Discovering a Tiny Yet Mighty 1TB SSD for Travel

Introducing the SanDisk ExtremeFit USB-C

There was a time when the term 'thumb drive' perfectly described the size of portable storage. Now, with technology advancing, external storage devices continue to shrink, and nowhere is this revolution more apparent than in the latest model.

SanDisk's new ExtremeFit USB drive is incredibly minute, measuring just 0.73 inches at its widest and tipping the scales at only three grams. Its minuscule size recalls a mouse USB dongle rather than a storage device.

Specs and Speed of the SanDisk ExtremeFit USB-C

Size isn't the only impressive aspect of this flash drive—it boasts an array of storage capacities, from a full terabyte for $109 to a modest 64 gigabytes for only $15.

The compact drive impresses with its speed, supporting data transfers up to 400MB/s thanks to USB 3.2 Gen 1 technology. It seamlessly works with Windows, MacOS, and iPadOS. I tested the 64GB version, achieving read and write results near the 400MB/s limit with CrystalDiskMark, which is more than adequate for daily tasks.

Practical Applications of Compact Storage

With this type of performance, transferring massive image or video files is swift, while moving smaller documents or presentations happens almost instantly. It's hassle-free; there's no need for additional software, though SanDisk's Memory Zone app offers efficiency when managing transfers and backups on computers.

Officially, SanDisk doesn't claim ChromeOS support, but my Chromebook Plus handled file transfers without issue, though remember, the Memory Zone app is tailored for Android, not optimized for ChromeOS.

The generous storage of this tiny drive is a notable benefit. Many opt for cloud solutions for everything from documents to media, but physical drives offer advantages like enhanced security, faster access, and independence from internet connectivity.

Why Physical Storage Remains Essential

Traditional storage mediums like thumb drives remain crucial for tasks such as system upgrades or reinstallations. As millions navigate software updates like Windows 11, these devices prove their worth.

It's always smart to have such a drive on standby, safeguarding against unexpected issues that require immediate solutions.

Considerations and Recommendations

Despite its myriad advantages, the tiny size of the ExtremeFit could lead it to vanish into the recesses of your bag or desk. If you frequently misplace small objects, take note.

To prevent it from getting lost when not in use, consider leaving it inserted in a lesser-used device, as it's discreet enough not to obstruct neighboring ports.

This USB-C drive lacks attachment features such as loops or keyring holes, which is something to remember if portability is a concern.

Expert Buying Tips from ZDNET

If immense storage in a minuscule package is your goal, SanDisk's ExtremeFit won't disappoint, offering straightforward functionality across various operating systems. But beware, its tiny form demands special attention to avoid misplacing it.

Storage options range from an economical 64GB model at $14.99 to a 1TB version priced at $109.

Why We Endorsed the ExtremeFit

The ExtremeFit received our Editors' Choice recognition as one of the most useful external storage solutions. It delivers rapid file transfer speeds and integrates effortlessly with all laptops we’ve tested, even those where USB-C and HDMI ports are adjacent.

Its competitive pricing starts at a modest rate for 64GB, offering nearly the same speed benefits as pricier models.