photo stick beside the phone and camera Photo by Devenorr on shutterstock

Ultimate Guide to Photo Stick: Why You Need | Which one to Choose?

January 17, 2023

Taking photos is a great way to remember our life experiences. We all place a high value on the pictures and movies we have amassed throughout time. They are a few tiny souvenirs that remind us of all the happy, joyful, and sorrowful events that have occurred throughout our lives. They may involve your early years, parents, friends, grandparents, etc.

Photo sticks increase the amount of photo and video storage on your phone, protecting you from the dreaded "low storage" warnings.

What is a Photo Stick?

photo sitck connected to the phone

Photo by zkolra on shutterstock

A photo stick is a device that allows users to quickly and easily back up their photos and videos from their digital devices. It is a small, portable picture keeper that plugs into a computer or laptop via USB. You should have a photo stick in your gear whether you're a pro or just enjoy shooting pictures.

When you plug in your phone or other smart device, the device automatically searches through your folders for pictures and videos and creates a backup of them. This saves you time and effort in organizing your files and ensures that they are safely backed up in case of any unforeseen issues.

Photo Stick vs Flash Drive

A flash drive and a photo stick are distinct in a few ways. Some ways depend on how the gadget functions and stores data, while some are clear. The primary distinction is in how the device is connected to the phone or computer. While a photo stick can be plugged into a phone and a USB port, a conventional flash drive can only be plugged into a USB port.

hand-holding flash drive

Photo by Andrey Sayfutdinov on shutterstock

The other distinction is the type of data stored by each. Photographs, videos, and documents can all be stored on a flash drive, but only photos or videos can be stored on a photo stick.

Benefits of Using a Photo Stick

1. Small Size for Huge Storage

A photo stick is considered to be one of the most brilliant photo storage devices. You can store quite a lot of photos with this tiny piece. One 64GB can store almost thousands of photos in a normal 2M size.

2. Fast Operation

The process takes a few minutes and is quite quick. Plug the device into your computer and press the "go" button to get started. Your image and video files will then be backed up as the data is scanned.

3. Automated Backup

The photo stick's automated backup is its standout feature. You don't have to spend all day at your computer looking through images and movies to manually back up. The photo stick will act automatically. Your computer will be thoroughly searched by its specialized software, which will also store a backup of all media file types, like PNG, GIF, JPEG, or MOV.

Features to Consider When Choosing Photo Stick

1. Storage Capacity

blue and silver photo stick

Photo by PARINYA ART on shutterstock

The quantity of hard storage that can be found inside photo sticks is limited, and how much you require depends on how much data storage you intend to save there. Up to 3500 photos can be stored on an 8GB memory stick, while 60,000 photos can be stored on a 128GB photo stick. If you're a professional photographer or enjoy taking plenty of pictures, invest in a photo stick with a larger storage capacity.

2. Connector Types

Some photo sticks come with two USB-A and USB-C ports, while others only have one (USB-C). A photo stick with four connectors is uncommon. To select the best photo stick for your phone or other equipment, consider your frequently used devices. Additionally, it's critical to confirm the stick's compatibility. Purchase a photo stick that is compatible with your devices or ports.

3. Speed

The writing and reading speed will decide the time you'll spend when opening or saving the photos on the photo stick. If you are a photographer with lots of files, you may need to choose a fast-speed one.  

Best Photo Stick to Buy Right Now

Best Photo Stick for iPhone

1. iDiskk Photo Stick

iDiskk Photo Stick

Image Credit: amazon.com

The iDiskk Photo Stick may be your best option if you own an iPhone 11 or 12, an iPad, or a MacBook with iOS 14.

Specifications

  • Brand: iDiskk
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0, USB 2.0
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 128 GB
  • Special Feature: Lightning Port, USB 3.0 port to computers
  • Flash Memory Type: USB 3.0

Pros

  • Many file types are supported
  • Has auto backup
  • Possesses a variety of storage

Cons

  • You may experience difficulties with the iDiskk app.
  • Outdated style (similar to ordinary USB 2.0s)

2. JSL JDTDC Photo Stick

JSL JDTDC Photo Stick

Image Credit: amazon.com

The JSL JDTDC Photo Stick is a popular storage option for iPhones. It already possesses the confidence that potential photo stick users seek, thanks to the Apple MFi certification. Even earlier models are compatible with this stick (as far back as the iPhone 5).

