CompactFlash Cards

CF memory cards combine high transfer speeds and reliable data storage in a compact physical size. They are an excellent option for demanding applications such as high-resolution video recording and digital photography. Find CompactFlash™ memory cards compatible with cameras, video recorders, or music players when browsing the data storage solutions available from Staples®.

CF Memory Cards Deliver High-Speed Performance
These products use a Parallel ATA (PATA) data interface to transfer data. They sustain data transfer rates of up to 160MB per second, making them ideal for continuous burst mode shooting with DSLR cameras or capturing 4K video. With up to 256GB of storage capacity, these cards can hold an entire vacation's worth of photos and videos, store hundreds of audio recordings, or archive thousands of critical data files. Some cartridges also have built-in error correction and wear-leveling features that ensure data integrity. Select products come with software that helps recover deleted files, a handy safety feature for users.

Take Data Almost Anywhere With CF Memory Cards
Measuring just 1.43 inches long, 1.68 inches wide, and less than 0.2 inches thick, these tiny devices easily fit in pockets, camera bags, or briefcases. CF cards store data on flash memory chips and have no moving parts. They resist impacts and shocks and operate at temperatures between -13 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit. Use them in the office to transfer files between devices or take them into the field and capture video footage or still images under almost any conditions.

What Devices Are Compatible With CF Memory Cards?
Many consumer and professional digital SLR cameras and video recorders take advantage of the fast recording speeds offered by CompactFlash memory cards. Most multi-format card readers used in desktop and laptop computers provide plug-and-play access to these storage devices. Their ability to operate reliably across a broad range of temperatures make them an attractive storage option in industrial settings.

What Are the Differences Between SD and CF Memory Cards?
Both these devices use flash memory to store information, but there are differences between them. CF cards support faster data transfer speeds, making them an ideal choice for high-resolution video recording or continuous shooting with digital SLR cameras. SD cards have higher maximum capacities, up to 1TB, which make them a good option for archiving photos, audio files, or videos. While most multi-card readers handle both CF and SD cards, many cameras and video recorders only accept one type of storage. Any device's user manual should indicate which type of card it uses.

What Is the Difference Between Type I and Type II CF Memory Cards?
Type II CF cards are slightly thicker than Type I cards. When they first appeared on the market, some of these products used tiny hard disks instead of flash memory to store data. These disks required a little extra space. Most devices with Type II readers handle both card formats, but Type I readers typically do not accept Type II cards. Today, almost all CF cards and readers conform to the Type I standard.