What is the suitable memory size for a car USB flash drive?
3 Answers
When using a USB flash drive to listen to music in a car, the memory sizes generally available are 1G, 2G, 4G, 8G, 16G, etc. However, the maximum capacity supported by most cars is up to 32G. Beyond this size, it would be considered a portable hard drive, so 32G is the maximum supported USB flash drive capacity. Below are detailed explanations: File Format: Most vehicles can only recognize music files in MP3 and WMA formats. If the music files downloaded to the USB flash drive are in an incompatible format, the vehicle may fail to read them. (Solution: Convert the music files to MP3 or WMA format.) Storage Path: If the music files on the USB flash drive are stored in a path that is too deep, the vehicle may also fail to read them. (Solution: Try to place the music files in the root directory of the USB flash drive.)
The memory size of a car USB drive depends on your specific needs. I commute by car and often use a USB drive to listen to music. Based on my experience, 64GB is sufficient, as it can store thousands of MP3 songs. If you store high-quality files like FLAC format, where a single song can be dozens of MB, then 128GB is safer. Additionally, for compatibility, opt for well-known brands like SanDisk to avoid cheap drives that may not be recognized by your car. Video needs are less common; 128GB can store one or two movies, but car systems usually have restrictions on video playback. Overall, in terms of cost-effectiveness, 64GB is a great deal at just 20-30 yuan, offering high value. Don’t go below 32GB, or you’ll quickly run out of space and get frustrated.
As a music enthusiast, I use a 128GB USB drive in my car because it stores lossless FLAC or WAV tracks. High-quality audio files can take up 50MB per song, while regular MP3s are only about 5MB. Small capacity means frequent copying is troublesome. If the system supports large file partitions, I recommend starting with 128GB and dividing it into different areas for various playlists. Pay attention to the USB drive speed—Class 10 level ensures faster read/write speeds and avoids lag. A larger capacity reduces switching frequency while driving, making it safer and more convenient. Although slightly more expensive, it's worth buying a reliable brand for longer lifespan.
