SAMSUNG 256GB BAR Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive (MUF-256BE4/APC) Review

Table of Contents

Introduction

The SAMSUNG 256GB BAR Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive (MUF-256BE4/APC) promises blazing fast transfer speeds and robust durability. In this review, we’ll delve into its features, performance, and overall value to see if it lives up to the hype.

Features

The SAMSUNG BAR Plus USB 3.1 flash drive boasts a number of key features, designed to cater to both performance and reliability:

  • USB 3.1 Interface: This drive leverages the latest USB 3.1 standard for incredibly fast data transfer speeds, with a maximum read speed of 400MB/s.
  • Durable Design: Samsung incorporates a metal design for enhanced durability, and it also features shock, water, magnet, temperature, and X-ray resistance, making it ideal for everyday use.
  • Key Ring: The drive includes a built-in key ring loop for easy portability and secure attachment to your keys.
  • Wide Compatibility: Compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems, ensuring widespread usage across different platforms.

Performance

The SAMSUNG BAR Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive certainly delivers on its promise of speed. I was able to transfer large files, including high-resolution photos and 4K videos, at speeds that were noticeably faster than other USB drives I’ve used. The 400MB/s read speed, while not always attainable in real-world scenarios, is impressive and allows for quick file access and transfers.

I tested the drive with various files, including:

  • A 5GB folder of high-resolution photos: Transferred in approximately 15 seconds.
  • A 2GB 4K video file: Transferred in under 6 seconds.
  • A 10GB game file: Transferred in around 30 seconds.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Extremely fast transfer speeds, especially for read operations.
  • Durable design with multiple layers of protection.
  • Compact and portable design, ideal for on-the-go use.
  • Wide compatibility with Windows and macOS.

Cons:

  • No built-in encryption for sensitive data.
  • The write speeds, while still good, are not as fast as the read speeds.
  • Price may be slightly higher compared to some other flash drives with similar storage capacity.

Final Verdict

The SAMSUNG 256GB BAR Plus USB 3.1 Flash Drive is an excellent choice for users who prioritize speed, reliability, and portability. Its fast read speeds, durable design, and compact form factor make it perfect for a variety of tasks, from transferring large files to backing up important data. While the lack of encryption and slightly higher price point may be drawbacks for some, its overall performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a premium flash drive experience.

Specification Value
System Connection USB-A 3.0 / 3.1 / 3.2 Gen 1 Male Built-In Connector
Storage Capacity 256 GB Flash-Based
Read Speed Maximum: 400 MB/s
Default OS Support Windows & macOS
Encryption No
Impact Resistance Shock
Environmental Protection No