<p>You should only buy metal USBs because they last longer. Metal USBs should be used for everything that a USB is used for. First, let me clarify what USBs are supposed to be used for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Data Transfer</li>
<li>Flashing Opearting Systems</li>
<li>Ultra-Portable Emergency Drive (like one on a keychain)</li>
</ul>
<p>Here is what USBs are not good for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Long-term storage</li>
<li>As a secondary drive for your PC</li>
</ul>
<p>For both use cases listed above, disks like hard drives and SSDs are much better.</p>
<p>Metal USBs are durable. They are not slower than their plastic counterparts and can flash operating systems just as well. However, the real difference appears in its build quality.</p>
<p>Metal is a superior material to plastic. It lasts much longer and breaks less easily. This is especially important for data transfer and having an emergency drive ready-to-go. If it dies or breaks at an unfortunate time, it can wreak havoc on both you and your sanity. This is why everyone should use metal USBs. They last longer and eventually break even with the price you paid for them.</p>
<p>You should try to buy thinner metal USBs. This is because a thin USB can dissipate heat better than a thick one. Metal is a conductor of heat. Because of this, you should try to buy a USB that is able to reduce the heat's effect.</p>
