USB 3.2 or USB 3.1 USB Flash Drives? Compared by Specs
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When you compare USB 32 vs USB 31 USB flash drive options, you find distinct trade-offs in capacity and design. Both drives offer fast data transfer for everyday files. The main difference lies in storage size and physical form. One provides a compact retractable design with high capacity, while the other offers a cap-less slide style with lower storage. You should choose based on whether you need more space or a specific body style.
Key differences
| Aspect | TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive | Amazon Basics 256GB USB 3.1 Retractable Flash Drive |
|---|---|---|
| USB Version | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.1 |
| Storage Capacity | 64GB | 256GB |
| Read Speed | 100MB/s | Up to 130MB/s |
| Form Factor | Cap-loss free slide design | Retractable telescopic design |
Which one should you choose?
Choose TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive if
- You prefer a drive with a cap-less slide mechanism for easy handling.
- You need a lightweight option that fits easily in small pockets.
- You are satisfied with 64GB of storage for standard documents.
Choose Amazon Basics 256GB USB 3.1 Retractable Flash Drive if
- You require higher storage capacity for large video files or photos.
- You want faster read speeds for transferring large amounts of data.
- You prefer a retractable design that protects the connector without a cap.
Verdict: Choose the Amazon Basics drive if you need maximum storage and speed. Pick the TEAMGROUP model if you value a specific cap-less slide design and lower capacity. Both meet basic USB 3.1 transfer needs.
USB 3.2 vs USB 3.1 Drive Specs
usb version
The TEAMGROUP C175 lists its USB Version as USB 3.2 Gen 1. This is the current industry standard designation for the interface that was previously known as USB 3.1 Gen 1. The Amazon Basics drive specifies USB 3.1. In practical terms, both products operate on the same underlying hardware protocol. You will see identical bandwidth limits and transfer behaviors from both devices. The difference is purely in naming convention. One uses the newer marketing name while the other uses the older one. Neither offers a speed advantage over the other based on this spec alone.
read speed
Read speed determines how quickly you can access files stored on the drive. The Amazon Basics 256GB drive offers read speeds up to 130MB/s. This is based on internal tests under controlled conditions. The TEAMGROUP C175 64GB drive provides a read speed of 100MB/s. The Amazon Basics unit moves data faster by a margin of 30MB/s. This difference matters when you are copying large video files or high-resolution photos. The higher speed on the Amazon Basics drive gives it a clear advantage for heavy data loads.
storage capacity
Storage capacity defines how much data you can keep on the device. The Amazon Basics drive comes in a 256GB size. This allows you to store thousands of photos or hours of video. The TEAMGROUP C175 is listed here in a 64GB configuration. This is a smaller amount of space. If you need to carry large media libraries, the Amazon Basics option holds more data. The TEAMGROUP drive is better suited for smaller files or as a secondary backup. The capacity difference is significant for users with large media collections.
form factor
Physical design affects how you carry and use the drive. The Amazon Basics drive features a retractable, telescopic design with a key hole. It does not have a separate cap to lose. The TEAMGROUP C175 has a seamless design that is cap-loss free. It also has a rounded and streamlined appearance. Both designs protect the connector without needing a loose cap. The Amazon Basics unit is shorter and lighter. The TEAMGROUP drive is longer but still compact. Both are practical for laptop users. The retractable mechanism of the Amazon Basics drive offers a slight convenience edge.
compatible device
You need to check if the drive works with your computer. Both the TEAMGROUP C175 and the Amazon Basics drive are compatible with PCs and laptops. They both support plug and play interfaces. This means you can connect them without installing extra drivers. Both support hot swap and power saving modes. The Amazon Basics drive is also compatible with Mac OS. It comes formatted as FAT32 for read/write compatibility with Windows and Mac. This broad compatibility ensures you can use either drive on most modern computers without issues.
Which USB Drive Fits Your Needs
Users needing high capacity and retractable design
The Amazon Basics drive offers 256 GB of storage, which holds significantly more photos and videos than the 64 GB option. Its retractable telescopic design protects the connector without a cap. You get read speeds up to 130 MB/s, making it ideal for transferring large media files efficiently.
Those who prefer a cap-free thumb drive
The TEAMGROUP C175 features a seamless, cap-less design that prevents loss. It provides 64 GB of storage with read speeds of 100 MB/s. This drive is slightly larger at 4.88 inches long but remains lightweight. It supports hot swap and power saving modes for convenient daily use.
Buyers wanting faster read speeds for media
With read speeds up to 130 MB/s, this drive transfers data faster than the 100 MB/s TEAMGROUP model. The 256 GB capacity allows you to store extensive video recordings and high-resolution photos. The USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface ensures compatibility while delivering optimized performance for large file transfers.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive | Basic file storage and transfer needs | Check price of TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive on Amazon |
| 2 | Amazon Basics 256GB USB 3.1 Retractable Flash Drive | high-capacity everyday file storage on keychains | Check price of Amazon Basics 256GB USB 3.1 Retractable Flash Drive on Amazon |
The products compared
TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive
Best for: Basic file storage and transfer needs
- USB Version
- USB 3.2 (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 64GB
- Read Speed
- 100MB/s
- Compatible Device
- PC, Laptop
- Dimensions
- 4.88 × 3.58 × 0.39 inches
- Weight
- 0.53 ounces
View on Amazon: TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive Affiliate link
The TEAMGROUP C175 is a 64GB USB 3.2 Gen1 flash drive with a matte black finish. It offers a read speed of 100MB/s, suitable for transferring standard files between PCs and laptops. Its seamless, capless design reduces the risk of losing the cover. This drive is a practical option for users who need reliable, portable storage for everyday documents and media without needing the highest possible transfer rates.
