Raspberry Pi has introduced its own USB 3.0 flash storage device, branded the Raspberry Pi Flash Drive, positioning it as a higher-quality and more reliable alternative to many low-cost USB sticks on the market. The product is being offered in two capacity options — 128GB and 256GB — and is aimed at users who require more consistent performance and durability for tasks such as operating system images, development work, and general data transfer.
Performance specifications differ between the two models. The 128GB version is rated for write speeds of up to 75 MB/s, while the 256GB model reaches up to 150 MB/s. To balance burst performance with sustained stability, the drives use a pseudo-single-level cell (pSLC) caching mechanism. This approach allows for faster write operations in short bursts by temporarily treating memory cells as SLC, while long-term performance figures are based on operation outside the cache to provide a more realistic expectation under continuous workloads.
From a hardware perspective, the drive features an aluminum casing designed for improved durability and heat dissipation, along with an easy-grip exterior. A built-in keyring hole supports portability, and the enclosure carries a laser-engraved Raspberry Pi logo. The emphasis on physical design aligns with Raspberry Pi’s focus on educational, maker, and embedded use cases, where hardware is often handled frequently or deployed in varied environments.
Raspberry Pi states that the device has undergone stress testing involving tens of thousands of simulated random power losses and forced disconnections under load. These tests are intended to verify data integrity in real-world scenarios where abrupt removal or unstable power can occur, particularly in embedded systems or development setups. Beyond baseline USB storage functionality, the Flash Drive supports SSD-like features, including SMART health reporting for monitoring device status, TRIM command support to maintain performance over time, and an automatic low-power mode when the device is idle.
The Raspberry Pi Flash Drive is available immediately, priced at $30 for the 128GB model and $55 for the 256GB version.