Compact Flash vs Micro Drive

[BudMan]

How does the write speed compare between the Compact Flash and the IBM Micro Drive (340 MB)?

[Wildman]

Compact Flash is faster and less power-hungry. The prices on CF are falling very fast. You can get 256 MBs for $90... 128 for around $40.

I think the end is in sight for Microdrives.

[Mike K]

The difference in speed and power use is not significant, particularily with the G-2 battery. For a performance comparison see:

http://www.dpreview.com/articles/mediacompare/

The 1 gb microdrive is more robust and cost effective than the smaller units, I would not bother with the 340 mb microdrive as I agee that 256 mb CF cards are pretty cheap now. I think the microdrive will continue to be cost effective for the largest units, they could easily make 6 gb microdrives today if there was enough market for them. I bet they could sell a 2-3 gb microdrives for the same $$ as todays current 1 gb drive and still make a good profit. The problem is that IBM will only lower the prices until large CF cards get cheaper or the long awaited 1.1 gb Microstor competition hits the market.
Mike K

[BudMan]

Good info! Thanks!

Ac

[pics]

Dear Wildman,

You hit my question right on the head! Thanks for the awesome info. I am so happy I found this forum since I don't know enough about digital cameras to make an educated decision. Thanks again!

[Wildman]

In today's technological world, NOTHING is dead! We can buy 256 MB CF cards for $90 today. Last year my 64 megger cost $120 and those 1 GB microdrives looked great... Nothing could touch their storage capability.

My guess is that we'll see 3 or 4 GB microdrives and really big CF cards fighting it out for our money within a few months. Fact remains, tho' that the CF card has no moving parts. That HAS to be an advantage in that camera hanging on a strap around my neck.

Gotta love the competion of the marketplace!