
SanDisk Cruzer Blade 8GB
Score: 61/100
Kingston Exodia M
Score: 59/100Rankings

The SanDisk Cruzer Blade 8 GB USB 2.0 flash drive features a retractable connector and built-in 128-bit AES encryption in a tiny plastic form factor. Its USB 2.0 speeds are modest (up to ~42 MB/s read, ~12 MB/s write) and the connector can be fragile, making it less suitable for heavy use. Ideal for casual users needing basic storage for documents and small files.

The Kingston Exodia M offers a compact, lightweight design with a protective cap and solid 100 MB/s read performance. Its plastic build and unspecified write speeds limit its appeal for power users. Best suited for students and casual users needing affordable portable storage.
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
8 GB | 256 GBbest | |
41.67 MB/s | 100 MB/sbest | |
12 MB/sbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.5 gbest | 20 g |
5 yearsbest | 5 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
Storage(1) | ||
Storage Capacity (GB) | 8 GB | 256 GB |
Performance(1) | ||
Read Speed (MB/s) | 41.67 MB/s | 100 MB/s |
Connectivity(2) | ||
USB Version | USB 2.0 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 |
Interface Type | USB‑A (retractable) | Type-A |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 2.5 g | 20 g |
Dimensions (L×W×H) (mm) | 17.53×7.37×1 mm mm | 11.7×21.8×67.3 mm mm |
Compatibility(1) | ||
OS Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows 11/10, macOS 12.7.6+, Linux 4.4.x+, Chrome OS |

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

Professional reviewers describe the Cruzer Blade as a fairly average performer that meets the needs of most everyday users but falls short for enthusiasts due to its lackluster write speeds, fragile connector, and missing status LED. They acknowledge its good read speeds and convenient retractable design, yet recommend faster USB-3.0 alternatives for demanding workloads.
Everyday consumers appreciate the drive's tiny, cap-less design, plug-and-play ease, and reliable storage for documents, photos, and a few movies, often calling it perfect for basic work files. However, many express frustration over the very slow write speeds and occasional connector flexing, especially when urgent large-file transfers are needed.

“"perfect" for work files”

“"fairly average performer"”

“writes "disappointing" (2.8-3.3 MB/s)”




Professional reviewers stress the Exodia's reliable USB 3.2 Gen 1 performance, practical cap and keyring design, and the reassurance of a five-year warranty.
Everyday users mention that the drive meets basic storage needs and appreciates its lightweight feel and portability, but note that speeds can be inconsistent and the cap may be lost if not attached.