Reviewing Flash drives should be an easy task. After all, the data is undeniable and they either work or they don’t. However, if you read my reviews, you know I love to waffle/rant/talk nonsense. Unfortunately, the dry subject of data transfer isn’t a great icebreaker. Yet, here we are and my job today is to look at the PNY Elite-X Fit Type-C. This compact device is fantastic for modern machines and it is compatible with your mobile phone, tablet, PC, laptop, and much more. This is of course assuming you have a USB-C port. If you don’t, it won’t be compatible with your devices.
If you plump for this tiny flash drive, you’ll enjoy up to 200 MB/s read and up to 100 MB/s write speeds. Additionally, you’ll enjoy exceptional build quality and a low-maintenance and user-friendly product. Though it isn’t a huge storage solution (256 GB), it is suitable for presentations, important files, or the odd movie or music file.
Technical aspects.
I’ve recently covered the PNY PRO Elite V3 Type-C flash drive, and I was impressed. Subsequently, I could have been a bit disappointed by the slower speeds and the smaller storage capacity. Thankfully, I have looked at this with a level head. Moreover, anyone looking to buy this type of flash drive will not need masses of storage space or rapid speeds. Instead, they need a compact solution that is easy to use and store.
The PNY Elite-X Fit Type-C’s advertised transfer speeds were decent for this type of drive. What’s more, I wasn’t waiting a huge amount of time even when I benchmarked it using CrystalDiskMark. No matter how much I pushed the device, it never overheated and I didn’t experience any compatibility issues.
The benchmark.
This USB 3.2 Gen 1 Flash drive is capable of around 250 times faster transfer speeds compared to a USB 2.0 device. This was impressive when you consider the read and write capabilities. I have used the same testing software for all my drives as this creates a level playing field. During testing, I transferred large 4K video footage from my PC onto the device and this is the same file used for every device.
Though the PNY Elite-X Fit Type-C didn’t quite hit the advertised speeds, I wasn’t upset with the outcome. I performed 5 tests and on average I recorded 186 MB/s and 79 MB/s read and write speeds respectively. This was a decent return from a compact Gen 1 Flash drive. However, when compared to an SSD, it was slow. Accordingly, you must set your expectations before using this product.
Build quality.
I was impressed with the robust nature of the PNY Elite-X Fit Type-C. the Type-C connection hides in the sturdy body. The handy sliding mechanism is reliable and smooth. Additionally, it clicks into place to stop accidents and prevent damage. Furthermore, it is remarkably light. This is great if you want a tiny device to throw in your laptop bag or to sit by your desk. Though this product isn’t as upmarket as some of the other PNY products, I was not disappointed with how it felt or its durable qualities.
Is the PNY Elite-X Fit Type-C worth it?
Data storage is a cloud-based market. However, I like having a backup, just in case. This tiny product is the perfect tool and safety blanket for professionals. The compact and robust nature of the design is ideal as it is easy to handle and store. Furthermore, the read and write speeds are good and I like the user-friendly approach. As such, it is a great product and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on PNY can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
