I was very impressed with the Verbatim 256MB USB Drive. With fast transfer rates, very small size and easy to use security software, this drive got my attention. If asked, I would never have guessed there could be so many differences between different USB drives.

The ability to fit large amounts of data in your pocket is a something many of us have begun to take for granted. At the same time, the amount of data that can fit in a very small space continues to rise, with Verbatim offering a 4 GB version of its Store 'n' Go hard drive.

Physically, the drive measures 2.75 tall, 2.125 wide, and 0.5 inches thick at its thinnest point. 1.8 ounces isn't much weight, but given the physical size this isn't something I'd slip into the front pocket of my jeans (perhaps a coat pocket). Inside there's a

Good storage value for the money; Powerful micro-OS (Ceedo) included; Attractive design

Awkward to use on some PCs; Ceedo has some quirks and can be slow

Ultimately I think the Ceedo software, after a bit of polish, could be fantastic. It would be even better when paired with a small USB Flash drive. The scenarios I envision people using a product like this in all involve going up to a PC and connecting it to a front USB port – and for that scenario...

As a mid-range USB memory stick offering plenty of space and a little extra in the form of software, this is a great buy.

Great capacity; useful software

Not the fastest around; on the large side

By: Michael Phrakaysone Just how fast memory technology has advanced over the years, it never stops amazing me. It always advances at such incredible speed and when you think you have the best gadget, largest or fastest device, something other comes along that supersedes what was possible.

Tiny and tough; Resistant to water; dust and static charges so you can place it virtually anywhere; Both read and write speeds are indeed very fast; Found it to be reliable with zero issues or problems during months of hard usage; Inexpensive

Small makes it easier to misplace – that's why a lanyard attachment is included

This was purchased for my brother-in-law for Christmas. Prior to receiving it, he had no clue what it was for. He has found it very easy to use and loves the amount of items he can store on it. He reports that it is the best present I have given him by far.

A good choice for work, this memory key is a reliable performer

Verbatim is a brand most will be familiar with for their optical media; you can find spindles of Verbatim DVD-Rs and CD-Rs on the shelves of just about every electronics aisle in the country. Their name is built, more or less entirely, on media for physically shuttling bits from place to place.

Nearly everyone in modern society has need for portable digital storage, and therefore carry some sort of USB flash drive. They have replaced the floppy...