A flash drive with a lightning connector is a genius device that makes it easy to move files around without the need for a computer or bulky backup disk. This is especially handy when you need to back up or send a multitude of large files from your iPhone quickly. Because, let's face it, AirDrop has its limitations.
In a world where many Apple users have replaced their trusty MacBooks with iPads, intermediary memory devices are becoming ever more important. The problem is that many flash drives and memory disks don't come with a lightning connector. Luckily, some of them do, and we've tracked down the best flash drives for backing up your best iPhone and compiled them for you here.
The best flash drives to back up your iPhone in 2022
iDiskk (MFi Certified by Apple) 128 GB Photo Stick
Durable
Whether you're looking to transfer movies and photos or want to free up space on your best iPhone like an iPhone 13, the iDiskk MFI-certified flash drive is an option to consider. Designed with a durable aluminum build, it comes with a free app that supports shooting photos and videos while instantly saving your masterpieces straight to the flash drive.
JSL JDTDC Apple MFi-Certified Photo Stick
Apple-friendly
This is an efficient and affordable memory stick with 128 GB of storage space. It comes in several color options and has a Lightning plug and a USB plug that can be used with the simple flick of its switch.
(opens in new tab)
JDTDC iPhone Photo Stick USB-C
It also comes in USB-C
Like the above thumb drive, this one by the same brand features a lightning connector on one end and USB-C on the other. This makes it compatible with iPad Pro and MacBook as well. For Apple users, this may be the better choice.
(opens in new tab)
Android friendly
For those that mix and match Apple and Android/PC devices, you may need more than lightning and USB. This adaptable memory drive from Picture Keeper has both USB-C and USB-A connectors, as well as lightning and micro-USB adapters. That means that you'll be hard-pressed to find a device that this drive won't work with.
iDiskk MFI Certified 256GB Photo Stick for iPhone USB C
The
multitasker
iDiskk brings a photo stick for more than the iPhone. This four-way model is compatible with any device that uses USB-A, USB-C, Lightning, or micro-USB. It's another ultimate mini dongle-stick!
SanDisk 128GB iXpand Flash Drive Go for iPhone
Trusted brand
The SanDisk flash drive is designed to transfer your files so you can free up space fast. It automatically backs up all photos and videos and easily streams videos on the go. The SanDisk flash drive for iPhone and iPad is the perfect little accessory to keep in your bag if you need that extra storage. This price is for the 128 GB size, but you can choose anything from 32 GB to 256 GB, depending on your needs.
PC friendly
The PhotoStick flash drive for iPhone and iPad is a USB and Lightning port adapter that works seamlessly with Mac and PCs. You can use it to store up to 128 GB of files and charge your iPhone on the go with a portable battery pack.
SanDisk 128GB iXpand Flash Drive Luxe
Privacy pick
SanDisk is known for creating excellent memory drives, and this mini edition is no exception. According to our reviewers, the SanDisk iXpand will password-protect files, keeping them protected in case the drive is lost or stolen. On top of that, the clever folding design is streamlined and convenient.
(opens in new tab)
Emtec iCobra iPhone Flash Drive
Budget-friendly choice
For such tiny gadgets, many thumb drives are surprisingly expensive. This one from Emtec is much easier on the pocketbook, and its longer, fold-over design gives you more room to work with if you're using it to connect two devices. The flash drive also doubles as a charging cable when needed.
- Back to the top ^ (opens in new tab)
Find the perfect flash drive for your iPhone
Have you ever used your iPhone with a flash drive or do you prefer iCloud? Some people just AirDrop files to their Mac once they run out of space on the iPhone, but sometimes AirDrop has a harder time with bigger files or many files at once. There are many storage options out there, including some of the best cloud storage apps, but we're fans of the iDiskk MFI-certified 128GB Photo Stick because of its affordable price and simple design.
For those who need to multitask with many types of devices, the best choice is likely the Picture Keeper Connect. This one is compatible with both iPhones and Androids, PCs and Macs. With all these great choices, your only challenge is to pick one.
Karen is a contributor to iMore.com as a writer, social media manager, and co-host of the iMore Show. She’s been writing about Apple since 2010 with a year-long break to work at an Apple Store as a product specialist. Before joining iMore in 2018, Karen wrote for AppAdvice and WatchAware. She’s an early adopter who used to wait in long lines on release days before pre-ordering made things much easier. Karen is a wife and mom (and dog mom) who is also a part-time teacher and occasional movie extra. She loves to travel the world and is always looking for portable tech and accessories so she can work from anywhere.