Key Differences in Flash Drives Often Go Unnoticed by Shoppers

According to ComputerWorld not all flash drives are created equal, despite wearing the USB 2.0 logo and using flash memory to store data. While the main differentiator to many users is the storage capacity, the average users fails to consider the performance and durability of the flash drive they are buying. ComputerWorld points out that there are two types of flash memory, SLC (single-level cell) and MLC (multi-level cell). The main difference between the two is that SLC is about twice as fast with the trade off of costing twice as much.

Everyone - including ComputerWorld - admits that for the basic users these factors don't really matter and the majority of flash drives available use MLC memory because of the price. SLC memory is also rated to last about twice as long at MLC memory. The catch is that most drives don't tell you what type of memory is used. One of the only ways to tell is the cost, the more expensive a drive the more likely you are getting SLC memory. We always recommend users look for some real world reviews of the drive they are considering purchasing. Some of the better flash drives we have looked at include the Corsair Flash Voyager GT, OCZ ATV Turbo, Sandisk Cruzer Titanium Plus, and the Corsair Flash Survivor GT.

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