PNY 128GB Elite-X Metal USB Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

How each alternative compares

Kingston 128GB Kyson Metal USB Drive

The Kingston Kyson Metal also features a metal casing and USB 3.2 interface, but it reads at 200MB/s, which is 20MB/s slower than the PNY Elite-X. It is black rather than silver. This drive suits users who want a rugged build but do not need the absolute fastest read speeds available. It lacks the PNY's higher throughput but offers similar durability. You should choose this if you prefer Kingston's brand or find it more available. It does not offer dual connectors or extra security features. The storage capacity matches the 128GB requirement. It is a solid alternative for general file transfers where slight speed differences are acceptable.

Lexar JumpDrive D400 128GB Dual USB Drive

The Lexar JumpDrive D400 stands out with dual connectors, including USB-C and USB-A. This allows you to use it with both older computers and newer devices like iPhones without adapters. However, its read speed is only 130MB/s, significantly slower than the PNY Elite-X's 220MB/s. It is titanium colored and slightly larger. You should pick this if you frequently switch between device types. The speed trade-off is necessary for the versatility of dual connectivity. It retains the metal casing for durability. If you only use USB-A ports, this extra feature is unnecessary. The 128GB capacity is the same. This drive is best for users needing cross-platform compatibility over raw transfer speed.

TEAMGROUP C175 128GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive

The TEAMGROUP C175 has a cap-less design, which eliminates the risk of losing a small plastic cover. It reads at 100MB/s, which is half the speed of the PNY Elite-X. It is black and made for PC and laptop use. You should choose this if you value convenience and durability over performance. The lifetime warranty is a key difference. The slower speed makes it less ideal for large video files. It lacks the premium metal feel of the PNY drive. The 128GB size is consistent. This is a budget-friendly option for users who prioritize not losing caps and do not need fast data movement. It is a practical choice for everyday documents and photos.

Lexar JumpDrive S80 128GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive

The Lexar JumpDrive S80 offers a read speed of 150MB/s, which is slower than the PNY Elite-X but faster than some competitors. It is black and compact. This drive is noted for security features, though specific encryption details are not listed in the provided specs. You should pick this if you want a balance between speed and data protection. It lacks the metal casing of the PNY drive. The 128GB capacity is standard. It is suitable for users who need moderate speed but want some level of security. It does not have dual connectors. The design is simpler. This drive is a good middle-ground option for those who do not need the fastest speeds but want more than basic storage.

Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC 128GB

The Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC focuses on security with 256-bit AES encryption and FIPS 140-2 Level 3 compliance. It uses a USB-C connector, which requires an adapter for USB-A ports. It does not list a read speed, but security is its primary advantage. You should choose this for sensitive or classified data. It is black and bulkier than the PNY drive. The 128GB capacity is the same. This drive is for professionals who prioritize data protection over speed and convenience. It lacks the metal casing style of the PNY Elite-X. The USB-C interface may be a limitation for older computers. It is the best choice for high-security needs rather than general file storage.

Kingston DataTraveler Exodia 128GB USB Drive

The Kingston DataTraveler Exodia is designed for key ring attachment, making it easy to carry. It does not list a read speed, but it is generally considered a standard speed drive. It is black and compact. You should pick this if you need a drive that attaches to your keys. It lacks the metal casing and high speed of the PNY Elite-X. The 128GB capacity is standard. It is a durable option for users who lose drives frequently. The design is simpler and less premium. It does not offer dual connectors or advanced security. This drive is best for users who prioritize physical attachment and basic functionality over performance. It is a practical choice for everyday use.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

PNY 128GB Elite-X Metal USB 3.2 Drive

Best for: Fast file transfers in a durable metal enclosure

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

USB 3.2 Gen 1

Read Speed

Up to 220MB/s

Features

Metal Casing

Dimensions

5.25 × 4 × 0.25 inches

Weight

0.48 ounces

View on Amazon: PNY 128GB Elite-X Metal USB 3.2 Drive Affiliate link

The PNY 128GB Elite-X is a USB 3.2 Gen 1 flash drive built for speed and durability. It features a premium metal housing and delivers read speeds up to 220MB/s with write speeds up to 100MB/s. This drive is ideal for users who need to transfer large files quickly. It works with most USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 3.0 computers, including PCs and Macs, while remaining backwards compatible with USB 2.0 ports.

