How to Choose a Compact Flash (CF) Memory Card

If you need to buy a Compact Flash memory card, but don't know how to choose one, learn how to do exactly that.

Things You'll Need

• Compact Flash (CF) memory cards to consider

Instructions

1. Check the speed. Faster Compact Flash cards can add a lot to the cost, so if you need the speed, get it--if not, you can save money by getting a lower-speed card.

2. How's the design of the card? If the style of the card is important to you, you might have to pay more for it. If style's not important, then that gives you more options.

3. Decide how big of a CF card you want. Depending on the manufacturer and speed of the card, the optimum price to size ratio varies. Even so, the best deals usually begin at 4GB, and are even better if you go with an 8GB or a 16GB card.

4. Shop around before you buy. Prices of Compact Flash cards vary widely, so you can only be sure you get a good deal if you've seen them all.