memory sticks

OK I have a Sony DSC-F717 and have 2 memory stick pros with the same 256mb. One is Sandisk and the other is Lexar. One way to tell the speed is during the format of these memory sticks. When I format the Sandisk, it takes about 4 seconds while the Lexar takes under 2 seconds to format. I haven't checked the latest prices for Lexar, but it probably cost a little more then the Sandisk. When taking actual pictures, the main difference is when you review pictures you just took a shot of...the Lexar will display them faster then the Sandisk which in turn will display faster then a normal memory stick. If you have the patience to wait a second or two more, then the sandisk is a great alternative due to its price. But it kind of annoys me that Sandisk generally has lower performance on its memory, even though their packaging says contrary...but on the other hand, it is inexpensive and to my experience, just as reliable as the faster memory.

I bought one, plug it in my SONY DSC-P9 digital camera, and very sadly found that they are not compatible.

My SONY DSC-P9 said it is a wrong memory stick.
I will have to refund it.
Not good.

I bought the 256 memory stick with my new Sony DSCP100. "Memory Stick" memory is more expensive than other types of IC memory because Sony always develops its own formats to force on the world. I almost purchased the Nikon camera for this reason.

This memory was the least expensive of the PRO type and that was the sole reason behind my purchase decision. My camera requires "Pro" media if you want to shoot video in the "fine" mode otherwise standard Memory Stick media would work just fine. In comparing it to the Memory Stick that came with the camera the SanDisk version seems physically more durable than the Sony. Don't think this will be an issue but it was reassuring to have something that felt so solid after dropping this kind of $$.

This memory works as advertised and has functioned without any problems. IC memory is VERY durable and in most cases shouldnt experience any problems to begin with.

Sony and SanDisk push "Magic Gate" as some sort of user benefit. "Magic Gate" has absolutly no benefit to consumers. So don't base any purchase decisions on Magic Gate compatibility.

Overall a great value. Can't go wrong here.