds, (I'm getting over 600 MBs read/write speeds) it is extremely fast. This device uses Solid State UASP SCSI flash memory and just like the SanDisk Pro 1TB flash drive, it is also configured from the factory to be detected as a "Local Disk" instead of removable media "USB Drive".
Speedy+ performance metrics shine when used in conjunction with the latest 3.2 Gen2 USB standard (even hanging with some of the top NVME SSD performers). This device utilizes USB 3.2 Gen2 UASP SuperSpeed+
How Fast is the AXE Speedy+?
It's FAST - here is a benchmark speed test I performed using CrystalDiskMark. This bench test was performed with the flash thumb drive plugged into a USB 3.2 port to maximize throughput potential:
At about 2/3 the overall size of a SanDisk Pro, this thumb drive is also the smallest of the bunch.
The Speedy+ USB 3.2 Gen2 UASP SuperSpeed+ flash drive is often on sale, making it also one of the best values of this list. This is currently my pick of the fastest USB flash thumb drive at the best value. I've moved it to top place as it has been reliably outperforming the others.
Where to buy a Speedy+ SSD flash drive?
You can learn more about the AXE Speedy+ from the product link below.
Speedy+ SSD flash drive (up to 600MB/s read 500MB/s write)
#2 SanDisk Extreme Pro SSD
2nd place: The SanDisk Extreme Pro - One of the most dependable fastest USB flash drives.
SanDisk (now owned by Western Digital) has always offered some of the best, fastest, and most reliable flash drives money can buy. Providing up to 420 MB per second read speeds, and 380+ MB per second write speeds, the SanDisk Extreme Pro SSD is an exceptional drive. Covering both speed and reliability, this is my 2nd choice. I have used mine for several years to test hundreds of portable installs, without failure.
How Fast is the SanDisk Extreme Pro?
The SanDisk Extreme Pro is no longer the fastest drive out there, but it is still pretty quick. Here is a typical real-world benchmark speed test result for the newer SanDisk Pro 3.2 USB flash drive, performed on a Lenovo laptop with the device connected to a USB 3.2 port. All things considered, the actual real-world performance is pretty good. Perhaps no longer the fastest USB flash drive I have personally tested, but it has reliably seen the most use and survived the longest so far.
Though it doesn't take the crown, over time, the Extreme Pro has still proven to be one of the fastest USB flash drives. More importantly, it has also been my most reliable USB flash drive to this day. I think the reliability and consistent speed of the SanDisk Extreme Pro drive comes from how well it dissipates heat while under heavy use. Its housing seems to work like a heat sink. This is the most reliable fastest USB flash drive I have used to date.
Where to Buy a SanDisk Extreme Pro?
SanDisk Extreme PRO USB 3.2 SSD Flash Drive (New version) - SDCZ880-256G-GAM46
#3 SSK SSD USB Flash Drive
3rd place: The SSK USB C – A Fast, Affordable USB Flash Drive
The SSK USB C SSD flash drive stands out for being both budget-friendly and exceptionally fast. Offering read speeds up to 550MB/s and write speeds of 500MB/s, it outperforms many traditional USB flash drives, including some higher-priced options like SanDisk.
This dual-drive flash drive comes equipped with both USB-C and USB-A 3.2 ports, providing seamless data transfer between your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Whether you're working with high-resolution photos, videos, or large files, the SSK USB flash drive helps you move your data quickly and efficiently.
How Fast is the SSK Solid State Flash Drive?
Benchmark tests show the SSK flash drive delivers read and write speeds over 500MB/s, outperforming many local department store options. It offers excellent value for those seeking speed without breaking the bank.
Where to Buy the SSK SSD Flash Drive?
You can read more about and purchase the SSK USB flash drive via the link below.
SSK Solid State USB Flash Drive
Which USB flash drive is Best?
The SanDisk Extreme Pro Series USB drives have historically been my go-to first choice. Those memory sticks are phenomenally reliable and fast for a thumb drive. However, the AXE is noticeably faster and is currently my favorite.
