Using a flash drive with a lightning connector is a great way to easily move files around from your iPhone without the need for a computer or bulky backup disk. It's particularly handy when you need to transfer many large files quickly, as there aren't the limitations you see from AirDrop.
Many Apple users have replaced their beloved MacBooks with one of the best iPads so intermediary memory devices like a flash drive are becoming more important than ever. The problem is that not every flash drive or memory disk has a lightning connector, so that's why we've picked out the best flash drives that do.
Below, we've highlighted the best flash drives for backing up the best iPhones. Even the latest devices like the iPhone 14 Pro have a lightning connector so you can easily hook up the flash drive to it. There may be rumors of Apple finally switching to USB-C in the future but for now, these flash drives will give you a physical way to back up your data. Here's the pick of the bunch.
The best flash drives to back up your iPhone
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Durable
The iDiskk MFI-certified flash drive is an excellent option whether you're looking to transfer movies and photos or simply keen to free up space on your iPhone. Designed with a durable aluminium build, it includes a free app that supports shooting photos and videos before instantly saving them straight to your flash drive. Perfect for those with limited space.
Apple-friendly
Efficient and affordable, this memory stick offers 128GB of storage space which should suffice for many purposes. It comes in several color options and includes both a Lightning socket and USB port, so you can go between the two with a simple flick of the switch.
It also comes in USB-C
This thumb drive is similar to the one above, featuring a Lightning connector and also a USB-C on the other side. That means it's compatible with the iPad Pro and MacBook, so it's a good choice for those with multiple Apple devices.
Android friendly
For this with both Apple and Android or PC devices, this adaptable memory drive has both USB-C and USB-A connectors. It also has Lightning and micro-USB adapters to ensure it works well across multiple types of device. You're unlucky to find a device it won't work with.
The multitasker
Compatible with any device that uses USB-A, USB-C, Lightning, or micro-USB, this stick from iDiskk is great for versatility. It's essentially a mini-dongle stick that's easy to switch between what you need.
Trusted brand
SanDisk is a reliable brand in the memory world. This particular SanDisk flash drive is designed to transfer your files effortlessly so you can quickly free up space on your iPhone. It automatically backs up all photos and videos, as well as streams videos on the go. It's the perfect accessory to boost your storage needs with a range of options from 32 GB to 256 GB, depending on your needs.
PC friendly
Ideal for PC and iPhone users, the PhotoStick Omni has a USB and Lightning port adapter that works effortlessly between the two. It can store up to 128 GB of files as well as charge your iPhone on the go via its portable battery pack.
Privacy pick
SanDisk continues its reign as a great memory drive company with this mini edition. Our reviewer was particularly impressed with how the SanDisk iXpand will password-protect files, keeping them protected if the drive is lost or stolen. It also has a neat folding design that's streamlined and convenient for storage.
Simple and straightforward
With the flexibility of a regular pen drive, while enhancing your iPhone's storage, the Eatop USB 3.0 Flash Drive has 512GB of space with file encryption options for added safety. It's convenient and flexible so you can't go wrong.
Find the perfect flash drive for your iPhone
While some users might still prefer to rely solely on iCloud, there's never any harm in also using physical storage such as a flash drive with your iPhone. You could always AirDrop files to your Mac once you run out of space, but sometimes AirDrop has a tough time with bigger files or many files at once. Similarly, you could use one of the best cloud storage apps but that can take a while depending on internet speeds. For a physical solution, we're fans of the iDiskk MFI-certified 128GB Photo Stick because of its affordable price and simple design.
If you need to multitask with many types of device, opt for the Picture Keeper Connect. Its's compatible with both iPhones and Android phones, along with PCs and Macs.
If you're worried about longevity -- don't be. Reports suggest that the average flash drive for an iPhone can last from 10,000 to 100,000 write cycles. That means you won't have to worry about replacing it for a while to come. If rumors are anything to go by, your iPhone may have a different connector by then but you'll still find a use for many of these USB drives.
