Kingston DataTraveler Kyson 64GB Metal Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How each alternative compares

iStorage datAshur PRO 8GB Encrypted Flash Drive

The iStorage datAshur PRO offers 8GB of storage, which is significantly less than the Kingston’s 64GB. It prioritizes security over capacity, featuring hardware PIN authentication and FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certification. This drive is waterproof, adding durability that the Kingston lacks. You should choose this if you handle sensitive documents requiring strict compliance. It gives up high-speed data transfer for robust protection. The compact metal body is smaller than the Kingston, making it easier to carry but limiting its use for large media files. It is ideal for professionals who need secure, small-file storage rather than general-purpose high-capacity drives.

Integral 64GB Courier Encrypted USB 3.0 Flash Drive

The Integral Courier-197 matches the Kingston’s 64GB capacity but adds 256-bit AES encryption and FIPS 197 compliance. It uses a USB 3.0 interface, similar to the Kingston’s USB-A connector. This drive is designed for secure storage of sensitive small files. It gives up the Kingston’s high read speeds for enhanced data protection. The blue casing is smaller and lighter than the Kingston’s metal body. You should pick this if data privacy is your main concern. It is less suitable for transferring large video files due to its security focus. The drive offers a balance of capacity and encryption, fitting users who need Kingston’s size but with added security features for regulated information.

Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3Z 16GB

The Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3Z provides only 16GB of storage, much less than the Kingston’s 64GB. It focuses on rugged durability and top-tier security with 256-bit AES encryption and FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certification. This drive is built for high-security users who prioritize data protection over capacity. It gives up the Kingston’s high read speeds and larger storage for a certified, tamper-resistant design. The black metal body is compact and sturdy. You should choose this if you need certified encryption for sensitive data. It is not ideal for general media storage due to its limited capacity. The drive suits professionals who require physical durability and strict security standards for their USB drives.

iStorage datAshur Personal2 32GB Encrypted Flash Drive

The iStorage datAshur Personal2 offers 32GB of storage, half of the Kingston’s 64GB. It features password protection for secure storage of sensitive regulated data. This drive is designed for professionals who prioritize encryption over high capacity. It gives up the Kingston’s high read speeds and larger storage for enhanced security. The black casing is smaller and lighter than the Kingston’s metal body. You should pick this if you handle regulated data requiring password protection. It is less suitable for large media files due to its smaller capacity. The drive offers a secure option for users who need Kingston’s portability but with added password features for sensitive information. It fits those who value security over sheer storage volume.

Samsung 128GB USB 3.1 Type-A Flash Drive

The Samsung 128GB USB 3.1 drive offers double the Kingston’s 64GB capacity. It uses a USB-A connector, similar to the Kingston. This drive features a durable metal construction, matching the Kingston’s rugged design. It is ideal for general file storage with high capacity. You should choose this if you need more space for media and backups. It gives up the Kingston’s specific capless design for a larger, standard metal body. The drive is lighter and more compact than the Kingston. It suits users who prioritize metal durability and high capacity over the Kingston’s specific form factor. It is a strong alternative for those needing more storage in a similar durable package.

Samsung 256GB USB 3.1 Flash Drive

The Samsung 256GB USB 3.1 drive offers four times the Kingston’s 64GB capacity. It features a champagne silver metal design, similar to the Kingston’s metal casing. This drive is built for large capacity and durable metal design. It gives up the Kingston’s high read speeds for significantly more storage space. The drive is lighter and more compact than the Kingston. You should pick this if you need reliable, large-scale storage for media and backups. It is ideal for users who prioritize capacity and metal construction over the Kingston’s specific features. The drive suits those who need more space for large files while maintaining a durable, portable design. It is a strong alternative for high-capacity needs.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Kingston DataTraveler Kyson 64GB Metal USB Drive

Best for: Users needing fast read speeds and a capless design

Storage Capacity

64GB

USB Version

USB 3.2

Connector Type

USB-A

Read Speed

200MB/s

Pack Quantity

5

Dimensions

8.5 × 6.3 × 4.8 inches

View on Amazon: Kingston DataTraveler Kyson 64GB Metal USB Drive Affiliate link

The Kingston DataTraveler Kyson is a 64GB USB-A flash drive with a capless metal body. It offers read speeds up to 200MB/s and write speeds up to 60MB/s. The design includes a functional loop for portability. This drive suits users who need reliable, fast transfers for photos and videos without the hassle of a separate cap.

