Differences

• Comparing these two models is like comparing a horse-pulled carriage to a BMW. Both were top-of-the-line in their time, but the original Memory Stick's time was quite a while ago. The difference between the two memory sticks comes down to a couple of words: memory and physical size. The original Memory Stick could only hold 128 megabytes of memory, while the Memory Stick PRO Duo can hold up to 32 gigabytes. Amazingly, the Memory Stick PRO Duo is also one-fourth of the original memory stick's size. Technology has come a long way. Just imagine what it will be like in 10 more years.
  
  

Types

• The original Memory Stick held 128 megabytes of memory. Sony then introduced the Memory Stick Select, which could hold twice the memory of the original. Unfortunately, the Select was a dud, so Sony came out with the Memory Stick PRO in 2003. This could hold up to 4 GB of memory, and was the longest lasting of the memory sticks. Later, Sony created the Memory Stick Duo, and the Memory Stick PRO Duo. These last two sticks have been the workhorses of today's modern society.
  
  

Uses

• Memory sticks are widely used today, as you can see them in digital cameras, TVs, laptop computers, portable gaming systems, digital photo frames and in some MP3 players. Due to their small size and large capacity, they are often the No. 1 choice in memory storage.
  
  

Built-In Memory

• Some companies just choose to create their own little "hard drive," instead of using a memory stick in their electronic console. This is unpopular, however, since it is far simpler to use a memory stick. Memory sticks are transferable, so you can use them anywhere that they are accepted. Another positive is the ability to upgrade if you run out of space--with a new one just a store away. Considering these reasons, you may be better off buying items that use memory sticks.
  
  

Files

• Fortunately, memory sticks are versatile when it comes to file types. They accept pictures, videos, games, music, computer data and a whole lot more. If it's on your computer, most likely it can go on a memory stick.
  
  

Facts

• When the first memory stick came out, it was the size and thickness of a pack of chewing gum, and it could only hold about a hundredth of what modern-day memory sticks can hold.
  
  The memory stick line started in 1998.
  
  Studies suggest that theoretically, a memory stick can hold up to 2 terabytes (1000 gigabytes) of memory.
  
  The Memory Stick Select had two memory slots built into its mechanism, and you could switch to either one with the flip of a button.
  
  The entire line of VAIO laptops uses the Sony Memory Card to store external data.