Pros

• Read speeds up to 220MB/s
• Durable metal housing design
• Write speeds up to 100MB/s
• Compatible with USB 3.2 Gen 1 and USB 3.0

Cons

• Write speed of 100MB/s is slower than the 150MB/s read speed of the Lexar S80
• Single USB-A connector lacks the dual Type-C and Type-A connectivity of the Lexar D400
• Read speed is lower than the 150MB/s+ speeds found in several competitors

Good fit if

• You need a durable metal drive for daily use
• You primarily transfer large files and need fast read speeds
• You want a reliable USB-A drive for Windows or Mac computers

Skip if

• You need dual USB-C and USB-A connectors for mobile devices
• You require write speeds faster than 100MB/s
• You prefer a drive with a smaller physical footprint

Verdict: PNY 128GB Elite-X Metal USB 3.2 offers strong read performance and a rugged build for users who prioritize durability and speed in a standard USB-A format.

2 Also great

Kingston 128GB Kyson Metal USB Drive

Best for: Users needing fast metal USB drives

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

USB 3.2

Read Speed

200 MB/s

Pack Quantity

1

Features

Metal Casing

View on Amazon: Kingston 128GB Kyson Metal USB Drive Affiliate link

The Kingston DataTraveler Kyson is a 128GB USB 3.2 flash drive with a durable metal casing. It offers read speeds up to 200MB/s and write speeds of 60MB/s. The capless design includes a lanyard loop for easy portability. You get a GoRAM lanyard in the bundle. This drive suits users who need reliable, high-speed transfers in a compact, metal build.

Pros

• USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface
• Up to 200MB/s read speed
• Durable metal casing
• Capless design with lanyard loop

Cons

• Write speed is limited to 60MB/s
• No hardware encryption feature listed
• Bundle includes only one lanyard

Good fit if

• You need fast read speeds for large files
• You prefer a durable metal build
• You want a capless design for convenience

Skip if

• You require hardware encryption for security
• You need write speeds above 60MB/s
• You prefer a Type-C connection

Verdict: Kingston 128GB DataTraveler Kyson Metal delivers strong read performance in a rugged metal shell. It fits users who prioritize speed and durability over advanced security features.

3 Best iphone

Lexar JumpDrive D400 128GB Dual USB Drive

Best for: Users needing dual USB-C and USB-A connectivity

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

USB 3.2 Gen 1

Connector Type

USB Type-C, USB Type-A

Read Speed

130MB/s

Compatible Device

iPhone

Features

OTG Dual Drive, Metal Casing

View on Amazon: Lexar JumpDrive D400 128GB Dual USB Drive Affiliate link

The Lexar 128GB JumpDrive Dual Drive D400 features both USB Type-C and Type-A connectors. It offers read speeds up to 130MB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 1. The metal housing includes a swivel design for port protection. This drive supports Android, PC, and Mac systems. It suits users who need to transfer files between different device types without adapters.

Pros

• Dual USB Type-C and Type-A connectors
• Up to 130MB/s read speed
• Durable metal housing with swivel design
• Compatible with Android, PC, and Mac

Cons

• Read speed is lower than the 220MB/s PNY Elite-X
• No write speed specifications provided
• Slightly heavier at 0.63 ounces

Good fit if

• You need to connect to both modern Type-C and older Type-A ports
• You frequently transfer large files between phones and computers
• You want a metal drive with a protective swivel cap

Skip if

• You require the highest possible transfer speeds on this list
• You only use devices with a single connector type
• You prefer a lighter, more compact drive

Verdict: Lexar 128GB Dual Drive D400 is the best option for users who frequently switch between USB-C and USB-A devices. It provides reliable dual connectivity and decent speeds for everyday file transfers.

4 Also great

TEAMGROUP C175 128GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive

Best for: Cap-less storage with lifetime warranty

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

USB 3.2 Gen 1

Read Speed

100MB/s

Compatible Device

PC, Laptop

Dimensions

4.84 × 3.54 × 0.39 inches

View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP C175 128GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive Affiliate link

The TEAMGROUP C175 is a 128GB USB 3.2 Gen 1 flash drive with 100MB/s read speeds. Its cap-less seamless design prevents loss. The unit measures 4.84 by 3.54 inches. It suits users who want reliable storage without a loose cap. You get lifetime warranty support from the brand.

