SanDisk Cruzer Mini USB flash drive (256MB)

Pros: Nice extras like extra caps and a detachable neckstrap, Reliable name in flash memory

Cons: Cruzer Lock doesn't work on some machines, but that's more a Windows/networking permissions issue and not the drive's fault.

Summary: I tried the Lexar JumpDrive Secure and was underwhelmed. Happily, returned the Jumpdrive and bought this Cruzer Mini online for less!

The only flaw I've detected thus far is that you won't be able to run the built-in password protection/encryption software on machines that you don't have administrative access to. This security feature on Windows PCs affected the Jumpdrive, too--it popped up an ugly error message every time I plugged it in. How annoying! The Sandisk drive doesn't harrass you unless you specifically TRY to run the encryption software, and it plays better with Win 9x than the Jumpdrive does. It also works cheerfully on Linux (KDE) and Mac OS X systems.


Both drives offer USB 2.0 speed (but also compatible with slower USB portS) and 256 MB of space, but the SanDisk is slimmer. This more elegant design means that you can fit it into a slot, even if your computer's backside is jammed with bulky peripheral plugs. Because of a large printer cable getting in the way, I couldn't fit the wide Jumpdrive into my work computer's slot.

The San Disk Cruzer also comes with 3 caps with different colors. They click on securely, and I haven't lost one yet.. but there were a couple of close calls and it's nice to know that my drive's connectors won't go unsheltered if I lose a cap. The package even includes a handy strap that lets you wear the drive as you would a necklace. for your convenience, it easily detaches from the neckstrap via a small clip, so you don't have to keep it on the strap all the time. It may not be multifunctional, but it gets the job done well and with style.

I've had bad experiences with flash memory in the the past. It doesn't seem to last more than a couple of years before losing integrity, but SanDisk was a pioneer in flash-based storage and is still a big name, so I'm hopeful that their products will withstand the test of time. I've had my Cruzer Mini for about 6 months and so far, it's been a reliable companion.