I tested the Raspberry Pi Flash Drive - and its 4K write speed beats competing models
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Comes in 128 GB and 256 GB storage options
- Constructed from tough, heat‑dissipating aluminum
- Write speeds are passable for both, but the 150 MB/s for the larger drive is amazing
One thing that you can always be sure of when it comes to Raspberry Pi accessories is that they are made to a high quality. The latest Raspberry Pi Flash Drive lives up to that reputation.
When the news broke about the drive, it was pitched as the perfect accessory for those who want high‑speed storage that goes beyond what a microSD card can offer, without the hassle of a fixed solution like the M.2 HAT+ (which is only compatible with the Pi 5).
Removable drives are handy in industrial settings and for NAS boxes. The USB flash‑drive form factor remains useful, especially when encased in heat‑dissipating aluminum with the Raspberry Pi logo etched into the shell.
Unique features
- SMART health reporting and TRIM support – rare among consumer flash drives.
- Robust construction that dissipates heat effectively, even under sustained loads.
How it performs
The 256 GB variant can achieve a sequential write speed of 150 MB/s, roughly double the 128 GB model. In testing, both capacities delivered the advertised speeds and handled heavy, sustained loads without overheating.
The drive does not replace existing storage options; Raspberry Pi still supports microSD cards and M.2 SSDs. This flash drive simply adds another viable choice for users who prefer a portable USB solution.
ZDNET’s buying advice
The Raspberry Pi Flash Drive is a solid option for anyone looking for something better than a typical microSD card or a generic flash drive. It also serves as a good upgrade path for Pi 4 or earlier models that cannot use the M.2 HAT+.
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