Pros

• Read speeds up to 200MB/s
• Capless metal design prevents loss
• 64GB storage capacity
• Functional loop for carrying

Cons

• Write speeds capped at 60MB/s
• Limited 64GB capacity compared to peers
• No hardware encryption

Good fit if

• You want fast read speeds for media
• You prefer a capless metal build
• You need 64GB for daily files

Skip if

• You require hardware encryption
• You need more than 64GB
• You want write speeds over 60MB/s

Verdict: Kingston DataTraveler Kyson 64GB Metal delivers high read speeds and a durable capless design for users prioritizing transfer efficiency and portability over large capacity or encryption.

2 Best 8gb

iStorage datAshur PRO 8GB Encrypted Flash Drive

Best for: PIN-protected sensitive documents and compliance needs

Storage Capacity

8 GB

USB Version

USB 3.2

Read Speed

Up to 169MB/s

Security Standard

FIPS 140-2 Level 3, AES-XTS 256-bit

Size

8GB

Security Features

FIPS 140-2 Level 3, Password Protection

View on Amazon: iStorage datAshur PRO 8GB Encrypted Flash Drive Affiliate link

This USB 3.2 flash drive gives you 8 GB of storage paired with hardware-level security. You unlock the drive using a physical 7 to 15 digit PIN, which engages AES-XTS 256-bit encryption without extra software. It offers read speeds up to 169MB/s, write speeds up to 135MB/s, and IP57 dust and water resistance. It suits anyone needing strict compliance and certified data defense.

Pros

• FIPS 140-2 Level 3 and AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
• PIN keypad authentication without requiring software
• IP57 rated for dust and water resistance
• Transfer speeds up to 169MB/s read and 135MB/s write

Cons

• 8 GB capacity is the smallest on this list
• Bulky 3.15-inch length and 0.88-ounce weight

Good fit if

• You need FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified hardware encryption.
• You authenticate access via an onboard PIN keypad without installing software.
• You require an IP57 dust- and water-resistant casing for field use.

Skip if

• You need more than 8 GB of storage space for large files.
• You prefer an ultra-compact or lightweight flash drive.

Verdict: iStorage datAshur PRO 8GB Encrypted Flash Drive fits professionals who prioritize hardware PIN authentication and FIPS-certified security over high-capacity storage.

3 Also great

Integral 64GB Courier Encrypted USB 3.0 Flash Drive

Best for: Secure storage of sensitive small files

Storage Capacity

64GB

USB Version

USB 3.0

Security Standard

FIPS 197, AES 256-bit

Security Features

256-Bit AES Encryption, FIPS 197

Dimensions

2.76 × 0.91 × 0.39 inches

Weight

0.32 ounces

View on Amazon: Integral 64GB Courier Encrypted USB 3.0 Flash Drive Affiliate link

This 64GB USB 3.0 flash drive uses mandatory 256-bit AES hardware encryption certified to FIPS 197. It locks automatically when removed from a host. Data erases after six failed password attempts. You get secure storage without installing software. The compact blue casing fits easily in a pocket. It suits users who need government-grade security for sensitive files.

Pros

• FIPS 197 certified 256-bit AES hardware encryption
• Auto-locks when disconnected from PC or Mac
• Zero footprint with no software installation required
• Erases data and key after six failed attempts

Cons

• 64GB capacity is smaller than 128GB and 256GB alternatives
• Single password model lacks dual-password option
• Blue color may not match silver drives

Good fit if

• You need FIPS 197 certified hardware encryption
• You want zero-footprint setup without software
• You require auto-lock security features

Skip if

• You need more than 64GB storage
• You prefer dual-password authentication
• You want a silver finish

Verdict: Integral Courier-197 64GB Encrypted Drive offers strong security for small files. It fits users who prioritize data protection over large capacity.

4 Best premium

Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3Z 16GB

Best for: high-security users needing rugged, certified encryption

Storage Capacity

16GB

USB Version

USB 3.0

Security Standard

256-bit AES XTS, FIPS 140-2 Level 3

Security Features

256-Bit AES Encryption, FIPS 140-2 Level 3

Dimensions

3.25 × 0.7 × 0.3 inches

Weight

1.75 ounces

View on Amazon: Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3Z 16GB Affiliate link

This is a rugged, hardware-encrypted USB 3.0 drive built for high security. It features a 256-bit AES XTS encryption standard and holds 16GB of data. The aluminum housing is IP57 rated for water and dust resistance. You get embedded PIN authentication for access. It is designed for users who need certified security in a durable, compact form factor.

