
Kingston DataTraveler Max 1TB
Score: 88/100
Kingston DataTraveler SE9 256GB
Score: 73/100Rankings

A high-performance 1 TB USB-C flash drive delivering SSD-class speeds in a compact, sliding-connector form factor. It excels in speed and convenience but is bulkier, can heat up, and lacks built-in encryption.

The Kingston DataTraveler SE9 G3 256 GB is a premium, all-metal USB-A flash drive delivering fast read speeds and solid build quality, though its write speed is lower and warranty period shorter than older models.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
1,024 GBbest | 256 GB | |
1,000 MB/sbest | 220 MB/s | |
900 MB/sbest | 100 MB/s | |
60 monthsbest | 60 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 12 gbest | 15 g |
| ↓ lower better | 82.17 mm | 38.1 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 22 mm | 12.7 mmbest |
| ↓ lower better | 9.02 mm | 5.1 mmbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 1024 GB | 256 GB |
Performance(2) | ||
Read Speed (MB/s) | 1000 MB/s | 220 MB/s |
Write Speed (MB/s) | 900 MB/s | 100 MB/s |
Physical(5) | ||
Weight (g) | 12 g | 15.0 g |
Length (mm) | 82.17 mm | 38.1 mm |
Width (mm) | 22.00 mm | 12.7 mm |
Height (mm) | 9.02 mm | 5.1 mm |
Material | Plastic | metal |
Connectivity(1) | ||
USB Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 2 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 |

Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).

Professional reviewers laud the DataTraveler Max for delivering SSD-class speeds in a USB-C flash drive, calling it a game-changing product that rivals external SSDs, while noting the plastic construction, exposed half-connector, and need for a USB 3.2 Gen 2 host to unlock its full potential.
Everyday users are overwhelmingly positive about the drive's blazing fast transfers and convenient sliding design, often highlighting how quickly large video files move; common complaints revolve around heating, bulkier size, lack of encryption, and a cheap plastic feel.

“Transferring 20GB of files takes under 4 minutes.”

“The gold finish can show fingerprints and minor scratches over time.”

“Fast read performance makes it great for large media files.”



Professional reviewers describe the SE9 G3 as a premium upgrade with efficient performance and robust metal protection, highlighting its blazing-fast read speeds and refined design.
Everyday users praise the speed and metal construction, while noting the gold finish shows fingerprints and the write speed can be slower in practice.