Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallWindows’ default Quick removal policy disables write caching for external storage, which can reduce performance in some situations. Switching a drive to Better performance allows write caching and may help with large transfers—but it is not a guaranteed speed fix, and you must safely eject the drive before unplugging it.
Why a USB drive may seem slow in Windows
Starting with Windows 10 version 1809, Quick removal became the default policy for external storage. Microsoft says the policy keeps a device ready to remove at any time by preventing Windows from caching disk write operations; Microsoft also notes that this can degrade system performance. That does not establish that every USB drive is measurably slower, or that changing the policy will improve every device or task.
Write caching lets Windows temporarily hold write operations before sending them to a drive. Under Better performance, Windows can use that cache, which may improve write performance in suitable cases. The result depends on the drive and workload; the cited guidance does not provide a universal speed figure or benchmark.
Quick removal vs. Better performance
| Policy | Write caching and performance | Unplugging | Typically suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quick removal | Windows does not cache disk write operations under this policy. Performance may be lower for some tasks. | Designed to keep the device ready for removal. Safely ejecting is still recommended to protect data. | Small-file use on ordinary flash drives, or when you frequently connect and disconnect a drive. |
| Better performance | Allows write caching and may improve performance, depending on the drive and workload. | Safely eject the drive and wait for confirmation before disconnecting it, so cached operations can finish. | Consider for a high-speed external drive used for frequent large-file transfers. |
The usage suggestions reflect Microsoft’s policy description and MSI’s manufacturer guidance; they are not guarantees of a particular speed improvement.
#1 Best Overall
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 14.1" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy ergonomic support with the integrated cushioned wrist rest.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a sleek black carbon color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.8 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
How to change the removal policy
The following Microsoft instructions apply to Windows 10 and Windows 11. The policy is set for an individual external storage device, not as a single switch that changes all USB drives.
- Connect the external drive and identify it in File Explorer.
- Right-click Start and open Disk Management.
- In the lower section of Disk Management, right-click the device label and choose Properties.
- Open the Policies tab and select Better performance. Microsoft recommends also selecting Enable write caching on the device when you choose this policy.
- Select OK to apply the change.
If you do not see a Policies tab in that Properties window, open Hardware, select the removable drive under All disk drives, choose Properties, and look for Policies there. Microsoft notes that tab layouts can differ in recent Windows versions.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How to safely eject after enabling write caching
After choosing Better performance, do not unplug the drive as soon as a file copy appears to finish. Use the Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media icon in the system tray, select Eject for the drive, and wait for the Safe To Remove Hardware notification before disconnecting it. Microsoft says this process ensures cached operations finish and protects the integrity of data on the device.
When the change may not help
- Small files or frequent swapping: MSI identifies ordinary flash-drive use for small files and frequent connect/disconnect cycles as cases where Quick removal may be a reasonable fit.
- A drive or workload that is not cache-limited: Better performance only allows caching; it does not guarantee faster transfers. The available guidance does not quantify an expected gain.
- Convenience matters more than possible write gains: Quick removal prioritizes readiness to remove. Better performance adds the requirement to eject and wait before unplugging.
Do not confuse this policy with the separate Windows setting called Turn off Windows write-cache buffer flushing. It is not needed to enable the external-storage policy described here, and Windows Central warns that changing it can add data-loss risk.
Rank #3
- Note: Not suitable for MacBooks released after 2023 or devices with a protruding front camera; Not applicable to full-screen or notch-style tempered glass screen protectors; Do not use on the rear camera of the phone.
- 💻 Why Do You Need a Webcam Cover Slide? — Safeguard your privacy by covering your webcam with our reliable webcam cover when not in use. Don't let anyone secretly watch you. Stay protected!
- ✅ Thin & Stylish — Enhance your laptop's functionality and aesthetics with our 0.027" ultra-thin webcam covers. Seamlessly close your laptop while adding a touch of sophistication.
- ✅ Fits Most Devices — Compatible with laptops, phones, tablets, desktops! Keep your privacy intact on Ap/ple, Mac/Book, iPh/one, iP/ad, H/P, L/novo, De/ll, Ac/er, As/us, Sa/msung devices.
- ✅ 365 Days Protection — Our upgraded 3.0 adhesive ensures a strong hold that won't damage your equipment. Experience reliable, long-term privacy protection day in and day out.
Windows 10 support status
The removal-policy setting is documented for Windows 10 and Windows 11, but Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, according to Microsoft. That date does not change how the setting is described; it does mean Windows 10 is no longer a supported operating system.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Spacious Design: Measuring 21.1" wide and 12" deep, our lap desk comfortably fits most laptops up to 15.6". Extra room for accessories ensures convenience.
- Enhanced Functionality: Packed with handy features, including a 5x9" precision tracking mouse pad and a built-in phone slot for seamless work or video calls. Plus, enjoy laptop support with the integrated device ledge.
- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
- Durable Surface: Work with confidence on our lap desk's solid surface, featuring a blush pink color, ensuring optimal air circulation to prevent your laptop from overheating.
- On-the-Go Convenience: With an integrated handle and lightweight design (2.14 lbs), our lap desk is portable for travel or moving around the house, offering flexibility in any space.
Rank #4
- Anti-Slip Surface - Transform your laptop into a mobile workstation with the AboveTEK portable laptop lap desk. The anti-slip surface provides a strong grip for laptops up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), while the double rubber strip on the bottom ensures a stable display or typing experience on your lap, couch, or bed.
- Retractable Mouse Pad - Retractable laptop mouse pad extends on both directions for the left/right handed with elevation along the edges for stopping mouse from falling off. The size of laptop tray is 14" X 9.7" and the size of mouse pad is 7.4" X 6.1".
- Effective Heat Shield - The effective heat shield made of sturdy and thick material protects your laptop from overheating. Prioritizes your comfort and safety, an ideal lap pad or board for working anywhere.
- EASY to Carry and Store - With an ergonomic and simplistic design, the lap desk is portable to store in a backpack. Only 15" in size, 2.2 lb of weight and with slim 0.6 inch thickness, it is ready to be easily carried around.
- Widely Applicable - The smooth platform accommodates laptops and tablets up to 15.6 inches(Diagonal), making it a versatile accessory and one of the best gifts for mom, dad, students and professionals. Perfect for use as a laptop bed tray or tablet holder anywhere at home, library, or park.
Sources
- Microsoft Learn: Manage default media removal policy (updated August 18, 2025).
- Microsoft Support: Safely remove hardware in Windows.
- MSI: Improve disk performance for high-speed external drives (updated February 24, 2026).
- Windows Central: How to manage disk write caching for external storage on Windows 10.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
