USB-C is more convenient for newer devices, but the connector type doesn’t make a flash drive faster. USB-C beats USB-A on convenience. The smaller, reversible port is used in most modern laptops, tablets and smartphones. For large transfers on mobile devices, USB-C is hard to beat.

However, USB-C isn't a guarantee of raw speed. USB-A and USB-C are merely descriptors, identifying the type of connection. It's the specs associated with the drive that define its speed capabilities. A USB-C drive using USB 2.0 will be slower than a USB-A drive using USB 3.2. The port on your PC or smartphone plays an important role as well.

USB-A still has a practical place. The familiar rectangular Type-A port is still prevalent in desktop PCs, laptops, TVs, routers, cars, game consoles and much more. In general, a USB-A flash drive is the easiest way to move a file without having to hunt down an adapter.

On a brand-new laptop or desktop PC, USB-C is almost always the better option, especially if you do a lot of back-and-forth with your iPhone or Android device. USB-A is better if compatibility is your top priority or you work on older devices. The most flexible option is a dual-ended USB-C/USB-A flash drive.