Kingston Data Traveler 200 (128GB)

USB flash drives are fantastic for storing and transporting data. Not only can you always carry your important documents, Internet bookmarks, favourite music and low-footprint applications, but USB flash drives are also excellent carriers of anti-virus software, as well as configuration information and utilities for system maintenance, troubleshooting and recovery. USB flash drives can even launch an operating system. Kingston is at the top of its game when it comes to flash drives, offering all types of devices that specialize in speed, capacity and security. The US based company’s latest offering is the market’s highest capacity drive yet, offering a staggering 128GB of data storage.

Kingston’s Data Traveler 200(DT200) is actually the world’s first 128GB USB flash drive-that’s enough storage for around 182 music CD’s or up to 27 DVD movies.

It should be pointed out the 128GB model, unlike the 32GB and 64GB versions, is build to order only, so you’ll have to wait a lot longer after checkout before the drive is actually shipped to you. Kingston is a little vague on delivery times at the moment. Each model offers Windows-based password protection to help safeguard data (allows you to create and access a password protected secure area of the drive called a Privacy Zone) and requires no admin rights. There are neither special features nor auto-backup software included in the bundle-just a simple drive with a huge capacity.

The DT200(70×12×23mm) is a lovely looking flash drive, thanks largely to its cap-less design and rubberized finish. The cap-less design not only makes the drive more convenient because you don’t have to worry about losing a part, but it makes using the DT200 a snap to use to plug the drive into your computer you simply slide back the cap to reveal the USB port. Unfortunately there is no write-protect mechanism. The downside is that the cap is a little loose and makes a rattling noise when shake, plus it doesn’t actually cover the end of the USB port. The relatively thin plastic case feels vulnerable too, and I’m not sure how much abuse the drive could withstand on a daily basis. It certainly feels like it would split right open if stood upon, which isn’t great news for frequently.