Pros

• 128GB storage capacity
• 100MB/s read speed
• Cap-less seamless design
• Lifetime warranty

Cons

• 100MB/s read speed is slower than the 220MB/s top pick
• No write speed specification listed
• Larger physical size than compact drives

Good fit if

• You need a cap-less drive to prevent loss
• You want lifetime warranty coverage
• You prioritize capacity over maximum speed

Skip if

• You require transfer speeds near 220MB/s
• You need a compact form factor
• You want write speed specifications

Verdict: TEAMGROUP C175 128GB USB 3.2 offers a cap-less design and lifetime warranty for users who value durability over raw speed. It fits those who need reliable 128GB storage without worrying about a lost cap.

5 Best mac

Lexar JumpDrive S80 128GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive

Best for: secure file transfers with moderate speed

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

USB 3.2 Gen 1

Connector Type

USB Type-A

Read Speed

150MB/s

Security Standard

256-bit AES

Compatible Device

PC, Mac

View on Amazon: Lexar JumpDrive S80 128GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive Affiliate link

This Lexar flash drive offers 128GB of storage with USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity. It delivers read speeds up to 150MB/s and write speeds up to 10x faster than standard USB 2.0 drives. The retractable design protects the connector, and it includes advanced security software with 256-bit AES encryption. It fits users who need reliable, secure file transfers without the bulk of larger drives.

Pros

• 150MB/s read speed
• Retractable protective design
• 256-bit AES encryption software
• USB 3.2 Gen 1 compatibility

Cons

• Read speed is slower than the 220MB/s top pick
• No metal casing compared to premium alternatives
• Standard plastic build feels less durable

Good fit if

• You need fast file transfers for photos or videos
• You want built-in hardware security for sensitive data
• You prefer a compact drive with a retractable cap

Skip if

• You require the highest possible transfer speeds available
• You need a rugged metal enclosure for rough handling
• You only have USB 2.0 ports and do not need speed

Verdict: Lexar 128GB JumpDrive S80 provides a balanced mix of speed and security. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize data protection and moderate performance over raw speed or rugged durability.

6 Best premium

Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC 128GB

Best for: High-security data storage

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

USB 3.2

Connector Type

USB-C

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 × 0.75 × 0.25 inches

View on Amazon: Apricorn Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC 128GB Affiliate link

This drive uses 256-bit AES-XTS hardware encryption to protect your data. It features a USB 3.2 Type-C connector for modern compatibility. The unit is FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validated, ensuring strict security standards. It operates without additional software, relying on separate admin and user modes. You get 128GB of storage in a compact, durable metal build. It suits users who need high-level protection for sensitive files.

Pros

• 256-Bit AES-XTS hardware encryption
• FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validated
• USB 3.2 Type-C connector
• No software required for operation

Cons

• No read speeds listed in specs
• Larger and heavier than standard drives
• Type-C connector only

Good fit if

• You need hardware encryption for sensitive data
• You require FIPS 140-2 Level 3 validation
• You use devices with USB-C ports

Skip if

• You need maximum transfer speeds
• You require USB-A connectivity
• You want a lightweight, pocket-sized drive

Verdict: Apricorn 128GB Aegis Secure Key 3 NXC is a secure storage solution for professionals handling classified or sensitive information. It fits users who prioritize data protection over raw speed or compact size.

7 Best budget

Kingston DataTraveler Exodia 128GB USB Drive

Best for: Key ring attachment and standard USB-A use

Storage Capacity

128GB

USB Version

USB 3.2 Gen 1

Dimensions

2.65 × 0.83 × 0.4 inches

Weight

0.39 ounces

View on Amazon: Kingston DataTraveler Exodia 128GB USB Drive Affiliate link

The Kingston DataTraveler Exodia offers 128GB of storage via USB 3.2 Gen 1. It measures 2.65 by 0.83 by 0.4 inches and weighs 0.39 ounces. The drive includes a practical cap and a large loop for key rings. It works with Chrome OS and standard computers. You get reliable transfer speeds for everyday files. This drive suits users who need a sturdy, portable option with easy attachment.

Pros

• USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity
• 128GB storage capacity
• Integrated key ring loop
• Protective cap included

Cons

• No USB Type-C port
• No included software encryption
• Lower read speeds than metal alternatives

Good fit if

• You need a drive that attaches to a key ring
• You use Chrome OS or standard USB-A ports
• You want a compact drive with a protective cap

Skip if

• You require USB Type-C connectivity
• You need transfer speeds above 150MB/s
• You prefer a premium metal build

Verdict: Kingston DataTraveler Exodia 128GB fits users who prioritize physical durability and key ring attachment over high-speed transfers or modern Type-C ports.

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