RAVPower 64GB Lightning Flash Drive with Charging Support Review

This flash drive is almost functionally the same as the other RAVPower Lightning flash drives I recently reviewed. However, this variation take more of a “cable” form and can be used as a charging cable in addition to backing up your photos.

Design

Similar to RAVPower’s other flash drive, the Lightning connector on this model is extended and fits many iPhone cases (except those super-tight cases like Lifeproof that only work with the original Lightning cable from Apple). You can easily insert the flash drive into your phone without needing to remove the case first.

The cable also folds on to itself with a magnetic connection between the Lightning connector and the body of the unit. This folds up the unit nicely for portability.

There is also a USB 3.0 connector on the other end of the flash drive. This allows you to connect the drive directly to your computer to transfer photos, videos and music. The USB 3.0 compatibility means that your files will transfer at top speed when connected to a USB 3.0 port on your computer (these ports are typically blue). Please note that most iTunes and Apple Music content is DRM-protected, which prevents the files from being played in most apps including the app for this flash drive.

Capacity

This drive is available in a 64GB capacity, which is typically more than enough for storing your photos and videos. 64GB provides a nice balance between storage and cost.

Features

This flash drive has one unique function: it can be used to charge your iPhone by plugging it into a USB charger or power bank.

The app has a convenient “one tap backup” feature that automatically transfers your new photos and videos to the flash drive. This makes it quick and easy to ensure you have a backup copy of your content. In addition, you can back up your phone’s contact list which can help you avoid asking for everyone’s number again on Facebook when you get a new phone.

You can protect your content with a password so other users can not take a peek at the files on your flash drive.

The app can also play back compatible files stored on the drive. For example, you could load a movie on the flash drive and then watch it on your phone during a flight or road trip without using your phone’s data plan. Please note that the files must be DRM-free and in a format that your iPhone can play (like MP4, for example).

Compatibility

The Lightning connector on this drive works with iPhone 5 or newer. It also works with iPads with a Lightning connector. The USB 3.0 connector works with virtually all computers as it is backwards compatible with normal USB 2.0 ports.