The Speedy+ SSD flash drive by AXE has still been proving to provide excellent performance and value at the smallest form factor. Alongside the SanDisk Extreme Pro, it's also turned out to be one of my most reliable USB flash drives. Previously marked as my first choice for best fast USB flash drive, I've recently moved the AXE Speedy+ up to number 1 due to the combination of price/performance/consistency.
Best Choice for Speed, Reliability & Value
AXE Speedy+ SSD Flash Drive
The AXE Speedy+ SSD stands out as the top pick for those seeking the ultimate combination of speed, reliability, and value. With read speeds of 600 MB/s and write speeds of 500 MB/s, it outperforms many other USB flash drives in its class. Its small form factor and durable design make it ideal for users who need both performance and portability. Additionally, its USB 3.2 Gen 2 UASP SuperSpeed+ interface ensures ultra-fast data transfers, making it the perfect choice for heavy data tasks like booting operating systems, video editing, and large file transfers. If you're looking for a top-of-the-line USB flash drive at an affordable price, the AXE Speedy+ is the best overall.
SanDisk Extreme Pro USB 3.2 Solid State Thumb Drive
The SanDisk Extreme Pro USB 3.2 Solid State Thumb Drive has been a trusted name in the flash drive industry for years. While it may not be the absolute fastest compared to newer models, it still delivers an impressive 420 MB/s read speed and 380 MB/s write speed. What sets the SanDisk Extreme Pro apart is its exceptional durability and reliability, which is ideal for those who require a flash drive for long-term, consistent performance. Its metal housing is heat-resistant, which is essential for users transferring large amounts of data over extended periods. This is the go-to option if you prioritize reliability and long-lasting use, making it a strong second choice.
SSK USB C SSD Flash Drive (Affordable Alternative)
If you're on a budget but still want excellent speed and performance, the SSK USB C SSD Flash Drive is the best value option. Offering read speeds of 550 MB/s and write speeds of 500 MB/s, it delivers solid performance that competes with higher priced options. The added benefit of being USB-C compatible makes it highly versatile, allowing it to work seamlessly across a variety of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Whether you're transferring photos, videos, or documents, the SSK drive provides great speed without breaking the bank. It's perfect for users who want fast speeds and compatibility without spending too much.
Fast USB Flash Drive Comparison Chart
| Feature | Axe Speedy+ SSD Flash Drive | SanDisk Extreme Pro SSD | SSK USB C SSD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Affordable | Higher | Budget friendly |
| Read Speed | Up to 600 MB/s | Up to 420 MB/s | Up to 550 MB/s |
| Write Speed | Up to 500 MB/s | Up to 380 MB/s | Up to 500 MB/s |
| USB Standard | USB 3.2 Gen 2 UASP | USB 3.2 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 UASP |
| Durability | High | High | Good |
Choosing the Best USB Flash Drive
When selecting a USB flash drive, consider the following:
- Speed: Look for both read/write speeds to be above 300 MB/s.
- Durability: Metal housings are more durable and Solid State USB flash drives last longer.
- Port compatibility: USB-C and USB 3.2 provide the best performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes SSD flash drives faster than NAND drives?
- SSD drives use advanced memory controllers and protocols like UASP, enabling significantly higher speeds.
- Can I boot an operating system from an SSD flash drive?
- Yes! SSD flash drives are ideal for booting uncompressed OSes without any major wear concerns.
In summary, when choosing the fastest USB flash drive, the AXE Speedy+ SSD stands out as the best overall option, offering an excellent combination of speed, reliability, and value. Whether you need it for large file transfers, operating system booting, or video editing, it delivers top-notch performance. For those who prioritize reliability and long-term durability, the SanDisk Extreme Pro continues to be a dependable choice, with proven performance over time. If you're on a budget but still want high-speed performance, the SSK USB C SSD is a fantastic option, offering solid speeds and versatility without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget, but these three drives represent the top performers in the market today.