Introduction

I would like to thank Kingston for lending us the review sample.


With the DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 flash drive, Kingston is catering to those that want loads of performance in a stylish metal enclosure, which is also the reason the drive does not carry their HyperX branding. It is available in capacities of 32 and 64 GB. Kingston was kind enough to lend us a 32 GB unit for this review.

Features:

• USB 3.0 performance
• Speeds up to 150MB/s read, 70MB/s write (USB 3.0)
• Stylish, capless design

Packaging

As with most Kingston flash drives, the DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 ships in a plastic package that clearly shows the entire unit to the prospective buyer. It is welded shut, so you better have some scissors at your disposal. The front also mentions the capacity, while the rear holds some promotional text in multiple languages.

A Closer Look

How worthy a drive this is becomes apparent right away. It is quite heavy and considerably bigger than other drives. The two parts are encased in sturdy metal contraptions, with the insides made of white plastic. Kingston has printed the name and capacity of the drive onto the top, while the underside is completely clean with no LEDs or markings.


Taking a peak at the front shows how thick the DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 G3 really is. While you should not have any issues using the drive most of the time, it may be too voluptuous to reach some recessed connectors or be placed next to another USB device. The rear has a metal ring, which allows you to attach the flash drive to your key chain, for example.


To gain access to the connector, simply make the front and rear touch by sliding the front back. The front casing snaps into place nicely, so you will not slide it back over the connector while trying to plug it into your system.


Kingston has also laser cut all sorts of information into the connector itself, including capacity and manufacturer data.


Upon first sight, you may wonder where the activity LED is, or whether the Ultimate 3.0 G3 actually has one at all. Turns out it is hidden below the white plastic shell and can be seen lighting up blue while moving data back and forth. I had to darken the image for you to see the LED in the above image properly.