Amazon Basics USB 3.1 Flash Drive - 256 GB
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Product Information
Full details
This Amazon Basics USB 3.1 Flash Drive is designed for users needing fast and reliable portable storage for large files, such as Full HD/4K videos and high-resolution photos. Its key benefit is rapid data transfer, significantly faster than USB 2.0 drives, allowing for quick file management. A caveat to be aware of is the potential for actual usable storage to be slightly less than advertised due to formatting and operating system requirements, and the default FAT32 format limitation for files over 4GB.
All features
| Series | USB 3.1 Flash Drive |
|---|---|
| Brand | Amazon Basics |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
What is the actual usable storage capacity of the 256 GB drive?
The actual usable storage capacity will be slightly less than 256 GB due to the way storage is measured and the space required for the drive's file system. It will be higher than 230GB.
Can I use this drive with a USB 2.0 port?
Yes, the drive is backward compatible with USB 2.0 ports, but speeds will be significantly slower than its USB 3.1 capabilities.
How do I format the drive if I need to transfer files over 4GB?
You can reformat the drive to exFAT or NTFS. Connect the drive to your computer, right-click on the drive in File Explorer (Windows) or select the drive in Disk Utility (macOS), and choose the 'Format' option. Select exFAT or NTFS and proceed. Warning: Reformatting will erase all data on the drive.
What type of files can I store on this drive?
You can store any type of digital file, including documents, photos, videos, music, and software. It's particularly well-suited for large media files like Full HD/4K videos and high-resolution photos due to its speed and capacity.
Is this drive compatible with Mac and Windows computers?
Yes, it is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems out of the box, as the default FAT32 format is readable and writable on both.
How do I protect the USB connector?
The drive features a telescopic design. Simply slide the connector back into the housing when the drive is not in use. This protects it from physical damage and dust.
Troubleshooting
Drive is not recognized by the computer
Ensure the drive is fully inserted into the USB port. Try using a different USB port, preferably a USB 3.0 port if available. Restart your computer and try again. Check Disk Management (Windows) or Disk Utility (macOS) to see if the drive is listed.
Cannot transfer files larger than 4GB
The default FAT32 format has a 4GB file size limit. Reformat the drive to exFAT or NTFS (ensure your device supports NTFS if formatting to it). Note that reformatting will erase all data on the drive.
Slow transfer speeds
Ensure the drive is connected to a USB 3.0 or higher port for maximum speed. Close other applications that may be using system resources. Verify that the files being transferred are not fragmented. Actual speeds can vary based on the computer's performance and the type/size of files being transferred.
Drive shows less capacity than advertised
This is normal. Operating systems use slightly different measurement standards for storage capacity, and some space is used for formatting and drive management. The actual usable capacity will be slightly less than the labeled amount.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0.
- Ample storage capacity for large media files.
- Backward compatible with older USB 2.0 ports.
- Durable design with a protective retractable connector.
- Easy to use with plug-and-play functionality.
Cons
- Actual usable storage may be slightly less than labeled capacity.
- Default FAT32 format restricts individual file sizes to 4GB.
- Read speeds can vary based on the host device and conditions.
- Not ideal for devices with strict extended storage formatting requirements without reformatting.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup: The Amazon Basics USB 3.1 Flash Drive is a 'Plug and Play' device. Simply insert the drive into an available USB port on your computer or compatible device. No software installation is required. The drive will be automatically recognized.
Compatibility: This drive is compatible with devices featuring USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports. It is functional with operating systems such as Windows and macOS. For optimal performance, use with a USB 3.0 or higher port. Note that some devices, like certain gaming consoles, may have specific requirements for external storage formatting.
Care: The drive features a telescopic design; ensure the connector is fully retracted when not in use to protect it from damage. Avoid exposing the drive to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight. Keep the USB connector clean; if necessary, use a dry, lint-free cloth to clean it. Do not use liquids or harsh chemicals.