Specifications

  • Brand: JSL JDTDC
  • Hardware Interface: USB, USB 3.0
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 128 GB
  • Write Speed: 40x Megabytes Per Second
  • Read Speed: 80 Megabytes Per Second
  • Warranty: 18 Months

Pros

  • MFI-certified product by Apple
  • Numerous device compatibilities

Cons

  • Requires installation

3. WOFICLO Photo Stick

WOFICLO Photo Stick

Image Credit: amazon.com

Gold, pink and blue are gorgeous colors for the WOFICLO Photo Stick. However, you are only allowed 128 GB or 256 GB of storage. You can manage your files with the CooDisk app and keep your files secure with a password and touch-ID encryption. It's ideal for confidentiality and privacy protection.

Specifications

  • Brand: WOFICLO
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 128 GB
  • Read Speed: 80 Megabytes Per Second
  • Color: Gold, Pink, Blue

Pros

  • MFI-certified product by Apple
  • Satisfactory device compatibility

Cons

  • Delicate, easily damaged multi-port construction

4. SCICNCE

SCICNCE photo stick

Image Credit: amazon.com

There are three different storage options for the SCICNCE USB 3.0 Flash Drive: 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB. It's also available in rose gold, silver, and dark grey.

Specification

  • Brand: SCICNCE
  • Memory Capacity: 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0
  • Read Speed: 80 Mbps
  • Write Data: 30 Mbps
  • Color: Rose gold, Silver, Dark grey
  • Item Weight: 15 ounces
  • Product Dimensions: 6 x 0.6 x 0.16 inches

Pros

  • Numerous compatibilities
  • Simple port switching for various devices

Cons

  • Periodically, pieces of the original file are lost (date, location, etc.)

5. XINHUAYI USB 1 TB Flash Drive

 XINHUAYI USB 1 TB Flash Drive

Image Credit: amazon.com

The XINHUAYI Flash Drive is quite the box and has several connectors. The drive is simple to use and offers USB Type-C and USB 3.0 connections for increased flexibility.

Specifications

  • Brand: XINHUAYI
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 1000 GB
  • Flash Memory Type: USB Flash Drive
  • Color: Red, Blue, Pink
  • Item Weight: 528 ounces
  • Manufacturer: XINHUAYI

Pros

  • Robust construction that safeguards the ports when not in use
  • A substantial amount of storage space

Cons

  • You might run into trouble with the app

Best Photo Stick for Android

6. Samsung Duo Plus(256 GB)

Samsung Duo Plus(256 GB)

Image Credit: amazon.com

The Samsung Duo Plus is stylish and offers a large amount of storage. You can swiftly transfer files with this photo stick, clearing up space on your Android phone.

Specifications

  • Brand: SAMSUNG
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 256 GB
  • Connectivity Technology: USB
  • Read Speed: 300
  • Connector Type: USB Type A, USB Type C
  • Color: Silver, Black

Pros

  • Quick transfer
  • It has two types of USB

Cons

  • USB flash disk does not have two ends.

7. The PhotoStick Omni (128 GB)

ThePhotoStick Omni (128 GB)

Image Credit: amazon.com

ThePhotoStick Omni comes with ThePhotoStick, but it's also paired with an adaptor. A Type-C USB port, a Lightning port, a USB port, or a micro USB port can all be used with the adapter to attach a photo stick. You can download and use an app from the Google Play store with ThePhotoStick Omni. This program greatly simplifies file backup and transfer to compatible devices.

Specifications

  • Brand: ThePhotoStick
  • Operating System: Android, Windows
  • Hardware Interface: USB
  • Compatible Devices: Computers, Smartphones, Laptops
  • Item Weight: 06 ounces
  • Manufacturer: ThePhotoStick

Pros

  • Possesses a tool for improved file management
  • Simple to use

Cons

  • Some users do not like the app

8. WansisenUSB-CFlashDrive (1TB)

WansisenUSB-CFlashDrive (1TB)

Image Credit: amazon.com

This is a decent photo stick if you want something inexpensive with a ton of storage space, despite the brand not being as well known as the others we've included. It has 1TB of storage.

