Let’s say you want to move some files from one computer to another without the use of a network, including the Internet. You might also want to store some files as a backup in case anything happens to your computer (this is always a very good idea – make it a point to backup critical information). What are your options?

You could burn the files onto DVDs or CDs. Or you could put them onto an external hard drive. A third alternative is to put them on flash drives.

The third option is fast emerging as the most popular one today. External hard drives are still the best bet if you want to back up large amounts of data, because they cost the least per GB of storage.

However, prices of flash drives have been falling too and you can get 256GB drives for a few hundred dollars today.

These devices are so popular that many companies give away custom USB flash drives as promotional items. Because pen drives tend to be retained and used by the recipients for a long time, they serve this purpose very well.

Promotional flash drives are also popular because of the falling prices of flash drives. You can get an 8GB drive for about $20 to $30. Customization will add a bit to the cost, but given the longevity of the item, it is well worth the expense.