The Best USB Flash Drives to Store Music

Just Buy This (All Around Best)

SanDisk 256GB Ultra Dual Drive Go USB Type-C

$24 $22 at Amazon

TL;DR: With 256GB of storage space, USB-A and USB-C connectivity, blazing fast read speeds of up to 420Mbps, and write speeds of up to 380Mbps, the SanDisk 256GB Ultra Dual Drive Go can access and store files in no time.

Why We Recommend It

After testing more than 10 USB flash drives, the SanDisk 256GB Ultra Dual Drive Go USB Type-C flash drive immediately stands out with its well-rounded offerings.

For starters, its 256GB storage capacity is exceptional. To put it in perspective, it can store roughly 50,000 songs, assuming it's only storing MP3 files at a 128kbps bit rate.

Holding only high-quality 320kbps MP3 files will allow you to store roughly 12,000 songs, whereas lossless and heavier file-size audio formats like FLAC and WAV will run you no more than 7,000 songs.

We also appreciate SanDisk's impressive read and write speeds, reaching 420Mbps and 380Mbps, respectively. These speeds are exceptionally fast for a USB flash drive for music, with many higher-end ones topping out at 300Mbps.

The same applies to its 380Mbps writing speeds, which are anomalous in a world where most flash drives range between 50Mbps and 300Mbps.

Kudos for the included SanDisk Memory Zone app (for Android only), which allows you to automatically back up photos to the cloud for extra peace of mind.

In terms of design, the SanDisk is ultra-compact, measuring no more than an inch and a half long. Its center 360-degree swivel allows you to separate the USB-C and USB-A ports.

It also includes a keyring hole, allowing you to attach your drive to your keys, pocket strap, or anywhere you need easy access.

Our only complaint is that this USB flash drive is made of somewhat flimsy plastic, not aluminum or another durable material. We'd be cautious about carrying this in a pocket or backpack without padding.

If you can forgive its somewhat flimsy construction in favor of blistering fast read/write speeds and high storage capacity are essential to you, then the SanDisk 256GB Ultra Dual Drive Go USB Type-C Flash Drive is an excellent bet.

• Who else recommends it? Popular Mechanics also commends the SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Go for its fast performance and USB-C flexibility.
• What do buyers say? This SanDisk USB flash drive has over 30,000 reviews and an average 4.4-star rating on Amazon. Buyers commend its impressive storage capacity, speeds, and ability to reduce the need for adapters.

Also Great

SanDisk iXpand Luxe Flash Drive

$40 at Amazon $70 $40 at Walmart $55 $46 at Best Buy

TL;DR: The SanDisk iXpand Luxe for iPhone and USB Type-C Devices follows our top overall pick, a head-turner with its sleek metal casing.

Why We Recommend It

The SanDisk iXpand Luxe for iPhone and USB Type-C Devices is a powerhouse USB flash drive tailored for storing your favorite playlists.

Its specifications include Lightning and USB Type-C compatibility, making it equally functional with iPhones, iPads, and Android devices.

However, it's worth noting that its read and write speeds are not as robust, peaking at 90Mbps and 35Mbps, respectively. Consequently, transferring your entire music library from another device may take several hours.

If you're willing to accept moderate read and write speeds, the SanDisk's metal casing and sleek profile offer ample compensation.

Equipped with two connectors and a central 360-degree swivel, it's easy to connect to a laptop, smartphone, or desktop port.

Moreover, it withstands bumps and knocks well, minimizing scratches, while remaining relatively compact (about double the length of the SanDisk 256GB Ultra Dual Drive).

If there's one aspect of its design we'd like to change, it's the provided plastic end cap. It doesn't fit snugly in place and poses a risk of falling off and misplacing it.

Overall, we recommend this option primarily for users with moderate storage needs who prioritize durability.

• Who else recommends it? Wired and CultofMac also like the SanDisk iXpand Luxe for its expanded compatibility, even for iPhone with Lightning ports, and any kind of laptop or tablet.
• What do buyers say? The iXpand Flash Drive garners exceptional praise on Amazon, boasting an average 4.3-star rating from over 8,000 reviews.

Easiest on the Budget

Kingston DataTraveler 70

$20 at Amazon

TL;DR: The Kingston DataTraveler won't break the bank and offers plenty of storage.

Why We Recommend It

The Kingston DataTraveler 70 is our favorite budget-friendly USB drive for general use and music storage.

Like our other favorites, it has a 256GB capacity, which is a great value for the $20 price tag.

Read and write speeds fall more into the average camp at up to 100Mbps (which means sub-10-second transfer rates) and up to 30 to 35Mbps, respectively. However, we noticed virtually no lag time when opening files, which sets this model apart. 

While its no-frills design isn't as exciting or protective as competitors, the DataTraveler 70 is a capable performer on a budget.

• Who else recommends it? Tom’s Hardware has also said positive things about the Kingston DataTraveler and highlights that it outperforms generic options on the market.
• What do buyers say? This flash drive has over 250 generally positive reviews and an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon.