Installation:

Installation requires only that the unit be inserted into a free USB port if the operating system supports the USB 1.1 specification. These include Windows XP/2000/ME. Windows 98/SE users need to install the included driver before the drive is operational.

Portability and Durability:

The EasyDisk is sans the normal clip and key ring that DiskonKey and USBDrive employ. Included is a small leather pouch and strap. While this method has its merits, it protects the unit from shock and scratches, it is more cumbersome than intended. In testing, I chose to forgo the pouch and place it in my jacket pocket instead. It also looks odd: I have gotten inquires of why I’m carrying lipstick in a pouch…Durability wise, it fared well because of the pouch, but is more delicate and scratch prone than the DiskonKey because it is painted rather than made with colored plastic. EasyDisk is the middle-sized unit at 3.20 inches in length.

DiskonKey uses the standard clip and ring, which is preferable. Not only does it allow easier access to the drive, I can attach it to my keys, and be sure it is secure in my pocket. The only concern about the DiskonKey drive is that the ring is merely looped onto the clip and can be removed fairly easily. Cause for concern, not likely, but worth mentioning nevertheless. The drive is made from black plastic making it more durable and less scratch prone. DiskonKey is the largest unit at 3.94 inches (excluding key ring).

The USBDrive is the median between the two aforementioned units. The drive features a pocket clip and a removable strap that attaches to the bottom of the drive via two small holes. This gives more flexibility to the USBDrive unit. Durability is midrange; made from a matte, softer plastic, the body can conceal scratches but is more prone to them. The thin metal inserts in the body add durability but is also scratch prone. USBDrive is the smallest unit at 2.75 inches in length.

1. JMTek’s USBDrive
2. M-System’s DiskonKey
3. EasyDisk’s EasyDisk

Aesthetics:

A trivial and very subjective category, but important nonetheless. My taste is very contemporary. I like clean lines whether they are smooth or sharp. All three have their respective merits. The EasyDisk is very clean and follows a more futuristic capsule-ish look while the DiskonKey is rather busy with the clip and the elongated body. I like the translucent snap point, but find it odd how the front is sharply cut whereas the backside is contoured (the surface has to be flat to accommodate the labels). The USBDrive on the other hand is very compact and has nice metal inserts. It is more inauspicious than the DiskonKey unit even though the styling is flashier.

1. EasyDisk’s EasyDisk
2. JMTek’s USBDrive
3. M-System’s DiskonKey

Price:

Pretty simple here: EasyDisk is the cheapest, followed by DiskonKey, than USBDrive.

1. EasyDisk’s EasyDisk
2. M-System’s DiskonKey
3. JMTek’s USBDrive