flash drive troubles & question

i own two usb flash drives, they are:

Lexar lightning 2 GB & PNY attache 8 GB

now my problem is, the PNY is so slow, i dunno why id think since the lexar is 2 years old it would be faster, also the lexar shows up as a hard drive when plugged in, the PNY shows up as a removeable drive, like my SD card would be, can u tell me why the difference and if that makes a difference

see pics below

 

Check out my post, just now, in
http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=123318

Check out the google info. One of yours may be U3 compatible, one may not be. Bazza

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i read that and ii searched gooogle but i really dont understand, and it did not seem to answer my questions

 

One of yours may be U3 compatible, one may not be. If so, they will be recognised, and treated differently, by your PC as you explained in your original post. Bazza

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is there a way to tell which it is before buying?

 

I have a Sandisk flash drive and it states on the package its "U3 Smart", This one is the one that I have, its stated clearly that it is. U3 is a joint venture with sandisk, meaning those are the only ones (so far) with the U3 feature. You can read more about U3 Here.

The lexmark includes "PowerToGo Portable Applications Software" which lets you install and run most standard Windows applications right from the drive, and also allows you to carry personalized settings and favorites with you wherever you go. With PowerToGo software, you can transform your JumpDrive Lightning into your own personalized PC on the go. Which is why its seen as a hard drive and not removable.

 

Actually, not only Sandisk has U3.

http://www.u3.com/smartdrives/default.aspx

 

Check out Windows Secrets newsletter, at http://windowssecrets.com/comp/071025 for some interesting takes on U3 USB memory sticks.

Bazza