I Tested Lexar and Sandisk in 2024 and Got SHOCKING Results

Which one is truly worth your money? Let’s break it down!

So, I finally decided to test three popular pen drives in 2024, and the results were… well, let's say, surprising! If you're like me, always on the hunt for reliable yet budget-friendly tech, buckle up. I compared SanDisk Ultra Flair 64GB USB 3.0, Lexar JumpDrive S80 64GB USB 3.1, and HP 712w 64GB USB 3.2 to see which one stands out in real-world performance. Spoiler alert: the price tag doesn't always equal speed! Here's the scoop.

1. The Contenders

SanDisk Ultra Flair 64GB USB 3.0

Lexar JumpDrive S80 64GB USB 3.1

HP 712w 64GB USB 3.2

2. Performance Comparison: What Surprised Me

After testing these pen drives over several days, I realized that real-world performance doesn’t always match up with flashy specs. Let’s dive into how they actually performed:

SanDisk Ultra Flair (3.0)

This one came in at ₹489, so I expected solid performance. It delivered speeds in the range of 30-40 MB/s, which is fairly decent for a USB 3.0 drive. Its build quality is good enough for regular use, and it's compact and light. However, the real surprise was how close its performance was to higher-priced drives. If you’re on a tight budget and just need something reliable for day-to-day use, this one’s a solid choice.

  • Pros:
    • Affordable price.
    • Decent read/write speeds for basic tasks.
    • Durable metal casing.
  • Cons:
    • Gets heated after continuous usage.
    • Speed might not be sufficient for handling large files like 4K videos.

Lexar JumpDrive S80 (3.1)

Now, this was supposed to be the star performer, priced at ₹699. With its USB 3.1 label, I expected at least 100 MB/s write speeds, but during my tests, I found that the write speed barely touched 30-40 MB/s, though the read speeds did hit 150 MB/s as advertised. Disappointing for the price, but it’s fantastic for quick file access.

  • Pros:
    • Super fast read speeds, perfect for opening large files.
    • Sleek and premium design.
    • Ideal for transferring large files like movies or game backups.
  • Cons:
    • Expensive compared to other options.
    • Write speeds not significantly better than SanDisk or HP.

HP 712w (3.2)

Here’s where it gets interesting. At just ₹399, HP’s offering gives you everything the more expensive drives offer, 30-40 MB/s speed, at a lower price. The downside is that it’s bulkier compared to the other two, but if you’re just looking for basic storage, HP 712w is a steal.

  • Pros:
    • Cheapest option with comparable speeds.
    • Simple, no-frills design.
    • Great for casual use, backup storage.
  • Cons:
    • Bulky design might not appeal to everyone.
    • Lacks the premium feel and fast read speed of the Lexar.

3. So, Which One Should You Buy?

After testing all three, here’s my take:

  • For Budget Buyers: The HP 712w takes the crown. At ₹399, you’re getting similar performance to pricier options. If you just need reliable storage without breaking the bank, go for HP.
  • For Speed Enthusiasts: If you’re looking for fast read speeds and often need to access large files quickly, then Lexar JumpDrive S80 is worth the splurge. However, if you need faster write speeds, you might want to keep looking.
  • For Overall Value: SanDisk Ultra Flair is the middle ground. Affordable, reliable, and with performance that won’t disappoint the average user, it's a great everyday carry for your data needs.

Final Thoughts

In 2024, it’s clear that price doesn’t always reflect performance when it comes to USB drives. While Lexar impressed with its read speeds, HP stole the show in terms of value for money. If you’re looking for a decent USB drive that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, SanDisk and HP offer great alternatives. Choose wisely!

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