What Is the Best Memory Card for the PSP?

Size

• The most important feature when purchasing a memory stick for the PSP is to make sure you have enough memory. Start by deciding how much memory you'll need. If you strictly use your PSP for playing games you've purchased in the store, then you'll only be using the memory stick to store game saves. However, if you also use your PSP to download movies and music or purchase games from the PSN store, then you're going to need significantly more space on the memory stick. Memory Stick Pro Duos come in four different sizes: 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, and 16GB. If you only need room to save files, pick up the 2GB, which will have more than enough room for your data. Be aware that in October 2009, Sony began to shift away from disc-based content and into digitally delivered content; this means that future game releases may only be available as a download. To prepare for this, it is best to purchase a 4GB or 8GB memory stick so you are able to store any game downloads you wish to purchase. If you embrace digital content and are also using the PSP as a portable movie device, stick with an 8GB or 16GB memory stick. Games and movies can have file sizes nearing 1GB each, so the more memory you have, the less you'll have to keep content on a computer or PS3 hard drive.

Brand and Pricing

• While Sony is the developer of the Memory Stick Pro Duo, it is not the only company that manufacturers the memory stick. When looking to purchase a memory stick, you'll want to choose between two manufacturers, Sony and SanDisk. Both offer the same selection of memory stick; however, SanDisk branded products can generally be found at a discounted price. In October 2009, Amazon offered an 8GB SanDisk Memory Stick Pro Duo for $21.49 while the Sony brand was priced at $32.27. Both memory sticks are supported by the PSP, but the SanDisk's lesser price point makes it the more ideal purchase. When shopping for the right card, always look for the lowest price as long as it stays within these two manufactures. Other memory stick manufacturers are not supported by the PSP, although they may still be compatible with the system. Also note that you do not need to purchase a memory stick that has been specially developed for the PSP as these branded sticks are priced higher than other memory sticks even thought they're the exact same product.