Specifications

  • Brand: WANSISEN
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 1TB
  • Write Speed: 16x
  • Read Speed: 80 Megabytes Per Second
  • Hardware Platform: Mac
  • Manufacturer: Wan xin sheng
  • Item Weight: 13 Ounces
  • Product Dimensions: 1 x 0.6 x 0.25 inches

Pros

  • Ample storage
  • Low cost

Cons

  • The brand is unpopular

9 iDiskkPhotoStick (256 GB)

iDiskkPhotoStick (256 GB)

Image Credit: amazon.com

The iDiskk photo stick features a 4-in-1 photo stick with a Micro USB, Lightning, USB Type-C, and USB 3.0 connector.

Specifications

  • Brand: iDiskk
  • Hardware Interface: USB Type C
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 256 GB
  • Flash Memory Type: USB
  • Color: Silver
  • Item Weight: 39 Ounces
  • Manufacturer: iDiskk
  • Hardware Platform: PC, Mac

Pros

  • Able to backup photographs and videos automatically
  • Four-in-one flash drive

Cons

  • It has a low transfer speed

Bonus: Top 3 Budget Photo Stick with Versatility

10. Avomoco 3.1 128 GB

Avomoco 3.1 128 GB

Image Credit: amazon.com

This flash drive is the most versatile because it has a 3-in-1 gadget. The connectivity options are micro, USB, and Type-C. As a result, the device can transmit data to and from PCs, laptops, vehicle audio players, and DVD players in addition to mobile devices. If you ever need a backup solution for any gadget, it's fantastic to have.

Specifications

  • Brand: AVOMOCO
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 128 GB
  • Read Speed: 100 Megabytes Per Second
  • Write Speed: 20x
  • Item Weight: 317 ounces
  • Manufacturer: Avomoco
  • Product Dimensions: 22 x 0.8 x 0.4 inches

Pros

  • Compatible with all OTG-enabled devices
  • Can connect with devices with Type- C connection

Cons

  • It does not have file protection

11. SanDisk 1TB Ultra Dual Drive

SanDisk 1TB Ultra Dual Drive

Image Credit: amazon.com

It is a chic and practical picture stick that makes storing data easily. With a USB Type-C connector on one end and a Type-A connector on the other, it is undoubtedly the greatest photo stick for iPhones and computers. Its dual connector allows transferring files between Macs, PCs, tablets, smartphones, and other devices simple.

Specifications

  • Brand: SanDisk
  • Hardware Interface: USB, USB Type C
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 1 TB
  • Connectivity Technology: USB
  • Read Speed: 150 Megabytes Per Second
  • Item Weight: 635 ounces
  • Item Model Number: SDDDC4-1T00-G46
  • Product Dimensions: 75 x 0.48 x 0.34 inches
  • Manufacturer: Western Digital Technologies, Inc.

Pros

  • Simple to use
  • Ample storage

Cons

  • It lacks file protection mechanisms like passwords.

12. USB 3.0 Flash Drive 512 GB AUAMOZ

USB 3.0 Flash Drive 512 GB AUAMOZ

Image Credit: amazon.com

One-Click Backup of Photos & Videos is among its top features. It has a Type-C connection on one end and a USB connection on the other, making it compatible with computers and smartphones. Due to the inclusion of the micro USB function within the USB connection, the photo stick is quite versatile. The USB port has a reading speed of up to 80MB/s and a writing speed of up to 30MB/s.

Specifications

  • Brand: AUAMOZ
  • Hardware Interface: USB 3.0 Memory Stick Select
  • Memory Storage Capacity: 512 GB
  • Read Speed: 80 Megabytes Per Second
  • Color: Orange
  • Item Model Number: 0-512 GB
  • Item Weight: 2 ounces
  • Product Dimensions: 3 x 0.8 x 0.19 inches

Pros

  • Adaptable to a variety of devices
  • It is stylish

Cons

  • Slower than average read and write speed

Conclusion

You can choose the one you need now that you know the distinctions between a flash drive and a picture stick. Keep in mind the advantages and distinctions of each, and utilize that knowledge to direct your purchasing decisions. Make sure the flash drive or photo stick is a high-quality item by conducting extensive research.

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