Pros

• 256-bit AES XTS hardware encryption
• FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validated
• IP57 water and dust resistant aluminum housing
• Embedded PIN authentication with user forced enrollment

Cons

• 16GB capacity is lower than the 64GB standard on this list
• No software encryption management app mentioned in specifications
• Limited to USB 3.0 speeds, not USB 3.1 or higher

Good fit if

• You need FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified security
• You work in harsh environments requiring dust and water resistance
• You require hardware-based encryption without software installation

Skip if

• You need more than 16GB of storage space
• You prefer a larger capacity like 64GB or 128GB
• You want a drive with software configuration tools

Verdict: Apricorn 16GB Aegis Secure Key 3Z offers top-tier security certification in a rugged package. It fits users who prioritize data protection and physical durability over high storage capacity.

5 Best 32gb

iStorage datAshur Personal2 32GB Encrypted Flash Drive

Best for: Secure storage of sensitive regulated data

Storage Capacity

32 GB

USB Version

USB 3.2

Read Speed

Up to 169MB/s

Security Standard

AES-XTS 256-bit

Size

32GB

Security Features

Password Protection

View on Amazon: iStorage datAshur Personal2 32GB Encrypted Flash Drive Affiliate link

This drive uses AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption and requires a 7-15 digit PIN to access data. It offers USB 3.2 speeds of up to 169MB/s read and 135MB/s write. The 32GB capacity fits in a compact 2.95-inch body. It suits users needing strict compliance with GDPR or HIPAA without installing software.

Pros

• AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption
• PIN authentication (7-15 digits)
• Up to 169MB/s read speed
• No software required

Cons

• 32GB capacity is smaller than many competitors
• No included recovery key mentioned in specs
• Requires remembering a custom PIN

Good fit if

• You need hardware encryption for sensitive data
• You want a drive that works across Windows, macOS, and Linux
• You require compliance with GDPR or HIPAA

Skip if

• You need more than 32GB of storage
• You prefer password-free convenience over PIN entry
• You want a larger capacity like 64GB or 128GB

Verdict: iStorage datAshur Personal2 32GB is a secure option for professionals handling regulated data who prioritize encryption over high storage capacity.

6 Best budget

Samsung 128GB USB 3.1 Type-A Flash Drive

Best for: General file storage with metal durability

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

3.0 (3.1 Gen 1)

Connector Type

USB Type-A

Dimensions

0.47 × 1.57 × 0.59 inches

Weight

0.35 ounces

View on Amazon: Samsung 128GB USB 3.1 Type-A Flash Drive Affiliate link

This Samsung flash drive offers 128GB of storage with USB 3.0 speeds. It features a silver metal body that measures 1.57 inches long. The compact design weighs just 0.35 ounces. It suits users who need reliable, portable storage for everyday files. The USB Type-A connector fits standard ports directly.

Pros

• 128GB storage capacity
• USB 3.0 (3.1 Gen 1) speeds
• Compact silver metal design
• USB Type-A connector

Cons

• No hardware encryption listed
• Only 128GB capacity
• Standard USB Type-A connector

Good fit if

• You need 128GB of portable storage
• You want a durable metal build
• You use standard USB Type-A ports

Skip if

• You require hardware encryption
• You need more than 128GB
• You prefer USB Type-C connectors

Verdict: Samsung 128GB USB 3.0 Silver Flash Drive fits users who need a durable, high-capacity drive for general file transfer. It is ideal for those who prioritize metal construction and standard connectivity.

7 Also great

Samsung 256GB USB 3.1 Flash Drive

Best for: large capacity and durable metal design

Storage Capacity

256 GB

Read Speed

Up to 400 MB/s

Height

0.1 inches

Weight

0.35 ounces

View on Amazon: Samsung 256GB USB 3.1 Flash Drive Affiliate link

This Samsung flash drive offers 256 GB of storage in a compact, unibody metal design. You get read speeds up to 400 MB/s and write speeds of 110 MB/s via USB 3.1. The champagne silver housing includes a key ring and provides five-fold protection against water, shock, and magnets. It is a durable option for users needing high capacity and fast transfer times.

Pros

• Read speeds up to 400 MB/s
• 256 GB storage capacity
• Unibody metal housing with key ring
• Waterproof and shockproof protection

Cons

• Write speed is only 110 MB/s
• No hardware encryption mentioned
• Higher price point than basic drives

Good fit if

• You need large storage for high-resolution files
• You want a durable metal build
• You prioritize fast read speeds

Skip if

• You require hardware encryption
• You need the fastest possible write speeds
• You prefer a smaller capacity like 64 GB

Verdict: Samsung 256GB Champagne Silver USB Drive delivers high capacity and speed in a rugged metal case. It suits users who need reliable, large-scale storage for media and backups without encryption features.

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