Kingston DataTraveler Micro 256GB
Score: 70/100
Kingston DataTraveler Max 1TB
Score: 88/100Rankings
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 Micro 256 GB USB-A flash drive combines an ultra-compact metal case with USB 3.2 Gen 1 speeds, a built-in key loop, and a 5-year warranty, making it a premium plug-and-stay solution for high-capacity portable storage.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
256 GB | 1,024 GBbest | |
200 MB/s | 1,000 MB/sbest | |
20 MB/s | 900 MB/sbest | |
60 monthsbest | 60 monthsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 9 gbest | 12 g |
| ↓ lower better | 24.95 mmbest | 82.17 mm |
| ↓ lower better | 12.2 mmbest | 22 mm |
| ↓ lower better | 4.5 mmbest | 9.02 mm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Storage(1) | ||
Capacity (GB) | 256 GB | 1024 GB |
Performance(2) | ||
Read Speed (MB/s) | 200 MB/s | 1000 MB/s |
Write Speed (MB/s) | 20 MB/s | 900 MB/s |
Physical(5) | ||
Weight (g) | 9 g | 12 g |
Length (mm) | 24.95 mm | 82.17 mm |
Width (mm) | 12.2 mm | 22.00 mm |
Height (mm) | 4.5 mm | 9.02 mm |
Material | Metal | Plastic |
Connectivity(1) | ||
USB Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers and editors highlight the drive's efficient low-profile metal design, its USB 3.2 Gen 1 performance boost over older USB 2.0 drives, and its broad OS compatibility, positioning it as a premium plug-and-stay solution for modern computers.
Everyday users praise the drive's fast read speeds, tiny footprint, and sleek look, but many complain about lower-than-advertised write speeds, occasional premature failures, and limited durability when subjected to constant physical wear.
“lightning fast”
“solidly built”
“stopped enumerating”
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.