Pros
- USB 3.2 Gen1 interface for backward compatibility
- 100MB/s read speed for standard file transfers
- Capless design prevents loss of the protective cover
- Lifetime warranty included by the manufacturer
Cons
- 64GB capacity is smaller than the 256GB option on this list
- 100MB/s read speed is slower than high-end USB 3.2 models
- No write speed specification provided in the data
Good fit if
- You need a compact drive for basic file storage
- You want a capless design to avoid losing parts
- You require a drive with a lifetime warranty
Skip if
- You need high-capacity storage for large media files
- You require fast write speeds for video editing
- You prefer a drive with a higher capacity than 64GB
Verdict: The TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive fits users who prioritize durability and warranty over raw speed. It is a solid choice for everyday document management rather than heavy media workflows.
Amazon Basics 256GB USB 3.1 Retractable Flash Drive
Best for: high-capacity everyday file storage on keychains
- USB Version
- USB 3.1 (what this guide is about)
- Storage Capacity
- 256 GB
- Read Speed
- Up to 130.0 MB/s
- Dimensions
- 2.24 × 0.79 × 0.53 inches
- Weight
- 0.32 ounces
View on Amazon: Amazon Basics 256GB USB 3.1 Retractable Flash Drive Affiliate link
This Amazon Basics flash drive provides 256 GB of storage over a USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface. It delivers read speeds up to 130 MB/s and write speeds up to 30 MB/s. The body features a capless retractable design with an integrated key hole. It suits you if you need large-capacity external file storage without loose caps.
Pros
- Read speeds reach up to 130 MB/s
- Retractable telescopic connector with built-in key hole
- 256 GB storage holds over 230 GB of usable capacity
Cons
- Maximum write speed reaches only 30 MB/s
- No integrated LED activity indicator
- Formatted in FAT32 by default, requiring reformatting for files over 4 GB
Good fit if
- You want 256 GB of storage with read speeds up to 130 MB/s.
- You prefer a capless retractable body that hooks to a key ring.
- You need backward compatibility with older USB 2.0 ports.
Skip if
- You transfer large files frequently and require write speeds above 30 MB/s.
- You rely on a physical LED light to monitor transfer status.
Verdict: Amazon Basics 256GB Retractable USB 3.1 Flash Drive suits users needing roomy 256 GB mobile storage with 130 MB/s read speeds and a capless sliding mechanism.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TEAMGROUP C175 64GB USB 3.2 Flash Drive | Amazon Basics 256GB USB 3.1 Retractable Flash Drive |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Capacity | 64GB | 256 GB |
| USB Version | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 3.1 |
| Read Speed | 100MB/s | Up to 130.0 MB/s |
| Compatible Device | PC, Laptop | not stated |
| Size | 64GB | 256 GB |
| Dimensions | 4.88 × 3.58 × 0.39 inches | 2.24 × 0.79 × 0.53 inches |
| Weight | 0.53 ounces | 0.32 ounces |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | TC175364GB01 | LS21USB256G1 |
Frequently asked questions
Is USB 3.2 faster than USB 3.1?
They often share the same underlying technology. USB 3.2 Gen 1 is the new name for what was previously called USB 3.1 Gen 1. You will see similar speeds on both if they use this standard. The TEAMGROUP C175 uses USB 3.2 and reaches 100MB/s read speeds. The Amazon Basics drive uses USB 3.1 and achieves 130MB/s. Your actual transfer rate depends more on the drive's controller than the port name.
Can I use a USB 3.2 drive in a USB 3.1 port?
Yes, backward compatibility is standard for these interfaces. A USB 3.2 drive will fit and function in a USB 3.1 port. It will not run faster than the port allows. You will get the maximum speed the port supports. This means the TEAMGROUP C175 works fine in older systems. It simply adjusts its speed to match the computer's capabilities.
Which drive has more storage space?
The Amazon Basics drive offers significantly more capacity. It provides 256 GB of storage space. The TEAMGROUP C175 is limited to 64 GB. You can store roughly four times as many files on the Amazon Basics model. This makes it better for large video libraries or extensive photo archives. The smaller drive is sufficient for basic documents and smaller projects.
Does the USB 3.1 drive have a protective cover?
Yes, the Amazon Basics drive features a retractable design. It does not use a removable cap that can get lost. The connector slides back into the body for protection. This makes it more portable and durable for travel. The TEAMGROUP C175 has a different physical form. It relies on its solid build rather than a sliding mechanism for protection.
How much does each drive weigh?
The Amazon Basics drive is lighter. It weighs 0.32 ounces. The TEAMGROUP C175 is slightly heavier at 0.53 ounces. Both are very light for easy carrying. The Amazon Basics model is also more compact in length. It measures 2.24 inches long. The TEAMGROUP drive is longer at 4.88 inches. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a pocket-sized or standard-sized drive.
What is the read speed difference?
The Amazon Basics drive is faster in read operations. It lists a read speed of 130MB/s. The TEAMGROUP C175 lists a read speed of 100MB/s. This 30MB/s difference matters for large file transfers. You will notice it when copying high-resolution videos. For small text files, the difference is barely noticeable. Both speeds are well above USB 2.0 standards.